Years of study have demonstrated that breast milk contains an ideal mixture of essential nutrients that all infants need, yet, the percentage of mothers who choose it over formula falls short of the target goals set by the Healthy People 2010 initiative in this country. Women need to understand how important breastfeeding is for infants, and for themselves.
Breast milk contains protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, as well as a rich source of calories — all of which play important roles in the baby’s development.
The fat includes acids that the infant’s body can not produce. Long chain fatty acids Arachidonic Acid (AA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) aid in brain and eye development.
The numerous vitamins and minerals the milk is packed with — A, B6, C, potassium, calcium and iron are just a few — would fill a large section of a pharmacy aisle.
Breast milk contains factors that help prevent infants from infections, support the development of the gastrointestinal tract and can prevent a multitude of chronic illnesses in childhood and adolescence, including allergies, Diabetes, Celia Disease, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and some cancers. In addition, children who were breastfed tested higher on intelligence tests than children who were fed formula.
Women need to be aware of the fact that they benefit from breastfeeding as well. Mothers experience a muted response to stress, reduced post-partum blood loss, and protection against the development of premenopausal breast and ovarian cancers, and post-menopausal spinal and hip fractures.
How could you go wrong with a feeding that is ideal in all ways and available at no cost?
The “make or break” for successful breastfeeding often depends on what happens immediately after birth. At Staten Island University Hospital, we have developed a process that begins with skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding in the delivery room, continues with lactation support in the nursery, and relies on breastfeeding-friendly practices, referral and follow up after discharge.
Unfortunately, there will be times when you will have to be an aggressive advocate for breastfeeding, especially in public settings, but remember that as a mother, breastfeeding is your right and well worth the effort.
