EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING: BENEFITS FOR MOTHER & BABY

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Did you know that babies who are exclusively breastfed for the first six months are up to 50% less likely to develop diarrhoea and pneumonia? Exclusive breastfeeding means giving your baby only breast milk —no water, formula, or solids— for about six months. It’s nature’s perfect first food, packed with everything your child needs to thrive.

Why Exclusive Breastfeeding Matters

  • WHO Recommendation: The World Health Organization advises exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods up to two years or beyond.
  • Global Impact: Widespread adoption could save hundreds of thousands of infants lives each year by preventing common infections and chronic diseases.

Benefits for Baby

  1. Perfect Nutrition: Breast milk delivers the ideal balance of fats, proteins, and vitamins—adjusting its composition as your baby grows.
  2. Immunity Boost: Antibodies in breast milk protect against common illnesses like diarrhoea, respiratory infections, and earaches.
  3. Gut & Brain Development: Prebiotics and healthy fats promote a balanced microbiome and support cognitive growth.
  4. Long-Term Health: Exclusive breastfeeding reduces risks of asthma, allergies, obesity, and type 2 diabetes later in life.

Benefits for Mom

  1. Faster Recovery: Oxytocin released during feeding helps the uterus contract, reducing postpartum bleeding.
  2. Calorie Burn: Nursing burns extra calories helping to return to pre-pregnancy weight faster.
  3. Disease Protection: Regular breastfeeding lowers lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancers, plus type 2 diabetes.
  4. Emotional Bonding: Skin-to-skin contact and hormonal release strengthens mother-child bond and boost mood.

Practical Tips for Success

  • Read Baby’s Cues: Look for rooting, lip-smacking, or hand-to-mouth movements. Feed on demand, not a strict clock.
  • Nail the Latch: Aim for a deep latch (wide open mouth, chin touching the breast) to prevent soreness and ensure good milk flow.
  • Stay Hydrated & Nourished: Keep a water bottle and healthy snacks handy—breastfeeding increases your fluid and calorie needs.
  • Seek Support: Connect with a lactation consultant or local mothers’ group to troubleshoot early challenges.

Conclusion

Exclusive breastfeeding offers unmatched health benefits for both mother and baby, and it’s a powerful step toward lifelong wellness. If you’re expecting or just welcomed your little one, give it a try, reach out for help when needed, and spread the word to friends and family. Together, we can ensure every baby gets the best possible start in life.

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