From the moment a baby is born, their immune system is still at developing state. That is when the nature steps in with A Super Hero: Breast Milk. Breast milk not only fulfill the hunger of your child, but also it provides powerful immune protection that no 'Ready-to-eat baby food' can replicate.
In the first few days after birth, the body produces colostrum, a thick, yellow colored milk, that is often referred to as “liquid gold”. It is nutrient dense and packed with antibodies, lactoferrin, lysozymes, oligosaccharides, white blood cells, and immune boosting compounds that can build the defense system of a baby against all the infections and diseases.
Unlike formula, that lacks living immune cells, colostrum contains high levels of secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA). This antibody coats the baby’s digestive tract, establishing healthy gut bacteria, which plays a crucial role in immune development throughout the life cycle.
The presence of long chain fatty acids (LCPUFAs)- especially DHA (Docosahexanoic acid) in the mother’s milk is essential for the child’s brain and retinal development.
As breastfeeding continues and your baby grows, your breast milk changes with them- adapting to their needs.
If the mother is exposed to any kind of bacteria or any diseases, that does not affect the breast milk composition, it remains the same.
Breastfeeding is more than nourishment:
It is a dynamic biological process that supports rather builds the child’s immunity system. Mothers who are able to breastfeed, offering colostrum not only in the first few days, but throughout the six months, actually raises a healthy child.Breastfeeding is linked to:
• Fewer colds, ear infections, and stomach pain, diarrhea
• Lower risk for allergies and asthma
• Healthier digestion and better gut health
• Higher cognitive performance
• protection against some chronic conditions later in life
For mothers, breastfeeding also offers benefits- like faster postpartum recovery and decrease the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
