Also known as ‘human’s liquid gold’, breastmilk is nature’s way of providing a brand new human being, or baby, optimal nutrition with a host of other benefits. This substance contains essential nutrients, antibodies and other factors important for growth and development. In fact, it is so unique, that it cannot be replicated.

The benefits of breastfeeding are vast and vary from those to your newborn, you the mother and even the community at large:

Infant benefits
– A healthier baby
o The incidence of pneumonia, colds and viruses as well as gastrointestinal infections like diarrhoea are reduced. These illnesses claim the lives of many infants during this critical period.
o Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity and certain cancers are also less likely to occur in breastfed infants.
o The IQ and development of your baby is significantly improved when compared to bottle-fed babies.
– Transfer of the mother’s immune system
Breastmilk fills an ‘immunological gap’ while the infant’s immune system is immature.
– Breastfed babies are less likely to develop allergies.
– Research shows that breastfed babies have a better antibody response to vaccines than formula-fed babies.
– Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) by about half.

Maternal benefits
– A healthier mom
o Protection against the development of pre-menopausal breast cancer is noted in women who breastfed. These women also have a reduced risk of ovarian and uterine cancers.
o A lower risk of developing post-menopausal osteoporosis as lactating women absorb calcium more efficiently.
– Better healing post-delivery. The uterus returns to its original size faster if breastfeeding is initiated soon after birth which reduces the chances of detrimental bleeding. Women who have had Caesarean sections are also documented to heal faster.
– A menstrual vacation! Women who breastfeed exclusively around the clock will have delayed ovulation, which means delayed menstruation. During this early period breastfeeding can also serve as a form of birth control, and although not 100% effective can be quite reliable.
– The best diet ever. As the production of breastmilk can burn up to 400 calories in a day, this practice can aid weight loss without dieting.
– Women are emotionally more stable and are less likely to suffer from post-partum anxiety and depression if breastfeeding.
– More economical. Where breastmilk is always readily available at the right temperature, without the hack of sterilizing bottles, it’s also significantly cheaper than formula milk.
– Bonding with your baby is enhanced and develops healthy relationships for both mom and baby.

The community
– Breastfed babies are less likely to get sick, therefore requiring less days off work for mom and less medical costs for the family.
– It’s good for the earth as less dairy cows, which are raised in part to make infant formula, are required. They are responsible for spewing enormous amounts of methane into the atmosphere contributing to global warming. No jokes.

Although breastfeeding is natural, it’s not always easy to begin with. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider or a registered lactation consultant if you need help or support. And when all else fails, remember breast is best!

Yours in health
Dr Leneque Lindeque (MBChB, FCOG(SA), Mmed (O&G)
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Netcare Alberlito Hospital
Ballito
Tel: (032) 586 0723