Breast feeding

Breast feeding Mother’s milk is nature’s gift to the newborn baby. It is enriched with all the required nutrients which are easily absorbed. WHO recommends exclusive breast feeding for six months. During breast feeding even water is not required. Babies should be put on breast milk soon after birth. During the first – days a yellow coloured fluid known as colostrum is produced. Babies must be fed on it as it is very rich in antibodies and protects a child from infections. Benefits of breast feeding It is nutritionally tailor-made for meeting the infant’s nutritional needs. It is enriched with all the nutrients in required proportion and form (e.g,. the fat present is emulsified). Its low amount of protein reduces pressure on the kidneys and Vitamin C is also not destroyed. It is a simple, hygienic and convenient method of feeding both for the mother and the child. Milk is available at all times and at the right temperature. Table : Recommended Dietary Allowances for Infants Recommended by ICMR* Nutrient Birth to Months - Months Energy (Kcal.) / kg body weight / kg body weight Protein (gm) . / kg body weight . / kg body weight Calcium (mg) Vitamin A Retinol (µg) Or Beta Carotene(µg) Thiamine (µg) / kg body weight / kg body weight Niacin (µg) / kg body weight / kg body weight Riboflavin (µg) / kg body weight / kg body weight Pyridoxine (µg) . . Ascorbic Acid (µg) Folic Acid (µg) Vitamin B12 (µg) . . * Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), It protects babies from gastro-intestinal, chest, and urinary infections due to the presence of antibodies in it giving it natural immunity, and it is free from allergens. It gives protection to mothers against breast and ovarian cancers, and also from developing weak bones. It is very conducive for a healthy, happy emotional relationship between the mother and the child. Babies know when and how much they want and so the “best clock is baby’s hunger”, though efforts must be made towards regularising the feeding intervals, after a baby reaches one month of age.