A friend of mine is pregnant and asked me about breastfeeding. This term seemed to be “lost” in my dictionary as my kids are already way beyond the era of breastfeeding. I found some info on this topic and I would like to share with all mums-to-be .
Breast milk is the best food for babies. Breast milk contains all the nutrients required for babys’ growth and development. it should be initiated immediately after birth or within one hour of delivery.
Breast milk is easily digested, and helps growth and development, thanks to its optimal composition of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, trace elements and vitamins. It also protects the infant against viral and bacterial infections due to its immunological properties.
Therefore, every effort should be made to encourage and help mothers to choose this method of feeding and to carry on with it as long as possible.
Some practical tips:
1. In the case of cracked breasts due are due to the baby being in an inappropriate position, sucking incorerctly or of poor hygiene, apply a healing cream after carefully wash and dry the nipples. Expose your breasts to the open air as much as possible. Offer only one breast to each feed, to allow the other one to recover.
2. Before a feed, it is possible, though not essential , to clean the nipple and the areola with physiological saline solution or warm water. After the feed, it is a good idea to dry the nipple carefully in order to prevent maceration, which can cause lesions at a later date.
3. For breastfeeding mothers, it is advisable to drink lots of water. Keep down the consumption of coffee and tea. Avoid alcohol and tobacco. Most importantly, do not take any drugs without seeking medical advice as this will pass in to breast milk which in turn affects the baby.
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