Introduction
Exclusive breastfeeding means that your baby does not receive any food or drink (including water) other than breastmilk, either breastmilk, expressed milk, or milk from the milk bank . Baby can receive vitamins, minerals when necessary.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended in May 2001 exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, and the continuation of breastfeeding until the age of 2 years, or even beyond in according to the wishes of the mothers (WHO, 2001).
BREAST MILK IS THE OPTIMAL FOOD FOR YOUR BABY
The composition of breast milk is always of optimal quality and adapted to your baby. Among these compounds, we can mention proteins, lipids, lactose but also antibodies, prebiotics, probiotics, amino acids, minerals, vitamins…. And many more compounds… that babies need to grow and develop well. Thanks to the antibodies present in your milk, Breastfeeding protects against all kinds of infections, such as lung diseases, gastrointestinal infections and many other diseases…
Breastfeed immediately (usually within half an hour to two hours after birth).
Your baby is fed continuously in your uterus, the more your baby will have access to the breast and the more easily your milk secretion will take place.
The best way to start breastfeeding is to start as early as possible to promote early feedings which allow baby to benefit from colostrum , this first milk very rich in antibodies and growth factors.
If for some reason you are separated from your baby at birth, or your baby is unable to breastfeed, you can manually express colostrum until the baby can be put to the breast.
RHYTHM OF BREASTFEEDS
No need for a watch, or trying to regulate the intervals between feedings!
Baby suckles on demand.
Baby suckles at will, which will allow him to grow well, grow and that your lactation is well put in place . Feeding frequency increases and maintains your milk supply.
A breastfed baby breastfeeds between 8 and 12 times in 24 hours. Some babies can breastfeed more. But, you should know that the demand of babies varies from one baby to another, from one day to another, from one feeding to another...
The number of feedings evolve according to the needs of the babies, according to its development.
Another important thing to know, breast milk is digested quickly, baby will ask to suckle regularly!
But then how do you know that baby has breastfed enough?
Baby wets his diapers regularly and abundantly? He is healthy ? Is its growth optimal? So it's that everything is fine!!
INTRODUCTION OF SOLIDS
As we mentioned in the introduction, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended in May 2001 exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, and the continuation of breastfeeding until the age 2 years, or even beyond depending on the wishes of the mothers (WHO, 2001).
But then when to introduce solid foods ?
When your baby is ready!
Can your baby stay in a sitting position? Is it stable?
Is he interested in food? Does he try to grab it to put it in his mouth?
Does he have good eye, hand, mouth coordination?
- Breast milk is the primary source of nutrition throughout baby's first year
- If you decide to introduce solid foods before 6 months of age, consult your doctor or pediatrician to discuss this.
Remember: When you exclusively breastfeed your baby, you only give him breastmilk whether breastmilk, expressed milk or milk from the lactarium.
- When you exclusively breastfeed your baby , you only give her breastmilk and no other liquids or foods. Baby can receive vitamins, minerals when necessary.
- Breast milk is the best food for your baby. It contains everything a newborn needs, it evolves according to these needs, its development. Breast milk helps protect baby against disease , promotes healthy and optimal baby growth and development.
- Breastfeeding is a natural process that has been practiced around the world since time immemorial. From the first hour of life, baby is able to suckle, coordinate sucking, swallowing, breathing, he is able to suckle in a state of drowsiness, from the moment he is at the right address. It is important for breastfeeding mothers to trust themselves, to listen to themselves, to take the time to observe their toddler, to avoid listening to the advice of a good friend, neighbour, aunt…. Which can turn out to be negative. If the beginnings of breastfeeding are complicated, it is important to be well surrounded, to have the appropriate information to start breastfeeding well.
- You probably already know that breastfeeding promotes the bond between mother and child. Your body releases oxytocin during breastfeeding , which makes mom and baby happier and builds mutual trust over time. Plus, there's nothing quite like snuggling up to your sweet-smelling little one. If this sounds appealing to you, don't hesitate, get started today!
Conclusion
Breast milk is the most suitable and optimal food for your baby. In case of questions or doubts, it is important to approach professionals trained in breastfeeding.
