The Importance and Benefits of Breast Milk for Babies and Mothers. Dr. Narmin Azizova

0-6 ay Ana südü Qidalanma Xəbərlər Yenidoğulan körpəm
12 Fevral 2025

Dr. Narmin Azizova,
Neonatologist, Department of Neonatal Resuscitation and Intensive Therapy, Scientific Research Institute of Pediatrics named after K.Y. Farajova; Department of Pediatrics I, Azerbaijan Medical University; Founder, Pediatriya.az

Introduction

Breastfeeding is one of the most vital aspects of early childhood development. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond. Scientific studies have repeatedly demonstrated that breast milk provides unparalleled health benefits for both infants and mothers. It is a natural, perfectly balanced source of nutrition that plays a crucial role in the physical, cognitive, and immune development of the baby. Additionally, breastfeeding has significant long-term health advantages for the mother.

According to the WHO, nearly 820,000 child deaths per year could be prevented with optimal breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that breastfed infants have a 36% lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and a 50% lower risk of ear infections compared to formula-fed babies. Furthermore, research published in The Lancet indicates that breastfeeding reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes by 35% in mothers.

Benefits of Breast Milk for Babies

  1. Essential for Physical and Mental Development – Breast milk contains all the necessary nutrients required for a baby’s brain and body growth.
  2. Always Ready and Safe – It is naturally clean, available at the right temperature, and does not require any preparation.
  3. Easily Digestible – It is the most easily digestible form of nutrition for infants, reducing the risk of digestive issues.
  4. Customized for Each Baby – A mother’s milk is specifically tailored to meet the needs of her child, including premature babies.
  5. Supports Growth – Growth factors in breast milk regulate and accelerate the baby’s overall development.
  6. Nutrient-Rich – Breast milk is abundant in essential proteins, fats, minerals, and other substances that babies need for the first six months of life. With the exception of vitamin D, no additional food or fluids are required.
  7. Reduces the Risk of Obesity – Studies have shown that breastfed infants have a 15-30% lower risk of obesity later in life (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition).
  8. Colostrum: The Baby’s First Vaccine – The first milk, known as colostrum, is rich in antibodies that strengthen the baby’s immune system.
  9. Protects Against Infections – The antibodies in breast milk shield the baby from common infections, such as respiratory illnesses and ear infections.
  10. Prevents Diarrheal Diseases – Breast milk inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms that cause diarrhea.
  11. Lower Risk of Anemia – Breastfed babies have a lower incidence of iron-deficiency anemia.
  12. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases – Breastfeeding lowers the likelihood of developing conditions like diabetes, asthma, allergies, childhood cancers, and even dental issues.
  13. Eye Health – The vitamin A in breast milk protects against vision problems.
  14. Better Digestion – Breastfed babies experience fewer issues with stomach aches, vomiting, and constipation.
  15. Lower Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) – Studies indicate that breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS by approximately 50% (AAP).
  16. Calming Effect – Breastfeeding has a soothing and relaxing effect on infants, reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being.
  17. Better Sleep Patterns – Breastfed babies tend to sleep better and cry less.
  18. Stronger Mother-Baby Bond – The process of breastfeeding enhances emotional attachment and promotes secure bonding.
  19. Improved Cognitive Development – Research suggests that breastfed babies have higher IQ scores and better cognitive function later in life (JAMA Pediatrics).

Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers

  1. Faster Recovery After Birth – Early breastfeeding helps reduce postpartum bleeding and promotes uterine contraction.
  2. Prevention of Breast and Uterine Infections – Breastfeeding lowers the risk of mastitis (breast inflammation) and postpartum complications.
  3. Emotional and Physical Relaxation – Hormones released during breastfeeding, such as oxytocin, help mothers feel calm and relaxed.
  4. Reduced Risk of Breast and Uterine Cancer – Studies indicate that breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer by 4.3% for every 12 months a woman breastfeeds (The Lancet).
  5. Lower Risk of Osteoporosis – Breastfeeding mothers have a reduced likelihood of developing osteoporosis later in life.
  6. Natural Contraception – Exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of ovulation and menstruation, acting as a natural form of birth control.
  7. Aids Postpartum Weight Loss – Breastfeeding burns extra calories, helping mothers return to their pre-pregnancy weight more quickly.

General Recommendations

  • Start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth.
  • Exclusively breastfeed for the first six months.
  • Introduce complementary foods from six months while continuing to breastfeed.
  • Continue breastfeeding along with complementary foods until at least two years of age.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is an invaluable gift that provides unparalleled health benefits to both infants and mothers. The scientific evidence supporting breastfeeding is overwhelming, with research demonstrating its role in reducing infant mortality, preventing diseases, and promoting optimal growth and development. It is not only a natural and cost-effective way to nourish a baby but also a powerful means of strengthening the mother-child bond. Governments and healthcare organizations worldwide must continue advocating for breastfeeding support programs to ensure that every child receives the best start in life.

Breastfeeding is not just a personal choice; it is a public health priority that benefits individuals, families, and societies as a whole.

References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO) – “Infant and Young Child Feeding: Model Chapter for Textbooks.”
  2. The Lancet – “Breastfeeding in the 21st Century: Epidemiology, Mechanisms, and Lifelong Effect.”
  3. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) – “Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk.”
  4. JAMA Pediatrics – “Long-Term Effects of Breastfeeding on Cognitive Development.”
  5. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition – “Breastfeeding and Risk of Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence.”