Pointing out that breast milk is the most ideal food for newborns and babies, Pediatrician Dr. Dilek Erdönmez said, “Breast milk naturally contains nutrients suitable for the needs of babies. It meets all the nutritional needs of babies, especially during the first 6 months. It strengthens the immune system, protects against infections and provides a healthy development. The risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes is lower in babies fed with breast milk.”
VM Medical Park Pendik Hospital Pediatrics Specialist Dr. Dilek Erdönmez gave information about the importance of breast milk on the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week on August 1-7.
Stating that breast milk is the most ideal food for newborns and babies, Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez said, “Breast milk naturally contains nutrients suitable for the needs of babies. It meets all the nutritional needs of babies, especially during the first 6 months. It strengthens the immune system, protects against infections and provides a healthy development.”
“Breast milk should be continued until at least 2 years of age”
Speaking about the age until which breast milk should be given to the child, Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez said, “The World Health Organization (WHO) and many health authorities recommend that breastfeeding should continue alone for the first 6 months and then with additional foods until at least 2 years of age. During this time, breast milk continues to support the baby's nutritional and immune needs.”
“Benefits of breast milk”
Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez listed the benefits of breast milk as follows:
“Strengthens the immune system: Breast milk contains antibodies that strengthen the baby's immune system. These antibodies provide protection against infections.
Suitable for the digestive system: Breast milk is ideal for babies' sensitive digestive system and reduces digestive problems such as constipation.
Reduces the risk of infection: It protects against diseases such as otitis media, respiratory infections and diarrhea.
Reduces the risk of obesity and diabetes: Breastfed babies have a lower risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Strengthens mother-baby bonding: Breastfeeding strengthens the emotional bond between mother and baby and reinforces feelings of trust and love.”
“Foods that increase breast milk”
Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez explained the foods that increase breast milk as follows:
“Oats: It contains beta-glucans that support milk production.
Almonds: Rich source of protein and calcium.
Fennel tea: It is a plant known to increase lactation.
Carrots: Contains vitamin A and beta-carotene, supports milk production.
Spinach: Rich in iron and folate, contributes to milk production.
Water: Adequate fluid intake is very important for milk production.”
“A caffeine-free diet should be adopted”
Emphasizing that breastfeeding mothers should have a balanced and varied diet, Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez said, “They should consume foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, drink plenty of water and meet their daily calorie needs. It is important to consume vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats and dairy products. In addition, they should limit caffeine and alcohol consumption and avoid unhealthy processed foods.”
“Breast milk supports the brain development of the child”
Emphasizing that breast milk also has an important effect on the brain development of the baby, Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez said, “Breast milk contains long-chain fatty acids such as DHA and ARA, which are essential for brain development. These fatty acids are critical for nervous system development and cognitive functions. In addition, other nutrients in breast milk also support neurological development.”
“Healthy and balanced nutrition is important”
Explaining what mothers should pay attention to during the breastfeeding process, Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez shared the following information:
“Healthy and balanced nutrition: It is important to increase the quality and quantity of breast milk.
Adequate rest: Stress and fatigue can negatively affect milk production.
Fluid intake: Drinking enough water daily is essential for milk production.
Stress management: Avoiding stress can increase milk production.”
“Mistakes made during breastfeeding”
Referring to the mistakes made during breastfeeding, Uzm. Dr. Erdönmez said, “Early termination of breastfeeding can lead to the baby's immune and nutritional needs not being fully met. Wrong techniques can cause problems such as not getting enough milk in the baby, nipple injuries in the mother and decreased milk production. Adequate fluid intake is important for breast milk production. Breastfeeding mothers' lack of a healthy and balanced diet negatively affects the quality and quantity of milk.”
“Known misconceptions about breast milk”
Uzm. Prof. Dr. Erdönmez shared the common misconceptions about breast milk as follows:
“The idea that breast milk is insufficient: Many breast milk is sufficient, but the baby may not be getting enough milk due to sucking technique or frequency.
The belief that breast milk is not enough as the baby grows: Breast milk is sufficient as the baby's main source of nutrition until the age of 2 years with additional foods.
The misconception that breast milk is watery: Breast milk is rich enough to meet all the nutritional needs of the baby.
Breastfeeding is only good for the baby: Breastfeeding reduces the mother's risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis and supports postpartum weight loss.”
İHA Haber Kodu: 20240731AW257913