It’s important that a mother should have the knowledge of correct ways of feeding her child, as proper feeding is essential for the healthy growth and development of the child. Here is some useful information:
#1. Breast milk is the best milk for your baby.
- It contains essential nutrients for the baby in right quantity. (Cow’s milk has only 3 % of lactose which is not enough for the baby while breast milk has 7 % of lactose.)
- It has an enzyme called lipase which helps to digest the fat.
- It contains certain anti-infective factors ( Ig A, Interferon, Lysozymes etc) which give protection from bacterial and viral infections.(Milk powder can never provide these factors thus making the child prone to infections)
#2. Breastfeeding should be started within half an hour after normal delivery and within 4 to 6 hours after cesarean.
- Establishes a loving bond between mother & child.
- Provides colostrum (the first thick yellow discharge which is rich in antibodies, vitamins and minerals ) to the baby.
#3. For the first 6 months baby should be fed exclusively on breast milk
- No other food or fluid including water should be given
- This reduces the chances of infection and allergies and provides complete nutrition to the baby.
- After 6 months complementary food (mashed fruits, home made cereals etc) should be given in addition to breast milk)
- Breast feeding should be continued for about 2 years.
#4. Feed the baby as often as he or she demands
- Frequent feeding increases milk production.
- Initially baby may feed at irregular intervals ( 6 to 12 or even 18 times in a day) but gradually as the lactation is established this will change into a more regular pattern.
#5. Feed the baby as long as he or she wants
- Baby should be allowed to feed from one breast until he leaves on his own and then from the other breast.
- Milk which flows in the beginning of feed ( Foremilk ) is rich in proteins and vitamins while the later flow ( Hindmilk ) is rich in fat and provides energy.
#6. Allow the baby to suckle in good position
- While feeding much of the areola should be in baby’s mouth
- With chin touching the breast and mouth wide open.
#7. Proper diet for the mother
- Lactating mothers should have extra intake of home made food.
- Green vegetables and fruits should also be included in the diet
#8. Guidelines for working mothers
- If mother has to go out she can express her milk by hand while a helper may feed the baby in her absence from a clean cup.
- This milk can be stored for up to 8 hours at room temperature and up to 24 hours in refrigerator.
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