Why breast is best
It is not new that moms must return to work, or that formula milk seems like an easier alternative to feeding your baby. But what might be new to you is that formula milk could never compare to breastmilk when the benefits are laid out.
Imagine the most outstanding scientist alive creating a product that could feed, immunise, and sustain every child. Then imagine it was available anywhere, with no costs involved, required no storage and delivery, and helped mothers plan their families and reduce cancer risk.
Now imagine a mom living in severe poverty, unemployed with limited access to food or water and a newborn child depending on her for survival. This dream product is freely available to her, but she does not know the power she holds.
Unfortunately, this is the reality of many mothers, especially in South Africa today. (Not to mention the water problems and power restrictions we experience in Parys.)
This dream product is called breastmilk and is often neglected due to several modern-day pro-blems.
It is not new that moms must return to work, or that formula milk seems like an easier alternative to feeding your baby. But what might be new to you is that formula milk could never compare to breastmilk when the benefits are laid out.
Benefits for baby:
– Protects against illness/infection
– Reduces allergies
– Reduces risk of developing chronic illnesses later in life (diabetes, cancer)
– Prevents malnutrition
– Reduces risk of overweight and obesity later in life.
Benefits for Mom:
– Reduces risk of ovarian/breast cancer
– Improves glycemic control (sugar levels)
– Aids in weight control after pregnancy
– Inexpensive
– Psychological benefits like calmness, as no money is involved in producing breastmilk
– Saves time.
