The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6  months. They also recommend that you continue to breastfeed  until  at least  12 months. Breast milk protects babies from infection and health problems such as diabetes, asthma and obesity.
 

Mothers also benefits from breastfeeding. It helps the uterus to contract and bleeding to cease quickly after delivery. It also reduces a mothers risk of ovarian and breast cancers. Breastfeeding is a great way for mothers to bond with their babies.

What nutrients are in breast milk ?

Giving your baby breast milk has numerous benefits. It is the best source of nutrients for babies. The proteins found in breast milk is easily digestible than  that in formula or cow’s milk.  The calcium and iron in breast milk are also easily absorbed.

Here are the components of breast milk and the nutrients that they provide.

Protein

Human milk contains about 60% whey and 40 %  casein. The balance of these proteins allow for quick digestion. These proteins have great infection fighting properties.

Specific proteins found in breast milk and their benefits
 

Lactoferrin

• inhibits the growth of iron dependents bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract
• inhibits organisms such as yeast and coliform that require iron

Secretory IgA

• protects infants from  bacteria and viruses
• protects against E coli and possible allergies
• other immunoglobulins such as IgG and IgM  in breast milk also help protect against bacterial and viral infections.

Lysozyme

• enzyme that protects infants against E.coli and Salmonella
• has anti inflammatory functions
• promotes the growth of healthy intestinal flora

Bifidus factor

• supports the growth of lactobacillus (lactobacillus is a  beneficial bacteria that protects the baby against harmful bacteria )

Fats

Human milk contains fats that are essential for the following :

• brain development
• absorption of fat soluble vitamins
• is a primary calorie source
• long chain fatty acids are needed for brain, nervous system and retina development

Vitamins

The type and amount of vitamins in breast milk is in direct relations to the mother’s vitamin intake.  This is why it is essential for nursing mothers to continue on prenatal vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, are all essential  to the infant’s health.  Water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, and panthothenic acid are also vital.

Carbohydrates

The primary carbohydrate in breast milk is lactose. It accounts  for about 40% of the calories provided by breast milk.

Lactose

• promotes the growth of healthy bacteria
• improves the absorption of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium by decreasing unhealthy bacteria in the stomach

Breast milk also contain leucocytes which are living cells. They are found only in breast milk . Leucocytes also help fight against infection.The antibodies, living cells, enzymes, and hormones  make breast milk ideal. These cannot be added to formula.