Benefits of Breastmilk

Greetings, friends ~
We’re here to share some information for expectant parents who may be weighing the benefits of breast milk for their infants. Our goal is to provide as much info on the subject as possible, answer any questions you may have, and aid in making the best decision for your family!

There are instances in which babies cannot receive breast milk, such as when certain infections are present in the mother, or metabolic diseases in the infant.
But if it is possible, providing breast milk is healthy nutrition and infection protection at the same time. It’s considered to be nutritionally complete for newborns, with the right balance of fats, proteins, sugars.
Full of antibodies, immune cells, and other proteins (lactoferrin, Interleukin- 6 (IL-6), IL-8, and IL-10) to protect babies against infections, it also has the added benefit of immune protection. Colostrum, the protein rich thick substance that mom’s make in the first few days after delivery is especially full of these natural infection-fighting components.

There are countless other benefits of both breast milk and breastfeeding, including providing warmth and closeness between parent and child. This physical contact helps create special bonds between you and your baby. Breast milk is also easy for your baby to digest. Here, you’ll find further info in these helpful links;

Lactation Network; Benefits of Breastfeeding

Healthy Children; Why Breastfeed?

Parents must consider the health of the mother, the health of the newborn, logistics and practicality to make this determination. As your pediatricians, we understand that this is a complicated decision, and also sometimes one that is decided for you. Formula is a helpful supplement in the first few days of life if your baby is losing a bit too much weight, or not gaining at the rate expected for a newborn. Other instances in which babies cannot receive breast milk include certain infections in the mother, or metabolic diseases in the infant. Remember- “fed is best!” https://fedisbest.org/resources-for-parents/

Baby formulas (those found on the shelves in the US) meet FDA requirements, contain full nutritional needs, and are considered safe to use. However, formula will not provide as much of the immune protection that breastmilk does, since it lacks antibodies and immune cells found in mother’s milk.

Here at GROW, we are happy to support your family and talk about nursing and breastmilk further! Call us at 512-467-7334 to make an appointment.

Healthy Children; Breastfeeding Benefits Your Babys Immune System

Brought to you by Dr. Gina Duong, MD, FAAP, IBCLC. Dr. Duong has been with GROW Pediatrics since 2022, and is a board-certified pediatrician and lactation consultant.