If we let nature take its own course and do not meddle too much in its ways, it usually works to our benefit. Scientists have for long known that breastfed babies are healthier and happier than formula-fed babies. Formulaic preparations for babies came into vogue during World War II and became the norm because of the convenience they offered. However, as we know today the convenience came at a cost to the babies, who were more vulnerable to illnesses as compared to babies fed on breast milk.

Breast milk is healthy because –

• The very first milk, colustrum, which is produced for the first two three days is a nutrient-packed thick whitish liquid that benefits the baby’s guts by helping good bacteria achieve an ascendancy over harmful bacteria. This is crucial because a baby’s digestive system is sterile when he is born. Colustrum is low in fat and high in carbohydrates, protein, and antibodies. Also it is easily digested by the baby. Colustrum has a laxative effect which helps the baby to pass the first stools, meconium, which is thick and tarry. It also helps to clear the baby’s body of excess bilirubin and prevent jaundice. Colustrum provides the baby with antibodies and white blood cells thereby preparing it to face life outside the womb.

• The second stage begins on the fourth day when the breast milk changes consistency and becomes thinner. It is no longer densely packed with antibodies but is still full of nutrition for the baby.

• Breast-fed babies are less susceptible to illnesses such as ear infections, disorders of the digestive systems, allergies, colds, flu, pneumonia, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, etc. A huge benefit of breastfeeding is that offers a lifetime of protection against ulcerative colitis, insulin dependent diabetes, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and Crohn’s disease.

• Women who breastfeed their babies for a period of around two years reduce their chances of contracting breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding is also a natural birth control mechanism as women who breastfeed their babies do not get their periods back till they have stopped breastfeeding the babies.
So, it is important to remember that breast milk is hugely beneficial to both the mother and the baby.