Breastfeeding
Why Breastfeed?
We believe that breastfeeding is not only a biological process but a fundamental connection between mother and child, offering profound benefits for both short-term and long-term health. Within the intestines resides a bustling ecosystem comprising trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This community, known as the intestinal microbiome, plays vital roles in food digestion, vitamin production, and immune defense.
During the first year of life, infants undergo rapid microbial colonization, shaping their unique gut microbiome. Influential factors such as maternal health, mode of delivery, and feeding patterns significantly impact this development. Breastfeeding emerges as a crucial contributor to a healthy microbiome, endorsed by leading health organizations for its numerous benefits.
Breast milk, rich in nutrients like prebiotic human milk oligosaccharides, supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, laying the foundation for long-term health. Direct breastfeeding is particularly effective in transferring these beneficial organisms to the infant.
Breastmilk is also rich in all the nutrients necessary for growing strong and healthy babies, which include raw cholesterol, fat-soluble vitamins A, D, K2 and E along with B vitamins, calcium, magnesium and the whole range of minerals and trace minerals. It is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which includes EPA and DHA, and appropriate levels of omega-6 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats.
Beyond nutrition, breastfeeding fosters emotional bonding and provides immune protection against allergies and infections, reducing the risk of chronic diseases later in life.
Recent research underscores the protective effects of breastfeeding, especially in unvaccinated children. Unvaccinated and breastfed infants exhibit lower odds of developing adverse health conditions compared to their vaccinated counterparts.
The Challenges of Breastfeeding
However, we are aware that for some, breastfeeding comes with its challenges.
Some mothers may find it too overwhelming, while socio-economic barriers can hinder breastfeeding efforts.
Support resources such as lactation consultants are crucial to assist mothers facing difficulties.
Find a lactation consultant by clicking on the button.
For mothers unable to breastfeed directly, alternatives like breast pumping (next best) and donor milk exist and are recommended. Formula is also an option, of course, but caution is advised when considering formula options due to concerns about synthetic additives.
Many people may not fully realize that most commercial formulas contain 50% sugar, primarily from corn syrup, GMO corn and soy, lacks the high level of raw cholesterol found in breast milk and other critical fats for proper development. They are also devoid of beneficial bacterial for a healthy gut and immune system and lacks enzymes that play a very important role in digestion. We recommend full research of ingredients and also considerations for homemade using the Weston A. Price Foundation recipe (link).