The Importance of Breast Milk and Ways to Increase Breast Milk Production
Breast milk is a miracle food for babies. All experts state that newborns should be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months. After 6 months, the baby should be fed with additional foods alongside breast milk.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAST MILK
Breast milk is the most effective food in protecting the baby against infections. Babies who do not receive breast milk have a higher percentage of conditions such as diarrhea and respiratory illnesses compared to breastfed babies. Additionally, babies digest breast milk much more easily. Other foods strain the baby's digestive system. Babies who breastfeed use their facial muscles, promoting their development. The act of sucking strengthens the bond between mother and child. This situation improves the psychosocial development of both the child and the mother. Babies who consume breast milk also contribute to their mothers' health. Breastfeeding is also important for the mother's health. The risk of postpartum hemorrhage decreases for breastfeeding mothers.
WAYS TO INCREASE BREAST MILK PRODUCTION
Sometimes a mother's milk supply may be low. If the baby starts receiving supplementary foods before completing 6 months, which is not good for the baby's health, problems can arise, or the mother's milk supply may be normal, but the baby is constantly hungry. In short, when experiencing insufficient breast milk, there are tips to increase breast milk production. Here they are;
• The food that increases breast milk production the fastest is water. While water is important for everyone, it is even more crucial for breastfeeding mothers. A breastfeeding mother should drink at least 3 liters of water a day. It is natural for breast milk supply to decrease if less than 3 liters of water is consumed.
• Breastfeeding mothers should pay close attention to their diet. Especially calcium intake. You can meet your calcium needs from milk and dairy products.
• Mothers who suffer from or wish to avoid breast milk shortages; should eat their eggs, and meat and vegetable dishes every day.
• They should consume plenty of fruits, which are rich in vitamins.
