Breast milk: nutrition, protection and care from the first days
From August 3 to August 9, the Ministry of Health announced a week to promote breastfeeding, timed to coincide with the International Breastfeeding Week. This is an occasion to talk about why breast milk is considered optimal nutrition for a baby and what kind of support a mother needs.
Breast milk changes with the baby: its composition depends on the baby's age, feeding time, and individual needs. It contains easily digestible nutrients, antibodies, lactoferrin, lysozyme and oligosaccharides. These components help to support the child's immature immune system and form the intestinal microflora.
In the first six months, the World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding unless there are medical reasons for a different tactic. A healthy full-term baby usually does not need water, tea, or other food: breast milk provides it with fluid and essential nutrients. After the introduction of complementary foods, breastfeeding can last up to two years or longer – as long as it is convenient for mom and baby.