Why Breast Milk is the Optimal Nutrition for Your Baby
Breast milk is a uniquely tailored nutritional source for infants. It contains:
- 87% water – essential for hydration
- 7% carbohydrates – primarily lactose, which supports brain development
- 4% fats – for energy and neurological development
- 2% proteins and bioactive components – including immunoglobulins and enzymes that support immunity and digestion
The initial milk, colostrum, is particularly rich in:
- Antibodies (especially IgA)
- White blood cells
- Proteins and minerals
- Vitamins A, E, and K
This “liquid gold” builds your baby’s immune system from day one.
📌 Source: Al Jazeera Infographic
👶 Health Benefits for Infants
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months reduces the risk of:
- Respiratory infections
- Gastrointestinal infections
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
- Obesity and Type 1 Diabetes
- Middle ear infections
📌 CDC – Why Breastfeeding is Important
Breastfed infants also show:
- Improved cognitive outcomes
- Stronger immune response
📌 WHO – Breastfeeding Recommendations
👩⚕️ Health Benefits for Mothers
Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for babies—it helps mothers too. Research shows it significantly lowers the risk of:
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High blood pressure
Breastfeeding also aids in postpartum recovery by promoting uterine contractions and reducing bleeding.
📌 CDC – Breastfeeding and Maternal Health
🚫 Common Breastfeeding Challenges
Despite its benefits, many mothers face real difficulties:
- Hormonal disorders like PCOS or thyroid dysfunction
- Low milk supply due to stress, prior surgeries, or anatomical issues
- Nipple pain or latch difficulties
- Delayed lactation post-C-section
- Infant issues like tongue-tie, cleft palate, or lactose intolerance
These challenges can cause emotional distress and confusion for new mothers.
📌 ACOG – Breastfeeding Challenges
🏥 How Shree Polyclinic & Lab Supports You
At our clinic, we believe that no mother should feel alone in this journey. We offer:
✅ Lactation Support Programs
- One-on-one consultation with trained lactation experts
- Techniques for proper latching and positioning
- Guidance on milk expression and storage
✅ Medical Assessment
- Evaluation of hormonal imbalances affecting milk supply
- Identification of physical or developmental feeding issues in the infant
✅ Hybrid Feeding Guidance
- Safe formula integration for babies with special nutritional needs
- Ongoing monitoring of infant weight and maternal well-being
✅ Post-Caesarean Lactation Care
- Specialized post-op care and emotional support
- Pain management and breastfeeding ergonomics
Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, supplementing, or considering mixed feeding, we tailor support to your situation—with both compassion and clinical accuracy.
📌 Shree Polyclinic & Lab – Contact Us https://wa.me/918550001600
🧩 Final Thoughts from Dr. Chithra S
Breastfeeding is powerful but not always easy. It requires physical readiness, emotional support, and sometimes professional intervention. At Shree Polyclinic & Lab, we provide a judgment-free environment focused on your unique journey.
🔍 If you’re experiencing challenges or planning your postpartum care, we’re here to help.
Your well-being and your baby’s health are our top priorities.