Healthy diet for baby:
Breast milk provides the perfect balance of carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes for an infant. This balance cannot be copied with formula. In addition, breast milk provides protection against infection for the baby. Since a newborn baby’s immune system is not yet fully developed, the mother produces antibodies in the breast milk to fight off infection for the baby. This small miracle simply cannot be recreated in a formula bottle.
Research has shown that breast fed infants are less likely to develop many conditions including; allergies, childhood cancers, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and diabetes. On top of all these medical benefits, breast-feeding is beneficial to the emotional security of the child. The quiet time during feeding offers an opportunity for the baby to bond with the parent.
In addition to the many benefits to the baby, breast-feeding is also healthy for the mother. Producing breast milk helps the mother burn off calories, contract the uterine muscles that are stretched during pregnancy, and lose weight faster. Research also shows that women who breast-feed are less likely to develop certain medical problems later. The risks of pre-menopausal breast cancer, cervical cancer, and osteoporosis are all reduced in women who breast-feed.
Breast pumps offer an option for the further benefits of breastfeeding after the first few weeks at home with baby. Mothers who are on the go can continue to provide milk for baby even with a busy schedule away from home. Pump rental is available at both Henrico and Bremo Pharmacies. For more details, call us at 804-285-7730 or 804-288-8361.
Kerri Musselman, PharmD—Rev 5/12/10 TNK
