Breastfeeding Week (1 to 7 August): Celebrating nature's first superfood
Every year, from August 1st to 7th, the world observes Breastfeeding Week to raise awareness about the importance of breast milk for infants, mothers, and society at large. Organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, this week serves as a powerful reminder that breastfeeding is not just a personal act—it's a public health imperative.
Why Breast Milk Matters
Breast milk is more than just food; it's a living, dynamic source of nutrition uniquely tailored for each baby. It contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and antibodies that help an infant grow and build immunity. In fact, the first milk produced after childbirth, called colostrum, is often termed 'liquid gold' for its high concentration of protective antibodies and nutrients. 'Breast milk is nature's first vaccine—it not only provides optimal nutrition but also boosts the baby's immune system from day one,' says Dr. Swathi Gogineni, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynecology, Infertility Specialist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.
According to the WHO, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life reduces infant mortality and provides critical protection against diseases such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and even obesity later in life. After six months, continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods can protect and nourish the child well into the toddler years.
Benefits for Babies
• Stronger Immunity: Breast milk is packed with antibodies that help babies fight off viruses and bacteria.
• Brain Development: Essential fatty acids in breast milk contribute to cognitive development and visual acuity.
• Lower Risk of SIDS: Studies show a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome in breastfed babies.
• Bonding: The act of breastfeeding promotes skin-to-skin contact and emotional bonding between mother and child.
Benefits for Mothers
• Faster Recovery: Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its normal size and reduces postpartum bleeding.
• Calorie Burn: It naturally helps in burning extra calories, aiding in postpartum weight loss.
• Reduced Risk of Diseases: Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancers, Type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression.
• Emotional Connection: It nurtures a deep, hormonal bonding experience that supports maternal mental health.
Challenges and the Need for Support
While the benefits of breastfeeding are well-documented, not every mother finds it easy. Pain, latching difficulties, lack of information, societal stigma, and returning to work can all be barriers. This is where awareness, education, and support systems are vital.
Workplaces need to adopt mother-friendly policies—such as maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and hygienic nursing rooms. Hospitals and healthcare providers should promote the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) to encourage early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding. Families and communities play a central role, too. Encouraging words, helping hands, and emotional support can make a huge difference in a mother's confidence and commitment to breastfeeding.
Spreading the Message
This Breastfeeding Awareness Week, let us:
• Educate new mothers about the science and benefits of breast milk.
• Support lactating mothers at home, in workplaces, and in public spaces.
• Normalize breastfeeding through positive messaging in media and community events.
• Advocate for policy changes that create breastfeeding-friendly environments.
Final Thoughts
Breast milk is a natural, sustainable, and cost-effective way to nourish and protect infants. It's the first vaccine, the first food, and the first bond. By spreading awareness and supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey, we contribute to a healthier generation and a more compassionate society.
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Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Doctors emphasize breastfeeding as the child's first line of defence
Madurai: Breastmilk is the first vaccine of the child, said Dr Nandini Kuppusamy, president of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Madurai. IAP and Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH) are observing Breastfeeding Week from Aug 1 to 7. Nandini said that breastfeeding impacts the infant mortality rate of a country. "The first 1,000 days of the child can be split into three parts: 300 days of pregnancy and close to two years after childbirth. This is a crucial time for the child to receive nutrition," she said. According to the National Guidelines on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life to achieve optimal growth, development, and health. However, there are many myths in society, and hence we ensure to raise awareness during this week every year, she added. "During the first six months of the child, only breastmilk must be given. Anything else, even water, must not be given to the child. This is because breastmilk contains 60% water," she added. Breastmilk can be given to the child until the age of two, she said. The World Health Organisation says that 45% of deaths of children below the age of five are linked to malnutrition. Many deadly respiratory and diarrhoeal diseases can be prevented by breastfeeding, she said. On Saturday, awareness was given to 200 antenatal mothers in GRH, said Dr J Senthil Kumar, secretary, IAP Madurai. In the coming days, a series of awareness programmes have been organised, he added. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
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Business Standard
9 hours ago
- Business Standard
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Hans India
17 hours ago
- Hans India
Breastfeeding Week (1 to 7 August): Celebrating nature's first superfood
Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and powerful ways to nourish a newborn. Far beyond being just a means of sustenance, breast milk plays a crucial role in shaping an infant's health, development, and immunity. Packed with essential nutrients and living antibodies, it adapts to a baby's changing needs, offering unparalleled protection in the earliest stages of life. As science continues to uncover the remarkable benefits of breastfeeding, it becomes even clearer why this 'liquid gold' is considered the gold standard of infant nutrition Every year, from August 1st to 7th, the world observes Breastfeeding Week to raise awareness about the importance of breast milk for infants, mothers, and society at large. Organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) and endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, this week serves as a powerful reminder that breastfeeding is not just a personal act—it's a public health imperative. Why Breast Milk Matters Breast milk is more than just food; it's a living, dynamic source of nutrition uniquely tailored for each baby. It contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and antibodies that help an infant grow and build immunity. In fact, the first milk produced after childbirth, called colostrum, is often termed 'liquid gold' for its high concentration of protective antibodies and nutrients. 'Breast milk is nature's first vaccine—it not only provides optimal nutrition but also boosts the baby's immune system from day one,' says Dr. Swathi Gogineni, Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynecology, Infertility Specialist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad. According to the WHO, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life reduces infant mortality and provides critical protection against diseases such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and even obesity later in life. After six months, continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods can protect and nourish the child well into the toddler years. Benefits for Babies • Stronger Immunity: Breast milk is packed with antibodies that help babies fight off viruses and bacteria. • Brain Development: Essential fatty acids in breast milk contribute to cognitive development and visual acuity. • Lower Risk of SIDS: Studies show a reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome in breastfed babies. • Bonding: The act of breastfeeding promotes skin-to-skin contact and emotional bonding between mother and child. Benefits for Mothers • Faster Recovery: Breastfeeding helps the uterus return to its normal size and reduces postpartum bleeding. • Calorie Burn: It naturally helps in burning extra calories, aiding in postpartum weight loss. • Reduced Risk of Diseases: Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancers, Type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression. • Emotional Connection: It nurtures a deep, hormonal bonding experience that supports maternal mental health. Challenges and the Need for Support While the benefits of breastfeeding are well-documented, not every mother finds it easy. Pain, latching difficulties, lack of information, societal stigma, and returning to work can all be barriers. This is where awareness, education, and support systems are vital. Workplaces need to adopt mother-friendly policies—such as maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and hygienic nursing rooms. Hospitals and healthcare providers should promote the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) to encourage early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding. Families and communities play a central role, too. Encouraging words, helping hands, and emotional support can make a huge difference in a mother's confidence and commitment to breastfeeding. Spreading the Message This Breastfeeding Awareness Week, let us: • Educate new mothers about the science and benefits of breast milk. • Support lactating mothers at home, in workplaces, and in public spaces. • Normalize breastfeeding through positive messaging in media and community events. • Advocate for policy changes that create breastfeeding-friendly environments. Final Thoughts Breast milk is a natural, sustainable, and cost-effective way to nourish and protect infants. It's the first vaccine, the first food, and the first bond. By spreading awareness and supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey, we contribute to a healthier generation and a more compassionate society.
