It’s not just breast milk, it’s nature’s own defense system
Did you know…? The natural protection in breast milk will help nurture your newborn.
Ticking off the days until your due date is an exciting time. You’ll finally get to meet the tiny person who has been growing inside you all these months! As a new parent, you’ll instinctively do anything to safeguard your baby - and without doubt, breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your little one’s health.
You may have already heard about the immediate benefits of breastfeeding for your baby’s health. For example, your baby is less likely to suffer from diarrhea, ear infections, and some breathing problems when you breastfeed.
The health advantages you can give your little one don’t stop there. Breast milk is truly incredible. Here are some of the ways your breast milk will help defend your baby from illness:
- HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides) are specific bioactive compounds found only in breast milk and one of the latest scientific discoveries in baby nutrition. Until recently, scientists knew that HMOs were unique to breast milk but didn’t understand their function. They have now discovered that HMOs act as natural guardians for your little one and support their digestive health and developing immune system.
- Antibodies in your breast milk will help your baby fight off various types of infection, from tummy bugs to wheezy chests.
- Probiotics are “friendly” bacteria naturally found in breast milk that can help your baby’s digestion by balancing bacteria in her gut. Probiotics also support your baby’s developing immune system.
- Bioactive proteins (some of which are called immunoglobulins) enhance your baby’s immune function and help her developing gut work properly.
Scientists have also discovered that the health benefits of breastfeeding don’t stop in childhood. Adults who were breastfed as babies are less likely to develop health conditions including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
It’s amazing to think that as a mom you will have the power to influence your baby’s health, not only today but for years to come. Breastfeeding your baby will set her up for a healthy future.
Sources
Bode L. Early Hum Dev. 2015;91(11):619-22.
Jost Y, et al. Nutr Rev. 2015 73(7):426-37.
Newburg DS. J Nutr. 2005;135:1308-12.
Newburg DS, Walker WA. Pediatr Res. 2007;61(1):2-8.
Related articles
Get ready, get set... breastfeed!
Did you know? The “superpowers” of breast milk for your baby (and you) cannot be underestimated—and pregnancy is the perfect time to prepare.
2 mins to read
Your hospital breastfeeding checklist
Make sure your feeding plans don’t get overlooked in all the excitement of your new arrival.
1 min to read
Boost your breastfeeding confidence
Did you know? Developing your support network now can help you feel good about feeding your baby later.
2 mins to read
The benefits of breastfeeding
Breastmilk has everything your little one needs to grow*—and offers benefits for you, too.
3 mins to read
What to expect at 5 month of pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 18-22. A month of finishing touches for the baby.
3 mins to read
Your baby growth at 6 month of pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 23 – 27. Your baby develops movements that will later help it take its first whiff of air in the world, inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid.
3 mins to read
Tips to help with breastfeeding problems
Breastfeeding is a learned process—by mom and baby—and you may face some challenges in the first few months of breastfeeding.
4 mins to read
What are the hormonal changes during pregnancy
Being pregnant is an exciting experience, not only are you anticipating the day you finally hold your baby in your arms, but your body is also going through amazing changes.
8 mins to read
First month of pregnancy symptoms
Your pregnancy: weeks 1-4 – the start of your first trimester. The first signs of pregnancy may be very obvious… or not at all.
3 mins to read
Prenatal multivitamins and folic acid for pregnancy
A lack of folic acid during pregnancy leads to higher risk of neural tube defects in the baby. Learn about supplementing with folic acid and how much you need.
4 mins to read
Effects on you at the eighth month of pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 32-35. Your baby is still developing as you near the finish line and it’s mostly adding the finishing touches from here on out.
3 mins to read
What to expect in the second month of your pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 5-8. A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, is important during this stage.
3 mins to read
How to exercise safely through pregnancy
Why 30 minutes a day can impact a lifetime.
4 mins to read
Planning to breastfeed?
Practical action steps to take before, during, and after birth
5 mins to read
9 month of pregnancy : Your baby is almost here
Your pregnancy: weeks 36 – 39. It’s the final countdown to your baby’s grand entrance!
3 mins to read
What to pack in your hospital bag
Time to think about what to pack for your new baby—including that special going-home outfit—and for yourself, as well as what you might need for breastfeeding.
1 min to read
Third month of pregnancy symptoms
Your pregnancy: weeks 9-13. Your silhouette still may not show your pregnancy, but you begin to feel that the baby is there.
3 mins to read
Gestational diabetes symptoms
10 essential questions about gestational diabetes answered
6 mins to read
Birth plan | Labour Signs
Here’s an outline that starts with your third trimester, and takes you right through to your upcoming labour.
4 mins to read
