Amazing Benefits of Breastmilk
Nursing Provides More Than Just Nutrition for a Baby
The numerous benefits of breastfeeding are well documented. Breastmilk is a living fluid filled with amazing antibodies, enzymes, proteins and a wide array of nutrients.
When a mother breastfeeds, she is providing her newborn with the most perfectly designed food for his system. It doesn't matter whether her newborn is premature or born at term, her milk is specifically designed for him. Breastmilk is not just an alternative to infant formula. Rather, it is a dynamic, living fluid that no pharmaceutical company can replicate!
Amazing Antibodies
Breastmilk is filled with antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins. Five basic immunoglubulins exist, and all five are found in human milk. These antibodies protect babies from upper respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, and other common illnesses. One of the amazing things about antibodies is that when a mother is exposed to a viral agent or other pathogen, her body immediately begins to produce antibodies specific to the pathogen. Those antibodies pass into her breastmilk where her baby receives them. That's why breastfed babies often stay healthier than their formula fed counterparts. In fact, when a nursing mother gets a cold or viral infection, she should continue to breastfeed through her illness so that her baby will receive the protection provided by her milk.
Nature's Tranquilizer
Another incredible substance found in breastmilk is the amino acid tryptophan. Research shows that the circadian rhythm of breastfed babies is influenced by tryptophan in such a way that they sleep more soundly during the nighttime hours. The hormone prolactin which is responsible for producing breastmilk also functions as a natural tranquilizer for mother and baby alike.
Connecting Brain Synapses
For years researchers have debated whether breastfed children are really more intelligent than their formula-fed counterparts. Some studies have indicated a clear advantage for those who were breastfed; while others have shown little difference. Now there is new groundbreaking research that indicates up to a 7 point difference in IQ for some breastfed infants. The key is a specific gene, FADS2. Those children who have this gene benefit tremendously from being breastfed. This gene encodes for a specific enzyme that is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids. Research indicates that up to 90% of the population may have this gene!
Incomparable Nutrients
Although manufacturers of infant formula spend millions of dollars in research trying to replicate the unique properties of breastmilk, it is impossible to reproduce the incredible design of nature's perfect infant food. Subtle variations in the composition of breastmilk throughout the day and throughout the course of her baby's growth make mother's milk a true designer food. It is designed specifically for the baby who is receiving it!
