The Department of Health-Metro Manila Center for Health Development has raised concerns about the risks associated with not breastfeeding newborns.
Breastfeeding is most important in the first 2 months of life. Babies who are not fed breast milk from birth are significantly more prone to developing diarrhoea. The risk is 17.3 percent higher compared to those who are breastfed. This alarming statistic was highlighted by nutritionist-dietician Josefina Serneo during a Media Kapihan event on Friday.
The Protective Power of Breast Milk
Breast milk is widely recognised as the ideal source of nutrition for infants. Serneo emphasised that the protective properties of breast milk are unparalleled, particularly in safeguarding against infections. “The chances of having diarrhoea among non-breastfed babies are really high,” she stated. According to Serneo, the risk of diarrhoea drops to just one percent when babies are exclusively fed breast milk. This risk increases slightly to 3.2 percent when breast milk is supplemented with non-nutritious liquids, and to 13.3 percent when combined with supplements.
The superiority of breast milk over other forms of infant nutrition lies in its composition. Breast milk is easier for babies to digest compared to formula or cow’s milk. It contains more whey protein, and its casein content is only 33 percent, which is significantly lower than the 80 percent found in cow’s milk. This composition not only aids digestion but also reduces the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhoea.
Exclusive Breastfeeding: A Nationwide Challenge
Despite the well-documented benefits of breastfeeding, the practice is not as widespread as it should be in the Philippines. Only 29 percent of infants born in the country are exclusively breastfed from birth until they are five to nine months old. This low rate of exclusive breastfeeding means that many babies miss out on the essential nutrients and protective factors that breast milk provides.
Breast milk is rich in a variety of nutrients that are crucial for a baby’s development. These include antibodies, hormones, anti-viruses, anti-allergies, anti-parasites, and enzymes. It also includes minerals, vitamins, fats, DHA/ARA (docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid or omega fatty acids), carbohydrates, proteins, water, and growth factors. These components not only nourish the baby but also play a role in boosting their immune system and protecting them from illnesses, including diarrhoea.
Psychological and Developmental Benefits
Beyond the physical health benefits, breastfeeding also offers significant psychological advantages. Breastfeeding fosters emotional bonding between mother and child, which is crucial for the infant’s psychological development. Studies have shown that children who are breastfed tend to perform better in cognitive tasks later in life. The act of breastfeeding itself promotes a sense of security and comfort, which is essential for the baby’s emotional well-being.
Legal Support for Breastfeeding
Recognising the importance of breastfeeding, the Philippine government enacted the Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009 (Republic Act 10028). This law mandates all establishments, whether public or private, to support breastfeeding in the workplace. This includes the creation of lactation rooms where mothers can breastfeed or express milk in privacy and comfort. The law also supports the celebration of National Breastfeeding Month every August. This event aims to raise awareness and encourage more mothers to breastfeed.
The Value of Colostrum: The First Milk
In addition to promoting breastfeeding, Serneo also highlighted the importance of feeding newborns with colostrum, the first milk produced by the mother after giving birth. Colostrum is often misunderstood, with some believing it to be spoiled milk due to its thick and yellowish appearance. However, Serneo clarified that colostrum is actually packed with nutrients, including high levels of fat, protein, and lactose, which are crucial for the newborn’s health.
“Some throw colostrum away, thinking that it is spoiled. It is not. It must be given to newborns because it has high fat content, protein, and lactose,” Serneo explained.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The importance of breastfeeding cannot be overstated. It is not only a source of nutrition but also a shield against infections, including diarrhoea, which is a potentially serious condition among infants. The Department of Health and other health experts continue to advocate for exclusive breastfeeding, particularly in the first six months of life. This is to ensure that every child has the best possible start in life. Parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers are urged to prioritise breastfeeding and take full advantage of the protective benefits it offers to newborns.
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