Breast
milk, particularly colostrum is rich in the immunoglobulin IgA, which
confers immunity to infants. The lymphocytes and macrophages protect the
body against intestinal inflammation. The lactobacillus bifidus in milk
aids the growth of intestinal lactobacilli. Infants absorb iron more
efficiently from breast milk than any other form of milk. We are aware
of the benefits of the breast-feeding, which Ayurveda believes has no
parallel. Breast milk is rich in all the vital nutrients and provides
the baby with requisite energy for the all round growth. It is a
wholesome diet for the newborn, which is easy to digest, enhances
immunity, and balances the doshas. Moreover the breast milk is available
at the temperature most suited for the infant and is free from all
possible sources of contamination. Apart from the nutritional aspect the process of breast-feeding fosters a bond between the mother and the child, which acts as a reassuring factor for the baby and makes him feel safe in the new surrounding. There can be no substitute of the breast milk. Ignorance of the advantages of breast-feeding and the proper method often leads to discontinuation in most cases.
Basic Facts About Breast Feeding:
