Breastfeeding boosts immunity and lifelong health: Dr Shivani Kaur Grewal
LUDHIANA: Breast milk is nature’s most complete food for a newborn. It is safe, clean and rich in antibodies that protect infants from common illnesses during their earliest and most vulnerable stage of life. During the first six months, it provides nearly all the energy and nutrients a baby needs and continues to serve as a vital source of nutrition throughout the first and second year.
On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, observed globally from August 1 to 7 every year, Dr Shivani Kaur Grewal, Associate Consultant, Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital Ludhiana, said breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. She described it as a baby’s first vaccine against common childhood illnesses.
She said early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and exclusive breastfeeding for six months lay an irreplaceable foundation for lifelong physical and cognitive development.
Dr Grewal advised mothers to begin breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life. During this period, no water, formula or other foods or liquids should be introduced. She advised mothers to feed the baby on demand, as often as needed, during the day and night, rather than following a fixed schedule.
She also advised avoiding the use of bottles, artificial teats or pacifiers, as these can interfere with proper breastfeeding. From six months onward, she recommended introducing safe and nutritious complementary foods while continuing breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond.
Dr Grewal also recommended normalising breastfeeding in public spaces, free of judgment or stigma; strengthening maternity entitlements so women are not forced to choose between career and family; expanding access to trained health professionals who can offer breastfeeding support and guidance; and enforcing stricter checks on the inappropriate marketing of breast-milk substitutes.