Expectant moms should consider benefits of breastfeeding

HEALTH MATTERS

By: Sally Isaacs, R.N., B.S.N., I.B.C.L.C
   By gubernatorial proclamation, August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month in New Jersey.
   The proclamation states "that the citizens of New Jersey deserve good health throughout their lifetimes" and refers to scientific studies that indicate that "breastfeeding optimally enhances the growth, development and well-being of infants, providing the best possible nutrition, protection against specific infections and allergies, and the promotion of maternal and infant bonding."
   Breast milk, naturally designed to provide all the nutrients that a growing infant needs, is the perfect food for babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all babies be breastfed for the first year of life, at least, and that babies be exclusively breastfed for the first six months. After six months, other foods may be introduced.
   Barbara Philipp, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics at Boston Medical Center, reports that compared to formula-fed babies, babies who are breastfed for at least six months have three times fewer ear infections; five times fewer urinary tract infections; five times fewer serious illnesses, and seven times fewer allergies.
   In addition, breastfed babies are less likely to die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome; are six times less likely to develop diabetes; are 35 pecent less likely to enter kindergarten obese, and have slightly higher IQs. Breastfed premature babies who are delivered at less than 30 weeks’ gestation are six-10 times less likely to have necrotizing enterocolitis, an acquired disease in which intestinal tissue dies. Breastfed preemies between 30-37 weeks’ gestation are 10-20 times less likely to develop NEC.
   The protection afforded by breastfeeding does not end in childhood. Adults who were breastfed as babies:
   • are less likely to develop asthma and diabetes;
   • have fewer allergies and dermatological problems;
   • have a lowered risk of heart attack and stroke due to lower cholesterol levels;
   • have fewer stomach problems, and
   • are protected from certain chronic liver diseases.
   Breastfeeding not only benefits the recipients of breast milk, but the women who breastfeed as well. Women who have breastfed for a lifetime total of two years have a 40 percent less chance of developing breast cancer before menopause. The rate drops to 66 percent for women who breastfed for a lifetime total of six years. For those who breastfed for seven years or more, the risk of developing breast cancer is almost zero.
   Breastfeeding should not be stressful or painful. After delivery, moms should expect some soreness or discomfort as their breast milk comes in. If a mom is experiencing pain, this is most likely the result of a positioning problem, which is easily adjusted.
   Fears that the baby will suffocate at the breast are unfounded; if the baby can suckle, the baby can breathe.
   During the first several weeks, keep the three "P"s in mind: patience, practice and perseverance. Breastfeeding works on a supply-and-demand principle. Wait three weeks before introducing anything but the breast to the baby so that a nursing routine can be established. After three weeks, try expressing breast milk for occasional bottle feedings.
   While mothers bond with their babies during breastfeeding, fathers can bond by bathing, burping, changing and taking their little ones out for a stroll. This is the time for mothers and fathers to be supportive of each other and their babies.
   Breastfeeding mothers should not crash-diet. Those who breastfeed for three months or longer are most likely to lose the weight gained during pregnancy. Remember that when it comes to food and drink, moderation is key. Avoid smoking and be sure to get enough calcium.
   Also, in an effort to cut down on the growing number of young children who are allergic to peanuts and tree nuts (and to products made from them), allergists strongly advise that breastfeeding mothers avoid peanuts and tree nuts as well.
   Despite claims from the makers of baby formula that they have devised a product that is just like breast milk, breast milk is not something that can be duplicated in a lab.
   The FDA recently approved the addition of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids to baby formula. These fatty acids are found naturally in breast milk and help with brain-stem maturation, eye development and cancer prevention. However, when added to formula, the fatty acids appear in a different form that is not processed by babies. Be a wary and well-informed parent.
   Breastfeeding is a mother’s choice and requires 100 percent dedication. The decision to breastfeed may not be right for everyone. Moms need support in whatever feeding method is right for them.
   If you have questions, contact The Medical Center at Princeton’s lactation consultants by calling (609) 497-4300, ext. 6383.
Sally Isaacs, R.N., B.S.N., I.B.C.L.C., is a lactation consultant on staff at The Medical Center at Princeton. In recognition of Breastfeeding Awareness Month, the MCP has scheduled staff education programs. This article was prepared in collaboration with Lorraine Seabrook.