Breast Milk: The Best Protection in the Age of COVID-19

Just when you there can't possibly be more good reasons to opt for breast milk instead of formula, recent studies have found that breastfed babies have stronger immunity against COVID-19 than their formula-fed counterparts. This is good news for mothers who have decided to breastfeed their newborns. Scientists have always been puzzled as to why there are very few cases of COVID-19 among young children and babies. Despite the fact that they're technically the most at-risk group. It is not until recently that this conundrum is slowly being demystified. Research has shown that breast milk may confer some added protection against upper respiratory diseases (like COVID-19) even long after they've been weaned. Read on to learn more about this exciting new development. Benefits of Breast Milk and Breastfeeding Breast Milk is Nutritious Just to give you refresher on just how nutritious it is, breast milk is chockful of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Not to mention vitamins (A, B6, B12, C, D, E, K, folate) and minerals (iron, zinc, calcium, sodium, magnesium). These macro- and micronutrients provide all the energy and essential building blocks for the baby's growing body. Moreover, research has also shown that breastfed babies are smarter and are less likely to develop behavioural problems or learning difficulties. This may be due to the intimacy factor behind the act of breastfeeding as well as the nutrient rich milk. Breast Milk Protects the Baby Breast milk contains large amounts of immunity boosters that help protect the baby from infections. This particularly applies to a mother's first milk, or colostrum. Colostrum supplies high amounts of immunoglobulin A (IgA), plus several other antibodies. IgA protects the baby from getting sick by forming a protective coating on the baby’s nose, throat, and digestive system. You may find that formula-fed babies are more prone to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea and upper respiratory tract infections like pneumonia. Other illnesses that breastfed babies may be protected from include middle ear infections, asthma, eczema, SIDS, Chron's disease, leukaemia and diabetes. Breastfeeding Helps the Mother Breastfeeding does not only help the baby, it also helps the mother, especially during post-birth recovery. When a mother breastfeeds her baby, her brain releases a hormone called oxytocin which greatly helps her uterus return to its normal size in a process called involution. While this happens naturally overtime, breastfeeding accelerates the healing phase, reducing the risk of bleeding. Studies have also shown that women who breastfeed after childbirth are able to maintain healthy postpartum weight. Just when you think the benefits stop there, breastfeeding also helps protect the mother against high blood pressure, diabetes, ovarian and breast cancer, arthritis and even depression. Breast Milk is Free Unlike commercial infant formulas, breast milk is relatively free. The mother's body naturally produces it by virtue of her womanhood. Yes, the mother will still have to eat to keep producing milk, but when all is said and done, families will spend much less on baby expenses if they just resort to breastfeeding. Formulas are okay if they're given later when the baby's a little older. During their first few days of life, however, breast milk is the best option. But some mothers may have a hard time producing breast milk. So, if you're currently facing this problem, here are some foods that you should include to help you lactate, and ones you should avoid. How Breast Milk Protects Your Baby From COVID-19 Breast milk protects your baby by virtue of the natural antibodies that the mother has as previously mentioned. While these antibodies don't necessarily protect against the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself, they do help with symptoms of upper respiratory conditions like influenza which is similar to COVID-19. Things like coughs, colds, fever, etc. are significantly lessened in breastfed babies. This is why those infected with COVID-19 present either mild symptoms or are entirely asymptomatic. This protection is further enhanced if the mother has had COVID-19 in the past or have been immunised against it. If you fulfil these criteria, all those delicious COVID-19 antibodies will naturally transfer to your newborn via breast milk when you breastfeed them. So, you see, breastfeeding is just like vaccinating your baby—minus the scary needles. Hence, even if you've decided on formula, it is always better to give breast milk, when possible; especially colostrum. This is first drops of breast milk that come straight after you've given birth. You can alternate between formula and breast milk afterwards, if you choose to do so. Choose Au Naturale Breast milk has been proven time and time again to confer a wealth of benefits to both mother and child. And now we can add another one to the list. But it's understandable if some women are unable to or may opt against breastfeeding their babies. Especially if it's due to medical or personal reasons. For those who are on the fence, hopefully these recent facts will help sway your decision. After all, it looks like COVID-19 is here to stay, unfortunately. And adding another layer of protection for your little one is the best thing you can ever do during a time like this. So, try to opt for breast milk the next time you want to feed your baby, you'll do them a world of good. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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