The doctor told about the benefits of breast milk for the baby

Breast milk is a unique product that combines an optimal ratio of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. This was stated by pediatrician Guzel Rakhimova of "SM-Clinic" on February 13.

In a conversation with "Gazeta.Ru" she noted that breast milk also contains live bacteria that form a unique microbiota of children's intestines, as well as playing an important role in maintaining the health of the gastrointestinal tract and immune system. In addition, she elaborated that the nutrients in breast milk are better absorbed than from formula.

"The composition of milk changes depending on the age of the child, time of day, even the phase of feeding (e.g., more water at the beginning of the feeding to quench thirst and more fats and calories at the end). No formula can replicate this dynamism. Breast milk contains protective antibodies and other immune factors that strengthen the child's immunity, reducing the risk of infections (especially respiratory and gastrointestinal) and allergic reactions," the pediatrician noted.

Rakhimova also pointed out that breastfeeding helps establish an emotional bond between mom and baby more quickly. She noted that breast milk helps reduce the risk of obesity and the development of diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease in the child in the future.

In addition, the doctor pointed out that breastfeeding is good for women, which reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and speeds up recovery after childbirth. However, she added that there are situations when artificial feeding becomes preferable, as there may be medical contraindications in the mother or child, insufficient milk production, deficiency of vitamins and micronutrients in the woman, as well as taking certain medications by the mother and her psychological comfort.

"Breast milk remains the "gold standard" in infant nutrition due to its unique composition and ability to adapt to the needs of each baby in particular. However, in real life, exclusive breastfeeding is not always possible," the doctor added.

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In September 2024, in a conversation with Izvestia, pediatrician Elvira Ziganshina of the children's clinic "Bud Zdorov" said that it is possible to determine whether to give water to a breastfed baby only individually in a particular case. She noted that a child who is breastfed does not need water, as breast milk consists of 87% water.

According to her, if the child is artificially fed, he is offered only boiled water, cooled to room temperature and from a bottle about 80-100 ml per day, one or one and a half hours after feeding with formula.