For proper growth and development of a child, every mother must understand the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and ensure they observe it.
RUCOMEF in reaching out to rural communities across Nigeria; we noticed very few mothers understand the health benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and they rarely engage in it for the required duration.
Here a few benefits of breastfeeding shared by Dr. Victor Fayomi:
“Upon delivery of a newborn baby, breastfeeding should commence as soon as possible, except where it is medically contraindicated. Baby should be put to the breast with her mouth covering the mother’s nipple and areola. With the mother in the sitting position with her back resting on the chair, she brings the baby to the breast with her inner elbow supporting her baby’s head.
Correcting positioning is needed for the baby:
Baby’s face to face that of her mom
Tummy to tummy contact is important
Baby’s mouth latching in her mom’s breast as described.
The first few days of suckling produce colostrum which is light yellow in color, this contains high amounts of natural ingredients to ensure optimum immunity in the baby.
Breastmilk contains all the baby needs in the right quantity i.e., water, protein, carbohydrates, fats, mineral elements and vitamins, natural antibodies, and antibiotics.
All these ensure the baby grows normally and healthy.
Mothers are encouraged to breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first 6 months of life. This means the baby only feeds on breastmilk without introducing any other fluid or feeds during this period. Not even water is recommended at this age.
Complementary feeds may now be introduced thereafter.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.”
RUCOMEF……Wholistic Healthcare for the Neglected.