The Head of the Nutrition Unit at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ms. Dorcas Asante, has emphasized the importance of promoting exclusive breastfeeding among lactating mothers for the optimal well-being of both babies and mothers.
In an interview with the media, she highlighted the recommendations of health experts, which stress that breastfeeding should commence within the first 30 minutes of a baby’s life and continue according to the baby’s needs.
She referenced the World Health Organization (WHO), which advises exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by the continuation of breastfeeding alongside suitable complementary foods for up to two years or longer.
Enumerating the advantages of breastfeeding for infants, Ms. Asante pointed out that breast milk offers ideal nutrition containing all necessary nutrients in the appropriate proportions for a baby’s first six months of life.
Breast milk is rich in antibodies that help combat infections, is easily digestible to prevent issues like constipation and diarrhea, and contributes to cognitive development while decreasing the risk of conditions like type two diabetes and obesity in adulthood. The practice also reduces the likelihood of sudden infant death syndrome, as well as ear and respiratory tract infections.
For mothers, Ms. Asante highlighted various benefits, including a decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, type two diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure.
Breastfeeding naturally suppresses ovulation and menstruation, acts as a form of contraception, expends additional calories, and assists the body in returning to its pre-pregnancy state more quickly.
It even aids in reducing the risk of postpartum depression and supports uterine contraction due to increased oxytocin secretion.
In terms of family benefits, breastfeeding reduces financial strain, as it is more cost-effective than using breast milk substitutes.
Healthier breastfed babies result in fewer medical expenses and fewer lost workdays for parents caring for a sick child.
Importantly, breastfeeding contributes to environmental preservation by eliminating the need for formula and associated waste production.
“Breastfed babies are healthier, and there is a decrease in expenses for medical treatment and lost workdays caring for a sick child,” she said.
Ms. Asante emphasized that breastfeeding contributes to a decline in childhood illnesses, ultimately leading to lower national healthcare expenses, improved child survival rates, and diminished morbidity and mortality.