Quite simply, breastmilk is AMAZING! There is literally nothing quite like it. In addition to being a complete ‘first food’ for babies, it has a raft of other qualities that might surprise you:
- Breastmilk is made up of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and other biologically active components and is yet to be commercially duplicated.
- The composition of breastmilk varies throughout the day and at each feed. It also adjusts to baby’s changing nutritional needs as they grow. The flavour of breastmilk also changes in subtle ways with the foods you eat. This helps with the later introduction of solid foods.
- Breastmilk prevents illness and infection in the first few months of life and is thought to play a part in minimising the likelihood of diabetes, asthma and obesity later in life.
- Breastfeeding benefits mum too. Not only does it help your uterus contract to its pre-pregnancy size, it helps reduce the risk of ovarian and breast cancer.
- Breastmilk contains anti-infective and anti-inflammatory properties. Use it on sore and cracked nipples to promote healing. Breastmilk has also been used to treat minor cuts and wounds, as well as conjunctivitis.
- The prolactin contained in breastmilk has a calming effect on babies, hence the “milk drunk” phenomenon.
- You can make soap, cheese and ice-cream with it! Yep, it’s been done. Personally, I’m happy with the cow’s milk variety. Besides, ain’t nobody got time for that!...
Do you know any other fun facts about breastmilk? Let us know in the comments section below or on our Facebook page. We’d love to hear them!
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