The question that every mother asks herself during her pregnancy: Should I breastfeed my baby or not?
You have probably asked yourself this question many times and opinions often differ from one woman to another. The Mellipou editor is here to answer your questions!
Astride: What are the benefits of breast milk?
RM: Breast milk covers all of baby's needs and contains the vitamins, minerals, trace elements, sugars, fats and proteins that your little one needs to grow well. It constantly evolves according to baby's needs. Its composition varies during feeding, becoming enriched with fats as the breast empties or when feedings come closer together, but also throughout the day and over the months to adapt to needs. of the growing baby.
Joëlle: Does breastfeeding have any benefits for my baby's health?
RM: It is often recommended to breastfeed your baby for at least four months because this would limit the risk of serious respiratory infections! It has anti-infectious, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-cancer, healing but also moisturizing, calming, repairing and regenerating properties.
A little def to remember: Colostrom: rich in nutrients and antibodies, it is the “first milk” that your baby will drink for the 3 days following birth, while waiting for the famous milk flow (> see below).
Ivana: Are there any risks for the mother?
RM: The mother is a superhero, she is able to endure anything. But breastfeeding can cause breast pain, severe fatigue or even cracking. You have to manage your time well and not overwork yourself! Even if it's not always easy! If you don't have time to breastfeed your child, you can always prepare bottles by expressing your milk. Breast milk can be stored in the fridge for 48 hours. Practical, right?
Inès: I don't want to breastfeed, is this serious for my baby?
RM: No! Your baby will be no less healthy! Some women are not comfortable with the idea of breastfeeding their child, and that is understandable! You are completely free to breastfeed your baby or not. This is why there are substitutes for breast milk. And then we're not going to lie to each other! It's easier to give dad a little bottle when you want to go on a shopping trip with your friends!
Manon: Will I have enough milk?
RM: Don’t panic! It is quite rare to run out of milk. The body produces exactly what baby needs to feed properly. In addition, it is the baby's sucking that maintains the production of milk. Then you have grandmother's remedies like thyme herbal teas to drink throughout to activate lactation.
Daphné: What type of diet should I follow while breastfeeding
RM: During breastfeeding, the diet must be balanced to allow good milk production. There are some recommended foods: Fruits & vegetables, dairy products, carbohydrates, cereals, omega 3 (such as salmon, sardines, tuna) and omega 6 (such as sunflower oil, soybean oil, nuts)
Here are some tips to adopt daily:
- Drink fresh carrot juice and 1.5 liters of water per day
- Add wheat germ to your salads and yogurts
- Eat dried figs
PS: We won't blame you if you eat a good pizza from time to time ;)
