Breastfeeding essential to enhance immunity in children, says doc | Mangaluru News
Udupi: Breastfeeding is a balanced and complete nutrition that supports the mental and physical development of the baby. Hence, breastfeeding is essential to enhance the immunity in children, said district surgeon Dr Ashok H.He was speaking at the inauguration of the district-level programme for World Breastfeeding Week, organised jointly by the district administration, zilla panchayat, and the health and family welfare department under the National Health Mission at govt maternity and children’s hospital in Udupi. Breastfeeding is crucial for the health of both mother and child. Dr Ashok said that breastfeeding has the potential to save 800,000 children’s lives worldwide each year.District RCH officer Dr Jyotsna BK said that investing in breastfeeding is akin to investing in a healthy future for children, which is the theme for this year. Every year, from Aug 1 to 7, this week is celebrated globally with awareness programmes and other health activities. It is important to initiate breastfeeding within an hour of birth. No other food should be given besides breast milk for the first six months, and breastfeeding should continue up to two years. Complementary foods should be introduced after six months, she said.Obstetrician Dr Kavitha stated that the protein in a mother’s breast milk is essential for the baby’s brain development. Breastfeeding not only enhances children’s intelligence but also prevents long-term illnesses. Above all, it strengthens the bond between mother and child and provides protection against breast cancer for the mother, she said.
