Benefits Of Extended Breast Feeding And Link Between...

Aynslie Skye Glendenning Nutrition 101 2/01/2016 The Benefits of Extended Breast Feeding and Link between Chronic Disease â€Å"Breast milk is widely acknowledged as the most complete form of nutrition for infants, with a range of benefits for infants health, growth, immunity and development.† (Healthy People 2010, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) The nutritional benefits of breastfeeding a newborn are known; however new studies are showing that extended breastfeeding is linked to preventing chronic disease, later in adulthood. These finding are significant because the prevalence of chronic disease worldwide is growing, especially in our nation. I will discuss the main benefits of breastfeeding, define extended breastfeeding,†¦show more content†¦(MD, MPH, IBCLC, Mirriam Labbock. What Is the Definition of Breastfeeding.†) Infants that Predominantly breastfeed, use mostly breast milk as their food source. They can also receive water and non-sugary, water based drinks. These supplementary drinks can be natural fruit juices, oral rehydration salts solution, vitamin and mineral supplements. No food based liquid is allowed. Exclusive and predominant feeding styles combine to define Full breastfeeding. Complementary breastfeeding is exactly how it sounds, the infant receives breast milk and semi-solids foods together. (MD, MPH, IBCLC, Mirriam Labbock. What Is the Definition of Breastfeeding.†) Lactation itself is broken down in stages, but the nutritional benefits can be found in all forms of breast milk. The first stage, is called Colostrum. The production of colostrum occurs during pregnancy and lasts for a few days after birth. Colostrum contains large amounts of proteins, fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and immunoglobulins. Colostrum is the first form of breast milk that is produced by a mother after their delivery. In the first few days post-delivery, Colostrum is produced in small volumes. It is made to be digested easily and efficiently. Colostrum has a laxative effect which in turn aids the passing of stools and helps in elimination of too much bilirubin, which aids in preventing jaundice in newborns. Like previously mentioned, Colostrum contains high concentrations of immunoglobulins. Some of the