Why is it ideal for a baby to receive only breast milk in the first six months?

The milk provided by the mother is the absolute best food for a baby, particularly during the first six months of life. The milk has all the nutrients, including antibodies and enzymes, that baby needs to grow. Consequently, both the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend that infants are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. Below are some potential reasons for this recommendation.

Breast milk has the ideal quantity of carbohydrates, proteins, fat, vitamins, and minerals needed for growth and development. Breast milk is uniquely equipped to provide the ideal amount of nutrients and can continuously adjust based on the dynamic needs of a growing baby, which is different than infant formula or animals milk. Rather than providing too many calories right from the start, breast milk has enough calories just for the first months of life and is easily digestible.

Breast milk has plenty of antibodies, particularly the first milk the mother gives, known as colostrum. Colostrum is effectively the baby’s first vaccine. Colostrum protects the baby against many of the illnesses of childhood, including diarrhea, pneumonia and ear infections. Exclusively breastfed babies have fewer incidences of allergies, asthma and future chronic illnesses.

Recent studies have indicated that breastfed babies have slightly increased IQ levels and overall cognitive development.

Breast milk is always available, clean, and at the right temperature. There is no need to sterilize it or mix like with formula milk, making it extremely convenient. Cost savings all because there was no need to purchase formula milk, wash and sterilize bottles, and equipment.

Babies who are breastfed are less likely to suffer from being overweight/obese. Breast milk helps to develop healthy eating behaviour and metabolism which decreases childhood (and later adulthood) rates of obesity.
In conclusion, exclusive breastfeeding for six months iz the absolute best start a mother can give to her baby. Not only does it ensure healthy growth, ensure immunity and provides the best possible start at lifelong health. To be clear, complementary food is an option for 6 months onward, but breastfeeding should continue for as long as possible, and up until 2+ years to get the best benefits.

Dr. Seema Manuja ,Director - Gynaecology ,Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector-8, Faridabad