by Dr Steve McCabe

Over decades they have honed their abilities to turn any aspect of human health and well-being into an opportunity to make vast profits

AS HUMAN beings we belong to the class of animals known as mammals. This class is distinguished by, among other things, the presence of mammary glands capable of producing enough milk to feed the young.

In humans these mammary glands take the form of breasts. During pregnancy hormonal influences change the breast tissue so that by the time of delivery the breasts are ready to meet the newborn infant’s nutritional needs. Within a month of delivery the breasts are producing close to a litre of milk per day.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is quite clear in its view: “Breastfeeding is the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information, and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large. Colostrum, the yellowish, sticky breast milk produced at the end of pregnancy, is recommended by WHO as the perfect food for the newborn, and feeding should be initiated within the first hour after birth.

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond”.

There are numerous benefits for the baby in breast feeding including improved sleep patterns, reduced risks of infection and possible protection against chronic adult conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Breast feeding may also reduce the risk of diabetes for the mother and it helps to strengthen the bonds between mother and baby. So, no matter where you live in the world, the idea that we should be promoting, encouraging and supporting breast feeding at every opportunity and in every location is simply a ‘no brainer’.