TABUK CITY, Kalinga – In celebration of National Breastfeeding Month this August with the theme “Nourish, Sustain, and Thrive,” Joy Alunday of the City Health Services Office explained the importance of breastfeeding and its numerous benefits to the baby during the “Magandang Tanghali” program on July 2, 2023.
During her interview, Alunday discussed the numerous benefits of nursing, stating that it is good not just to babies but also to moms. She stated that breastfeeding is widely acknowledged for delivering adequate nourishment, promoting healthy growth, and strengthening emotional bond between mother and child.
Alunday discussed what breastfeeding includes and when it should be practiced. She emphasized that nursing should begin shortly after birth and continue exclusively during the first six months of life, as well as for years and beyond. This technique is consistent with global health recommendations to help infants have the greatest possible start.
In a comprehensive discussion, Alunday outlined the benefits of breastfeeding using the acronym BREASTFEEDING:
B -best for babies: Breast milk is the ideal nutrition for infants, tailored to their specific needs.
R- reduces the incidents of allergies: Breastfeeding helps lower the risk of developing allergies
E -economical: Breastfeeding is cost-effective compared to formula feeding, eliminating the need for expensive formula milk.
A- antibodies: Breast milk contains antibodies that strengthen the baby’s immune system.
S -sterile: Breast milk is clean and free from contaminants, unlike formula milk.
T -temperature is always ideal: Breast milk is always at the right temperature, eliminating the need for preparation.
F – fresh: Breast milk is freshly produced and provides the most current nutritional benefits.
E – easy: Breastfeeding is convenient and requires no additional equipment.
E -emotional bonding: Nursing fosters a deep emotional connection between mother and child.
D -digested easily: Breast milk is easily digested, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues.
I -immediately available: Breast milk is always on hand and ready for the baby.
N -nutritionally optimal: Breast milk adapts to the changing needs of the growing infant.
G -gastroenteritis reduced: Breastfeeding helps protect against gastroenteritis and other infections.
Alunday also reminded viewers of Executive Order 51, popularly known as the Milk Code, which restricts the promotion and advertisement of bottled milk in healthcare facilities. This rule seeks to safeguard and promote breastfeeding as the preferred feeding technique for newborns. She likewise emphasized the necessity of following this strategy to guarantee that women are encouraged and supported throughout their nursing journey.
“Mothers should aim for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months,” Alunday urged. “It’s a crucial aspect of infant health and development, and our role is to support and guide them in making informed choices.”
Finally, Alunday’s views highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and the necessity for ongoing awareness and assistance for breastfeeding mothers. As National Breastfeeding Month continues, her message remains clear: breastfeeding not only soothes and sustains newborns, but it also enables them to thrive. By Tabuk PIO
