August 1 to 7 every year is observed as World Breastfeeding Week. In a bid to promote breastfeeding, explain its importance and support nursing mothers all over the world, the first week of August is celebrated as World Breastfeeding Week. This year’s theme is “Breastfeeding: Foundation for Life”. The World Health Organization says “breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to provide children everywhere with the best start in life.”
Breastfeeding is an important task for the mother. Nowadays, lots of disputes come in the public forum regarding this. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of the baby, exclusively. Breastmilk must not be replaced by formula milk, juice or water during the first 6 months of a newborn. After 6 months, breastfeeding should be continued along with other nourishing foods for the baby.
Breastmilk is known to contain antibodies which help the baby fight against virus and bacteria. Breastmilk reduces rates of asthma and allergies in newborns. Babies who are fed breastmilk exclusively for their first 6 months are lesser prone to diarrhoea, ear infections and respiratory illness. “Breastfeeding has been linked to higher IQ scores in later childhood compared to a formula-fed baby.
So, to celebrate and honour World Breastfeeding week, here are seven celeb mamas who have encouraged breastfeeding by sharing their pictures.
Benefits of breastfeeding for mothers are such that it lowers your risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer in mothers. It helps in forming a beautiful bond between you and your baby which is priceless. This is the reason why World Health Organization vouches that mother’s breastmilk should be continued exclusively until 6 months of age.
Such initiation of these celeb mamas can help other mothers realise the benefits of breastfeeding and encourage them to follow suit.
Courtesy: NDTV
