Valencia, Negros Oriental - Breast milk gives the best nourishment to babies, including premature and sick infants. In any case, there are uncommon exemptions when breast milk or breastfeeding is not suggested. As the baby grows, the mother’s breast milk will change to meet her baby’s nutritional needs. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Breastfed babies are also less likely to have ear infections and stomach bugs. Breast milk shares antibodies from the mother with her baby which helps babies develop a strong immune system and protect them from illnesses. Mothers can feed their babies on the go without worrying about having to mix formula or prepare bottles especially when traveling. Breastfeeding has health benefits for the mother too! Some cancers, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure are less common among women who breastfeed.

How to increase breast milk supply? Food is the key! Dark leafy green vegetables such as malunggay, spinach (alugbati), saluyot, lettuce, kale, and broccoli are full of nutrients, especially calcium. They also contain phytoestrogens that may have a positive effect on breast milk production. Research has proven that phytoestrogens can increase breast milk supply. Foods containing phytoestrogens are known as Galactagogues. The word itself is a combination of the Greek terms "galact-" meaning milk, and "-ogogue" meaning leading to or promoting. If you love eating fruits, green papaya, avocado, strawberries, bananas, blueberries and mango are delicious for breastfeeding mommies.

Eating fresh versions of these foods that support lactation is safe and even healthy. Of course, just like everything else, eat in moderation. – ND II Nina Estela Lindsay Romero, RND