The healthiest food for infants found to expose them from harmful chemicals, new study shows breastfeeding as the healthiest.
Breastfeeding is considered as the healthiest food for the babies and lower risk of number of diseases in both mothers and babies, with high benefit to infants. It has been known for mothers who have infectious diseases or taking medications for them not to continue nursing their infants.
A new study found out that through nursing, infants may acquire harmful effects. A research conducted by Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health found breastfeeding could possibly expose babies to industrial chemicals. This chemicals been linked to cause cancer and interfere with the normal immune function.
Philippe Grandjean, researcher and assistant professor of environmental health at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston said, “And now we’re finding that there are contaminants in the milk that have the opposite effect of breast milk that are decreasing the impact of childhood immunizations”. However, did not discourage mothers to stop breastfeeding. “There is no reason to discourage breastfeeding, but we are concerned that these pollutants are transferred to the next generation at a very vulnerable age.”
Through breastfeeding, researchers found out a Perfluorinated alkylate substances or PFASs, major source from mother’s milk. This are chemicals used for products for water proof, grease and stain purposes like food packaging, clothing, lubricants which can bring harmful effects to breastfeeding babies.
To provide and assure the health of infants, awareness been shown through study conducted. Breastfeeding, still then the best food for infants but with proper information. Mothers should also avoid taking medications including herbal products and must consult healthcare provider. Mother may benefit from breastfeeding, this includes reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, aids maternal physical and emotional health and they less likely to develop postpartum depression.
World Health Organization stated, “Breast milk is the ideal food for the healthy growth and development of infants; breastfeeding is also an integral part of the reproductive process with important implications for the health of mothers, continue frequent, on-demand breastfeeding until two years of age or beyond.” IMAGE/telegraph.co.uk
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