Hospiten continues its mission to create an ecosystem of wellbeing where people are at the center of everything; this includes the care of mothers, both those who are new mothers and those who are not. That is why, during this World Breastfeeding Week, which began on August 1 and ends tomorrow, August 7, Hospiten wanted to inform about some of the benefits of breastfeeding, so that all mothers can choose freely and with verified information if they want to and can breastfeed as part of their babies' growth.

Breast milk is composed mostly of water, about 87% compared to almost 13% that refers to carbohydrates, fats and proteins (macronutrients), as well as vitamins and minerals. It is therefore a very nutritionally rich food through which the baby ingests everything necessary for its growth during the first six months of life; a first stage in which it does not need to ingest any other liquid or food.

"Breast milk can continue to form part of the baby's diet and food after these first weeks," explains María Domínguez, a midwife at Hospiten Estepona and a reference on social networks with her account Madrazas.

In view of its complete composition, María Domínguez continues, breast milk favors the correct growth and brain development of the baby, but it also has many other benefits for the newborn. On the one hand, it strengthens the immune system as the mother passes her antibodies through the milk, which helps protect the baby against infections and diseases. It also reduces the probability of developing allergies and asthma, as well as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and hypertension in adulthood.

It is also an easier food for the baby to digest.

But newborns are not the only ones who benefit from breastfeeding; breastfeeding also has multiple positive effects for the mother.

First of all, through this activity the mother-baby bond can be strengthened, which helps to reduce the risk of postpartum depression. It also helps to recover from the physical recovery: it helps the uterus to return to its original size more quickly, as well as helps to burn calories. It also favors the mother's immune system, favoring, for example, a lower risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer in the future.

Breastfeeding can be a three-way thing

Although the act of breastfeeding directly benefits the mother and the baby, it does not have to be exclusive to the mother: the partner, if there is one, also has a place and can be a great ally, playing a fundamental role during the breastfeeding period.

• Emotional support: having good support is fundamental in this process; listen to your partner, encourage her, motivate her and value her.
• Housework: breastfeeding is a full-time job that responds to the baby's demands and can often present challenges. Focusing on household chores helps the mother have more time to breastfeed and rest.
• Taking care of the baby: taking care of the baby between feedings is vital for the mother to have time for herself.
• Preparing healthy meals: cooking nutritious food and eating a complete and balanced diet helps both mother and baby to be well nourished.
• Education and presence: being informed about breastfeeding and attending breastfeeding education sessions promotes knowledge about the process and allows for better support.