Importance of Breast Milk It is narrated from the Prophet (S)...

Importance of Breast Milk It is narrated from the Prophet (S): “For a child, there is no milk better than the milk of the mother.”[^9] The Prophet (S) has also said that there is nothing that can take the place of food and water except milk.[^10] Likewise, it is narrated from Imām °Alī (as) that for a child, there is no milk that has more blessings than the milk of a mother.[^11] Breastfeeding is not only feeding your child, but is the exchange of love and strengthening of the soul.

When the child is feeding, he/she can hear the sound of the mother’s heart and this leads to relaxation and calmness. Breastfed children tend to be healthier and sounder in terms of bodily and spiritual health and psychologists believe that breastfeeding keeps children happy and content and even has an effect on their Akhlāq. Being breastfed is one of the rights of a child and is also counted as the right of a mother, and has been strongly recommended in the Noble Qur`an and traditions.

Indeed, its benefits are widely accepted in the world today. Of course, it should be kept in mind that breastfeeding is only recommended if it does not pose any risk to mother or child. Benefits of Breast Milk370 Breast milk contains all the necessary ingredients that the child needs in the first 4-6 months of life. Breast milk contains the suitable proteins and fats to satisfy the natural needs of the child.

There are higher quantities of lactose in breast milk than other types of milk, as this is what is needed by the child. There are enough vitamins in the breast milk, ensuring that no extra vitamins or fruit juices are needed. The iron in breast milk is enough for the child. Even though the levels are not very high, the child’s ability to absorb the necessary amount is very good. Breast milk contains enough water for the child, even if one lives in a dry climate.

Breast milk contains enough salt, calcium and phosphate for the child. Breast milk contains the enzyme lipase that digests fats. The breastfed child is less susceptible to infections due to increased immunity. Breast milk is the most important protector against two main causes of death among children: diarrhetic illnesses and respiratory infections.

Being breast fed reduces illnesses resulting from allergies such as asthma, eczema, etc, and helps prevent or reduce some diseases when the child is in the teenage years and above. Diabetes and some digestive problems are found less in breast fed children.