The duration of breastfeeding varies from one mother to another according to several factors, but a number of studies have proven that continuing breastfeeding for a longer period of time is better for children and mothers.
In a report published by the Spanish site "Genial", writer Marat Nugomanov said that prolonging the period of breastfeeding has many health benefits for the child, as it enhances the growth of his immunity, and the mother in turn can benefit from breastfeeding for a longer period.
The World Health Organization recommends that mothers breastfeed their babies for up to 6 months without any other foods, and then continue breastfeeding for an additional two years with the introduction of new nutrients. Among the benefits:
1. A stronger immune system
Continuing breastfeeding for long enough strengthens the child's immune system, because breast milk is rich in white blood cells, and it also provides the child with the natural antibiotics he needs to resist viruses and infections.
The author adds that the quality of breast milk improves over time, so the child enjoys more benefits and advantages the longer the mother continues to breastfeed him for a longer period, and the positive effect continues even after the mother stops breastfeeding.
Scientific studies have shown that breastfeeding for 12 months or more gives much better results on the health of the child, and significantly reduces the risk of developing certain diseases.
2. Brain functions and behavior
The author explained that breastfeeding contributes to the development of the child's microbiome (which are microorganisms that live inside the body) by providing the necessary nutrients, which positively affects brain functions and the development of complex behaviors.
Several studies have linked breastfeeding with increased intelligence, as breast milk contains nutrients - such as DHA - that positively affect a child's brain development.
3. Child development
The microbiome is affected by breastfeeding, which is an important factor in the development and strengthening of the baby's immunity.
Breast milk provides beneficial bacteria for the digestive system, and it also contains a large variety of beneficial bacteria, so the longer the duration of breastfeeding, the better the growth of the child.
4. Sleep better
Breastfeeding improves children's sleep, as breast milk secretes the hormone melatonin, which plays a sedative role and reduces colic, which helps the child to enjoy a comfortable sleep.
5. Balanced nutrition
The formula of breast milk changes the longer the lactation period, and this helps in providing the appropriate nutrition for the child at different stages.
A study has shown that after one year of breastfeeding, breast milk becomes rich in fat and energy, which meets the needs of the child and provides him with the appropriate diet at that age.
6. Promote bonding between mother and child
Also, women who breastfeed for a longer period feel more than others the meanings of motherhood, and this is reflected in the lives of their children even later, and this strong bond can help mothers to read the cues of their children, and to be more flexible in their behavior.
Benefits of prolonging breastfeeding for the mother
The author pointed out that breastfeeding for a longer period can have positive effects on mothers as well, not just on children, as the mother can lose weight if breastfeeding continues for at least 6 months, and a study showed that mothers who breastfeed their children more than At 12 months, they had a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
In addition, prolonged breastfeeding enhances a woman's bone strength in the long term, and some research has linked breastfeeding for more than 12 months with a reduced risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
Also, longer nursing time is associated with a lower risk of ovarian cancer and a lower incidence of type 2 diabetes.