Breastfeeding is a practice full of surprises and benefits for both mother and child... A topic often discussed, there are surprising facts that many people are unaware of. Here are 10 surprising facts about breastfeeding .
The most famous example is a Sri Lankan widower who, in 2002, was able to breastfeed after his wife died.
1. Breast milk adapts to the baby's needs
THE Breast milk changes its composition depending on the baby's needs. For example, if the baby is sick, breast milk contains more antibodies to strengthen the baby's immune system. One study even showed that in the event of an infection, the proportion of white blood cells in the milk could increase by 94%.2. The composition of milk varies depending on the time of day
Breast milk is not the same in the morning and in the evening. Milk produced in the evening contains more melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate the baby's sleep. This natural adaptation can help promote the infant's day/night rhythm.3. Breastfeeding burns up to 500 calories a day
Breastfeeding is an energy-intensive activity! On average, a breastfeeding woman can burn between 300 and 500 calories per day. That's almost the equivalent of a 45-minute jogging session... Here's to the smoothies of a great athlete.4. Breastfeeding may reduce cancer risk
According to the WHO, breastfeeding mothers reduce their risk of developing certain cancers, including breast and ovarian cancer . Breastfeeding for at least 12 months reduces the risk of breast cancer by 4% compared to a woman who has never breastfed. The Cancer Foundation is also categorical: the longer you breastfeed, the more protected you are .5. Breast milk may change color
Breast milk can sometimes take on unusual colors, such as blue, green, pink or even bright yellow . This is often due to the mother's diet or possible dietary supplements. For example, eating lots of green vegetables can give milk a green tint and curry a pearly yellow tint!6. Breastfeeding is good for your baby's brain
Breast milk contains essential fatty acids, such as DHA, which are crucial for brain development . Studies show that breastfed babies may have slightly higher IQs than formula-fed babies.7. The longest breastfeeding in history!
According to Guinness World Records , the longest documented breastfeeding period was 9 years and 3 months . While the duration of breastfeeding varies greatly around the world, WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a child's life, followed by mixed feeding for up to 2 years or beyond.8. Breastfeeding saves money
Breast milk is not only beneficial for the baby's health, but it is also economical . A family can save an average of 800 to 1,500 euros per year by avoiding the costs associated with infant formula.9. The ejection reflex can be powerful
Some women may experience a strong let-down reflex, also called a "strong let-down reflex." This can cause milk to rush so hard that the baby has trouble drinking or the milk "squirts" several feet away ! This can happen due to excitement or even just thinking about your baby.
10. Fathers can breastfeed!
It may seem incredible, but in extremely rare conditions, some men can produce milk . Although this is not enough to feed a baby, cases of male lactation have been documented, often related to hormonal imbalance.The most famous example is a Sri Lankan widower who, in 2002, was able to breastfeed after his wife died.
