Breastfeeding does bring many advantages to the mother and the baby. Below are certain key points on its effect on child development and when one smokes and drinks within this period:
Benefits of breastfeeding:
It lasts longers, is more intelligent: Researches prove that children who are breastfed for a longer duration tend to have higher intelligence quotient scores in later life.
Lower rates of obesity: Breast feeding is associated with the reduced likelihood of obesity among children and young adults. Exclusive breastfeeding modulates appetite and metabolism of infants thereby promoting healthy weight management.
Reduces risk of diabetes: Healthy eating patterns as well as metabolic processes may be established through breastfeeding, thus reducing the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes later in life according to studies.
Effects of smoking while breastfeeding:
Dangerous substances: The new born’s body system can be damaged by smoking while taking nicotine through milk. Several respiratory disorders and developmental delays can be caused by nicotine or other poisons which are found in cigarettes.
Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS): Therefore, such women who need to nurse should abstain from smoking since their babies are prone to being exposed to passive smoke which put them at a greater risk for SIDS .
Effects of drinking alcohol while breastfeeding:
Presence of alcohol in breast milk: The presence of alcohol within breastmilk affects sleep patterns, development, and overall health of the baby. It could also make it difficult for a mother to breastfeed leading to low milk production.
Potential long-term effects: Consistent consumption of alcohol during lactation has long-lasting cognitive/behavioral consequences for your child.
In conclusion, there is much benefit for babies from their mothers’ breast-feeding. During this time when they also need to take care about habits like smoking or drinking.
(Author: Dr. Tejas Gundewar-Consultant Male & Female Fertility-Ruby Hall Clinic-Pune)
