The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first six months. No juice, formula or solid foods in the first 6 months.
Breast milk has the perfect mix of antibodies and nutrients for a baby’s development and can protect a baby from a range of illnesses such as diarrhea, ear infections, SIDS, bacterial meningitis, diabetes, obesity & asthma.
Breastfeeding also helps the mom. It causes uterine contraction that helps your body return to its pre-pregnancy shape.
FEW TIPS
1. Watch for hunger cues like crying, fussing, licking her lips or sucking the fist.
2. Feed your baby “on demand,” or whenever (s)he asks for it.
3. Not sure if he is getting enough? – Keep a log of how often he eats, urinates and has bowel movements.
4. Try to stick to a feeding schedule
5. If you are going back to work – Pump milk while at work.
6. Talk to your pediatrician if you are worried.
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By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives.
In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.
