Breastmilk contains all the nutrients an infant requires for growth and development for the first 6 months from birth. It also contains active cells that mop up bacteria and viruses as well as antibodies tailored to fight the infections the infant may come into contact with.

Prolactin is the milk generating hormone which becomes active as soon as the placenta has been delivered.

Colostrum is the initial milk, made during late pregnancy and for the first few days of the baby’s life. Colostrum is high in protein, antibodies, vitamins, minerals and hormones. These nutrients encourage good bacteria in the gut and assists the newborn to pass their first stools. Between two to five days after the birth, your transitional milk will start to arrive and will replace the colostrum. From day 15, the milk becomes mature, the composition of which changes as each feed progresses.

The milk later produces the hindmilk which is the richest milk, so it is advised to let the baby feed until they are satisfied. It is also advised for new mums to eat well and get as much as rest as possible for milk production and to allow their body to heal and recuperate.

Breastmilk provides newborn babies with some protection while their own system is still developing. It is proved that babies who are breastfed may be less susceptible to immune system disorders, diabetes, allergies, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). They also have fewer ear infections and fewer bouts of gastroenteritis and are less likely to develop colitis and diseases such as bacterial meningitis.

Eating sensibly and well is vital to your health as you are more likely to feel less drained emotionally and physically; and are more able to cope with the demands of the newborn baby. Breastfeeding also allows the emotional connection to build between a newborn and the parent.

It is advised for new mums, while they are breastfeeding, to not diet or limit their nutrient intake as this can leave you and your baby both depleted and exhausted. It is also advised to limit caffeine drinks as too much caffeine may keep your baby awake; and if you drink alcohol some will pass to your baby, so ideally it is advised to avoid consuming alcohol. Instead, it is recommended to keep hydrated with fluids as still or sparkling water, milk or pure unsweetened fruit juice whilst breastfeeding.

At Homoeopathic Health Clinic (Derby), we explain the importance of a healthy lifestyle, the significance of our self within a healing capacity and bring about the realisation that healthcare is much more about health promotion than about the alleviation of the disease.

At Homoeopathic Health Clinic (Derby), we practice a professional holistic approach in deciding on the right diet for the client, considering your nutritional requirements, environment, relationships, lifestyle, emotional wellbeing and family history.