The Power of Breastmilk: Benefits for Your Newborn and Tips for New Moms

Breastmilk is often called "liquid gold" for a reason! Whether you’re planning to breastfeed for a few weeks or several months, any amount of breastmilk can provide valuable health benefits for your baby. Here’s a look at why breastmilk is so beneficial, some common myths debunked, and how to store expressed milk safely.

The Benefits of Breastmilk for Newborn Health

1. Supports Healthy Gut Development Breastmilk is packed with nutrients and good bacteria that help your baby’s gut develop naturally, laying a foundation for lifelong digestive health.

2. Boosts Immunity Breastmilk contains antibodies that strengthen your baby’s immune system, helping them fight off infections and illnesses, especially during the early months.

3. Easy to Digest Breastmilk is naturally designed for newborns’ delicate systems, making it gentler on the stomach than formula.

4. Promotes Brain Development The unique fats and proteins in breastmilk are beneficial for brain development, helping with cognitive and neurological growth.

Breastmilk for Newborn Baby

Debunking Breastfeeding Myths

• Myth 1: "I need to breastfeed exclusively to make a difference." Even if you supplement with formula, any breastmilk your baby receives is beneficial. Don’t worry if exclusive breastfeeding isn’t possible—your baby will still gain health benefits from whatever breastmilk they receive.

• Myth 2: "Breastfeeding is only worth it if I do it for several months." Even a few weeks of breastfeeding can have lasting effects on your baby’s health. Don’t be discouraged if you plan to breastfeed for a shorter time—it all adds up.

• Myth 3: "I can't breastfeed if I'm going back to work." Expressing milk and storing it for your baby to have while you're away is a great way to continue providing breastmilk even if you’re not there to breastfeed.

Storing Expressed Breastmilk

If you're expressing milk, here are some guidelines to help keep it fresh and safe for your baby:

• Room Temperature: Breastmilk can be stored for up to 6 hours.

• Refrigerator: Store breastmilk in the fridge for up to 6 days.

• Freezer: Frozen breastmilk can last up to 6 months (or 12 months in a deep freezer), although it’s best to use it within 6 months.

When storing breastmilk, always use clean bottles or storage bags designed for breastmilk, and label each one with the date. Thaw frozen milk in the fridge or warm it gently in a bowl of warm water—never in the microwave.

A Little Goes a Long Way

Remember, every bit of breastmilk you give your baby has benefits. If you’re able to breastfeed or express milk for just a few weeks, you’re already helping your baby build a healthy immune system and develop naturally. Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be “all or nothing”—whatever you can give counts!

By nourishing your baby with breastmilk, even in small amounts, you’re helping them build a foundation for a healthy gut, strong immune system, and overall well-being.

Here’s to your breastfeeding journey, however long or short it may be!