Benefits of Breastfeeding | Dr. Kishori Mane | Manipal Hospital Baner

Hello, I am Dr. Kishori Mane, a lactation professional at Manipal Hospital Baner in Pune, who wishes to celebrate Breastfeeding Week by addressing common misconceptions among new mothers. One of the most persistent myths is the belief that breastfeeding parents must switch breasts every ten minutes during each feeding session; however, this practice is entirely incorrect and can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies for the infant. Understanding the composition of breast milk at different stages of a single feed is crucial for ensuring babies receive balanced nutrition from birth onward. When a baby begins nursing, the initial flow of milk produced in the first ten minutes or so is known as foremilk, which is rich in lactose and provides essential instant energy to support the infant's immediate needs. Following this period, typically between ten to fifteen minutes into the feeding session, the composition shifts significantly as hindmilk appears; this later stage of milk contains higher levels of fats and calories that are vital for satiety and healthy growth. If a mother switches breasts too frequently before allowing enough time for the transition from foremilk to hindmilk, her baby will consume only liquid lactose without accessing the necessary fat content required for fullness and proper weight gain. To ensure optimal health development, it is recommended that parents offer one breast completely at a time for approximately twenty to twenty-five minutes before switching to the other side in subsequent feeds or when hunger cues indicate readiness. This approach allows the baby's stomach to fill adequately with nutrient-dense hindmilk while promoting steady weight gain and preventing issues related to insufficient caloric intake. By adhering to this feeding strategy, mothers can confidently provide their infants with a complete nutritional profile that supports both immediate energy requirements and long-term physical development throughout infancy.