The first year of life is probably the most critical era for the foundation of the HEALTHY growth and development of all neurological functions. At birth, the brain weighs approximately 350 grams. At one year, it will have tripled its size to over 1,000 grams. Never again will this degree of growth occur!Billions of brain cells that were formed inutero will have to migrate to appropriate areas and form connections to each other during the first three years. The infant brain is constantly growing, reorganizing and rewiring itself to adapt to new conditions and the flood of incoming data. Therefore, the importance of ensuring appropriate nutrition and adequate stimulus is imperative.Breast-feeding is an unbeatable source of all nutrients, plus it enhances physical, neurological, immunological and psychological development. No manufacturer can make a product anywhere near as perfect as a mother’s milk. A mother’s breast milk is constantly changing in relation to the needs of the infant. It contains a whole host of immune boosting immunoglobins not found anywhere else. These immunoglobins give the infant the mom’s immunity to past exposures from numerous bacteria and viruses. This immunity is so important to the infant as their own immune system is quite immature for the first year of their life.Proper brain development requires “brain food.” Nutrients like essential fatty acids, antioxidants and protein; oxygen; and a stimulating environment – caregiver interaction – helps the brain connect the developing pathways. Touch aids in making the connections within the brain. Even the position in which we hold our babies while nursing helps continue brain development. (Amazingly enough, it has been shown that if you hold a bottle fed baby in the same position you might hold a nursing baby, while giving a bottle, the brain development is stimulated in much the same way as the breastfed baby).Breastfeeding helps enhance development of your baby’s gastrointestinal tract. Breast milk contains a growth factor that protects the infants’ GI tract from infection and it contains enzymes that discourage the proliferation of parasites. No formula supplies these.Breastfeeding has wonderful benefits for mom, too: The milk supply is always available – it’s a reflex (supply=demand); it is in the perfect container for the baby to access; it is always the right temperature and it is cost efficient. Breast milk can be stored for a rainy day, a night out, a working Mom, a chance for dad to bond with baby. It can be stored for 24 hours in a regular refrigerator; 30 days in a regular freezer and one year in a deep freeze.Most women have a strong opinion one way or the other concerning breastfeeding, and I truly respect that. Not everyone can nurse for the recommended one year, but even nursing six months, three months or three weeks can give your baby a great head start to a healthier life. Breast feeding gives your child the best chance of a strong immune system, strong neurological development, and a great bonding experience.Palmer Chiropractic494-1395www.palmer-chiropractic.com
