Nursing mothers have been enjoined to always eat balanced diet in order to get adequate nutrients requirement for their babies’ growth and healthy living.
Similarly, they are advised to embrace exclusive breastfeeding to prevent the children from infections and other illnesses.
Itunu Olaosebikan, a health technician, who gave the advice at a one-day seminar, organized by the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kwara State chapter, noted that exclusive breastfeeding can provide a natural form of contraception.
She explained that breastfeeding could prevent conception if the nursing mother’s menses have not returned and the baby that is less than six months is fed with breast milk exclusively.
According to her, exclusive breastfeeding is not only beneficial to children but also to mothers as it builds their immune system, burn calories, prevents breast and ovarian cancer, diabetes and other ailments that may likely affect mother and child, adding
She noted that breastfeeding helps release hormones, such as prolactin; which produces a nurturing sensation that allows the mother to relax and focus on the child.
Olaosebikan added that it also releases oxytocin that promotes strong sense of love and attachment between the mother and child.
The health technician also said other diseases that could be prevented by breast feeding include type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Also speaking, Atanda Halima, a nutritionist who counselled mothers to avoid taking sugary and carbonated foods, encouraged them to inculcate in-take of fruits and vegetables into their daily basis.
She warned women to reduce intake of fatty oil too much oil, urging them to take more of food supplements and water.
Earlier, Ayobola Olupinla, the Kwara NAWOJ chairperson said the seminar was meant to acquaint members with the necessary information needed to live well and maintain good health.
SIKIRAT SHEHU, Ilorin
