Breast milk has a special enzyme that prevents bacteria from attaching or living on certain membranes in the body. So what can breast milk be used for? Many things, however, in that this is not a medical opinion, you need to exercise your best judgment and consult with your pediatrician to be sure there is not a more serious health concern. Here are the top four uses for breast milk:
1. Pink Eye. Pink eye is another name for conjunctivitis, a bacterial infection of the membrane surrounding the eye. The property of breast milk that prevents bacteria from attaching to body membranes works especially well for the eye. Just a couple of drops in each eye twice a day can clear up pink eye in a matter of days.
When used on adults, the results are the same. Adults will note that there is an initial cold sensation that subsides quickly - it is actually very soothing. Additionally, vision is blurred for a few minutes and then clears up.
2. Nasal Congestion. Breast milk can be used as a decongestant. Apply by placing a few drops in the nose and holding it there for 10 seconds. The congestion is likely to subside and breathing will be easier.
3. Earache. Again, when a bacteria is involved with the outer and middle ear canal, breast milk can help by preventing it from living on the membranes therein. A couple of drops directly into the infected ear can help resolve some infections. Of course, ear infections may also reside in the inner ear, where drops cannot penetrate, so you should always consult your pediatrician.
4. Eczema, Skin Rashes and Diaper Rash. Again, the antibacterial properties of breast milk can help with these common infant ailments. Breast milk is sterile and can be used to clean the baby's skin. Since breast milk is natural and contains no harsh chemicals that may irritate the baby's skin. Let a thin layer of breast milk dry on the skin. It will serve as somewhat of an antibacterial shield. The eczema, skin rash or diaper rash will be relieved within hours or a day or two.
5. Insect bites. Breast milk applied to an insect bite will help it heal and reduce itching. Quick relief for baby that is all natural.
These remedies are useful for times when you cannot get to a physician right away, like in the evening or on a Sunday, for example. And sometimes the problem will clear up quickly. Additionally, these breast milk remedies can be a helpful compliment to prescribed medications to bring comfort quickly.
Breast Milk For Babies
Breast milk is the healthiest food that mothers can give to their babies. It helps build their immune systems and it is also easier for little ones to digest than store-bought formulas. Unfortunately, breastfeeding isn't always an easy process. For example, some mothers have extreme cases of eczema which makes it impossible for them to bring a baby to breast and other times the baby itself it too weak to suck the nourishing milk from its mother's breast. In such cases, a breast pump is an invaluable tool.
In addition to being easier on the mother's skin and doing the hardest work for the baby, breast pumps also yield other benefits. One of these benefits is a little more freedom for new parents. For example, if breast milk can be pumped before a baby is even hungry it can be stored in the fridge and used later; even if the mother goes out for an evening with her husband.
Additionally, using a breast pump can relieve some of the pain that comes when milk supplies build up because a baby isn't hungry. Or, if your baby seems to always be hungry, a pump can also help increase breast milk supply. After all, the more milk you pump, the more your body thinks you need. And the less you pump, the less your body will produce.
Pumped breast milk also makes it possible for more than one person to feed a baby. For example, with pumped breast milk in a bottle, fathers can also experience bonding time while feeding their babies. Sharing the job of feeding can also help mothers get more rest.
There are several different kinds of breast pumps. If possible, try to use a couple different kinds before you purchase your own. Friends or relatives will probably have different models that you can test and after comparing them, you can settle on the best choice for your body. My personal recommendation is to find a hands-free pump that is dishwasher safe.
When it comes to feeding infants, the main goal should be to get your nutritious breast milk to your baby. How this happens is not as important as making sure that it does happen. Direct breastfeeding is always the best option and first choice that mothers should try, but if breastfeeding leads to complications a breast pump is the next best thing. No matter how you do it, give your baby the best food source you can provide.
Both Nicholas Lombardi & Art Gib are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Nicholas Lombardi has sinced written about articles on various topics from Alternative Medicine, Kids and Teens and Valentines Gifts. Nick Lombardi is a life coach who helps families with natural alternatives. To discover more about and how they can save money an. Nicholas Lombardi's top article generates over 6600 views. to your Favourites.
Art Gib has sinced written about articles on various topics from Supplements, Teachers and self improvement and motivation. Got Breast Milk LLC () is a leading provider of breastfeeding products. They also provide many articles and tips on breastfeeding, storing milk, weaning. Art Gib's top article generates over 1830000 views. to your Favourites.
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