You must stop it immediately. Health warns mothers about common habit that can cause dehydration in children

Dr. Abla Alfi, Deputy Minister of Health and the People, said that there is wrong information regarding continuing to feed children in the second year of their lives, giving -note that this stage is very important for the child’s mental health and development in the years to come.

Urgent warning to all mothers

Al-Alfi explained that there is a rumor that “breastfeeding in the second year leads to mental retardation,” stressing that this is not true, because breast milk contains fatty acids and growth factors that are essential for the develop brain and increase its abilities. She proved that the growth of a child’s brain reaches 85% in the first two years, and these natural substances are not available in any other food.

The Deputy Minister of Health also pointed out that there is other misinformation related to the need to feed a child while sitting, and that breastfeeding while sleeping could lead to infection middle ear.

She explained that this issue is related to artificial feeding by using a bottle, and not to breastfeeding, as there is no chance of too much milk accumulating in the baby’s mouth.

Important tips for all mothers

Al-Alfi called on mothers to avoid bottles and pacifiers, noting that if the baby screams, it could be hungry or need to feel safe or need a diaper change.

She confirmed that artificial nipples could expose the child to health problems such as gastroenteritis and dehydration due to their contamination, and that it could also lead to the child rejecting the mother’s breast.

She pointed out that mothers can express their breast and store the milk in a clean cup in the refrigerator to give to the baby with a spoon or a cup while they are away from him, stressing that most of mothers able to feed their own children.

She explained that after the sixth month, the child needs complementary food, while he continues to breastfeed for up to two years.

Benefits of breastfeeding for the baby

• The components of breast milk contain elements that are necessary for the development of the child.
• Breast milk gives the baby an immune system that protects it from infections.
• Breastfeeding promotes emotional and mental integrity, making babies more intelligent.
• Breast milk is always available, sterile and easy to digest.
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

As for coconut milk, it has many important benefits for babies, namely:

• It has a high percentage of protein and protective antibodies that boost the child’s immunity.
• Rich in vitamin A.
• It has a laxative effect that helps to expel stool quickly.
• It is yellow in color, light and sticky.

Colostrum is created in the last months of pregnancy, and it starts coming out with the baby’s first feed and continues until four days after birth. Despite its small size, it is enough for the newborn’s needs, and there is no need to give him any other liquids, because there is enough water in breast milk.