Santo Domingo.– Within the framework of World Breastfeeding Week, commemorated from August 1 to 7, a De Último Minuto team took to the streets to learn the opinions of mothers and grandmothers regarding the importance of breastfeeding babies. The majority agreed that breast milk represents the best food for the development and protection of newborns.
Carmen Chávez asserted that breastfeeding is a fundamental responsibility of every mother, considering that it helps keep babies healthy and protects them from diseases. “It is something very important that every mother should give her baby. It is what will keep them healthiest,” she expressed, while lamenting that some women decide not to breastfeed for aesthetic reasons.
Another person consulted, who stated that she had breastfed all her children, pointed out that this practice favors the growth and development of children. “That was the most I gave my children, because it is very good for the baby and helps them develop healthier,” she stated.
While Milda, interviewed during the tour, maintained that “breastfeeding is best,” highlighting that breast milk contains all the nutrients a baby needs during its first months of life. “All the nutrients are there. None of that bottle stuff; breastfeeding,” she commented.
Similarly, Milagros considered that breast milk contributes to protecting children against viruses and other diseases, which is why she understands that breastfeeding remains the best option for feeding a newborn.
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The opinions gathered on the streets coincide with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continuing it, along with appropriate complementary feeding, for up to two years or more. The WHO also recommends initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, considering it one of the most effective interventions to protect child health and survival.
This year, the global campaign is being held under the theme “Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthening what works”, with the purpose of reinforcing policies, health services, and support networks that allow more mothers to breastfeed successfully.
