Benefits of breast milk for babies with Down syndrome

Breastfeeding is the best form of nutrition for the newborn, and in the case of babies with Down syndrome, it is not different. Breastfeeding also has extra benefits in the diet of these children. In Guiainfantil.com we tell you what are the benefits of breast milk for babies with Down Syndrome and

Breastfeeding is the best form of nutrition for the newborn, and in the case of babies with Down syndrome, it is not different. Breastfeeding also has extra benefits in the diet of these children.

In Guiainfantil.com we tell you what are the benefits of breast milk for babies with Down Syndrome and what difficulties can occur when breastfeeding.

4 advantages of breast milk for babies with Down syndrome La - Breast milk supposes an

extra protection against external infections and gastrointestinal problems , which in the case of babies with Down syndrome can appear more frequently.- Breastfeeding favors and

stimulates the coordination and movement of the tongue , in addition to strengthening the muscles of the jaw, which is an advantage in the face of its development and the future development of language.- Breastfeeding

favors the correct gastrointestinal transit , which in these babies usually pose problems. Babies and children with Down syndrome have a tendency to constipation, and, given the easy digestion of breast milk as most of its nutrients are absorbed almost entirely, it helps to prevent and even prevent it, at least during pregnancy. breastfeeding period exclusively. El - The act of breastfeeding is anextra stimulus for babies

, but also establishes a close bond between mother and baby that is extraordinarily beneficial for babies with Down syndrome, helping their neurological development. Difficulties in breastfeeding babies with Down syndrome Los - Babies with Down syndrome usually have a low muscle tone known medically as hypotonia, that is, their motor skills are usually delayed compared to other children of the same age.Hypotonia makes it more difficult to establish lactation

, since these babies are usually more lethargic and need more stimulation, not only at the beginning but most likely throughout breastfeeding.

- Its suction capacity is reduced, due in part to the hypotonia, and also its ability to coordinate the movement of the tongue and swallowing is limited, making the progress of breastfeeding complicated.

- The size of your tongue, larger than that of other babies, and your shorter neck, may also be one more test to overcome when establishing breastfeeding.

- Some babies with Down syndrome may have heart problems, which makes them get tired more easily, and need to breastfeed more often and for shorter periods.

Overcome the initial challenge, little or much, the time you get to breastfeed is a great benefit for your present and your future. It may be helpful to consult a lactation consultant to help position the baby, since babies with Down syndrome, due to low muscle tone and lack of coordination, may have, in certain positions, problems with the baby. choking, especially if the ejection reflex is strong. With the passage of time and improved muscle tone, the baby will be able to adapt the position on its own, but in the meantime may need extra help.