Source link : https://news7.asia/science-and-nature/the-science-of-breastfeeding-how-your-milk-nourishes-and-supports-your-babys-growth/
In a world where infant nutrition remains a cornerstone of global health, understanding the science behind breastfeeding is more crucial than ever. UNICEF, a leading authority on child welfare, sheds new light on the intricate biological processes that govern milk production in mothers. This article explores the latest scientific insights into how breastfeeding not only nourishes infants but also supports their immune systems and development, reinforcing why breast milk continues to be the gold standard in early childhood nutrition worldwide.
Understanding Hormonal Triggers Behind Milk Production
At the heart of milk production lies a finely tuned hormonal interplay, with prolactin and oxytocin playing pivotal roles. Prolactin, often dubbed the “milk hormone,” stimulates the mammary glands to synthesize and secrete milk following childbirth. Its levels surge during pregnancy and continue to rise with regular breastfeeding, ensuring an abundant milk supply. Complementing prolactin, oxytocin is responsible for the “let-down reflex”-the process that moves milk from the alveoli through the ducts toward the nipple. This hormone is released in response to the baby’s suckling or even the sound of a baby’s cry, highlighting the deep neurohormonal connection between mother and child.
- Prolactin: Initiates and maintains milk production.
- Oxytocin: Triggers milk ejection and emotional bonding.
- Estrogen & Progesterone: Regulate breast tissue development during…
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Author : Charlotte Adams
Publish date : 2025-09-11 15:01:00
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