Human Milk In The Modern World

Abstract: Human milk is biologically unique, and has over 100 constituents. The breast is also unique in that it is inactive unless stimulated by pregnancy. Milk composition varies during lactation and with maternal nutrition. Breast milk can provide protection from disease, infection, allergies and possibly malocclusion. Hazards of breast feeding may come from chemical toxicants, antibiotics, smoking, alcohol, pesticides and particularly heroin. Breast feeding has a contraceptive effect which gradually declines with lactation time. Economically, breast feeding is unsurpassed and in developing nations is essential. Emotional importance of breast feeding is very great, both to mother and infant. It is this aspect that varies most culturally.