And even if you don t believe the claims about breast milk s healing properties, you should at least try it next time your child gets sand in his eye at the playground. At just the right temperature, it does not sting and makes an excellent eyewash. Babies often like to nurse at night, but doctors recommend that babies stop feeding at night after their teeth come in for fear of promoting tooth decay. But breast-fed babies are at less risk of tooth decay due to breast milk s antibacterial properties. Therefore, it s safe to feed them at night and even let them fall asleep while doing so.
Breast milk can also discourage tooth decay from improper brushing after meals.
Breast feeding benefits the mother, too. It delays the return of menstrual cycles, helps to prevent postpartum depression, and helps with weight loss after pregnancy. Breast feeding has also been shown to protect women from developing breast cancer, and other forms of cancer. Breast milk is not a miracle cure for all ailments, nor should it be used instead of conventional medical care. It can, however, be a convenient and free form of first aid for minor problems.