A Bond Beyond Borders: Honouring Breastfeeding and Motherhood Around the World.

August is a special month for mothers and babies everywhere. It is celebrated as National Breastfeeding Month in many countries, and from August 1st to 7th, the world observes World Breastfeeding Week. This week and month are dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and celebrating the deep bond it creates between mother and child.

Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to nourish babies. But beyond nutrition, it carries powerful emotional and health benefits for both mother and baby. In this article, we will explore why breastfeeding matters worldwide, look at its importance in Indian culture, share tips for new mothers, and even introduce some simple recipes to help support breastfeeding.

Why Breastfeeding Matters: More Than Just Food

Breast milk is often called the “perfect food” for babies. It contains the right balance of vitamins, fats, proteins, and antibodies that protect babies from infections and diseases. Babies who are breastfed tend to have fewer illnesses like ear infections, diarrhea, and respiratory problems. Breastfeeding also supports healthy brain development, helping babies grow smarter and stronger.

For mothers, breastfeeding can help the uterus shrink back to its normal size after birth and reduces the risk of certain cancers such as breast and ovarian cancer. It also helps mothers bond emotionally with their babies. The skin-to-skin contact during feeding releases hormones like oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” which creates feelings of closeness and helps reduce stress.

Breastfeeding Around the World: A Shared Experience

Breastfeeding is a universal practice, crossing all borders, cultures, and languages. While traditions and support systems differ from country to country, the love and care that breastfeeding represents is the same everywhere.

In many parts of the world, including India, breastfeeding is a respected and vital part of motherhood. For centuries, Indian mothers have been encouraged to breastfeed their babies exclusively for the first six months. Ayurvedic medicine and traditional wisdom emphasize the benefits of colostrum—the first thick milk after birth—often called “liquid gold,” packed with antibodies that protect newborns.

World Breastfeeding Week, organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), brings global attention to these shared values. Each year, this week promotes the message that breastfeeding is key to giving every child the healthiest start in life, no matter where they are born.

Challenges Mothers Face and Why Support Matters

Despite its benefits, breastfeeding is not always easy. Many mothers face challenges like painful nipples, low milk supply, or difficulties with latching. Social stigma, lack of family support, and workplace pressures can also make breastfeeding harder, especially in urban settings or for working mothers.

In India and many other countries, awareness is growing about the need to support breastfeeding mothers. Hospitals are adopting “baby-friendly” practices that encourage early skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding soon after birth. Workplaces are slowly introducing policies like maternity leave and lactation rooms. Family members, especially grandmothers and fathers, play a big role in encouraging and supporting breastfeeding.

Tips for New Moms: Making Breastfeeding Easier

If you are a new mother or soon-to-be mom, here are some simple tips to help make breastfeeding a smoother, more joyful experience:

1. Start Early: Try to breastfeed within the first hour after birth to help your baby learn the latch and receive colostrum.

2. Get Comfortable: Find a quiet, relaxed place and use pillows to support your baby and your arms.

3. Watch for Hunger Cues: Look for signs like sucking on hands, lip-smacking, or fussiness to know when your baby is hungry.

4. Feed on Demand: Let your baby feed as often as they want; this helps build your milk supply.

5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious foods supports milk production.

6. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask lactation consultants, doctors, or experienced mothers if you face difficulties.

Foods to Support Breastfeeding: Simple and Tasty Indian Recipes

In Indian culture, certain foods are believed to help increase milk supply and improve its quality. These are often called “lactation foods” or “galactagogues.” Including these nourishing foods in your daily diet can give your body the energy and nutrients it needs during breastfeeding.

Here are some simple recipes and foods you can try:

1. Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds Drink

Fenugreek is a popular herb used to boost milk production.

How to prepare:

• Soak 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds overnight.

• In the morning, boil the seeds in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes.

• Strain and drink the water warm.
  You can add a little honey or lemon for taste.

2. Oats and Almond Porridge

Oats are rich in iron and fiber, which are good for lactating mothers, while almonds provide healthy fats and protein.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rolled oats

• 1 cup milk (or almond milk)

• 5-6 soaked almonds, chopped

• A pinch of cardamom powder

• Honey or jaggery to taste

Method:

• Cook oats in milk over medium heat until soft.

• Add almonds and cardamom powder.

• Sweeten with honey or jaggery.

• Eat warm for a nourishing breakfast or snack.

3. Vegetable Khichdi

A wholesome, light meal often recommended for new mothers.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rice

• ¼ cup moong dal (split yellow lentils)

• Mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas)

• 1 tsp ghee

• Cumin seeds, ginger, and turmeric for flavor

Method:

• Wash rice and dal.

• In a pressure cooker, heat ghee, add cumin seeds and ginger.

• Add vegetables, rice, dal, turmeric, and water (3 cups).

• Cook for 3-4 whistles until soft.

• Serve warm with a dollop of ghee.

How Pungus Kitchen Supports Breastfeeding Mothers

At Pungus Kitchen, we believe in celebrating motherhood and nurturing families through healthy, tasty food. We understand how important it is for mothers to have access to nourishing meals that support their breastfeeding journey. That’s why our recipes often include traditional Indian ingredients known for their health benefits, and we offer easy-to-make, wholesome dishes designed to keep mothers energized and strong.

This August, as we honour World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month, we encourage you to share your breastfeeding stories, tips, and recipes with us. Together, we can support mothers everywhere and celebrate the universal bond that breastfeeding creates.

Final Thoughts: A Global Celebration of Love and Care

Breastfeeding is a journey of love, patience, and strength. It is a shared experience that connects mothers and babies across every corner of the globe. Whether you are a mother, a family member, a friend, or a health worker, your support makes a big difference in helping mothers feel confident and empowered.

This August, as we observe World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month, let’s honour the beautiful bond between mother and child — a bond beyond borders, languages, and cultures. Let’s celebrate the gift of breastfeeding, which nourishes bodies and hearts alike.

Remember: Every drop of breast milk is a drop of love.