By Jennifer Nerkie Kenney
A Paediatric specialist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and chairperson of the Neonatology Group of the Paediatric Society of Ghana, Dr Nana Okai Brako, has debunked common myths surrounding breastfeeding, stressing that breast milk is all a newborn needs during the first six months of life.
He explained that breast milk is a unique form of nutrition that develops naturally after birth. Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, he added that it comes at the right temperature and provides immunity for the newborn.
Dr Brako further described breast milk as incomparable, noting that it supports the baby’s gut and serves as the first line of protection against infections.
“With breast milk, we don’t need to add anything to the baby’s food. It’s like the first antibiotic the baby gets because it has antibodies,” he said.
On when breast milk forms, Dr Brako said it usually begins in the last trimester of pregnancy, with some mothers even producing it before delivery. He stressed that a mother’s diet contributes to the quality of milk, although it is not the only factor.
He advised pregnant women to focus on a balanced diet made up of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vegetables, while avoiding unnecessary restrictions unless allergies are present.
“A balanced diet has mainly three components: enough proteins, carbohydrates, and fats — and then vegetables for vitamins,” he explained.
The paediatrician also dismissed the belief that heavy meals alone determine a woman’s ability to breastfeed, emphasising the need for more water and fluids. He explained that colostrum, the first milk, is rich in nutrients and is essential for the baby’s gut and immunity.
He added that exclusive breastfeeding for six months helps prevent infections and supports the baby’s development during the most vulnerable stage of life.
“For the first six months, because we want to prevent many unwanted conditions such as diseases, the baby really needs it,” he stated.
Dr Brako also addressed myths from grandmothers who argue that babies need water, clarifying that breast milk contains both water and nutrients through its foremilk and hindmilk. He advised mothers to allow babies to finish feeding on one breast before switching to the other.
On delays in breast milk production after delivery, he urged mothers to follow the “three Ps”: practise, produce, and persevere, while ensuring proper positioning and attachment of the baby to the breast.
“You have to just believe, practise by putting the baby to the breast, and persevere even if you think it’s not enough,” he encouraged.
While acknowledging that some women may struggle to produce milk immediately, Dr Brako explained that colostrum remains vital and should not be replaced with cow’s milk.
