By means of the water the food is kept in a state of minute subdivision or in solution, so that the delicate organs of a young infant can digest it. It is also necessary to enable the body to get rid of its waste.
[ NURSING ]
Should all mothers attempt to nurse their children?
As a rule they should do so, but there are many conditions when they should not.
What are the most important ones?
If the mother has or has had tuberculosis or any other serious chronic disease, or is herself in very delicate health, she should not try. She is likely soon to fail in nourishing her child, and the attempt may do herself much harm as well as injure the child.
How often should infants be nursed during the first two days of life?
Usually only four or five times daily, since there is very little milk secreted at this time.
When does the milk come in abundance?
Usually on the third day, sometimes not until the fourth or fifth day.