From August 1st to 7th, Breastfeeding Week is recognized worldwide to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. In the United States, August is also recognized as National Breastfeeding Month.
This year’s theme is “Charting the Course Together”, which is intended to put a focus on how we can use data to reinforce the connections between breastfeeding and a spectrum of health topics and initiatives.
According to the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breastfeeding be done for at least 12 months, and then for as long thereafter as the mother and baby desire. In the first 6 months, breast milk should be the primary source of nutrition; water, juice, and other foods should be complimentary.
Studies have shown that breastfeeding is associated with a range of health benefits for infants and mothers. Here are a few of the benefits of breastfeeding for infants:
- Reduced risk of hospitalization for lower respiratory tract infections in the first year
- Reduced incidence of:
- Otitis media, also known as a middle ear infection
- Nonspecific gastrointestinal tract infections
- Clinical asthma, eczema, and atopic dermatitis
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Reduced risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Reduced risk of developing celiac disease
In fact, recent reports have found that breastfeeding has over 100 benefits. You read that right! There are 111 benefits (and counting!) of breastfeeding. (View the infographic at the bottom of this page.)
Although studies have shown associations between breastfeeding and health outcomes for infants, none have been proven as causal relationships.
For mothers of infants, a private nurse can help with postpartum and neonatal care. Our nurses can increase the success of breastfeeding by providing lactation education and support for new or working mothers. Private care can also help decrease postpartum mood disorders and depression, and can facilitate the parent-infant bond.
Call 650-462-1001 to learn more about how a private nurse can support your family. For any questions or concerns regarding your health and the health of your child, please consult your primary care physician.
Learn more about the incredible benefits of breastfeeding your baby at Mom Loves Best.
References
Chaplick, Kathleen. “August Is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month.” JPMA, 8 Aug. 2016.
“Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk.” AAP News & Journals Gateway, March 2012.
“Breastfeeding.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“National Breastfeeding Month 2017.” United States Breastfeeding Committee.
“Sustaining Breastfeeding Together.” World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA).
“World Breastfeeding Week.” California Breastfeeding Coalition.
