Sep 30, 2014

Western Health is recognizing World Breastfeeding Week, October 1 to 7, along with the Baby-Friendly Council of NL and community partners. This year’s theme “Breastfeeding: A Winning Goal– for Life” recognizes the team effort that can make breastfeeding easier.  

This campaign will support businesses and community organizations to create breastfeeding friendly public spaces. A toolkit has been developed to assist businesses and organizations in their efforts to be more breastfeeding friendly.  In the Western region, toolkits can be requested by contacting Lesley French at lesleyfrench@westernhealth.nl.ca or 709-632-2920.

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Backgrounder: Some Breastfeeding Facts and Benefits

• The World Health Organization and Health Canada recommend that babies receive only breast milk for the first six months of life.
• Breastfeeding should continue for up to two years or more with the introduction of nutrient rich complementary foods from the age of six months.
• Breastfeeding helps your baby decide when he or she is hungry or full. This helps with appetite regulation for life.
• Breastmilk contains special fatty acids not found in formula that help your baby’s brain to develop and boost brain power.
• Breastmilk contains important antibodies that help prevent diseases and infections (e.g., middle ear infections, pneumonia, diarrhea and vomiting, and juvenile diabetes).
• Breastfeeding may reduce the risk of your baby developing allergies (if there is a family history of allergies).
• Research suggests that breastfeeding provides some protection for the mother against breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and weak bones later in life.

Media Contact:
Heidi Staeben-Simmons
Director of Communications
709-637-5252
heidistaebensimmons@westernhealth.nl.ca