NUTRITION CONFERENCE

BREASTFEEDINGGuanzon, Guerrero, Guerzon, Guevarra, Guinto, Gutierrez,

Breastfeeding is the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information, and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large.

World Health Organization - Breastfeeding

WHO strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. At 6 months, other foods should complement breastfeeding for up to two years or more. In addition: breastfeeding should begin within an hour

of birth; breastfeeding should be "on demand", as

often as the child wants day and night; and bottles or pacifiers should be avoided.

World Health Organization – 10 Facts on Breastfeeding

WHY BREASTFEEDING IS BEST FOR THE BABY: Colostrum—a yellow, watery pre-milk for the first

few days after birth helps newborn's digestive system grow and function.

Breast milk has antibodies. Babies who are breastfed also have a lower risk of

asthma, allergies, and colic. The protein and fat in breast milk are better used

by the baby's body than the protein and fat in formula.

Babies who are breastfed have less gas, fewer feeding problems, and often less constipation than those given formulas.

Breastfed babies are at lower risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).American Congress of Obstetricians & Gynecologists –

Breastfeeding Pamphlet

Beyond the immediate benefits for children, breastfeeding contributes to a lifetime of good health. Adults who were breastfed as babies often have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol, as well as lower rates of overweight, obesity and type-2 diabetes. There is evidence that people who were breastfed perform better in intelligence tests.

World Health Organization – 10 Facts on Breastfeeding

WHY BREASTFEEDING IS GOOD FOR THE MOTHERS: Convenient - always available and at the right

temperature. Releases the hormone oxytocin uterus

contract and helps it return to its normal size more quickly.

Less bleeding after delivery. May lower risk of osteoporosis and some

cancer. Burns calories lose pounds gained during

pregnancy faster. Cheaper than bottle feeding. Creates a special bond between you and your

baby. American Congress of Obstetricians & Gynecologists –

Breastfeeding Pamphlet

WHY NOT INFANT FORMULA? Infant formula does not contain the

antibodies found in breast milk and is linked to some risksWater-borne diseasesMalnutrition due to over-dilution formula to

"stretch" suppliesReturn to breastfeeding may not be an

option due to diminished breast milk production

World Health Organization – 10 Facts on Breastfeeding

ACCEPTABLE MEDICAL REASONS FOR USE OFBREAST-MILK SUBSTITUTES (WHO & UNICEF)

ACCEPTABLE MEDICAL REASONS FOR USE OFBREAST-MILK SUBSTITUTES (WHO & UNICEF)

ACCEPTABLE MEDICAL REASONS FOR USE OFBREAST-MILK SUBSTITUTES (WHO & UNICEF)

WORK AND BREASTFEEDING

WHO recommends that a new mother should have at least 16 weeks of absence from work after delivery, to be able to rest and breastfeed her child.

Mothers need access to a safe, clean and private place in or near their workplaces to continue the practice.

World Health Organization – 10 Facts on Breastfeeding