World Breast Feeding Week #WBW2024 is held in the first week of August every year. WBW is supported by WHO, UNICEF and many other Ministries of Health and groups around the globe. The theme for 2024 is ‘Closing the Gap’ and providing breastfeeding support for all. WBW 2024 celebrates the diversity of breastfeeding Mums and showcases strategies to help families, healthcare workers and communities to support every breastfeeding Mum in order to reduce the inequalities that exist across society.
As dietitians, we are huge advocates for setting up children well from the start with the nutrition their bodies need. For some Mum’s, breastfeeding may not be a viable way to feed their child from birth and that is okay too. We respect all Mum’s, whatever their decision is to feed their child in the most nourishing way possible that works for them. However, given it’s WBW, we want to support this cause and provide some of our thoughts and information to those who might be thinking about or are currently breastfeeding or just for those who want to know more.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
- Breastmilk is safe, clean and contains antibodies which help fight off illness
and protect babies from many diseases. - Breast milk aids babies’ digestive system and provides important nutrients
essential for proper growth and development. - Breastfeeding can help to build a strong bond between mother and maby.
- Breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that the infant needs for the
first months of life. - Breastfeeding also offers numerous health benefits for the mother including; a
reduced risk of developing chronic disease such as diabetes or breast cancer,
assist with healthy weight management, improved postpartum mental health.
How can we help to “Close the Gap?”
- Increase community support for women to feel comfortable and safe to
breastfeed anytime, anywhere. - Support and advocate for maternity entitlements that do not force women to
choose between their families and their career. - Advocate for the accessibility of trained health professionals who can provide
helpful and respectful breastfeeding support. - Ensure that all women have access to resources and knowledge to help them
successfully breastfeed their babies.
Tips for Adequate Nutrition during Breastfeeding
- Focus on making healthy food choices to help fuel your milk production. Opt
for protein-rich foods, such as lean meat, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils and
seafood. Choose a variety of whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables. - Drink when you are thirsty, as a guide drink a glass of water or reduced fat
milk every time you breastfeed. - Limit sugary and caffeinated drinks.
- Choose foods rich in iron, protein and calcium. Good sources of iron include
lentils, fortified breads and cereals, dark leafy green vegetables, dried fruit
and tofu. - Add healthy Omega 3 fatty acids to the diet, such as plant oils, nuts and
seeds, oily fish (upto 2 serves of fish per week), fortified products such as
eggs, milk and yoghurt. Essential fatty acids have many important health
benefits for mothers and babies. - Do not skip meals. Try to eat small, frequent meals across the day.
Recipe: No Bake Lactation Bites
Makes: 2 Dozen | Prep Time: 10mins
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup ground or milled flaxseed
- 3 tablespoons brewer’s yeast
- 1 cup salt reduced peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened dried cranberries
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except for the chocolate chips and cranberries to a large
mixing bowl. Mix on low speed until mixture is well combined. Stir in chocolate
chips and cranberries. - Form mixture into 2-tablespoon sized smooth balls and place on baking paper lined tray. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or enjoy right away.
- Once set, store bites in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks!
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