The Healthy Glow

It is National Breastfeeding week here in Canada from October 1st to 7, and since this is something I am passionate about I though I would make a little post on here to give you some facts on breastfeeding. This is a great opportunity to bring awareness on the subject and the importance of promoting and supporting breastfeeding all around us. Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to nourish and bond with your little one. In this blog post, we will explore five fascinating facts about breastfeeding to commemorate this special week.

ps. This article aim to foster education and awareness about breastfeeding. It is crucial to note that the intention is not to undermine or devalue bottle feeding in any way. The ultimate goal is to ensure that your baby receive proper nutrition, regardless of the feeding method chosen.

1. Breast Milk Provides Optimal Nutrition: Breast milk is a unique and complete source of nutrition for infants. It contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for your baby’s growth and development. Additionally, breast milk is easily digestible, allowing your baby to absorb nutrients efficiently and reducing the risk of digestive issues.

2. Breastfeeding Boosts Immunity: Breast milk is packed with antibodies and immune-boosting compounds that help protect your baby from infections and diseases. It provides passive immunity, meaning that the antibodies present in breast milk help strengthen your baby’s immune system, reducing the risk of respiratory infections, ear infections, allergies, and other illnesses.

3. Breastfeeding Benefits Mothers Too: Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for mothers as well. It helps the uterus contract, promoting faster postpartum recovery and reducing the risk of excessive bleeding. Breastfeeding can also aids in weight loss after birth by burning extra calories. Moreover, breastfeeding has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer, and helps lower the risk of osteoporosis later in life.

4. Breastfeeding Enhances Bonding: The act of breastfeeding promotes a strong emotional bond between mother and baby. Skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding releases oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” which fosters feelings of love, attachment, and relaxation. This bonding experience not only provides comfort and security to your baby but also helps mothers feel a deep sense of connection and fulfillment.

5. Breastfeeding Supports Environmental Sustainability: Breastfeeding is not only beneficial for babies and mothers but also for the environment. Breastfeeding generates zero waste and requires no packaging, bottles, or energy for preparation. By breastfeeding, you contribute to a greener and more sustainable world by reducing your carbon footprint.

In Canada, a little more than 91% of mothers will initiate breastfeeding at birth. However, 1 out of 7 will stop before baby is a month old (Public Health Agency of Canada; Canada’s Breasfeeding Progress Report 2022). This shows that moms need more help and ressources to overcomes the difficulties and challenges that can arise with breastfeeding. National Breastfeeding Week in Canada serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding for the health and well-being of both babies and mothers. Breast milk provides optimal nutrition, boosts immunity, and promotes bonding between mother and baby. It also offers significant benefits for mothers, such as postpartum recovery and long-term health advantages. Additionally, breastfeeding is an environmentally sustainable choice. Let us celebrate this week by spreading awareness and supporting breastfeeding mothers, recognizing the incredible journey they embark on!