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Breastfeeding

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Breastfeeding your baby

Breast milk is the perfect food for your baby. Breastfeeding is a natural and healthy activity, and research is increasingly showing that it is an important factor in promoting good health, as breast milk provides many health and nutritional benefits for both mothers and babies.

While breastfeeding is the natural way to feed a baby, most mothers need help and support while they learn to feed their babies. That's why Northern Health Lactation Consultants are always available for guidance (see contact info below).

Health Canada and the World Health Organization recommend that breast milk should be the only food or drink for the first six months of life. When a child reaches the age of six months, parents can gradually introduce solid foods, while continuing to breastfeed up to two years of age or beyond.

What are some of the benefits of breasfeeding for the baby?

Reduces infectious diseases
Promotes optimal brain development
Reduces diabetes
Reduces allergies
Reduces obesity

What are some of the benefits of breastfeeding for moms?

Reduces risk of osteoporosis
Reduces risk of breast and ovarian cancer
Helps families save money
Helps protect the environment


Contact Info
If you have any further questions, please contact an NH Lactation Consultant at: phone: (250) 565-2327 email: Jeanne.Hagreen@northernhealth.ca email: Eunice.Finch@northernhealth.ca


World Breastfeeding Week
In recognition of the importance of breastfeeding, World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated internationally from October 1-7. Here are some of the events that are happening in 2010 around our region: Friday, Oct 1st - 10:00 am: Cafe Voltaire at Books & Company in Prince George hosts the launch of the "Healthy Communities Support Breastfeeding Anytime, Anywhere" window decal campaign. (A NH, City of Prince George and Children First partnership). Saturday, Oct 2nd - 10:00 am: 10th Annual Prince Geroge Breastfeeding Challenge in the Keith Gordon Room in the Prince George Library. Guest speakers, information displays, prizes and a free lunch. Latch-on time at 11:00 am. Friday, Oct 8 - 1:00 pm: Wrap up event at the University Hospital of Northern BC, with cake for the public and hospital staff.


Resources
10 Great Reasons to Breasfeed your Baby (from PHAC) 10 Valuable Tips for Successful Breastfeeding (from PHAC) Download your copy of Baby's Best Chance pregnancy, birth and baby care guide Or visit the Best Chance website

Breastfeeding your baby

Contact Info

World Breastfeeding Week

Resources