“Imagine that the World had created a new ‘dream product’ to feed and immunize everyone born on earth. Imagine also that it was available everywhere, required no storage or delivery and helped mothers to plan their families and reduce the risk of cancer. Then imagine that the world refused to use it”. — James Grant, Executive Director for Unicef (1980-1995).
John and I are huge fans of breastfeeding. As parents, we have seen the wonderful outcomes and rewards that breastfeeding has provided in our own children. As Registered Dietitians, we know that breastmilk is nature’s most perfect food. Besides the ideal balance of carbohydrate, protein, fat and micronutrients, it contains antibodies specifically obtained from the mother to destroy viruses and harmful bacteria. The benefits of breastmilk extend well into an infant’s adult years and will reduce their risk of ever developing obesity, diabetes or cancer.
This week is World Breastfeeding Week and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) has announced this year’s theme as “Talk to me! Breastfeeding – a 3D Experience”. The focus is not only on the importance of the mother-baby connection (two-dimensions) but also the support needed from the health care system, friends, family members and the community (the ever-important 3rd dimension).
For more information about this year’s world breastfeeding theme, visit the WABA website at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org. Also, to view what the state of North Carolina is doing to encourage support for nursing moms, please see: http://www.ncdhhs.gov/pressrel/2011/2011-08-01-nursing_moms.htm.
It’s Your Health. It’s Your Life. Make That Change!
~ Angie
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