This year’s theme: Breastmilk: Every Ounce Counts

Did you know? Breastmilk has all the nutrition a baby needs for the first 6 months of life and it is the most important food in a baby’s first year. Breastmilk provides important antibodies until a child’s immune system is mature enough to make all his own antibodies, up to 4 years! Research shows that the benefits of breastfeeding in the early years can last a lifetime. Mothers who are able to breastfeed their infants also reap many health benefits! Breastmilk is free…and the extra cost to feed a mother who is breastfeeding is about the same as an extra peant butter sandwich and glass of milk each day! Breastfeeding provides the closeness, touch, and communication that a baby needs to develop a healthy attachment. This week we will be highlighting new research everyday to keep you informed.

Breastfeeding isn’t always easy for a mother to learn. Mothers who take the time to learn about breastfeeding find it easier to breastfeed when their baby is born. Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit offers free prenatal classes to all mothers and their support people. For more information call our Intake Line at 519.352.7202 ext. 2903.