World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) coordinates and organises the annual World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) between Aug 1-7.
According to WABA, the main objective for this campaign is to:
- Inform people about their role in strengthening the warm chain of support for breastfeeding
- Anchor breastfeeding as part of good nutrition, food security and reduction of inequalities
- Engage with individuals and organisations along the warm chain of support for breastfeeding
- Galvanise action on strengthening capacity of actors and systems for transformational change
Source – worldbreastfeedingweek.org
Importance of Breastfeeding
Breastmilk contains vital antibodies, hormones and enzymes essential for the growth of the baby. The body and breastmilk are very clever and will supply the baby with what they need at each stage of their development. It changes and adapts to meet the needs of the baby and provides excellent protection to illness.
The first stage of breastmilk starts forming during pregnancy and will last for the first few days after giving birth. This milk is Colostrum but is often called ‘liquid gold’ as it is packed with high-protein, antibody-rich liquid. This strengthens the babies immune system and helps them establish a healthy gut by coating the intestines. This is the perfect first food for the baby.
After the Colostrum stage, there is the transitional milk which is a combination of Colostrum and mature milk. after that the mature milk comes in which is higher in fat and carbohydrates for the growth of the baby.
Supplements
As well as eating a good balanced diet and drinking plenty of water, taking supplements while breastfeeding is recommended. Taking a multivitamin while breastfeeding will probably be something your doctor discusses with you as not all over the counter supplements are suitable. Some of the essential nutrients may be recommended to mother to take includes; Calcium, folic acid, iron, vitamin A/B/C & D.
Here at Conefreys Careplus pharmacy, we carry a wide range of supplements, come on in and speak with one of our friendly staff members and they will advise you on the best supplement for your needs.
Resources
- The La Leche League in Ireland is a voluntary organisation which provides information and support to women who want to breastfeed their babies – lalecheleagueireland.com
- Cuidiú – The Irish Childbirth Trust provide support services in Antenatal and Birth Preparation, Breastfeeding, Postnatal and Parenthood. – cuidiu.ie
- Friends of Breastfeeding works to ensure that women in Ireland achieve their desired breastfeeding experience. They network to connect women in Ireland who want to breastfeed with their local support system. – friendsofbreastfeeding.ie
