Thanks to Janice Reynolds from SK for this important information.
Maureen Fjeld, IBCLC, RLC
Calgary, Alberta
(Wondering why this has not come through any 'official source' in AB  - this 
is really significant news?)
World Breastfeeding Week:
Published Tuesday October 6th, 2009


Building a healthy foundation for your baby
By Dr. David Butler-Jones MD
Chief Public Health Officer of Canada

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby. As we 
recognize Canada's World Breastfeeding Week,Oct. 1 to 7, it is important to 
remind ourselves of the benefits breastfeeding offers and to address the 
common concerns that many new mothers share.
Experts in Canada and around the world recommend that healthy full-term 
babies be fed only breast milk for the first six months after birth.
After six months, parents can gradually introduce solid foods, while 
continuing to breastfeed for up to two years of age and beyond.
Breast milk is widely recognized as the best food to help babies grow and 
develop. It is custom-made by each mother for her own baby, and contains the 
perfect amount of protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals.
The valuable antibodies contained in breast milk help prevent disease and 
may reduce the risk of developing allergies. Breastfeeding has benefits for 
the mother as well. Research suggests that breastfeeding provides a measure 
of protection against breast cancer, ovarian cancer and weak bones later in 
life, and due to the calories used to produce milk, breastfeeding can also 
contribute to the loss of weight gained during pregnancy.
Despite all these benefits and the six month recommendation of exclusive 
breastfeeding, the rates of breastfeeding among Canadian women are lower 
than desirable. The Maternity Experiences Survey conducted by the Public 
Health Agency of Canada found that while 90 per cent of Canadian women began 
breastfeeding following the birth of their child, 25per cent introduced 
other liquids (such as water and formula) within a week or two after birth.
Also, at the six-month mark, only 14 per cent were breastfeeding 
exclusively, with 54 per cent reporting only some breastfeeding.
The reality of breastfeeding is that it can be both challenging and 
rewarding. Both mother and baby need patience and persistence to get used to 
breastfeeding, but the effort will undoubtedly prove worthwhile.
The following tips will help make breastfeeding a successful and enjoyable 
experience.
1. Breastfeed within the first hour after birth - babies are often more 
alert and interested in feeding in the first hour following birth.
2. Instead of timing feeds by the clock, look for your baby's early signs of 
wanting to feed, such as rooting, licking his lips or putting his hands to 
his mouth.
3. Find a position that is most comfortable for you and your baby.
4. Take care of yourself - try to rest when your baby is sleeping, eat 
healthy meals, and stay well hydrated.
5. Ask for help when needed - there are many groups and individuals 
available to help you, including public health nurses, lactation 
consultants, the La Leche League, your doctor or midwife, family or friends 
who have breastfed.
We know that breastfeeding is important for many health reasons, but there 
are also other reasons to consider breastfeeding beyond the six-month mark. 
The closeness and comfort experienced during breastfeeding contributes to an 
intimate and special relationship between mother and child. Breast milk is 
also convenient, always the right temperature, economical and better for the 
environment!
For more information on where to get breastfeeding advice and support, 
please see the Public Health Agency of Canada's free and new breastfeeding 
brochures called 10 Great Reasons to Breastfeed your Baby and 10 Valuable 
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding at www.publichealth.gc.ca/breastfeeding
Dr. David Butler-Jones is Canada's first Chief Public Health Officer and is 
head of the Public Health Agency of Canada. 

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