(SitNews) Ketchikan, Alaska - It is said that breastfeeding is a mother’s gift to her baby that lasts a lifetime.

During World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7, caregivers from PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center, Janai Meyer Nutrition & Lactation, LLC; Ketchikan Public Health; and the Early Learning Program are teaming up to make sure moms are supported as they meet the needs of their little ones.

On Saturday, August 4 at the Blueberry Arts festival, a Parents’ Pit Stop is available to provide a comfortable space for breastfeeding mothers as well as a place for parents to do a little dirty work, like changing diapers. This private space will be located just inside the lower Main Street entrance of the State Building, second booth on the right.

According to local lactation specialist Janai Meyer, RD, LD, IBCLC, there are many benefits to breastfeeding, for both moms and babies.

“Breast milk is almost like a medicine” said Meyer. “It helps stave off infections. That’s why I always say, ‘Some breast milk is better than none.’”

Breastfeeding benefits for baby:

• It gives them all of the nutrients they need, including personalized immune boosters.
• It provides a special bonding time with mom.
• It helps to develop their jaw and mouth muscles.
• It protects them from various health issues. Breastfed babies have less incidence or lower risk for diabetes, obesity, SIDS and allergies, among other conditions.

Breastfeeding benefits for mom:

• It reduces the risk of certain diseases and conditions including breast cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
• It provides a special bonding time with baby.
• It’s portable and always ready - no heating or stirring.
• It’s convenient and there’s less work (no need to sanitize nipples, bottles, etc., provide storage or refrigerate).

Breastfeeding doesn’t always come easy. Sometimes new mothers are physically unable to breastfeed due to complications with the breast or breast tissue, and adoptive parents may need special coaching on how best to feed their child with formula. Every case is different. PeaceHealth, Janai Meyer, Public Health, and the Early Learning Program all provide a variety of resources and classes to help provide every mother of a newborn what she needs to be as successful as possible.

For more information about breastfeeding, visit https://www.peacehealth.org/healthy-you/how-breastfeeding-helps-babies-and-moms

Source of News:

PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center
www.peacehealth.org/ketchikan

 

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