By Tasneem Bhaigora, lactation consultant at CHOC
Aug. 1 through 7 is Annual World Breastfeeding Week.
Breastfeeding is more than just an action performed by parents; it’s a crucial source of nutrition that babies can use to thrive and grow. This year’s theme urges the community to step up for breastfeeding,” by providing education and support to parents, nurses and all care providers.
Part of the chain of support for breastfeeding
One way to step up for breastfeeding is by becoming a part of the warm chain of support for breastfeeding.
Q: What is the warm chain of support for breastfeeding?
A: It’s a system that works to support, protect, and promote breastfeeding.
Q: Who can be a part of the chain of support?
A: Anyone! The chain of support includes the parents, as well as nurses, family members, physicians, and anyone else involved in the baby’s care.
Benefits of breastfeeding
What are some of the benefits of breastfeeding?
- It provides plentiful nutrition to babies from the time they’re born.
- It’s free! The cost of formula can add up quickly.
- Breastfeeding prevents children from going hungry.
- Babies who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing health conditions like asthma and obesity.
The benefits of breastfeeding are numerous. Here’s what CHOC’s clinical nutrition teams do to support breastfeeding:
- From the time of admission, every baby and parent gets support from the bedside nurse, doctors and lactation consultants.
- The CHOC staff helps parents determine the best way to fit breastfeeding into their baby’s unique plan of care.
- Dietitians help you optimize the nutrition your baby will receive alongside your breastmilk.
- We strive to connect you with any resources you need to maintain lactation. Breastfeeding your child can be a great way to ensure they are receiving the nutrition they need to thrive. Throughout this journey, be confident that your support chain will help provide your baby with the best medicine: breast milk.
Parents, if you’re visiting a hospital or care center other than CHOC, make sure to check with your healthcare provider about what lactation options are available for you.
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Learn more about CHOC’s Clinical Nutrition Program
At CHOC, we specialize in providing a full continuum of pediatric nutrition services, including inpatient and outpatient services, depending on our patients’ needs.
