Australian Dietary Guidelines - Summary - National Health and ...
Australian Dietary Guidelines - Summary - National Health and ...
Australian Dietary Guidelines - Summary - National Health and ...
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<strong>Australian</strong> <strong>Dietary</strong> <strong>Guidelines</strong> <strong>Summary</strong>GUIDELINE 4: EnCOURAGE, SUPPORT <strong>and</strong>promote BREASTFEEDINGBreastmilk is the ideal food for infant growth <strong>and</strong> development. Breastfeedingprovides many benefits for mothers as well as infants, both now <strong>and</strong> into the future.Breast is bestBreastfeeding is the healthiest start for infants. For the infant, breastmilk provides a uniquemix of nutrients <strong>and</strong> other important substances that can reduce the risk of infection <strong>and</strong>may also help reduce the risk of asthma, eczema <strong>and</strong> other allergies, <strong>and</strong> sudden infantdeath syndrome.Research shows that, amongst other benefits, being breastfed can reduce the risk of highblood pressure in childhood <strong>and</strong> may reduce the risk of becoming obese in childhood,adolescence <strong>and</strong> adulthood. This, in turn, may also reduce the risk of chronic diseaseslike Type 2 diabetes, heart disease <strong>and</strong> stroke in later life.For the mother, breastfeeding can help recovery from birth <strong>and</strong>, may also help mothersreturn to their pre-pregnancy weight <strong>and</strong> reduce their risk of some cancers.Breastmilk is a natural, convenient, hygienic <strong>and</strong> inexpensive food for babies.Supporting breastfeeding mothersBreastfeeding is best however sometimes this is not possible. All mothers need supportfrom family <strong>and</strong> friends in choosing what is best for them. Babies who are not breastfedneed an infant formula.It’s particularly important for mothers to eat well when they’re breastfeeding. New mothersmay be dealing with lack of sleep as well as extra nutrient needs. Helping mothers withmeals <strong>and</strong> daily chores can make a difference.Public spaces like shopping centres <strong>and</strong> restaurants, <strong>and</strong> workplaces can supportbreastfeeding mothers by providing facilities for their use. We can all play a part to helpeveryone see that breastfeeding is the natural, normal <strong>and</strong> healthy way to feed our babies.But all mothers <strong>and</strong> families need support, no matter what feeding choices they make fortheir babies.Child health nurses, lactation consultants, doctors <strong>and</strong> other health professionals canprovide help if mothers <strong>and</strong> families are having any problems with infant feeding.For additional information on healthy eating when pregnant or breastfeeding go to:www.eatforhealth.gov.auENCOURAGE, SUPPORT AND PROMOTE BREASTFEEDING35
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