Message from Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health

World Breastfeeding Week

October 1-7, 2009

Observed in Canada from October 1-7, 2009, World Breastfeeding Week provides Canadians with an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of breastfeeding. This year's theme is "Breastfeeding Saves Lives: Protecting Infant Health Everyday and in Emergencies."

Health Canada and the World Health Organization recommend that breast milk should be the only food or drink for the first six months of life. When their child reaches the age of six months, parents can gradually introduce solid foods, while continuing to breastfeed up to two years of age or beyond. Although 90% of women in Canada start out breastfeeding their newborns, only 54% are still breastfeeding their baby at six months.

If a mother is able to breastfeed, there are many reasons to do so beyond six months. Breast milk is the best food to help a baby to grow and develop. It contains the perfect amount of protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals, and it changes to meet the baby's needs. It contains valuable antibodies that help prevent disease and that may reduce the risk of a baby developing allergies. It is safe, fresh, and exactly the right temperature.

Breastfeeding also has many benefits for the mother. Research suggests that breastfeeding provides her with a measure of protection against breast cancer, ovarian cancer and weak bones later in life. It may also help women lose weight gained during pregnancy. Without question, breastfeeding saves parents money and is good for the environment.

In addition to providing all these benefits, the closeness and comfort of breastfeeding strengthens the bond between parents and their baby, and contributes to building a secure, loving relationship.

The Government of Canada supports breastfeeding through a number of initiatives, including the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, the Community Action Program for Children, the Maternal Child Health Program (MCH), and the Prenatal Nutrition Guidelines for Professionals.

I encourage all pregnant women and new mothers to consider breastfeeding their baby for at least the first six months and to find out what support and resources are available to them. For more information, please see the Public Health Agency of Canada's new, free breastfeeding brochures called 10 Great Reasons to Breastfeed your Baby and 10 Valuable Tips for Successful Breastfeeding.

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health
Government of Canada