Galactosemia and Breastfeeding
Babies suffering from galactosemia are unable to process galactose, one of the simple sugars formed by the digestion of breast milk. Galactosemia is a rare inherited disorder that affects about 1 in 60,000 newborns. Galactosemia and Breastfeeding are an incompatible combination. There may be no initial indication when your child first begins to breastfeed... [Read more...]
One Breast or Two?
One of the most common questions new mothers ask is whether they should give both breasts at each feeding or just one. Ideally your baby will make this decision. When a baby is healthy and breastfeeding normally they are capable of determining when it is time to switch breasts. Babies need a good mixture of foremilk (lower fat) and hind-milk (higher... [Read more...]
Breast Engorgement
In the initial days after giving birth, overly full or engorged breasts can be a problem as your body adjusts its milk supply to your babies needs. The best way to relieve engorgement is to nurse frequently and get your body tuned into your baby. Warm moist wash cloths applied to your breasts before breastfeeding can help your milk flow easier.... [Read more...]
How to create a supportive breastfeeding environment
Six suggestions for creating a supportive nursing environment Find a peaceful atmosphere for nursing. Before beginning the feeding, unplug the phone, turn on relaxing music and do deep breathing. (Take four or five deep abdominal breaths.) If breastfeeding in public makes you uncomfortable, insist on your privacy and/or drape a light cover over your... [Read more...]
Twelve foods to eat while breastfeeding
This second set of twelve foods offers almost as many of the benefits as what was found in the 12 Fabulous Foods list, but these are sometimes hard to find, harder to prepare, or some other slight that kept them out of the top 12. Almonds – protein, fiber, riboflavin, calcium, zinc, iron, vitamin E, unsaturated fats Artichokes – protein,... [Read more...]
What is the Cradle Hold?
See the the traditional hold, the cradle hold demonstrated in the video. Sit up with your back supported, one arm supports your baby, with his or her head in the bend of your elbow and your open hand supporting the baby’s bottom or back. Your baby’s abdomen lies against yours. Use one hand to support the breast and guide it... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding Weaning Best Practices
Improved weaning practices Complementary foods should normally be started when a child is 6 months old. These may be started any time after 6 months of age, however, if the child is not growing satisfactorily. Good weaning practices involve selecting nutritious foods and using hygienic practices when preparing them. The choice of complementary foods... [Read more...]
What is Normal Weight Gain?
No matter what else is going on while you are breastfeeding (feeding pattern change, sleep patterns change, milk supply changes) if you are exclusively breastfeeding and your baby is consistently gaining weight, then you can relax with the knowledge that you are doing well. Your baby will gain weight at differing rates based on their age Birth to four... [Read more...]
Weaning your baby
When you have made the decision to stop breastfeeding, understanding will help you establish a firm plan and make the weaning process much easier for you and your baby. Some mothers decide to wean their baby when their child begins teething, other mothers wait for the baby to begin showing disinterest, and some mothers feel they cannot supply enough... [Read more...]
Breastfeeding while lying down
If you find yourself feeling tired then breastfeeding while lying down is a great technique to master. It not only will help your baby drift off to sleep, but it places you in a safe place to get a little extra rest as well. Make yourself comfortable by lying on your side with a pillow under your lower back. It may be helpful to try out this position... [Read more...]
