World Breastfeeding Week: Supporting Infant and Maternal Health

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated globally every year from 1st to 7th August to raise awareness of the numerous benefits of breastfeeding for both infant and maternal health. The 2025 theme, ‘Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems’, highlights the importance of building long-term, reliable support structures for breastfeeding families.

As Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs), we recognise the vital role that breastfeeding plays in supporting optimal health outcomes for both babies and mothers.

Nutritional Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastmilk provides complete and uniquely tailored nutrition for infants during the early stages of life. Its composition evolves to meet the changing needs of growing babies. Key benefits include:

• Providing essential macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals)
  
• Supporting the development of a robust immune system through antibodies and bioactive compounds
  
• Reducing the risk of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections
  
• Promoting healthy growth and cognitive development
  

Breastfeeding also benefits maternal health by:

• Reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancer
  
• Supporting postpartum recovery and maternal well-being
  

Common Nutrition Considerations During Lactation

Lactation increases nutritional demands, making individualised dietary advice valuable for maintaining milk supply, energy, and overall health. Important considerations include:

• Increased energy needs: Approximately 2000–2100 kJ (500 calories) extra per day is typically required during exclusive breastfeeding
  
• Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is essential to support milk volume and prevent dehydration
  
• Micronutrient requirements: Needs for key nutrients (e.g. iodine, vitamin B12, calcium, zinc) increase during lactation
  
• Balanced diet: A varied and nutrient-dense eating pattern helps meet both maternal and infant needs
  

Supporting All Infant Feeding Choices

While breastfeeding is strongly encouraged where possible due to its health benefits, it’s important to recognise that not all parents can or choose to breastfeed. Dietitians provide non-judgemental support for all feeding approaches, including:

• Mixed feeding
  
• Infant formula feeding
  
• Introduction of solids around six months of age
  

How Dietitians Support Infant Feeding and Maternal Nutrition

If additional guidance is needed, an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) can assist with:

• Optimising maternal nutrition during breastfeeding
  
• Managing feeding challenges such as low milk supply, elimination diets, or infant food allergies
  
• Planning for the transition to solids
  
• Developing return-to-work feeding plans

Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, mixed feeding, or formula feeding, tailored nutrition support can enhance the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby

Get Support with Holistic Me

At Holistic Me, we offer compassionate, evidence-based support for parents navigating the early stages of infant feeding. Our Accredited Practising Dietitians work closely with families to support maternal nutrition, breastfeeding, and infant development—no matter what feeding journey you’re on.

Contact us today to book a personalised consultation and access holistic care that nurtures both mother and baby.

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