World Breastfeeding Week: Infant & Maternal Health Support

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.

Client Testimonials

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    Rachel Tharaldsen  
 March 29, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went too see " Innovative Dietitian " with the hope someone could guide me with there knowledge on learning about food to help me with all my autoimmune diseases, inflammation and the weight i had gained since finding this all out.
I have been to so many specialist's and been told many things about my health ie - Lupus, EDS, Scleroderma, Sjogrens, Hashimotos etc etc......" Did i think anyone could help me .....NO I DID NOT AT ALL !!! That was until i went and meet Shauna & Fiona. I found hope with both of these wonderful ladies and after a couple of appointments i knew i was in the right place to receive the correct information for my health. . I feel im starting to take control back on my life that i felt id lost. The knowledge they have is UNBELIEVEABLE.

Shauna & Fiona are very Professional, Honest and made me feel at ease with every personal issue i discussed with them.
Both exceeded my expectations to the highest level.

Fionas life story of how she started her company is admirable. Do the best thing for yourself and read about the staff and Fiona on '' The Innovative Dietitian by Holistic Me " web page.
I am in my happy place now, i didnt think it was going to happen, but it did. Thank you Shauna & Fiona, i cant express my gratitude enough.

Kind regards
Rachel XX
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Aaron Vogt  
 February 13, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot speak highly enough of the incredible service we've received from this dietitian business. The team here has done a phenomenal job assisting my primary school age child, who now thrives thanks to their guidance. We previously tried an alternate provider, which unfortunately proved to be a waste of time. However, the exceptional staff here turned things around.

Their approach is both professional and welcoming, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere that has truly engaged my child. This supportive environment has been pivotal in achieving excellent results, allowing my child to focus on and benefit from the outcomes.

Moreover, they have been invaluable in providing recipes for meals that ensure the correct nutritional balance, addressing dietary deficiencies effectively. We are grateful for their dedication and expertise.

I highly recommend this dietitian business to anyone seeking top-notch support and results.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Kylie Starr  
 June 30, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This company will work day and night to ensure that all clients like my daughter can and will have a chance to live their best lives. They are refreshing and bring hope when all may have been previously felt lost. Thank You 💖
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Lyn Watson  
 April 25, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I found dietitian Rachel friendly and helpful. She didn't say what I must do. She advised me on research and diet to help my medical problems. I am more aware what food choices help.  I have more energy now too
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Shane whelan  
 March 23, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent team!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Louise Gallant  
 May 9, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a fantastic experience here, gave me great advice,helped me make realistic changes to my eating habits, lost weight & lowered my HBA1C.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    Rachel Tharaldsen  
 March 29, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went too see " Innovative Dietitian " with the hope someone could guide me with there knowledge on learning about food to help me with all my autoimmune diseases, inflammation and the weight i had gained since finding this all out.
I have been to so many specialist's and been told many things about my health ie - Lupus, EDS, Scleroderma, Sjogrens, Hashimotos etc etc......" Did i think anyone could help me .....NO I DID NOT AT ALL !!! That was until i went and meet Shauna & Fiona. I found hope with both of these wonderful ladies and after a couple of appointments i knew i was in the right place to receive the correct information for my health. . I feel im starting to take control back on my life that i felt id lost. The knowledge they have is UNBELIEVEABLE.

Shauna & Fiona are very Professional, Honest and made me feel at ease with every personal issue i discussed with them.
Both exceeded my expectations to the highest level.

Fionas life story of how she started her company is admirable. Do the best thing for yourself and read about the staff and Fiona on '' The Innovative Dietitian by Holistic Me " web page.
I am in my happy place now, i didnt think it was going to happen, but it did. Thank you Shauna & Fiona, i cant express my gratitude enough.

Kind regards
Rachel XX
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Aaron Vogt  
 February 13, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot speak highly enough of the incredible service we've received from this dietitian business. The team here has done a phenomenal job assisting my primary school age child, who now thrives thanks to their guidance. We previously tried an alternate provider, which unfortunately proved to be a waste of time. However, the exceptional staff here turned things around.

Their approach is both professional and welcoming, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere that has truly engaged my child. This supportive environment has been pivotal in achieving excellent results, allowing my child to focus on and benefit from the outcomes.

Moreover, they have been invaluable in providing recipes for meals that ensure the correct nutritional balance, addressing dietary deficiencies effectively. We are grateful for their dedication and expertise.

I highly recommend this dietitian business to anyone seeking top-notch support and results.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Kylie Starr  
 June 30, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This company will work day and night to ensure that all clients like my daughter can and will have a chance to live their best lives. They are refreshing and bring hope when all may have been previously felt lost. Thank You 💖
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Lyn Watson  
 April 25, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I found dietitian Rachel friendly and helpful. She didn't say what I must do. She advised me on research and diet to help my medical problems. I am more aware what food choices help.  I have more energy now too
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Shane whelan  
 March 23, 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent team!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Louise Gallant  
 May 9, 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a fantastic experience here, gave me great advice,helped me make realistic changes to my eating habits, lost weight & lowered my HBA1C.

World Breastfeeding Week: Supporting Infant and Maternal Health

Nutritional Benefits of Breastfeeding

Common Nutrition Considerations During Lactation

Supporting All Infant Feeding Choices

How Dietitians Support Infant Feeding and Maternal Nutrition

Get Support with Holistic Me

Client Testimonials

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