For most women, breastfeeding is a wonderful experience for both mother and child. Breast milk provides all of the nutrition your baby needs as well as antibodies and enzymes that will protect your baby from some infections and diseases. Breast milk is always handy, always the right temperature and changes as your baby grows. However, just like everything else in parenting, that doesn't mean it's always easy.
If you have difficulties with breastfeeding, there are many people who can help. You can contact the Breastfeeding Hotline in Manitoba at 204-788-8667 or call toll-free 1-888-315-9257. You can also contact your health care provider or public health nurse to find out more about the resources in your community.
For a few women and babies, breastfeeding is not an option due to mom's health or the medications she must take. If you are not able to breastfeed your infant, don't feel badly. There are many good formulas and feeding systems available which will provide your baby with the nutrients she needs. And although bottle feeding is generally more work and less convenient then breastfeeding, you can still enjoy and bond with your baby during feeding time.
If you have any questions or concerns about your baby's growth, weight gain or loss, or intake of milk please contact your health care provider or public health nurse.
During your baby's first year she will also start to eat solid food. Good nutrition fuels your baby's growth and development.
Breastfeeding Resources
Formula Feeding Resources
Resources on Solid Food
General Nutrition Information
- Canada's Food Guide
Follow this link to information about eating well with Canada's Food Guide.
- Children and Food
- Dial-a-Dietitian
Dial-a-Dietitian connects callers to a Registered Dietitian, a licensed health professional who has studied the science of nutrition. Service is free of charge.
- Dietitians of Canada: Nutrition A to Z
Healthy eating is a key factor in promoting good health. These nutrition resources covering topics from Active Living to Zinc will help you make the right choices for your individual health needs.
- Eat, Drink and Be Healthy: 8 ways to enjoy the holidays with food, friends and family
- Feeding Your Baby in the First Year
Help your baby develop a lifetime of healthy eating habits with the right start.
- Eating Behaviours: A recipe for healthy eating habits
- Favourite Family Foods Online Cookbook
In this cookbook from the Manitoba Healthy Baby Program, you will find delicious, nutritious, easy to prepare, family friendly recipes and cooking tips.
- Food Safety
Learn about Health Canada's four easy steps to help keep food safe and more.
- Food Safety Information
- Healthy Eating for You & Your Family
Health Canada tips on healthy eating, meal ideas and planning, shopping and more.
- Healthy Eating Information
Find out how to promote healthy eating in your family and at your child's school.
- Healthy Eating Tips
- Infant Nutrition
Information from Health Canada about feeding your baby in the first year, from breastfeeding to starting solids.
- Kids, Teens & Diabetes
- Nutrition Resources & Menus
The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority offers a number of nutrition resources to groups and organizations.
- Nutritionist Contacts for Winnipeg
Community nutritionists are available to provide information about proper nutrition. Find one near you.
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