Why WIC Promotes Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding promotion and support are critical components of public health and WIC Clinical Nutritionists’ work. Though formula feeding is acceptable, WIC Nutritionists take the time to educate WIC participants on the benefits of breastmilk as the optimal nutrition source for infants so that mothers can make an informed infant feeding decision.

Breastmilk is species-specific nutrition support. This means that the nutrients in breast milk are biologically designed for the growth and development of human infants. For example, the proteins and fats in cow’s milk are designed to promote muscle growth and weight gain in a calf.  In contrast, human milk has a higher fat content, which promotes brain growth in infants and contains a variety of immunities that are passed to babies from their mother during the entire time the infant is breastfed to support a healthy immune system. Packed with vitamins and minerals, special proteins, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, anti-bodies, and pre-biotics, the nutrient content in breast milk is complex, perfectly formulated, easy to digest, and uniquely adapts to meet the optimal growth and development needs of an infant.

Breastfeeding also has other public health and social benefits. For breastfeeding mothers, it can reduce post-partum recovery time; reduce risks for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, certain breast and ovarian cancers, and osteoporosis; facilitate healthy weight loss; and support well-being and decrease risks for postpartum depression. Breastfeeding saves money, is convenient, and promotes bonding with the baby.  The benefits for infants include protection against illness/infections and allergies; it is easier to digest, preventing GI discomfort; and improves brain development and IQ. Breast milk may also reduce an infant’s risks for type 1 diabetes, childhood obesity, asthma, ear infections, eczema, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).