. Nutrition | Health and Well-being | Newborns | Manitoba Parent Zone

Newborns - Health and Well-being

Nutrition

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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