Life Cycle Nutrition: Lactation
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Questions and Answers

What is recognized as the primary method of feeding infants?

  • Breastfeeding (correct)
  • Formula feeding
  • Cow's milk feeding
  • Mixed feeding
  • Which organization emphasizes that infant nutrition should be viewed as a public health issue?

  • Canadian Nutrition Society
  • American Academy of Pediatrics (correct)
  • Canadian Pediatric Society
  • World Health Organization
  • What is one of the key recommendations for infant feeding in the first year of life?

  • Add fruit juice from 3 months
  • Start complementary foods before 4 months
  • Introduce cow's milk after 6 months
  • Exclusively breastfeed for the first 6 months (correct)
  • What should not be introduced to infants before their first birthday?

    <p>Unmodified cow’s milk (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factors are essential for successful breastfeeding?

    <p>Education and family support (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What long-term advantages does breastfeeding provide according to the American Academy of Pediatrics?

    <p>Short- and long-term medical benefits (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is suggested to be introduced during complementary feeding around 6 months?

    <p>Sources of iron (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What misconception might new mothers have regarding breastfeeding?

    <p>It does not require education or support (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key benefit of breastfeeding for infants?

    <p>Immune-protective proteins (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended dietary supplement for breastfed infants in Canada?

    <p>Vitamin D (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the direct benefits of breastfeeding regarding infant health?

    <p>Lower rates of ear infections (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to an infant's iron needs after approximately six months of breastfeeding?

    <p>Additional dietary sources of iron should be introduced. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately reflects the changes in human milk post-birth?

    <p>Nutritional composition changes within days and weeks following birth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might human milk be considered 'almost' ideal?

    <p>Low vitamin D concentration. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do specialized proteins in breast milk assist with nutrient absorption?

    <p>By facilitating the absorption of low-concentration nutrients. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is likely linked to the decline in SIDS deaths in Canada?

    <p>Placing infants on their backs to sleep (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant role of the non-digestible carbohydrates found in human milk?

    <p>They promote a healthy microbiome. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What long-term cognitive benefit is associated with breastfeeding?

    <p>Higher IQ in childhood (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of milk is initially high in immune factors?

    <p>Colostrum (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of infant feeding does the Canadian health care system prioritize?

    <p>Education of physicians and training of lactation consultants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered a downside of infant formulas compared to human milk?

    <p>Absence of bioactive peptides. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition is NOT reduced by breastfeeding according to the provided information?

    <p>Colicky behavior in infants (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of foremilk during a feeding event?

    <p>It quenches thirst and is high in lactose. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does breastfeeding impact the risk of obesity in infancy?

    <p>Breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of obesity in infancy. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an appropriate feeding strategy as an infant develops beyond pureed foods?

    <p>Gradually increase texture from pureed to soft lumps (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which practice is discouraged when feeding infants?

    <p>Using honey in infant foods (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common myth regarding infant feeding?

    <p>Stuffing the baby will help them sleep through the night (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What practice should be encouraged during the weaning process to whole cow's milk?

    <p>Respect the infant's appetite cues (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should parents avoid feeding infants to help prevent milk anemia?

    <p>Exclusively cow's milk (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main factor contributing to the rise in food allergies according to the hygiene theory?

    <p>Overuse of antibiotics and increased cleanliness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the process of inducing oral tolerance involve?

    <p>Gradual exposure to small amounts of allergens (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly distinguishes food allergies from food intolerance?

    <p>Food intolerance does not involve the immune system. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How might food dyes relate to ADHD according to the content?

    <p>They may lead to intolerance linked to ADHD. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential benefit of gaining oral tolerance to food allergens?

    <p>Reduced risk of anaphylaxis from accidental exposure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary source of hydration for infants from birth to 6 months?

    <p>Breast milk or iron fortified formula (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are infants not developmentally ready for solid foods before approximately 6 months?

    <p>They have a strong extrusion reflex and inadequate head control. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what point should iron-containing foods be introduced into an infant's diet?

    <p>At 6 months (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What nutrient is given as an injection to infants at birth to support blood clotting?

    <p>Vitamin K (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided when introducing foods to infants to minimize the risk of allergies?

    <p>Introducing solid foods before 6 months (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the energy requirement for infants in their first year compared to a 20-year-old?

    <p>100 kcal/kg for infants vs. 40 kcal/kg for 20-year-olds (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential during the first year of an infant's life due to their high water content and surface area?

    <p>Strict monitoring of hydration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which food should never be given to infants during their first year?

    <p>Honey (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can prolonged sucking on a bottle of milk or juice cause in infants?

    <p>Erosion of tooth material (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common reaction symptoms should parents look for when introducing new foods to infants?

    <p>Skin rash or respiratory symptoms (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the most common allergens for infants?

    <p>Citrus fruit (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of children reportedly have food allergies?

    <p>3% to 5% (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following allergens is most likely to cause severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis?

    <p>Peanut (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After introducing a food that resulted in an allergic reaction, how long should parents wait before retesting?

    <p>1-2 months (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary factor in the development of food allergies in children?

    <p>Genetic predisposition (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of putting an infant to sleep with a bottle?

    <p>Extended oral bacterial exposure (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which food is least likely to cause an allergic reaction in children compared to the others listed?

    <p>Pasta (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is anaphylaxis?

    <p>An immediate and severe allergic response (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended practice when introducing food textures as an infant develops?

    <p>Gradually increase texture from pureed to soft lumps (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a common myth about infant feeding?

    <p>Honey is safe to introduce within the first year (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should parents be cautious of when introducing whole cow's milk to infants?

    <p>It can lead to 'milk anemia' if not balanced with other foods (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What feeding habit should be encouraged during the early years to help establish good eating habits?

    <p>Allowing infants to select foods from a wide variety (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one reason why added sugars and salt should be avoided in infant foods?

    <p>They may impact the development of taste preferences negatively (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary characteristic that differentiates food allergies from food intolerances?

    <p>Food allergies involve the immune system. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'oral tolerance' refer to in the context of food allergies?

    <p>The immune system's acceptance of specific food proteins. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hypothesis suggests that increased cleanliness and antibiotic use contribute to food allergies?

    <p>Hygiene theory (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is correct regarding the management of severe food allergies in children?

    <p>Gradually increasing exposure can help develop oral tolerance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended source of hydration for infants from birth to 6 months?

    <p>Breast milk or formula (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately reflects the relationship between ADHD and food allergies?

    <p>Food dyes may be related to ADHD but not food allergies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what age should iron-containing foods be introduced to an infant's diet?

    <p>6 months (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which vitamin is given as an injection to infants at birth to aid in blood clotting?

    <p>Vitamin K (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to avoid introducing solids before 6 months of age?

    <p>Infants lack an adequate head control (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the energy requirement for an infant in their first year of life compared to a 20-year-old?

    <p>100 kcal/kg vs. 40 kcal/kg (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might be a risk of introducing solids too early to infants?

    <p>Increased risk for allergies, especially gluten (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be provided after introducing iron-containing foods to ensure adequate nutrition?

    <p>Fruits and vegetables for vitamin C (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of an infant's body makes them more susceptible to dehydration?

    <p>Infants are composed of more water than adults (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What consequence can result from prolonged sucking on a bottle of milk or juice?

    <p>Erosion of tooth material (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When introducing new foods to infants, how long should parents wait to monitor for allergic reactions?

    <p>Every few days (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which food is NOT commonly associated with causing allergies in infants?

    <p>Potatoes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential long-term consequence of putting an infant to sleep with a bottle?

    <p>Altered jaw line shape (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What severe allergic reaction can occur upon exposure to certain food proteins?

    <p>Anaphylaxis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should parents do if an allergic reaction occurs after introducing a new food to their infant?

    <p>Retest the food after a wash-out period of 1-2 months (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following allergens reports the highest incidence in children according to prevalence data?

    <p>Peanuts (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What reaction symptoms should parents look for when introducing new foods to infants?

    <p>Skin rash and respiratory symptoms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for the immune response triggered by food proteins in children?

    <p>Adaptive immune system recognition (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Exclusive breastfeeding

    Feeding a baby only breast milk for the first 6 months of life

    Complementary foods

    Foods introduced alongside breast milk, usually starting around 6 months of age.

    Iron-rich foods introduction

    Introduction of foods with iron, which begins when babies are around 6 months old.

    Cow's milk introduction

    Cow's milk should not be given until after 1 year of age.

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    First 6 months

    Exclusive breastfeeding duration (only breast milk).

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    Breastfeeding's importance

    Breastfeeding is the best way to feed infants; it is not just a lifestyle choice but a vital public health issue.

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    Breastfeeding learning

    Breastfeeding ability is a learned skill, requiring education and support.

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    Public Health Concern

    Infant nutrition is considered a public health concern, emphasizing its importance.

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    Low Concentration Nutrients

    Nutrients present in small amounts in breast milk are absorbed very efficiently by the infant's body. This is because the milk contains special proteins that enhance absorption. For example, iron is present at low concentrations, but specialized proteins in milk facilitate its uptake.

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    Immune Proteins in Breast Milk

    Breast milk contains immune-protective proteins, such as antibacterial and antiviral proteins, which protect the infant from infections.

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    Antibodies in Breast Milk

    Breast milk contains antibodies specifically designed by the mother's immune system to target pathogens prevalent in the baby's environment. These antibodies offer targeted protection.

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    Gut Microbiome and Breast Milk

    Breast milk contains significant amounts of non-digestible carbohydrates that act as food for beneficial bacteria in the infant's gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

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    Bioactive Peptides in Breast Milk

    Breast milk contains hundreds, perhaps thousands, of bioactive peptides and molecules with currently unknown functions. These substances contribute to the complexity and benefits of breast milk.

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    Vitamin D in Breast Milk

    Although breast milk is generally ideal, it contains relatively low levels of vitamin D compared to current recommendations. Supplementation is often needed.

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    Iron in Breast Milk

    Breast milk contains sufficient iron to meet the infant's needs for the first approximately six months, but additional sources of iron should be introduced after that.

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    Breastfeeding Success: A Health Care Priority

    Ensuring successful breastfeeding requires a coordinated effort among health care providers, including education and training for doctors, nurses, and lactation consultants.

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    Breastfeeding benefits

    Breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits for infants, including reduced risk of respiratory, gastrointestinal, and ear infections, as well as lower chances of SIDS, obesity, food allergies, and certain autoimmune diseases.

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    Breast milk composition

    Human breast milk adapts to the infant's needs, changing composition and volume throughout the day, within a feeding, and over time. It provides a unique mix of nutrients and immune factors tailored for infant growth and development.

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    Colostrum

    The first milk produced after birth, rich in immune factors, providing essential protection for the newborn's developing immune system.

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    Foremilk vs. Hindmilk

    Within a feeding, breast milk changes from watery 'foremilk' (high volume/lactose) to fatty 'hindmilk' (high fat). Foremilk quenches thirst, while hindmilk signals satiety and provides concentrated nutrients.

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    Back to Sleep

    Encouraging infants to sleep on their backs has significantly reduced SIDS rates, contributing to safer sleep environments for babies.

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    SIDS decline factors

    The decline in SIDS rates over the past decades is attributed to several factors, including the Back to Sleep campaign, increased breastfeeding rates, and a decrease in smoking during pregnancy and in the home.

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    Breastfeeding's role in SIDS

    Increased breastfeeding rates are linked to a reduced risk of SIDS, contributing to improved infant health and safety.

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    Smoking and SIDS

    Secondhand smoke exposure is a significant risk factor for SIDS, highlighting the importance of smoke-free environments for babies.

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    Introducing Solids

    Starting with pureed foods and gradually increasing texture as the infant develops head control and hand-eye coordination for grabbing.

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    Self-Feeding Encouragement

    Promote the use of open cups and self-feeding, allowing infants to explore and learn with their hands.

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    Whole Cow's Milk

    Introduce whole cow's milk after one year of age, weaning from breast milk or formula.

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    Honey and Infant Foods

    Never feed honey to infants due to the risk of botulism, a serious illness.

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    Avoiding Sweets for Infants

    Refrain from feeding infants sweets, including desserts and sugary drinks, as this can lead to dental problems and unhealthy eating habits.

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    Hygiene theory

    The overuse of antibiotics and increasing cleanliness can cause the immune system to overreact to harmless substances like food proteins, leading to allergies.

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    Oral tolerance

    The ability of the immune system to recognize and tolerate harmless food proteins, preventing allergic reactions.

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    Inducing oral tolerance

    A treatment method where small, gradually increasing amounts of an allergen are given to build tolerance and prevent allergic reactions.

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    Food allergy vs. intolerance

    Allergies involve the immune system, leading to reactions like hives or anaphylaxis. Intolerances are reactions without immune involvement, like digestive discomfort.

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    Food dyes and ADHD

    Food dyes may be linked to ADHD symptoms, but not food allergies. This is an example of food intolerance.

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    Nursing Bottle Syndrome

    Tooth decay caused by prolonged exposure to sugary liquids in a bottle, especially at night, leading to erosion of enamel and potentially impacting jaw development and teeth alignment.

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    Food Allergy Introduction

    Introducing new foods to infants one at a time, every few days to observe for allergic reactions.

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    Common Food Allergies in Infants

    Allergic reactions in infants are common with foods such as egg white, soy, milk, and citrus fruit.

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    Food Allergy Triggers

    Food allergies are triggered by proteins or protein fragments that pass through the intestinal lining, initiating an immune response.

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    Anaphylaxis

    A severe allergic reaction characterized by airway constriction and a sudden drop in blood pressure (anaphylactic shock), requiring immediate epinephrine treatment.

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    Food Allergy Prevalence

    Food allergies affect 3-5% of children and 1% of adults, with peanut, tree nuts, fish/shellfish, egg, milk, soy, and wheat being the most common culprits for anaphylaxis.

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    Avoiding Sugar, Fat, and Salt

    These ingredients can disrupt cues regarding food, leading to potential overconsumption and unhealthy eating habits.

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    Food Allergies in Adults

    While food allergies are more common in children, they still affect 7.7% of adults, mainly due to a persistent reaction to previously identified allergens.

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    Food Allergy Retesting

    After a 'wash-out' period of 1-2 months, a food suspected of causing an allergic reaction can be reintroduced cautiously, especially if there is a family history.

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    Outgrowing Food Allergies

    Many infants outgrow food allergies in early childhood, but ongoing allergies require strict avoidance of the triggering food.

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    Growth rate in first year

    The first year of life is when a baby grows at the fastest rate compared to any other stage of life.

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    Nutrient needs: Infant vs. Adult

    Infants require significantly higher energy and certain nutrients per kilogram of body weight compared to adults.

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    Infant Diet: 0-12 Months

    Breast milk or iron-fortified formula is the primary food source for the first year of life.

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    Vitamin K for Infants

    Newborns receive a vitamin K injection at birth to help with blood clotting, as their gut bacteria haven't fully developed.

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    Dehydration Risk in Infants

    Infants are more prone to dehydration due to their higher water content and immature kidneys.

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    Solid Food Introduction: 0-6 Months

    No solid foods should be given to infants before 6 months of age, as they are not developmentally ready and it can increase allergy risk.

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    Solid Food Introduction: 6+ Months

    Iron-rich foods like cereals, meats, and fruits should be gradually introduced after 6 months, as the infant's iron stores deplete.

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    Juice for Infants: Never!

    Juice should never be given from a bottle, as it can cause dental problems and doesn't provide the necessary nutrients.

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    Fastest Growth Rate

    The first year of life is when a baby experiences the most rapid growth compared to any other stage of life.

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    Vitamin K Injection

    Newborns receive a vitamin K injection at birth to help with blood clotting as their gut bacteria haven't fully developed.

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    Never Juice From a Bottle

    Juice, especially from a bottle, is not recommended for infants as it can lead to dental problems and doesn't offer the necessary nutrients.

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    Whole Cow's Milk Timing

    Introduce whole cow's milk after one year of age, weaning from breast milk or formula.

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    Honey and Infants

    Never feed honey to infants due to the risk of botulism, a serious illness.

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    No Sweets for Infants

    Refrain from feeding infants sweets, including desserts and sugary drinks, as this can lead to dental problems and unhealthy eating habits.

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    Food Allergies in Infants

    Introducing new foods one at a time, every few days, helps identify potential allergic reactions in infants.

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    Common Infant Allergens

    Egg white, soy, milk, and citrus fruit are common allergens for infants.

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    Study Notes

    Life Cycle Nutrition: Lactation

    • Lactation is the feeding of infants in the first 6 months of life.
    • The ability to breastfeed is learned, not instinctive.
    • Successful breastfeeding requires education for the mother, support from the family and partner, and access to community healthcare systems.

    Infant Feeding Recommendations

    • Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life.
    • Continue breastfeeding while introducing complementary foods, starting with iron-rich sources (~6 months).
    • Unmodified cow's milk should not be introduced until after 1 year of age.

    Breastfeeding Rates in Canada

    • Breastfeeding initiation rates vary across provinces and territories (from 57% to 96% in 2011–2012).
    • Breastfeeding initiation rates are 76% in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2016 (compared to 30% in the 1970s)

    Maternal Diet Quality and Lactation

    • Maternal diet has a minimal effect on the absolute macronutrient content (energy and protein) of breast milk.
    • However, the quality of fat in the diet does impact the composition of fatty acids in breast milk (high n-3 intake leads to higher n-3 FA in milk).
    • Also, water soluble vitamins in maternal diet may vary in breastmilk, but deficiencies are rare. Excess intake doesn't typically cross into milk.
    • Fat-soluble vitamins can reach very high concentrations in breastmilk.
    • The minerals in milk aren't related to the quality of the maternal diet. Calcium is drawn from the maternal skeleton, although it is replenished after breastfeeding. Similarly, maternal iron stores are used, but replenished.

    Nutrient Recommendations for Lactation

    • Approximately 650 ml of milk is produced per day during established lactation.
    • The metabolic cost of milk production is about 500-kcal per day for 0-6 months, and 400 kcal/d for >6 months.
    • Additional energy requirements can be met by stored maternal fat gained during pregnancy.
    • Dieting while breastfeeding should be avoided.
    • Maternal supplements should be used with caution and include high quality products (tested for contaminants) such as n-3 fatty acids from fish oil. Avoid cod liver oil, as its vitamin A content is often too high.

    Nutrient Recommendations for Lactation cont'd

    • A high fluid intake (3.8 L/day, including water) is needed for adequate milk production.
    • Limit caffeine intake to less than 300mg/day (approximately 500ml coffee).
    • Alcohol passes into breast milk and can affect milk production.
    • Certain food components (cow's milk, peanuts etc) can be transferred into breast milk, but in the vast majority of cases, there are no restrictions when it comes to diet.

    Importance of Human Milk for Human Health

    • Infants who are breastfed have a lower risk of respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, and ear infections; sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS); and are less likely to be obese as infants and as children. Better cognitive development, better school performance scores, and higher IQ is also more likely with breast feeding.
    • Breastfeeding also provides a lower risk of developing food allergies and autoimmune diseases (type 1 diabetes and celiac disease).
    • SIDS deaths have declined in Canada over the past 30 years, likely due to campaigns promoting infant placement on their backs and increased breastfeeding rates.

    Nutritional Composition of Human Milk

    • Composition, volume, and content change within a day.
    • The first few days' milk (colostrum) is rich in immune factors to protect the infant, and subsequent (foremilk) has a high water and lactose content.
    • The latter portion of milk production in each feeding (hindmilk) is high in fat, which may signal satiety.
    • Nutrients with low concentrations in the milk are absorbed very efficiently. Iron absorption is facilitated by specialized proteins in the milk.

    Composition cont'd

    • Human milk contains proteins with immune-protective properties (antibacterial & antiviral) also designed to target pathogens in their environment, and includes hormones that influence gut function and growth.
    • The milk also contains non-digestible carbohydrates that benefit the gut microbiome.
    • Many bioactive peptides and molecules with currently unknown functions are found in human milk.

    Nutritional Composition cont'd

    • Vitamin D levels in breast milk are low compared to current estimates of requirements.
    • Some toddlers who were breastfed experienced D-deficiency rickets and have been identified.
    • It is recommended to supplement with 10 µg/d (400 IU) of vitamin D3 for breastfed infants.
    • Iron concentrations and stores in breastfed infants are sufficient for the first ~6 months, but another dietary source of iron is needed thereafter.

    Benefits of Breastfeeding (for Infants & Mothers)

    • Infants benefit from appropriate nutrient composition and physiological development, including cognitive development and protection against infections and chronic diseases (e.g., type 1 diabetes and hypertension). Breastfeeding for Infants also protects them from food allergies.
    • Mothers also see benefits, such as contractions of the uterus (this delays ovulation, helps breastfeed for longer, and is not a reliable method of birth control); conservation of iron stores; and reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
    • Breastfeeding provides both financial and environmental savings to mothers and to society (there's no need to buy formula, to manufacture the formula, or to dispose of the packaging). On an individual level, a nursing mother saves approximately $450 in formula costs in the first six months alone.

    10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding

    • Maternity facilities should develop written breastfeeding policies and train their staff in implementing these policies.
    • Staff should educate pregnant women on breastfeeding benefits, initiate breastfeeding within 12 hours of birth, and help mothers maintain lactation if necessary.
    • Breastfeeding practices should include newborn infants being fed exclusively with breast milk (unless otherwise medically required) with rooming-in, breastfeeding on demand.
    • Artificial nipples and pacifiers should not be used. Support groups should be encouraged and referrals for ongoing support.

    Breast Milk vs. Infant Formula

    • Cow's milk-based formulas are modified to mimic human milk ("humanized") but are vastly different, and higher in nutritional protein compared to human milk (potentially contributing to early obesity).
    • Formulas are homogeneous in composition, and recent advances have brought the addition of n-3 fatty acids and non-digestible carbs (such as soluble fiber).
    • Infant formula feeding is more costly than breastfeeding.

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