This week, the authorities from the Ministry of Health and the National Children’s Trust (PANI) will promote breastfeeding, since World Breastfeeding Week is being celebrated worldwide.
In Costa Rica’s case, this year the motto is
Breastfeeding: Key to sustainable development!”
According to information from the World Health Organization (WHO), breast milk is the ideal food for young children as it has no substitute because it provides specific nutrients required for healthy growth and development. This is why exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during the first six months of life of the child.
Elizabeth Ballestero, PANI’s clinic manager said that breast milk not only provides the nutrients needed to ensure development, but it also strengthens the bond created between the mother and baby during the first months of life.
Ballestereo further stressed the importance for both the public and private sectors to suppress any kind of discrimination against mothers when breastfeeding their children in public places.
Recently, the Lancet medical journal said that optimal breastfeeding could save 823,000 children and add $ 302 billion to the global economy each year.