Breastfeeding and Adequate Substitutes

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/breastfeeding-adequate-substitutes

Introduction

### Course Review: Breastfeeding and Adequate Substitutes **Overview:** In recent years, there has been an increasing recognition of the critical importance of adequate nutrition during infancy. The course "Breastfeeding and Adequate Substitutes" on Coursera delves deep into this essential subject, offering a well-rounded exploration of human milk composition, lactation, and the role of breastmilk substitutes. This is not just a course for healthcare professionals but is also a vital resource for new parents and caregivers looking to understand the best nutritional practices for infants. **Course Structure:** The course is thoughtfully divided into three main units, each tackling crucial aspects of infant nutrition: 1. **Unit 1: Breastmilk Composition and Health Benefits** - This foundational unit introduces learners to the anatomical and physiological aspects of lactation. It effectively explains the myriad benefits of breastfeeding, such as enhanced immunity and bonding between mother and child. The unit highlights the unique nutritional composition of human milk, portraying it as a masterpiece of nature that adjusts to meet the infant’s needs. 2. **Unit 2: The Practice of Breastfeeding** - Here, practical skills take center stage. The unit covers crucial techniques for proper latching and positioning, which are vital for successful breastfeeding. Moreover, it provides insight into common challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers and emphasizes the support roles of healthcare professionals. A significant takeaway from this section is the understanding that breastfeeding is a societal endeavor, urging the community to come together to facilitate and encourage breastfeeding practices. 3. **Unit 3: Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS)** - In situations where breastfeeding may not be possible or is supplemented, this unit serves as an essential guide to selecting the right breastmilk substitutes. It addresses the critical attributes of various formula options, preparation techniques, and ensures learners understand the importance of safe bottle-feeding practices. Additionally, the unit tackles the ethical considerations surrounding the marketing of BMS and the need for regulations to protect breastfeeding. **Key Messages & Final Words** Throughout the course, you'll encounter crucial messages surrounding the importance of breastfeeding, the need for community support, and careful selection and use of substitutes when required. The course concludes with a strong emphasis on the lifelong benefits of proper nutrition in infancy, encouraging all stakeholders to foster healthy environments for the next generation. **Recommendation:** I highly recommend "Breastfeeding and Adequate Substitutes" to anyone who wishes to deepen their understanding of infant nutrition, whether they are healthcare professionals, expectant or new parents, or even family members looking to support new mothers. The combination of thorough theoretical knowledge and practical guidance ensures that learners leave the course feeling equipped to handle the challenges and joys of infant feeding. Moreover, the course structure allows for flexible learning at your own pace, making it a convenient option for busy individuals. Taking this course will not only enhance your knowledge but will also enable you to better advocate for and support breastfeeding practices in your community. Understanding these fundamentals can make a significant difference in ensuring that infants receive the best possible start in life.

Syllabus

Welcome to Breastfeeding and Adequate Substitutes

Unit 1: Breastmilk Composition and Health Benefits

In this unit, we will focus on the anatomy and physiology of human lactation along with various health benefits that breastfeeding provides to both mothers and infants, and the myriad of components that make human milk such a unique nature masterpiece.

Unit 2: The Practice of Breastfeeding

In this unit, we will explore the practical aspects of breastfeeding. For example, how to achieve a proper position and latch, the various challenges that may arise, and the role of healthcare professionals in supporting a successful and comfortable breastfeeding journey for the family. Additionally, we will look at breastfeeding statistics worldwide, concluding that breastfeeding is not a one-woman job, but a collective effort that requires participation and support of the whole society.

Unit 3: Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS)

In this unit, we will discuss the criteria for choosing the right breastmilk substitute (BMS) required for the proper growth and development of infants who are fully or partially formula-fed. In addition, we will demonstrate the adequate procedure for the preparation of bottles and a correct bottle-feeding technique, which are also applicable for feeding breastmilk to an infant through a bottle. Towards the end, we will provide an overview of the regulations in place to prevent the inappropriate promotion of BMS, which may undermine breastfeeding.

Key Messages & Final Words