In recent years, infant formulas have received a lot of media exposure. Marketing strategies that promote infant formulas may influence how consumers choose to nourish their newborn babies.

There is one type of “formula” that is deserving of more recognition and promotion. This “formula” is, in itself, non-allergenic. In fact, it can actually prevent allergies. It boosts a baby’s own immune system, helping prevent a variety of childhood diseases, even some childhood cancers (66 per cent fewer ear infections, 80% fewer urinary tract infections, 50% lower incidence of diarrhea - claims other formulas cannot duplicate). Studies show this “formula” may also help prevent the onset of juvenile diabetes and provide protection Against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Babies fed this “formula” have a much lower incidence of doctor’s visits and hospitalizations, benefiting our health care system to the sum of millions of dollars annually. This “formula” perfectly meets a growing baby’s changing dietary needs. It is conveniently packaged, requires no sterilization, mixing or clean-up. It doesn’t contribute any waste to our over-burdened landfills.

What is this wonderful stuff? It’s a mother’s own breast milk and it’s free.

Its benefits extend past the infant to the mother as well, not only in convenience, but providing protection against osteoporosis and hip fracture later in life, delaying the return of fertility and increasing the rate of post-natal weight loss.

With proper support (especially from family and friends), accurate information and a little commitment, the vast majority of mother’s can successfully breastfeed their babies. As the Saint John Breastfeeding Alliance, we want to help our community overcome the misconceptions about breastfeeding, and support the idea that it is natural and healthy - best for baby.

At times, I question who does more before 9:00 am than most people do all day? The Army, you guess? Well, yes, but I was thinking more of a mother breastfeeding twins! In New Brunswick many women, myself included, are committed to breastfeeding their babies and appreciate the support received from family, friends, and community.

You may ask why more mothers (and fathers) choose breastfeeding. Perhaps they know that breastfeeding benefits both mother (less chance of osteoporosis, breast and ovarian cancer, faster post partum healing...) and baby (decreased risk of disease and infections, juvenile diabetes and some childhood cancers, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, less allergies, to name a few); maybe their reasons are ecological (breastfeeding produces no waste), or economical (breastfeeding is free); it may be that the mother wishes to experience the powerful bond with her baby that breastfeeding helps facilitate (increased levels of the hormone oxytocin, which triggers nurturing behaviour, is released in breastfeeding mothers); or it could be all of these reasons.

Since World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated yearly in Canada from October 1-7, I wanted to share my experience of breastfeeding twin boys and to show that it is possible even with a busy lifestyle. Being a mother of twins and a three year old daughter, money and time is crucial. Breastfeeding does require that I sit and nurse frequently but there is zero dollars spent on expensive formulas, bottles and artificial nipples; zero waste created; zero time spent preparing formula and sterilizing bottles; and in this case, zero visits to the doctor for illness. I breastfed my daughter for 26 months. Of course, breastfeeding twins is a greater challenge, but any goal worth achieving is a lot of work. I consider it an investment in my children's health now, and in the future. Most days are hectic at best, but when I look at my daughter and my happy, healthy, robust babies, I feel so good about what I have accomplished that I forget about the trying moments, and feel justified in my decision to exclusively breastfeed these babies.

Here is a brief sketch of a day in my life, I would like to introduce my family: Gordon, Matthew, Robyn, Dad and Mom (Cheryl). Oh yes! After every three lines insert the phrase "change diapers!!".

• Company is always welcome so please call first as sometimes mom and baby can be busy or resting.
• Offer to prepare a meal or snacks such as casseroles, salads or muffins.
• Offer assistance with the housecleaning, grocery shopping or babysit the other child or children as mom needs a little help now and then.
• Most of all, respect mom's decision to breastfeed her baby(ies).