National Breastfeeding Month is a time to recognize and promote the critical role that breastfeeding plays in nutrition security and supporting the lifelong health of mothers and infants. In alignment with our ongoing commitment to nutrition and food security, the Academy is spotlighting the importance of breastfeeding and highlighting the work of RDNs and NDTRs in this area of practice and available resources.
Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to provide optimal nutrition for healthy growth and development in children. Yet, breastfeeding families often need support either from evidence-based clinical guidance to culturally competent education and access to essential services.
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) plays a central role in advancing breastfeeding support and nutrition security. RDNs and NDTRs working with WIC provide counseling and education to help mothers initiate and sustain breastfeeding, especially in communities facing disparities in health and access.
RDNs and NDTRs are uniquely positioned to support breastfeeding families through patient care, public health programming, research and policy advocacy. As part of National Breastfeeding Month, the Academy encourages members to deepen their knowledge and explore continuing education opportunities.
Featured Academy Resources
- Human Milk Nutrient Composition Data Scoping Review
- Breastmilk Ecology: Genesis of Infant Nutrition (BEGIN)
- Breastfeeding Registry Study
- Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Open Access Breastfeeding Topic Collection
- eatrightSTORE Breastfeeding Resources
- Resources for Consumers
Additional Organizations and Tools
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