Gerber Products Company is an American purveyor of baby food and baby products headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey , with plans to relocate to Arlington, Virginia . Gerber is a subsidiary of Nestlé .
92-615: Other Gerber products include breastfeeding pumps and other supplies, baby bottles and nipples, and health care products including tooth and gum cleanser and vitamin drops. Gerber was founded in 1927 in Fremont, Michigan, by Daniel Frank Gerber, owner of the Fremont Canning Company , which produced canned fruit and vegetables. At the suggestion of a pediatrician, Gerber's wife, Dorothy, began making hand-strained food for their seven-month-old daughter, Sally . Recognising
184-426: A Sugar Free Vanilla Custard flavor, favorable to diabetic babies. The product did not see as much demand as expected, so it was dropped after a few years. Gerber also began to produce juices, which were still being sold as of March 2009. In 1999 Gerber established skincare products for babies. In 1994, Gerber merged with Sandoz Laboratories . Two years later, Sandoz merged with CIBA-Geigy to form Novartis , one of
276-463: A baby's birth and continue as the baby wants. Health organizations, including the WHO, recommend breastfeeding exclusively for six months. This means that no other foods or drinks, other than vitamin D , are typically given. The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary foods for up to 2 years and beyond. Of
368-401: A band of tissue, known as the frenulum , attaches the tongue to the base of the mouth, restricting the tongue's vertical movement and preventing the infant from pressing the breast and nipple into the soft palate . A posterior tongue-tie is a band of tissue that can only be felt on exam, and tends to impact breastfeeding less severely than its anterior counterpart. If it is determined that
460-415: A business opportunity, Gerber began making baby food. By 1928 he had developed five products for the market: beef vegetable soup and strained peas, prunes, carrots, and spinach. Six months later, Gerber's baby foods were distributed nationwide. Some believe that Dorothy Gerber was the initial inspiration behind their baby food products. One day after a visit to her infant daughter's pediatrician she toiled in
552-401: A contest. Dorothy submitted a preliminary charcoal sketch. The sketch was created from a snapshot of Ann Turner , the child of a family friend. Dorothy's unfinished submission was intended more as an inquiry as to what the age of the baby should be and what the ad size would be. Dorothy intended to finish the sketch if accepted. The Gerber Company judges, however, preferred the simplicity of
644-416: A delay in their milk coming in should consult with a lactation specialist and their pediatrician, as they may need to supplement with donor milk or formula to help the infant gain weight and pump to encourage milk to come in sooner and in greater volume. Breast milk supply augments in response to the baby's demand for milk, and decreases when milk is allowed to remain in the breasts. When considering
736-552: A line of life insurance products aimed at young families. Today, the Gerber Life Insurance Company is one of the largest purveyors of direct-marketed life insurance in the United States. Gerber Life currently has more than two million life insurance policies in force, with more than $ 650 million in assets. The company's term and whole life insurance products for adults and children are available in
828-410: A mother's breastfeeding capability or the volume of milk she will produce. The process of milk production, termed lactogenesis , occurs in 3 stages. The first stage takes place during pregnancy, allowing for the development of the breast and production of colostrum, the thick, early form of milk that is low in volume, but rich in nutrition. The birth of the baby and the placenta triggers the onset of
920-407: A naturally warm environment that helps them regulate their temperature. It is also beneficial to the mother, as it may improve the development of her milk supply and be beneficial for her mental health. Newborn babies usually breastfeed 8 to 12 times every 24 hours, and they typically express hunger cues every one to three hours for the first two to four weeks of their lives. A newborn has
1012-478: A number of factors as described in the Process "Delay in milk 'coming in'" subsection below. Oxytocin , which signals the smooth muscle of the uterus to contract during pregnancy, labor, birth and following delivery, is also involved in the process of breastfeeding. Oxytocin also contracts the smooth muscle layer of band-like cells surrounding the milk ducts and alveoli to s the newly produced milk through
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#17327982990501104-591: A pacifier beginning at birth or after lactation was established did not significantly affect the duration of exclusive and partial breastfeeding up to four months of age. The CDC, however, currently (2022) reports that early use of pacifiers can have a negative outcome on the success of breastfeeding and they suggest that it should be delayed until breastfeeding is firmly established. Ankyloglossia, also called "tongue-tie" may cause shallow latch, poor milk transfer, and other problems with breastfeeding. There are two types of tongue-ties; an anterior tongue-tie occurs when
1196-401: A poor, shallow latch, the infant latches close to or at the nipple, causing the mother intense pain during latching that is relieved with infant release from the breast. While the infant is at the breast, the first indicators of a shallow latch are having the areola be largely visible outside the infant's mouth and a narrow infant mouth angle. Additional signs result from poor positioning when
1288-535: A possibly low milk supply, it is important to consider the difference between "perceived low milk supply" and "true low milk supply". Perceived low milk supply occurs when mothers, for a variety of reasons, believe that they are not making enough milk to feed their infant. These reasons may include fussiness, colic , preference for the bottle as opposed to the breast, long nursing duration, decreased sensation of breast fulness, and even decreased frequency of infant stools. However, in these cases, it important to reassure
1380-493: A process which leads to a first breastfeed. Shortly after birth, the infant relaxes and makes small movements of the arms, shoulders and head. If placed on the mother's abdomen the baby gradually inches towards the breast, called the breast crawl and begins to feed. After feeding, it is normal for a baby to remain latched to the breast while resting. This is sometimes mistaken for lack of appetite. Absent interruptions, all babies follow this process. Rushing, by picking up and moving
1472-468: A senior vice president of the company. In 1986 the company set up the Gerber Parents' Resource Center, a toll-free customer relations hotline, which has been providing information on baby food and parenting issues ever since. According to Gerber, Ann Turner Cook is the famous Gerber Baby whose portrait is featured prominently on all Gerber product packaging. Cook later retired from teaching and
1564-483: A small stomach capacity, approximately 20 ml. The amount of breast milk that is produced is timed to meet the infant's needs in that the first milk, colostrum, is concentrated but produced in only very small amounts, gradually increasing in volume to meet the expanding size of the infant's stomach capacity. Many newborns will typically feed for 10 to 15 minutes on each breast, however feeds may last up to 45 minutes depending on infant wakefulness and efficiency. It
1656-436: Is about 54 Calories/100mL. The second type of milk is transitional milk, which is produced during the transition from colostrum to mature breast milk. As the breast milk matures over the course to several weeks, the protein content of the milk decreases on average. The caloric content of breastmilk is reflective of the caloric requirements of the infant, increasing steadily after 12 months. The caloric content of breastmilk in
1748-509: Is defined as "an infant's consumption of human milk with no supplementation of any type (no water, no juice, no nonhuman milk and no foods) except for vitamins, minerals and medications." Supplementation with human donor breastmilk may be indicated in some specific cases, as discussed below. After solids are introduced at around six months of age, continued breastfeeding is recommended. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed at least until 12 months, or longer if both
1840-657: Is desired. Indications for use of donor breastmilk are very closely outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Due to low availability and high cost of donor breastmilk, the AAP recommends prioritizing the use of the milk for infants born with a weight of less than 1500g (approximately 3lb 5oz), as it is helpful in decreasing rates of the severe intestinal infection, necrotizing enterocolitis , in this population. Effective positioning and technique for latching on are necessary to prevent nipple soreness and allow
1932-407: Is expected that the new investment will help make Newaygo County a "global leader in scientific research". Breastfeeding Breastfeeding , also known as nursing , is the process where breast milk is fed to a child. Breast milk may be from the breast, or may be pumped and fed to the infant. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that breastfeeding begin within the first hour of
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#17327982990502024-413: Is important for parents to recognize the difference between Nutritive and Non-Nutritive Sucking. Nutritive Sucking follows a slow, rhythmic pattern, with 1–2 sucks per swallow. Non-nutritive sucking is a faster-paced sucking pattern with few swallows. This swallow pattern is often observed at the beginning and/or the end of a feed. At the beginning of the feed, this pattern triggers milk letdown, while at
2116-405: Is important to have the mother-infant dyad evaluated by a breastfeeding specialist or pediatrician to determine the true cause of the symptoms and determine the need for supplementation. Often, these symptoms are caused by poor milk transfer at the breast, and can be solved with adjustments to the latch, but occasionally they may be caused by other processes, unrelated to breastfeeding, so evaluation
2208-418: Is less expensive than infant formula, but its impact on mothers' ability to earn an income is not usually factored into calculations comparing the two feeding methods. It is also common for women to experience generally manageable symptoms such as; vaginal dryness, De Quervain syndrome , cramping, mastitis , moderate to severe nipple pain and a general lack of bodily autonomy. These symptoms generally peak at
2300-540: Is necessary. Supplementation with formula is associated with decreased rates of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months, and overall decreased length of breastfeeding. In terms of what to supplement with, the first choice is always the mother's own breastmilk, save any medical contraindications to its use. The second best option for supplementation is pasteurized human donor milk . Finally, specific formulas may be used for supplementation if maternal or donor breastmilk are not options. One situation where this may be
2392-472: Is not possible, expressing or pumping to empty the breasts can help mothers avoid plugged milk ducts and breast infection , maintain their milk supply, resolve engorgement , and provide milk to be fed to their infant at a later time. Medical conditions that do not allow breastfeeding are rare. Mothers who take certain recreational drugs should not breastfeed, however, most medications are compatible with breastfeeding. Current evidence indicates that it
2484-430: Is relatively consistent. Breastmilk is made from nutrients in the mother's bloodstream and bodily stores. It has an optimal balance of fat, sugar, water, and protein that is needed for a baby's age appropriate growth and development. That being said, a variety of factors can influence the nutritional makeup of breastmilk, including gestational age, age of infant, maternal age, maternal smoking, and nutritional needs of
2576-402: Is unlikely that COVID-19 can be transmitted through breast milk. Smoking tobacco and consuming limited amounts of alcohol and/or coffee are not reasons to avoid breastfeeding. Breast development starts in puberty with the growth of ducts, fat cells , and connective tissue. The ultimate size of the breasts is determined by the number of fat cells. The size of the breast is not related to
2668-423: The "golden hour" during the immediate postpartum period, assists in the mother–child bonding for both mother and baby, and is thought to encourage instinctual breastfeeding behavior in the infant. Newborns who are immediately placed on their mother's skin have a natural instinct to latch on to the breast and start nursing, typically within one hour of birth. Success with breastfeeding in this "golden hour" increases
2760-500: The 135 million babies born every year, only 42% are breastfed within the first hour of life, only 38% of mothers practice exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, and 58% of mothers continue breastfeeding up to the age of two years and beyond. Breastfeeding has a number of benefits to both mother and baby that infant formula lacks. Increased breastfeeding to near-universal levels in low and medium income countries could prevent approximately 820,000 deaths of children under
2852-645: The 15 years as part of the tax break. Both the county and the city will be working with the Fremont Area Community Foundation to receive funds in the initial years to help with specific projects and programs. The Fremont Public School District would receive assistance through the state school aid formula. Nestlé Nutrition North America CEO Kurt Schmidt said that the Fremont research and development center will be one of 23 worldwide Nestlé "product technology centers" and also include scientific research for baby and infant nutritional products. It
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2944-698: The United States, 22.4% of babies are breastfed for 12 months, the minimum amount of time advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics . In India , mothers commonly breastfeed for 2 to 3 years. Supplementation is defined as the use of additional milk or fluid products to feed an infant, in addition to breastmilk, during the first 6 months of life. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recommends only supplementing when medically indicated, as opposed to mixing use of formula and breastmilk for reasons that are not necessarily medical indications. Some medical indications for supplementation include low blood sugar, dehydration, excessive weight loss or poor gain, and jaundice in
3036-475: The United States, Puerto Rico, and most of Canada. Gerber Life currently has an "A" ("Excellent") rating with independent rating entity AM Best , the third-highest rating out of thirteen categories. In 2018, Gerber Life Insurance was sold to Western & Southern Financial Group , who continue to use the Gerber trademark under license. Early in the 1990s, Gerber tried to enter into the sugar-free food market with
3128-448: The aforementioned fluid accumulation in the breast tissue, can cause severe pain. If breastfeeding is suddenly stopped a woman's breasts are likely to become engorged. Pumping small amounts to relieve discomfort helps to gradually train the breasts to produce less milk. There is presently no safe medication to prevent engorgement, but cold compresses and ibuprofen may help to relieve pain and swelling. Pain should go away with emptying of
3220-407: The age of five annually. Breastfeeding decreases the risk of respiratory tract infections , ear infections , sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) , and diarrhea for the baby, both in developing and developed countries . Other benefits have been proposed to include lower risks of asthma , food allergies , and diabetes . Breastfeeding may also improve cognitive development and decrease
3312-548: The baby food market in the United States . In 1960, Gerber started selling its baby food in glass jars, which often found new life as household storage, especially in home workshops. Soon after, other items such as pacifiers , baby bottles, and small baby toys were introduced. In 2003 Gerber partially replaced the glass jars with plastic tubs for vegetables and some fruits. Other fruits and meats are still sold in jars. In 1967, executives at Gerber Products decided to offer
3404-598: The baby from her breast for a short time until the flow becomes less forceful. Milk may also let-down unexpectedly when a mother hears her baby cry or even only thinks about the baby. Nursing pads may be made or purchased to absorb unexpected milk flows. Infants of mothers with inverted nipples can still achieve a good latch with perhaps a little extra effort. For some women, the nipple may easily become erect when stimulated. Other women may require modified breastfeeding techniques, and some may need extra devices, such as nipple shells, modified syringes, or breast pumps to expose
3496-552: The baby to foods that the mother has eaten and decrease the risk of diarrheal illness . Although the baby has received some antibodies ( IgG ) through the placenta, colostrum contains a substance which is new to the newborn, secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA). IgA works to attack germs in the mucous membranes of the throat, lungs, and intestines, which are most likely to come under attack from germs. Additionally, colostrum and mature breast milk contain many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzymes and proteins that decrease
3588-423: The baby to obtain enough milk. Babies can successfully latch on to the breast from multiple positions. Each baby may prefer a particular position. The "football" hold places the baby's legs next to the mother's side with the baby facing the mother. Using the "cradle" or "cross-body" hold, the mother supports the baby's head in the crook of her arm. The "cross-over" hold is similar to the cradle hold, except that
3680-439: The baby to open their mouth with a wide gape. One way to help the infant achieve a deep latch is to compress the breast tissue into a "U" or "hamburger shape," so that the infant can fit the breast tissue into their mouth. This is done by the mother placing her thumb and fingers in line with the infant's nose and mouth respectively and using this grip to compress the breast tissue. If the newborn seems to need help in latching on,
3772-473: The birth of an infant is followed by massive fluid shifts to both offload excess fluid, which had been used to supply oxygen and nutrients to the fetus through the placenta, which is no longer needed, and supply additional fluid to the breasts in order to start the process of making milk. These fluid shifts often result in some of this excess fluid leaking into the breast tissue. Finally, milk "coming in" can create an uncomfortably full feeling, which combined with
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3864-503: The brain, namely estrogen , progesterone , prolactin , which gradually increase throughout the pregnancy, and result in the structural development of the alveolar (milk-producing) tissue and the production of colostrum . While prolactin is the predominant hormone in milk production, progesterone , which is at high levels during pregnancy, blocks the prolactin receptors in the breast, thus inhibiting milk from "coming in" during pregnancy. Many other physiologic changes occur under
3956-429: The breast tissue due to accumulation of fluid in the tissue surrounding and supporting the milk-producing cells and ducts. Engorgement most frequently occurs as milk "comes in" and during the weaning process. As milk is coming in, several processes occur. At the end of pregnancy there is dilation of the blood vessels which supply the breast, allowing for leaking into the tissue or interstitial space . Additionally,
4048-434: The breasts) or both. Primary causes may manifest prior to or during pregnancy, during labor, and even after birth. Secondary causes are far more common than primary ones. One study found that 15% of healthy first-time mothers had low milk supply 2–3 weeks after birth, with secondary causes accounting for at least two-thirds of those cases. Dorothy Hope Smith Dorothy Hope Smith (October 1, 1895 – December 16, 1955)
4140-434: The breasts, decreases blood flow to the alveoli and signals the milk-producing cells to produce less milk. The content of breast milk should be discussed in two separate categories – the nutritional content and the bioactive content, that is the enzymes , proteins , antibodies , and signaling molecules that assist the infant in ways outside of nutrition. The pattern of intended nutrient content in breast milk
4232-558: The breasts. If symptoms continue and comfort measures are not helpful a woman should consider the possibility that a blocked milk duct or infection may be present and seek medical intervention. Although very common, nipple pain and nipple trauma (cracking, open sores) should not be normalized, as these are often signs of a shallow latch or other underlying problem that can be evaluated and fixed . In addition to shallow latch, other causes of nipple pain include, but are not limited to, skin infection or inflammation , blood vessel spasm or
4324-482: The case is in cases of infant metabolic diseases, such as galactosemia . The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recommends that supplementation only be used when medically indicated and when overseen by a medical professional, such as a pediatrician or family physician, and after consultation with an IBCLC. Without sufficient breast stimulation, supplementation can reduce the mother's milk production, so pumping would be indicated in these cases if continued breastfeeding
4416-469: The chin will be close to the breast, and the forehead and nose should be far from the breast. Another sign of a good latch is the contour of the infant's cheeks; the cheeks should be rounded all the way to the edge of the mouth, rather than dimpled or creased at the edge of the mouth. This is a good indicator of effective suck mechanics. Additionally, in order to achieve a deep latch, the infant's mouth must be open wide, preferably wider than 140 degrees. In
4508-457: The control of progesterone and estrogen. These changes include, but are not limited to, dilation of blood vessels, increased blood flow to the uterus, increased availability of glucose (which subsequently is passed through the placenta to the fetus), and increased skin pigmentation, which results in darkening of the nipples and areola , formation of the linea nigra , and onset of melasma of pregnancy . The third stage of labor describes
4600-421: The couple worked out of their Westport, Connecticut home. Smith was a commercial illustrator specializing in babies and children. She was one of the " Ivory Soap Baby" illustrations for Procter & Gamble , illustrating children's books for Putnam and several magazine covers. Smith's famous Gerber Baby drawing came about through a contest. In 1928, Gerber invited artists to submit drawings of babies for
4692-528: The course of the next ten years. However, to get the full 15 years of tax breaks, Gerber agreed to increase employment by 200 and spend a total of $ 75 million on its facilities. The tax breaks have been largely supported, despite large revenue losses by local governments: $ 300,000 in losses per year for the City of Fremont (10% of their budget) and $ 160,000 a year for Newaygo County . It is estimated local governments would give up potentially $ 15 million in revenue over
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#17327982990504784-402: The duct system and out through the nipple. This process is known as the milk ejection reflex , or let-down. Because of oxytocin's dual activity at the breast and the uterus, breastfeeding mothers may also experience uterine cramping at the time of breastfeeding, for the first several days to weeks. Prolactin and oxytocin are vital for establishing milk supply initially, however, once
4876-507: The end of the feed, this may be a signal of the infant tired or becoming relaxed with a slower milk velocity. Numerous health organizations, including, but not limited to, the CDC, WHO, National Health Service, Canadian Pediatric Society, American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Family Physicians, recommend breastfeeding exclusively for six months following birth, unless medically contraindicated. Exclusive breastfeeding
4968-693: The equivalent of Raynaud Syndrome in the breast, mastitis , plugged ducts, and nipple blebs . Pain caused by a problem deep in the breast may also present with nipple pain due to the paths of nerves in the breast. In addition to the serious nature of many of these causes, nipple pain is a common reason for a mother stopping breastfeeding, so it is important that mothers experiencing nipple pain be evaluated. While milk normally "comes in" by 3 days after birth, there are several reasons this may be delayed. Risk factors for this delay include maternal diabetes , stressful delivery, retained placenta , prolonged labor and birth by C-section . Mothers experiencing
5060-415: The first 12 months of breastfeeding is approximated to be 58-72 Calories/100mL. Comparatively, the caloric content after 48 months is approximately 83-129 Calories/100mL. When a mother has her full milk supply and is feeding her infant, the first milk to be expressed is called the foremilk. Foremilk is typically thinner and less rich in calories. The hindmilk that follows is rich in calories and fat. If
5152-515: The happiness of their own child via the eyes of the iconic Gerber baby. Thus the notion that if their babies were fed Gerber, they would also be as content, smiley, and "cute" as the Gerber baby. In September 2008, Gerber's Fremont facilities were designated as a Michigan Agricultural Renaissance Zone, receiving $ 43 million in tax breaks over 15 years. In order to receive the incentives, Gerber agreed to continue its employment in Fremont at 1,100 jobs and invest $ 50 million in its Fremont facilities over
5244-420: The illustration when compared to other more elaborate entries. Smith won $ 300 in the contest, selling the rights of her drawing to Gerber. Due to its popularity, Gerber officially trademarked the drawing in 1931. Smith worked regularly from the 1920s until her death in 1955, serving as a successful commercial illustrator for many products. Smith's husband, Perry Barlow, whom she married on February 22, 1922,
5336-501: The inability to latch on properly is related to ankyloglossia, a simple surgical procedure to clip the frenulum can correct the condition. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and the Australian Dental Association have raised concern over the growing trend of oral tie surgeries, due to evidence for benefit being low-quality, inconsistent, or unsupported. Engorgement is the swelling and stretching of
5428-435: The infant comes toward the breast to latch. If the infant leads with their brow or forehead, they are likely to flex their neck; this mechanism of latching causes the nipple to point down and then hit the hard palate during sucking. From an external view, this manifests as the nose and forehead being close to the breast and the chin far from the breast. This neck flexion also obstructs the normal swallowing mechanism, preventing
5520-411: The infant from drinking efficiently. In addition to not being able to swallow properly, this shallow latch prevents the infant from adequately compressing the glandular tissue behind the nipple and stimulating milk flow; thus, they may begin to apply more suction, which manifests externally as cheek dimpling, or sucking their cheeks in. When the baby suckles muscles in the breast squeeze milk towards
5612-1323: The infant to the breast, or interrupting the process, such as removing the baby to weigh him/her, may complicate subsequent feeding. Activities such as weighing, measuring, bathing, needle-sticks, and eye prophylaxis wait until after the first feeding. Children who are born preterm (before 37 weeks), children born in the early term period (37 weeks–38 weeks and 6 days), and children born with low muscular tone, such as those with chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome or neurological conditions like Cerebral palsy , may have difficulty in initiating breast feeds immediately after birth. These late preterm (34 weeks –36 weeks and 6 days) and early term (37 weeks–38 weeks and 6 days) infants are at increased risk for both breastfeeding cessation and complications of insufficient milk intake (e.g., dehydration, hypoglycemia, jaundice, and excessive weight loss). They are often expected to feed like term babies, but they have less strength and stamina to feed adequately. By convention, such children are often fed on expressed breast milk or other supplementary feeds through tubes, supplemental nursing systems , bottles, spoons or cups until they develop satisfactory ability to suck and swallow breast milk. Regardless of feeding method chosen, human milk feedings, whether from
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#17327982990505704-407: The infant's immune system. Produced during pregnancy and the first days after childbirth, colostrum is easy to digest and has laxative properties that help the infant to pass early stools. This aids in the excretion of excess bilirubin , which helps to prevent jaundice . Colostrum also helps to seal the infants gastrointestinal tract from foreign substances and germs, which may sensitize
5796-413: The infant's mouth should be asymmetric , meaning most of the "bottom" of the areola should be in the infants mouth and much more of the "top" of the areola should be visible. This position is helpful in pointing the nipple toward the roof of the infant's mouth, helping the infant recruit more milk. The baby's lips should be flanged out. The neck should be extended to facilitate swallowing, and as such,
5888-665: The infant. The first type of milk produced is called colostrum . The volume of colostrum produced during each feeding is appropriate for the size of the newborn stomach and is sufficient, calorically, for feeding a newborn during the first few days of life. Produced during pregnancy and the first days after childbirth, colostrum is rich in protein and Vitamins A, B12 and K, which supports infants' growth, brain development, vision, immune systems, red blood cells, and clotting cascade. The breast milk also has long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids which help with normal retinal and neural development. The caloric content of colostrum
5980-561: The infant; true low milk supply; severe nipple pain unrelieved by interventions; and medical contraindications to breastfeeding, as described below. Supplements can be delivered at the breast through a supplemental nursing system in order to stimulate the production of the mother's own milk and to preserve the breastfeeding relationship. Some parents may desire to supplement proactively if early signs of insufficient intake, such as decreased urination, dry mucous membranes, or persistent signs of hunger, are noticed. If these signs are noticed, it
6072-481: The kitchen straining fruits and vegetables for her child. After much hard work she suggested to her husband Daniel, whose family already owned the Fremont Canning Company, to create this food in an industrial setting, lightening the load of mothers everywhere. A different interpretation of the story is that he was frustrated and upset having come home to find his wife looking strained and miserable in
6164-413: The kitchen. Not wanting to "exchange" his beautiful wife for this kitchen-bound monstrosity, he then invented the Gerber baby food product line. The brand eventually became a major company in the baby food industry, currently offering more than 190 products in 80 countries, with labeling in 16 languages. Its primary competitors are Beech-Nut and Del Monte Foods . As of 2017, Gerber controls 61 percent of
6256-402: The largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. In 2007, Gerber was sold to Nestlé for $ 5.5 billion. Gerber has a long history of projecting a family-friendly image. When Gerber Products established a consumer relations department in 1938, then ten-year-old Sally Gerber began answering each customer's letter individually, a practice she would continue for many years, even after she became
6348-452: The latch process, the infant should be aligned with their abdomen facing their mother, which can be remembered as "tummy-to-mummy," and with their hips, shoulders and head aligned. This alignment helps to facilitate proper, efficient swallowing mechanics. Latching refers to how the baby fastens onto the breast while feeding. Sebaceous glands called Glands of Montgomery located in the areola secrete an oily fluid that lubricate and protect
6440-434: The likelihood of successful breastfeeding at discharge. Skin-to-skin mother-baby contact should still occur, even if the baby is born by Cesarean surgery. The baby is placed on the mother in the operating room or the recovery area. If the mother is unable to immediately hold the baby a family member can provide skin-to-skin care until the mother is able. According to studies cited by UNICEF , babies naturally follow
6532-438: The milk supply is well established, the volume and content of the milk produced is controlled locally. Although prolactin levels are higher on average among breastfeeding mothers, prolactin levels themselves do not correlate to milk volume. At this stage, production of milk is triggered by milk drainage from the breasts. The only way to maintain milk supply is to drain the breasts frequently. Infrequent or incomplete drainage of
6624-432: The mother and child wish. The World Health Organization's guidelines recommend "continue[d] frequent, on-demand breastfeeding until two years of age or beyond. Extended breastfeeding means breastfeeding after the age of 12 or 24 months, depending on the source. In Western countries such as the United States , Canada , and Great Britain , extended breastfeeding is relatively uncommon and can provoke criticism. In
6716-656: The mother is not herself deficient in vitamins, breast milk normally supplies her baby's needs, with the exception of Vitamin D. The CDC , National Health Service (UK), Canadian Paediatric Society , the American Academy of Pediatrics , and the American Academy of Family Physicians all agree that breast milk alone does not provide infants with an adequate amount of Vitamin D, thus they advise parents to supplement their infants with 400 IU Vitamin D daily. Providing this quantity of Vitamin D to breastfeeding infants has been shown to reduce rates of Vitamin D insufficiency (defined as 25-OH vitamin D < 50 nmol/L). However, there
6808-496: The mother or a donor, are important in the brain development of premature infants, and the NICU having a standardized protocol for feeding is protective against dangerous gastrointestinal infections ( necrotizing enterocolitis ) in these infants. Frequent breastfeeding and/or small amounts of supplementation may be needed for successful outcomes; breast pumping and/or hand expression is often helpful in providing adequate stimulation to
6900-416: The mother should focus on helping the infant by bringing their chin to the breast first. This facilitates a deep, asymmetric latch, and also helps the infant extend their neck and tilt their forehead back to maintain this deep latch and ease the swallowing process. In a good latch, a large amount of the areola, in addition to the nipple, is in the baby's mouth. The amount of areola visible on either side of
6992-521: The mother supports the baby's head with the opposite hand. The mother may choose a reclining position on her back or side with the baby lying next to her. No matter the position the parent-infant dyad finds most comfortable, there are a few components of every position which will help facilitate a successful latch . One key component is maternal comfort. The mother should be comfortable while breastfeeding, and should have her back, feet, and arms supported with pillows as necessary. Additionally, when starting
7084-745: The mother's breasts. Starting to breastfeed may be challenging for mothers of preterm infants, especially those born before 34 weeks, because their breasts may still be developing (in Lactogenesis I, see Breastfeeding Physiology). Additionally, mother–infant separation and the stressful environment of the NICU are also barriers to breastfeeding. Availability of a lactation specialist in the NICU can be helpful for mothers trying to establish their milk supply. Additionally, skin-to-skin (Kangaroo Care) has been shown to be safe and beneficial to both mother and baby. Kangaroo Care stabilizes newborn premature infants' vital signs, such as their heart rate, providing
7176-403: The nipple during latching. The visible portions of the glands can be seen on the skin's surface as small round bumps. The rooting reflex is the baby's natural tendency to turn towards the breast with the mouth open wide. When preparing to latch, mothers should make use of this reflex by gently stroking the baby's philtrum, the area between the upper lip and the nose, with their nipple to induce
7268-403: The nipple. La Leche League and Toronto Public Health offer several techniques to use during pregnancy or even in the early days following birth that may help to bring a flat or inverted nipple out. The World Health Organization's Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding recommends total avoidance of pacifiers for breastfeeding infants. In 2016 a large review of studies reported that the use of
7360-421: The nipples. This is called the let-down reflex. Some women report that they do not experience anything while others report a tingling feeling which is sometimes described as quite strong. The baby may be seen to respond to the beginning of the flow of milk by changing from quick sucks to deep rhythmic swallows. Sometimes the let-down is so strong that the baby splutters and coughs and the mother may need to remove
7452-403: The nutritional benefits of breastmilk, breast milk also provides enzymes, antibodies, and other substances that support the infant's growth and development. The bioactive makeup of breastmilk also changes based on the needs of the infant; for example, when an infant is recovering from an upper respiratory infection , local signaling allows for increased passage of immune cells and proteins to aid
7544-420: The parent that infant weight gain is absolute proof of adequate milk intake. Thus, if the infant breastfeeding exclusively, and is gaining weight appropriately, then the parent can be reassured that they are producing enough milk. True low milk supply can be either primary (caused by medical conditions or anatomical issues in the mother), secondary (caused by not thoroughly and regularly removing milk from
7636-654: The period between the birth of the baby and the delivery of the placenta, which normally lasts less than 30 minutes. The delivery of the placenta causes an abrupt drop off of placental hormones. This drop, specifically in progesterone, allows prolactin to work effectively at its receptors in the breast, leading to an array of changes over the next several days that allow the milk to "come in"; these changes are known collectively as Lactogenesis II. Colostrum continues to be produced for these next few days, as Lactogenesis II occurs. Milk may "come in" as late as five days after delivery; however, this process may be delayed due to
7728-411: The placenta is delivered. Although traditionally, lactation occurs following pregnancy, lactation may also be induced with hormone therapy and nipple stimulation in the absence of pregnancy. Changes in pregnancy , starting around 16 weeks gestational age , prepare the breast for lactation. These changes, collectively known as Lactogenesis I , are directed by hormones produced by the placenta and
7820-530: The risk of obesity in adulthood. Benefits for the mother include less blood loss following delivery , better contraction of the uterus, and a decreased risk of postpartum depression . Breastfeeding delays the return of menstruation , and in very specific circumstances, fertility , a phenomenon known as lactational amenorrhea . Long-term benefits for the mother include decreased risk of breast cancer , cardiovascular disease , diabetes , metabolic syndrome , and rheumatoid arthritis . Breastfeeding
7912-490: The risk of gastrointestinal allergies to food, respiratory allergies to air particles like pollen, and other atopic diseases , such as asthma and eczema . It is recommended for mothers to initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth. Uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding can begin immediately after birth, and should continue for at least one hour after birth. This period of infant-mother interaction, known generally as kangaroo care , or
8004-449: The second stage of milk production, triggering the milk to come in over the next several days. The third stage of milk production occurs gradually over several weeks, and is characterized by a full milk supply that is regulated locally (at the breast), predominately by the infant's demand for food. This differs from the second stage of lactogenesis, which is regulated centrally (in the brain) by hormone feedback loops that naturally occur after
8096-496: The start of breastfeeding but disappear or become considerately more manageable after the first few weeks. Feedings may last as long as 30–60 minutes each as milk supply develops and the infant learns the Suck-Swallow-Breathe pattern. However, as milk supply increases and the infant becomes more efficient at feeding, the duration of feeds may shorten. Older children may feed less often. When direct breastfeeding
8188-502: Was a cartoonist for The New Yorker magazine, drawing 135 covers over the years in addition to many cartoons. He also contributed work to Collier's , The Saturday Evening Post and others. Because Perry was partially colorblind , Smith helped with the color process of his work. Smith and Perry had two sons, Collins and Peter. Peter's child is Smith's only granddaughter. Dorrie carries her namesake, Dorothy "Dorrie" Barlow Thomas. After Dorothy's death in 1955, their son Peter continued
8280-495: Was a mystery writer. She was depicted in a charcoal sketch by her neighbor, Dorothy Hope Smith . Smith entered the sketch for the company's logo contest. A huge draw to the image of the Gerber baby is largely due to the fact that this baby is alone, not in the presence of adults, innocently peering straight into the eyes of the consumer. This innocent outward gaze was surely a marketing, if not psychological, technique to suck in female "mother-consumers". This forced many mothers to seek
8372-935: Was an American artist and painter, best known as the artist who drew the Gerber Baby . Dorothy Hope Smith was born in Hyattsville, Maryland to Lincoln B. and Mary L. Smith. She had 2 sisters, Edith and Clare, of which Dorothy was in the middle. In the early 1910s, Dorothy's family relocated to Chicago , where she spent her adolescence. Smith studied illustration at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago where she met Perry Barlow. They were married February 22, 1922 in Manhattan, New York City, and honeymooned in France. They moved to New York City after they wed to pursue separate illustration careers. Eventually,
8464-559: Was insufficient evidence in the most recent Cochrane Review , to determine if this quantity reduced rates of Vitamin D deficiency (defined as 25-OH vitamin D < 30 nmol/L) or rickets . Term infants typically do not need iron supplementation. Delaying clamping of the cord at birth for at least one minute improves the infants' iron status for the first year. When complementary (solid) foods are introduced at about 6 months of age, parents should make sure to choose iron-rich foods to help maintain their children's iron stores. In addition to
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