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Parenting on Female First
Thanks to a wealth of information available, mums say they feel confident as to the types of nutrients babies need to receive to aid healthy growth and development. In fact, in a recent study by SMA® Nutrition, 94% of mums agreed that the right nutrition during the first two years is extremely important with 91% claiming they understand the role of Omegas and Vitamin D.
However, new research from SMA® Nutrition suggests there is still confusion about the role of protein in the first 1,000 days, with 80% of those questioned unaware as to whether or not infants and young children are consuming too much.
A report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) states that the appropriate levels of protein during the first two years of a baby's life may show long term health benefits including some protection against being overweight and obesity in childhood.
Protein is a key component of breast milk that supports healthy growth and development. The right quality and quantity of protein is provided to the baby, which helps them to grow at an appropriate rate. Interestingly, the level of protein in breast milk decreases as your baby grows, a fact that just 9% of mums fully understand.
Dr Ellie Cannon, media medic and spokesperson for the SMA® Nutrition Protein Awareness Campaign, said: “Although mums consider breastfeeding is best for babies, they don’t necessarily know what this means in terms of the nutrients. The evolving protein composition of breast milk, helps ensure that babies follow an appropriate rate of growth, which may offer protection against obesity in childhood. A better understanding of protein could help to ensure that mums are giving their baby appropriate nutrition at each stage of their baby’s development”
With over 90 years' experience in infant nutrition, SMA® Nutrition has gained a deep understanding of the importance of protein and the role it plays in a baby's development. Their experts are passionate about educating mums on protein during the first 1,000 days of a baby's life, imparting this knowledge now can make a positive difference on babies health that will last into their adult years.
The research showed that 51% of mums wished there was more information available on the importance of protein in the first 1,000 days, and 45% wanted more insight into the appropriate rate of growth in this time.
As a result SMA® Nutrition has produced a hub of articles and a video on protein in the first 1,000 days. More information can be found at https://www.smamums.co.uk/protein-in-milk
Tagged in Parenting Protein Lifestyle Nutrition Parenting Advice