Breastfeeding

This measure relates to:
Toiora

Breastmilk is the best food for infants.  Breastfed infants have a reduced risk of disease and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and a lower risk of being overweight during childhood and adulthood.

Breastfeeding rates for Māori and Pacific people are significantly lower on average than for other New Zealanders.  Low income families and young mothers have lower breastfeeding rates than other groups.

Read the full issue summary on breastfeeding [PDF].