Basic reform for babies
By Dr. Gail C. Christopher, July 31, 2009
Breastfeeding is a major public health issue that is being left off federal and state health reform agendas. It’s not intuitive to health reform, but the fact is this most natural “first food” of mother’s milk prevents disease in both mothers and children. Not breastfeeding costs the U.S. healthcare system billions.
Extensive evidence documents that human milk is the most beneficial choice for infant feeding. Research shows infants who breastfeed are less susceptible to respiratory infections, diarrhea, obesity and other diseases. Mothers who breastfeed have decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. A study presented earlier this year at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting even showed that women who have multiple sclerosis may reduce their risk of relapses after pregnancy if they breastfeed their babies. Read the full op-ed in the Detroit Free Press.
