Without going into politics, I would like to commend the First Lady for her work to promote breastfeeding. An article on Politics Daily yesterday by Lynn Sweet highlighted Michelle Obama’s position in favor of breastfeeding as part of her campaign to reduce childhood obesity.
According to the article, the First Lady recognizes that breastfeeding is a personal choice, so she doesn’t want to tell women to do it. However, for those who do choose to breastfeed their babies, the campaign is designed to make it easier.
President Obama signed a bill on March 13 (I’m assuming that was last year?!) which provides a place/room for women to express milk while at work. This requirement is only stipulated to certain employers, however. (Affordable Care Act, March 13th). The WIC program is now supposed to provide more information, counseling, and supplies regarding breastfeeding to low-income women. (Child Nutrition Bill, December 13th).
Also included in the First Lady’s “Let’s Move” campaign (entering its second year) is raising the standard in hospitals to be certified as “Baby Friendly” and and allow for babies to room-in with their mother. This would help to encourage and facilitate breastfeeding.
The campaign is now promoting tax breaks on nursing supplies such as breast pumps. You can now write-off those expenses!
Babies who are breastfed longer show less tendencies toward obesity in childhood according to studies.
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