TRAFFIC

Give a healthy start with breastfeeding

World Breastfeeding Week promotes breastfeeding for good health in general as well as during a crisis.

BY BRENDA GUTIERREZ - bgutierrez@idahostatesman.com

Copyright: © 2009 Idaho Statesman

Published: 08/04/09

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La Leche League of Canyon County welcomes all breastfeeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding to its meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Mercy Medical Center, 1512 12th Ave. Road, in Nampa.

If you can't make it to a meeting, local La Leche League leaders are also available by phone or e-mail whenever moms have breastfeeding questions or concerns.

Juanita: (208) 249-5869, mimanshani@clearwire.net

Angie: 695-5230, clothdiaper@gmail.com

Betsy: bayers@cableone.net

Many moms know breastfeeding is a good idea, but did you know it could save lives?

"During emergencies-such as an earthquake, flood, flu pandemic, or conflict - where there may be no electricity or refrigeration, and no clean drinking water or feeding bottles, breastfeeding is readily available, safe and clean, requires no supplies, and helps protect babies from illness," said Dr. Marianne Neifert, author of "Great Expectations: The Essential Guide to Breastfeeding" (Sterling Publishing, $14.95) and a Colorado pediatrician with 25 years of expertise in breastfeeding management.

That's the focus of this year's World Breastfeeding Week, Aug. 1 to 7 - to promote breastfeeding as a vital response in emergency situations to save infants' lives, particularly in developing nations.

But for Treasure Valley mothers who have concerns or struggle with breastfeeding, La Leche League of Idaho has lactation consultants and groups throughout the state to offer help and support.

"Although breastfeeding is natural, that doesn't mean it is always easy," Neifert said. "Many mothers encounter difficulties getting started or continuing to breastfeed."

Brenda Gutierrez: 377-6440

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