Citing benefits, government urges breast-feeding

WASHINGTON – “Babies were born to be breast-fed,” say new public service announcements that are part of the government’s effort to get more new mothers to nurse.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breast-fed exclusively for the first six months, and the government hopes to have at least half of mothers following that advice by 2010. Currently, only 33 percent of mothers breast-feed until their babies are 6 months old, says the Department of Health and Human Services.

Breast milk is considered babies’ perfect food. Breast-fed babies suffer fewer illnesses such as diarrhea, earache and respiratory infections. Studies suggest they also may be less likely to develop asthma, diabetes or get fat later in childhood.

Mothers often benefit, too, shedding pregnancy pounds faster.