1+Physical+development+and+infancy

=Links relevant to Physical development and infancy=

Breastfeeding
A new study in Britain suggests that exclusive breastfeeding in the early months may actually increase allergies. This is a radical change from the usual advice to breastfeed only, which is also supposed to reduce allergies. It is very intriguing, and has some good evidence. I think you might, with caution, begin to offer other foods at 3 or 4 months. But you should consult with your pediatrician first.(Gwynn Mettetal) [|Exclusive breastfeeding may aggravate allergies]

Meanwhile, a news story today reports that the Surgeon General has called for more support for women who breastfeed. These stories are not contradictory--the study above just suggests adding some other foods. They still support breastfeeding over bottle-feeding. [|breastfeeding support]

Prenatal diet
A study described on ScienceDaily.com showed that the quality of prenatal diet had a big impact on fetal development. This experiment varied the diet of baboons who were pregnant. The effect was particularly important to brain development. Researchers feel there are implications for humans, particularly teen mothers, older (35+), and those with medical issues. (Gwynn Mettetal) [|ScienceDaily.com on prenatal diet]