First Foods... 

Back in the 1960s and '70s, commercial baby formulas were a hot commodity. So much so that breastfeeding was at an all-time low; it's estimated that only 25% of children were breastfed. During this time, many mothers began working outside the home, and this was a convenient item to help manage feeding schedules and work. Between industry marketing, hospitals, and doctors promoting baby formula, many parents were convinced formulas were even better than mother's milk. Breastfeeding came to be viewed negatively. This went against thousands of years of history. Back in the 1700s, if a mother could not breastfeed, wet nurses were hired to make sure the baby was nourished. These wet nurses were often rated on perceived health and wellness so parents could opt for the best possible nutritional value. 

Today, studies confirm our ancestors were closer to being right about mother's milk. It is truly a miraculous bit of nature - the woman's ability to produce the perfect food for her baby. It's really like having a superpower. As is usually the case, we see cycles all around us. Toward the end of the 20th century, social acceptance of breastfeeding began to improve again. The 21st century brought with it a new generation of mom's who have gone back to the wisdom of our ancestors and not only breastfeed their infants, but realize their own diet affects baby too. The benefits are numerous. For the infant, mother's milk induces sleep, and is also nature's best baby medicine, protecting the baby from all sorts of infections and sickness. Mom's body actually knows what baby needs as nourishment and provides the antibodies baby needs to help fight off sickness. For the mom, breastfeeding helps her lose weight gained during pregnancy. It can also help reduce the onset of postpartum depression. Breastfeeding can be a challenge, especially for first-time moms and sometimes it just doesn't work for whatever reason. But, there are resources out there to help. Look for a lactation consultant in your community or a doula who will help guide you from birth through postpartum.

Once baby is ready to be weaned from momma's milk and ready for something a little more solid, consider high-quality grass-fed beef liverwurst pureed with some organic veggies. Liverwurst is also a really good addition to mom's diet during pregnancy and after. As one of nature's superfoods, it is loaded with vitamins, fats, and minerals that can help nourish mother and child. One last note, while it's tempting to take the easy processed food route with babies, toddlers or picky eaters, providing a variety of healthy choices and modeling a smart diet ourselves will eventually lead to our children making healthy choices on their own some day. 

Well Wishes, Team USWM