›› Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding Reduces the Risk for Childhood Overweight

Breastfeeding has long been recognized as a proven disease prevention strategy. Among its other well-documented effects, breastfeeding also has recently been found to play a foundational role in preventing childhood overweight. The AAP recommends that the greatest protection is seen when breastfeeding is exclusive (no formula or solids) and continues for the first 6 months of life. Kentucky’s State Action Plan presents strategies and goals to increase breastfeeding.

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Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program

The Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Program is a new initiative currently operated through local health departments for prenatal and breastfeeding mothers, which provides one-on-one counseling, information and round-the-clock guidance for mothers who are new to breastfeeding. The Peer Counselor Program is funded by a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is available to participants of the WIC Program. Peer Counselor services in Kentucky are offered at the areas served by the following health departments: Allen County, Louisville Metro, Marshall County, Boyd County, Kentucky River District, Green River District, Gateway District and Northern Kentucky Independent District. The service of the peer counselor have proven to be a significant factor in improving breastfeeding initiation and duration rates among women on the WIC Program.