>From a LLLI News Release which appears to be undated(abbreviations are
mine):

"Mothers should continue to bf their infants despite recent highly
publicized reports about dioxin in breast milk, according to LLLI, the
leading source of information for bf women in the US and Canada.

Dioxin, a contaminant in chemical herbicides and formed by combustion, is
present in soil, water and air and as a consequence is found in food
sources.  They are stored primarily in fatty tissues.  The long-term
effect of human ingestion of dioxin remain unknown although it is
documented that substituting formula for human milk can post distinct
risks for susceptible infants.  Human milk substitutes may also contain
traces of contaminants.

Studies over the past 20 years have demonstrated that bf conveys
significant nutritional, immunological and psychological benefits to
infants.  LLLI and consultants from its Health Advisory Council have
concluded that current information about environmental contaminants in
breast milk does not justify depriving infants of the benefits of bf.
Suggestions that mothers limit the length of time they nurse their babies
are also unwarranted.

At this time there are no government standards regarding the levels of
dioxin that are acceptable for foodstuffs.  Levels have been established
for acceptable levels in soil.  Predictions of the health consequences of
dioxin ingestion by humans are based on data obtained in animal studies.
Comparable effects in humans have not been established.

The WHO, The Centers for Disease Control, The Environmental Health
Agency, and the AAP have considered the information regarding the
presence of trace amounts of dioxin in human milk and have concluded that
the benefits of bf outweigh the hypothetical dangers posed.

Exposure to environmental contaminants can by minimized by following
these suggestions:  1) consume moderate amounts of dairy products,
particularly those high in fat; 2) eat less red meat; 3) avoid foods high
in fat; 4) avoid quick weight loss diets when pregnant and bf(dieting
mobilizes fat stores, thus releasing contaminants into the blood stream;
and 5) reduce the use of pesticides and  herbicides in the home
environment.

Founded in 1956, LLLI offers support and information for those interested
in bf.  Over 9,000 local volunteer Leaders in 46 countries around the
world are available for personal counseling.  Local Group meeting explore
topics of interest to pregnant and bf women.  LLL also provides
information for health professionals and sponsors an annual Physicians'
Seminar."

Karen Zeretzke, MEd, IBCLC who doesn't have a scanner so please pardon
any errors
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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