FROM: Sturgess, Frances Coulter
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SUBJECT: Feb 3 issue of TIME."Fertile Minds:
DATE: 01-31-97   20:15 EST
PRIORITY:



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To the Editors:
In regards to the article in the February 3, 1997 issue of TIME.  "Fertile
Minds :
From birth,  a baby's brain cells proliferate wildly, making connections
that may shape a lifetime of experience.  The first three years are
critical."

Given the importance of nutrition and the feeding relationship, particularly
breastfeeding, on infant  and child brain development I am disappointed to
find that it was not included in this article.  Breastfeeding is one of the
most important ways to optimize a child's health, intelligence, and
social/emotional potential.  The unique relationship and immunological
properties of this living fluid, its nutrients and the positive impact on the
infant's IQ and health--a difference in breastfed vs artificially fed babies,
 which clearly impact ultimate growth and development - were not discussed.

 The feeding relationship itself takes up large parts of a parents and
infant/childs interactive and developmental time, and in this culture where
image concerns, dieting, and addictions are rampant it deserves to be done
well,as a point of fully informed choice and not taken for granted.  Mothering
through breastfeeding  facilitates appropriate nurturing as well as nourishing
of children and is sadly overshadowed by the assumptions and commercial
interference of artificial feeding.   It is healthier for Mom and baby and
society, and-- it saves the society at large money, in healthcare dollars and
taxes.

I hope you will consider an article discussing the issues above as a followup
to the article of Feb 3.  I guarantee it would be sufficiently controversial
to hold the interest of your readers/subscribers.