The Benefits of Spicing Up a Breast-Feeding Mother’s Diet

Conventionally, mothers have been told to avoid strong flavors while breast-feeding, as to not upset their babies. The diet of the mother transfers flavors and information into the amniotic fluid before birth, and into breast milk after birth. These flavors are taken in by the baby, and could be the key to preventing picky eaters. Various studies have shown that babies who are exposed to a number of flavors in the womb and while breast feeding are more accepting of a large range of foods and flavors. By eating spicy and flavorful foods, the mother is modeling her culture, her preferences, and even the basic human joy of eating beautiful food. A bland diet is the way to a picky eater, a joyful adventurous diet is the way to a curious eater.

Thousands Could Lose Food Stamps as States Restore Pre-Recession Requirements

As the economy improves, thousands of people could be losing their access to food stamps. The time limits for the food stamps program were waived during the last recession to deal with the high unemployment rate. The time limit for the program will be in effect in many states for the first time since the recession. Technically people are only eligible for three months during any three year period, unless they are actively searching for work or in a training program.  Many people are going to be cut off starting this month, unless they take steps to meet the work requirements. Taking away a person’s access to food doesn’t make getting a job any easier. The economy may be improving by government standards, but many low-income areas are still struggling with unemployment and infrequent economic opportunities.

NY State Approves $15 Minimum Wage

Last week, the New York Senate approved a gradual increase to a $15 minimum wage for the state. The increase is broken up over several years in different locations, starting with New York City. The city will see the $15 minimum wage within the next three years, Long Island and Westchester will see it within 6 years, and upstate New York will see a $12.50 minimum wage at the six year mark. Along with the minimum wage boost, the bill also includes a provision for 12 weeks of paid family leave for New York workers and a tax cut for middle-class filers. Many people see these provisions as a huge win for New York residents, and hope to see other states take care of their residents in a similar fashion.