Both in times of calm and in times of crisis, exclusive breastfeeding equals first food security. Having a safe, reliable source of nutrition and protection against disease protects babies in any circumstance—and especially when there is food insecurity. However, the relationship is more complex than you might think. That’s because already having food security is a predictor of being able to exclusively breastfeed. And conversely, being in the midst of food insecurity makes it less likely that a family will be able to access the support and resources needed to exclusively breastfeed. Now as never before, action and advocacy are needed to protect, promote, and support the structures that help all families to meet their breastfeeding goals, i...

If you’re a healthcare professional interested in earning your IBCLC, you’re in good company! More providers are discovering the rewards and opportunities that come with becoming a lactation consultant. When you’re ready to explore becoming an IBCLC, LER is here to support you all the way. To get you started, here are five key facts you’ll need to know. 1. Healthcare providers from a diverse array of disciplines become IBCLCs. Nurses and physicians who work with parents and babies are some of the top professionals who pursue IBCLC certification, but many other healthcare providers become IBCLCs as well—our students include dieticians, physical therapists, speech pathologists, pharmacists, and more. And while you’re asking, be specific about...