Karen Le Billon

Lots of helpful suggestions here. I also liked the studies she used. And I really struggle with the snacks. They are everywhere. I also think it's important to feed your baby (if breastfeeding) as much as they want in the first week to establish a supply... and also, don't put cereal in your baby's milk. Just don't. (To give her credit, she doesn't seem to recommend either. The French seem to).

I struggled with the parenting models presented. They seemed to be polar extremes and I prefer a happy medium. Some of this may not be feasible for some below a certain pay grade. I attended a meeting once with a group of women who worked contract work. $3/lb of fruit picked during the day. For them, vegetables with dinner meant a can of tomato paste/sauce included in the water they boiled their rice in. Their kids made their own breakfast (usually cereal) because they went to work at 3am. Taking a week off work meant homelessness(1 year in France would be unthinkable).

In all fairness, I must also state that I have had several socially traumatizing events related to the topic that clouded my opinion. I think I have adequately adjusted the score. I hope so. :)

Also, last thought, constant snacking can sometimes be a symptom of health problems. It wouldn't hurt to check if you (or your child) always has the munchies. Speaking from experience, it's hard to regulate your eating habits and amounts if you're getting conflicting signals from your body.… (mehr)