View report page

136
is especially fatal to those who are being artificially fed. To
wean babies during these months involves a serious risk.
HEALTH OF THE MOTHER.
The quality of the breast milk is greatly affected by the
health and habits of the mother. The mother should obtain as
much fresh air as possible, and when strong enough should take
moderate exercise. Avoid hot and stuffy rooms.
The diet will, of course, be controlled largely by the
means of the parents. Where possible it should consist
chiefly of milk, oatmeal porridge, assisted by eggs, fish, potatoes
and beef. Avoid alcoholic beverages, they are not required, and
often affect the quality of the milk. Weak tea with plenty of milk is
allowable, but tea and coffee in excess must be avoided. Raw
fruits, pastry and highly-seasoned foods must also be avoided.
Avoid drugs as much as possible daring the nursing
period. When taken by the mother, many drugs show traces
in the milk.
ARTIFICIAL FEEDING.
If breast feeding is impossible artificial feeding must be
adopted. The food given must resemble as nearly as possible
human milk. In towns we have to rely on cows' milk for
artificial feeding.
The milk supplied to towns must travel several miles.
It is liable to contamination from many sources, and may undergo
changes before it reaches the home. It is frequently a day or
more old before it is used.
Contamination may occur by improper storage in the
home. Disease germs may enter the milk by various channels.
They quickly multiply and render the milk dangerous for food.