Bringing us up

At the end of an incredibly busy week, I spend an indulgent hour curled up reading. The latest issue of Mothering magazine is on top of the pile, and I dive in. The news blurbs tell me that that stodgiest of institutions, the American Academy of Pediatrics published an article showing a link between in-utero exposure to an insecticide and sub-par mental and motor development, as well an an increased risk of behavior problems. The chemical studied, chlorpyritos, is banned for residential use, but still in use in commercial farming operations. It strikes me that since the study focuses on urban dwellers, we're talking about a lot of kids, since it's unlikely they grow their own.

I read in the paper (online--save a tree!) that pregnant women are reeling in the wake of a new study that indicates that women who don't eat fish during pregnancy may be doing a disservice to their progeny's brain development. But wait--another study says that they should avoid fish, due to the high concentrations of mercury. Different articles have different lists of fish that have relatively lower mercury levels, to the point that what's safe on one list may be listed as unsafe on another.

I have to laugh at some studies: my particular favorite was one from Emory University that came out when Number One Son was an infant, saying that they had verified that children do indeed grow in spurts, usually while sleeping.

When faced with all this information, what are parents to do? Likewise, do we really need a study to verify what is painfully obvious to any parent who has had a tot outgrow their pajamas overnight? And why on earth must we prove the harm in spraying food destined to be consumed by children?

If we look backwards a bit, we may find solace in the wisdom of ages. Traditions tell us how to eat, how to sleep, how to behave in a social manner. Biology, which we arrogantly push aside in favor of the new god science, must be heard. We may poke fun at the stereotypical cravings of pregnant women, but wise women know to trust their bodies. I was fortunate to have midwives who supported us. I gave in to my cravings and aversions, different as they were with each child: I ate mac & cheese daily with Number One, and had the occasional glass of wine; for Little One, only tempura would do (lots of shrimp, very greasy), and I couldn't stand the sight of tortilla chips.

Pregnancy and parenthood is work, yes, but it should be a time of joy. Our focus on the material is making it a minefield of hazards, both real and perceived. Worse, we are watching, waiting: one false step, and society crashes down the gavel of judgment.

Let us instead celebrate these people who have decided to build our future, these brave women who are just beginning their voyage, by feeding them well. If we can't pass up enriching the bottom line for our own sake, then we should clean up our act for them. Let's feed all children, and all parents, and while we're at it, everyone, good, clean food.