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Pregnant Moms Fuel Child Obesity Risk? Pediatrician Says 'Yes'

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Much has been made recently about the soaring rate of child obesity in the U.S., but now one expert says that lifelong diet and nutrition habits begin as early as the womb.

Beverly Hills pediatrician Dr. Peter Waldstein tells KFWB's Maggie McKay there's now evidence that baby's food preference can be traced to the first six months of a baby's life, primarily coming from breast milk.

Human breast milk, which is perfectly designed for the building of infant brain tissue, has six times the essential fatty acids of cow's milk. Since it's the primary source of nutrition to the fetus, expectant mothers should take note of what they are eating during this period, as infants can develop allergies to foods passed on through breast milk.

(©2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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