Under a proposed new rule published in today's Federal Register, the amount of fish available to nursing mothers in the Women Infants and Children nutrition program would increase from 26 ounces per month to 30 ounces per month.

Babies in the Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) nutrition program will get a developmental boost, thanks to an increase in the amount of fish the program will provide to nursing mothers.

When pregnant and nursing mothers eat fish, its multiple benefits are passed along to their developing babies. Fish is, quite literally, "brain food," rich in nutrients that boost brain development and nerve functioning. It is also heart-healthy, rich in nutrients and among the highest quality sources of lean protein, providing health benefits for both mothers and their nursing children.

The science on fish's many benefits continues to grow, and the proposal to expand allowances for canned tuna in the WIC program means that nursing women can more fully realize its proven health benefits.

Likewise, the continued emphasis on fruits and vegetables in the proposed new food list will go far in improving the nutritional value of the diets of women and children in the program, adding valuable vitamins, minerals and, importantly, fiber.

America's low-income mothers and children will be better off as a result of the increased allowances for canned tuna and other fish, and the continued emphasis on fruits and vegetables.

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