The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides a monthly food package to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum mothers, infants, and children up to age 5 who are considered nutritionally at-risk. Because this population is particularly vulnerable to the effects of lead in the body, good nutrition is even more important. Many foods that are sources of the key nutrients are available through the WIC food package.
In addition, personalized nutrition education is a key part of WIC’s services. Participants receive coaching strategies to optimize nutrition for themselves and their families through one-on-one sessions in person or on the phone, online seminars, and/or group education sessions. This is an excellent opportunity to provide information and strategies to participants on how to use nutrition as a tool to mitigate the effects of lead in the body.