Nutrition Services

Breastfeeding - Learn about the new Kentucky Breastfeeding law, KRS 211.755 that protects mothers and babies. You will also find information about the advantages of breastfeeding and breastfeeding basics.

CDC Obesity Grant - reversing the current epidemic of physical inactivity and poor nutrition choices

Healthy Lifestyles - information for pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women on improving their lifestyle

Medical Nutrition Therapy - Locate a dietitian to discuss tips and menu ideas. Learn about laws and regulations for the dietetics profession.

Kentucky WIC FIT - Find out about books, games and songs to use with your children to provide nutrition and physical activity tips. Other information includes manuscripts and an award-winning video concerning nutrition counseling.

WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (WICFMNP)

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) - If you are pregnant, have just had a baby, are breastfeeding a baby or have a child younger than 5, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) could help you.

The Nutrition Services Branch administers the federally funded Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC Program) that provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding information, when appropriate and referral for intensive care to low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children at nutritional risk. 

Studies have shown that pregnant women who participate in WIC have fewer premature births, fewer low birth weight babies and seek prenatal care earlier. Breastfeeding promotion is a component of the WIC Program. For mothers, breastfeeding reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer. For the infant, breastfeeding protects against infectious diseases and is related to decreased obesity and lower rates of childhood cancer and asthma.

Nutritionists in local health departments provide medical nutrition therapy (individual intensive nutrition counseling) and community nutrition programs such as Choose 1% or Less.   Additionally, this sub-program provides oversight for a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant for a statewide Obesity, Nutrition and Physical Activity Program to decrease the incidence of obesity. The program has developed the Kentucky Nutrition and Physical Activity State Action Plan.  Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy diet can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.