IRS says breastfeeding expenses are tax write-offs.

Breastfeeding is easier on the planet because formula takes energy to produce, transport, and it wastes space in landfills. Not to mention that breastfeeding is the most natural means of giving your baby the best possible start. Michelle Obama even promoted breastfeeding as a means of reducing childhood obesity down the line. And most recently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced tax breaks for breastfeeding moms.

The IRS recently announced “that expenses paid for breast pumps and supplies that assist lactation are deductible medical expenses.” An article in Forbes recently reported that the American Academy of Pediatrics advocated for the change in a letter to IRS Commissioner Douglas Shulman last year.

According to the New York Times and reported on Civil Eats, this is in line with Michelle Obama’s recent promotion of breastfeeding as a part of her Let’s Move Campaign.

Mrs. Obama told reporters this month that she would promote breast-feeding, particularly among black women, as part of her campaign to reduce childhood obesity. The Internal Revenue Service then announced that breast pumps, which can cost several hundred dollars, would be eligible for tax breaks.

Breastfeeding is also beneficial for the baby because breastfed babies are less likely to be plagued with ear infections, gas, constipation, asthma, allergies, obesity, and high blood pressure later in life. For some of us, it’s just not an option but for those that can, breast is best for a reason.

 Via Treehugger