Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Blog

Understanding Low Milk Supply: Causes, Signs, and Evidence-Based Solutions (Part 1)

an image of an infant sitting in a highchair, drinking formula or milk from a bottle

Introduction Early in the journey of parenthood, many breastfeeding parents worry that they are not making enough milk to nourish their baby. While concerns about low milk supply are not uncommon, true low milk supply itself is much less common than perceived low milk supply. Many normal newborn feeding behaviors, such as frequent nursing, cluster […]

Oat Milk vs Almond Milk

A carton of oat milk next to a carton of almond milk.

Understanding Milk Alternatives Milk alternatives have become increasingly popular among consumers for a variety of reasons, including lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, dietary preferences, and environmental concerns. Plant-based beverages such as oat milk and almond milk are now widely available in grocery stores and commonly used in coffee drinks, cereals, smoothies, and recipes. While these products […]

PCOS Is Now PMOS: Why Names Matter

An exam room at an OBGYN office.

In May 2026, the condition formerly known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was officially renamed to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). What is PMOS (formerly PCOS)? PMOS is a condition that affects over 170 million women worldwide and is linked to hormonal dysregulation in the body. The exact cause is unknown but is linked to […]

Maternal Mental Health and Breastfeeding: Common Perinatal Mental Health Disorders (PART 2)

Maternal mental health is a nuanced topic involving many diverse factors which shapes different outcomes from woman to woman. Women with maternal mental health concerns should practice gentle care with themselves to support themselves and their babies. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank Introduction Part one of this maternal mental health series introduced the perinatal mental […]

Maternal Mental Health and Breastfeeding: Understanding the Perinatal Mental Health Landscape (PART 1)

Maternal mental health is a nuanced topic involving many diverse factors which shapes different outcomes from woman to woman. Women with maternal mental health concerns should practice gentle care with themselves to support themselves and their babies. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank Introduction Maternal mental health during the perinatal period, defined as the time spanning […]

Ask a CLC Blog- Infant Feeding and Sleep

Newborn feeding and sleep can be quite a mystery for new parents. Both are essential for infant wellbeing and are closely connected. In this article, we will look at the connection between infant feeding and sleep, patterns and cues to watch for, the importance of safe sleep, and the power of a bedtime routine. How […]

Ask a CLC Blog: Supportive Nutrition for Breastfeeding Moms

Introduction Postpartum maternal nutrition is a cornerstone of breastfeeding success. Breastfeeding and lactation increase a new mother’s energy and nutrient requirements, not only to produce breastmilk, but also to support her body and health during recovery from childbirth. Adequate nutrition influences the quantity of breast milk and ensures that infants receive the essential nutrients required […]

Guidelines for Proper Breast Milk Expression, Storage, and Handling

Breast milk provides complete nutrition for infants, whether a baby feeds directly at the breast or is given expressed milk. Breast milk expression is the process of removing milk using hands or a breast pump, and may be medically necessary in some situations. Premature birth, certain medical conditions, or periods of separation all may warrant […]

Ask a CLC Blog: Breastfeeding Basics

Introduction  Breastfeeding offers many benefits for both a mother and her baby. Along with being a complete source of nutrients for the baby, breastfeeding is also associated with improved health outcomes for mothers. While the benefits are clear, many new mothers face challenges when beginning their breastfeeding journey. Offering any amount of breastmilk is beneficial, […]

Understanding RSV: How to Protect Your Family and Community

Discuss RSV prevention with your provider to stay one step ahead. Image Credit: RHN Team Picture Bank What is RSV? Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms and does not usually cause severe illness in healthy adults and children. However, […]