Let me start off by saying, where does Angelina Jolie get the energy to run around with all those kids and look so good all the time?  She just had twins a couple of months ago, and already she has resumed her position as the queen of magazine covers.  She looked fantastic all dolled up on the cover of Star Magazine (in spite of their tummy tuck claim), and looks just as stunning all dressed down on the cover of this month’s W magazine. It’s so unfair (*sigh*) but good for her!

Apparently, the W cover is causing a little controversy due to the fact that Angelina is breastfeeding, but I think it’s great that she’s at least helping start a conversation about public breastfeeding.  It’s inspired me to do a run-down of great breastfeeding gear:

Evenflo Elan Complete Automatic Dual Breast Pump System: This breast pump system even comes with a picture frame, so Angelina can look at a photo of her brood every time she wants to pump and store milk.

Baby Nursing Swimsuit: The nursing swimsuit will come in handy at the pool or whatever tropical beach Angelina finds herself on next week.

MoBoleez Breastfeeding Bonnets: Breastfeeding bonnets are a great alternative for moms who don’t want to lug around a nursing blanket.  I could see this bonnet being ideal for moms who travel as much as Angelina.

My eyes have been opened to a WHOLE new world in the past 24 hours: breastfeeding fathers.  When I stumbled upon Milkmen: Fathers Who Breastfeed, I had a hard time believing it was even possible for men to breastfeed.  But I did a little research, and apparently it’s not only legitimate, it’s becoming somewhat popular (even though the baby in the above photo looks as confused as I am by the process.)

So, to assist dads who may be interested in exploring the possibilities of breastfeeding, here are some suggestions:

Avent ISIS iQ DUO Twin Electronic Breast Pump: I think this would be great, because it allows both parents to pump at the same time, if necessary.  Or, dads on the go can pump both of their own breasts at once.

Fenugreek seed has been used for centuries to promote lactation in women.  Maybe it can work for guys who want to breastfeed too.

The “My Wife’s Too Lazy to Bottlefeed” line of shirts from The Lactivist are perfect for breastfeeding dads.

Put the baby bottles away and try breast feeding to help increase baby’s IQ. That’s the latest news on MSN Health & Fitness. This is great news, since I have a lot of pregnant friends and relatives, and I have been trying to think of good gift ideas that are BPA-free, lead-free or otherwise harmless to mother and child. This article got me thinking about things like: breast pumps, nursing pads, nursing pillows, breast milk storage and breast shells. I am really intrigued by the Medela Pump in Style Advance Breast Pump with Backpack and I think it will most likely be the next gift I purchase for a mom-to-be.

Links for more information on breastfeeding and breast pumps:

• Got Breast Pump!
• FamilyDoctor.org: Breast Milk: How to Pump and Store It
• Breastfeeding.com
• Women’s Health.gov: Breastfeeding–Best for Baby. Best for Mom.
• March of Dimes: Breastfeeding: Strategies for Success