Friday, April 24, 2015

Protein and Your Baby's Diet

Protein plays a very important part in your baby's growth and development - so let's take a closer look at this valuable nutrient and tell you more about the best sources of protein for your little one.

What exactly IS protein - and how is it used by the body?

The easiest way to describe protein is as a 'chain' of amino acids that are linked together.
The human body needs 22 amino acids, but is only able to make 13 of them. The other nine must come from food and are known as 'Essential Amino Acids'.
When your baby eats food containing protein, it is digested in his stomach and absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract.
The amino acids into which it is broken down are then used in a multitude of functions throughout his body - in skin, hair, bone, muscle and just about every tissue - and the body also uses protein to produce hemoglobin that carries oxygen in his blood.

How much protein does my baby need?

Infancy is, of course, a time of rapid growth and development - so it is important to ensure that your little one receives enough protein to support this growth.
However...
Protein deficiency in the developed world is very rare and a sensible, balanced diet provides all the protein that the human body requires. The fact is that most people consume more protein than their bodies actually need!
It is important to remember that your baby's primary source of nutrition throughout his first year is breast milk or formula - from which he will receive protein.
Once solid foods are introduced - and your baby's consumption of breast milk / formula begins to decrease - then you should slowly begin to offer him a balanced diet containing legumes, cereal, vegetables, eggs, dairy etc which will provide plenty of protein.
You should not, however, give your baby a high-protein diet unless specifically advised to do so by a medical professional.
The reason for this is that the human body does not store excess protein. Instead, the body breaks it down, producing by-products that must be eliminated via the urine.
This process puts a great deal of strain on your baby's immature kidneys.
This is why it is best to serve high protein foods (like meat) in combination with other foods, rather than serving larger quantities alone.
Remember - because your baby's body does not store protein, a little is needed every day. That's why it is preferable to offer small amount of foods containing protein on a daily basis, rather than offering large amounts all at once.
As a basic guide...
If your baby's growth rate is normal (which your pediatrician will confirm using growth charts), then he is generally receiving adequate amounts of protein.

What are complete and incomplete proteins?

Complete proteins (also known as whole proteins) contain all nine of the 'Essential Amino Acids' that we mentioned earlier in this article.
Incomplete proteins contain some - but not all - of these Essential Amino Acids. As you'll see from the protein sources listed below, most animal sources of protein are complete.
Whilst certain plant sources of food contain complete proteins, most do not.

So does this mean that babies following a vegetarian diet are at risk of protein deficiency?
No - because it's possible for baby to receive all the amino acids he needs from a variety of sources of incomplete proteins. In other words, the amino acids lacking in one food will be compensated by those present in another.
Combining two or more sources of incomplete proteins will make up a complete protein, providing baby with all the amino acids he needs.
Experts used to believe that - in order to effectively combine various incomplete proteins to provide the full component of Essential Amino Acids - those following a vegetarian diet should eat a variety of plant sourcesat one meal.
But recommendations have changed and research has shown that this is no longer necessary. Instead, medical professionals now advise that vegetarians can receive complete proteins by consuming a variety of plant foods within a period of 24 hours.

High protein foods include meat, fish, cheese, tofu, beans, lentils, yogurt, nuts, and seeds.



Read more:http://www.homemade-baby-food-recipes.com/protein-foods-for-baby.html#ixzz3Xq4XEyPU


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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Braxton Hicks

Before "true" labor begins, you may have "false" labor pains. These are also known as Braxton Hicks contractions. They are your body's way of getting ready for the real thing -- the day you give birth -- but they are not a sign that labor has begun or is getting ready to begin.
Some women describe Braxton Hicks contractions as tightening in the abdomen that comes and goes. Many women say these “false” contractions feel like mild menstrual cramps. Braxton Hicks contractions may be uncomfortable, but they do not cause labor or open the cervix.
Unlike true labor, Braxton Hicks contractions:
Are usually not painful
Don’t happen at regular intervals
Don’t get closer together
Don’t increase when you walk
Do not last longer as they go on
Do not feel stronger over time
You may feel Braxton Hicks contractions during the third trimester or as early as your second trimester. They are perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
If you’re having Braxton Hicks contractions, you really don't need to do anything. If they’re making you uncomfortable:
Take a walk. False labor contractions often stop when you change position or get up and move.
Get some sleep or rest.
Relax by taking a warm bath or by listening to music.
Get a massage.
How Do Braxton Hicks Compare to True Labor Contractions?
To figure out if the contractions you are feeling are the real thing and you're going into labor, ask yourself the following questions.
How often do the contractions happen?
False Labor: Contractions are often irregular and don’t get closer together.
True Labor: Contractions come at regular intervals and last about 30-70 seconds. As time goes on, they get closer together and stronger.
Do they change when you move?
False Labor: Contractions may stop when you walk or rest, or may even stop if you change positions.
True Labor: Contractions continue despite how you move or change positions. They also continue when you try to rest.
How strong are they?
False Labor: Contractions are usually weak and don't get much stronger. Or they may be strong at first and then get weaker.
True Labor: Contractions get steadily stronger and stronger.
Where do you feel the pain?
False Labor: You usually feel it only in the front of your abdomen or pelvis.
True Labor: Contractions are more intense and may start in your lower back and move to the front of your abdomen. Or they may start in your abdomen and move to your back.

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Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Relaxation Techniques During Pregnancy

While pregnancy can be one of the most joyous times in your life, it can also be one of the most stressful. So many unknowns, so many questions and concerns. Hopefully this blog will provide you with ways to relax during pregnancy. Some of this may need to be discussed with your physician before trying it.

  • Rest and Focus on Your Baby
Take time out to focus on your bump. Chat with your bump, sing to your bump, read to your bump. Listen to your body. If you feel exhausted, lay down and take a nap if possible. If you can't, then at least take a 5-10 minute rest break and have a seat. 

  • Talk About Stress
If you are concerned about your baby, discuss it with your physician or midwife. Don't be embarrassed or afraid to ask questions. That is what they are here for. Also, talk to your partner about how you are feeling. Even if they aren't the most rational or logical feelings, they are still your feelings and they matter. Seek out other Mom's to discuss your concerns with. There are many Facebook groups, such as ours (Motherhood and Beyond), that have many Mom's that will have the same concerns or issues you have. There will be some that have already been through what you are going through numerous times and they will be able to offer support and advice.

  • Eat Well

Eating well is good for your mind as well as your body. A healthy diet of omega-3 essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, can lift your mood. 

The omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish and seafood may help to reduce depression. Try to have two portions of oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, pilchards and trout, a week. 

It's thought that the essential amino acid tryptophan can boost your mood. Tryptophan helps to raise levels of the brain chemicals melatonin and serotonin. Melatonin and serotonin help you to sleep well and boost your feelings of well-being.

Your body can't make tryptophan, so the only way to get it is from what you eat. Tryptophan is found in nuts and seeds, which are easy to snack on, as well as fresh turkey and chicken, fish, eggs, yoghurt and cheese.

Keep an eye on how much water you're drinking, as dehydration may affect your mood. Dehydration can also make you more prone to headaches. Aim for six to eight glasses (about 1.5 litres) of fluid a day. 
  • Exercise
Exercise can help improve your mood. If you were not exercising previously, make it gentle exercises. Swimming is a good exercise to begin. It helps keep you toned and is not harsh on the joints. If you can't get to a pool, try a 20 minute walk every day. Pregnancy Yoga also keeps you toned and stretches the body. It also teaches you breathing, relaxation, and meditation techniques. If you are desk bound at work, get up and walk around as often as you can. Step outside at lunch for some fresh air. 

  • Prepare for Birth
Learn more about what happens during labour by signing up for antenatal classes. You can also take free online antenatal classes with BabyCentre. 

If you're having a planned caesarean, talk to your midwife or obstetrician about what will happen on the day. Drawing up a caesarean birth plan can help you feel more confident and in control.

If you are having your baby in hospital or at a birth centre, you may be able to visit the delivery suite beforehand. If a real tour is not an option, an online tour should be available. Knowing what to expect from the place where you will have your baby can set your mind at rest. It will also help you to draw up your birth plan.

If your fear of birth is so overwhelming that you would rather have a caesarean than a vaginal birth, talk to your midwife or doctor. The right support may help you to overcome your doubts.

  • Coping With Commuting
Commuting can be a major source of stress, and it gets worse the more heavily pregnant you are.

Ask your employer if you can avoid rush hours, perhaps starting and finishing earlier than usual. This can be done as part of the risk assessment that your employer has a legal duty to carry out and review throughout your pregnancy. 

Make sure you always sit down on public transport. If you are not offered a seat, ask for one. Some train operators offer first-class seats to pregnant season-ticket holders, if standard-class carriages are full. 

In London, pregnant women who use the underground are entitled to priority seats and can wear a baby-on-board badge to let other passengers know they need a seat. Don't feel embarrassed. Most people are more than willing to give up their seats, they just need reminding!
  • Reflexology
Reflexology is a therapy based on the notion that areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas and organs of the body. Reflexology is used to treat symptoms in many parts of your body by using fingertip pressure on specific areas on your feet primarily, and sometimes on your hands as well. The idea is that this pressure allows blocked energy to flow freely, which increases blood flow to the corresponding part of your body and an uptick in the removal of toxic wastes.

Reflexology is most often used to treat the aches and pains in your back and joints that accompany your expanding belly. But that is not all it can treat. It can also help with morning sickness, heartburn, swelling in your legs (if not due to pre-eclampsia), constipation, high blood pressure (again, as long as it appears without the other symptoms of pre-eclampsia), insomnia, bladder problems, mild cramping, and even hemorrhoids. In addition, reflexology seems to reduce emotional stresses, such as depression and anxiety. Reflexology may even be helpful after you give birth — some studies show it stimulates milk production.

As with almost any alternative therapy, you should consult your practitioner before you begin reflexology treatments, and you should be sure that your reflexologist has been properly trained and has experience working with pregnant women.
As in the case with prenatal massage, some reflexologists prefer to wait until you are out of your first trimester before they will work on you. And there are certain complications for which reflexology is specifically not recommended. Talk to your practitioner and your reflexologist; good reflexologists will not work on you unless they're sure that they won't cause you or your baby any harm.
Finally, be aware: Reflexologists often work the area between your ankle and heel to stimulate labor and contractions. Unless you're packed and ready to head for the hospital, make sure that your reflexologist — or, for that matter, any massage therapist you might see — avoids stimulating this area for any length of time.
  • Meditation
Meditation is an assortment of alternative therapies that rely on breathing, muscle relaxation, and guided imagery to develop a positive outlook on pregnancy and soothe the mind and body. Deep relaxation techniques, meditation, and visualization can help you cope with a variety of physical and emotional stresses during pregnancy, enabling you to relax and focus your concentration, reduce stress, lower your blood pressure, and enhance your peace of mind.
  • Deep breathing: Short of getting a daily massage, one of the most effective ways to ease muscle tension, lower your heart rate, and help you fall asleep is to breathe deeply and rhythmically. Try this: Lie down on the floor or on your bed with your feet shoulder-width apart. (After the second trimester or if you're uncomfortable lying on your back, rest on your side with a pillow between your legs for support.) Breathe slowly through your nose, keeping your mouth closed. Be conscious of your stomach rising as you gradually fill your lungs and diaphragm with air, then hold for one second before exhaling through your nose to the count of four.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation: This technique may take a couple of weeks to master, but once you do, you'll be glad you did. It's like a natural sleeping pill, which you'll really appreciate as your pregnancy progresses and a good night's sleep becomes more and more elusive. Here's how to do it: Lie down on your bed or on the floor and tense your muscles completely…then let them totally relax. Focus on one muscle group at a time and alternate between the left and right side of your body. One possible route is to start by tensing and releasing your hand and forearm muscles, followed by your triceps and biceps, then your face, chest and shoulders, stomach, legs, and finally, your feet.
  • Guided imagery: Remember when you were little and your mom told you to close your eyes and think of nice things whenever you got scared? Well, this is pretty similar. Just picture yourself in a place you find peaceful or relaxing — a tropical beach, a flower-filled meadow, or wherever your own private bliss may be. Next imagine every detail of that place, from the sounds to the smells and everything in between. An alternative to this technique is to think of an image from a magazine or photograph and fill in every detail in your mind. Visualization takes some practice, but once you get it, you'll find it's a great way to quiet your mind, ease your tension, and help you drift off to sleep.

  • Herbal Therapy
Herbal therapy is a form of holistic medicine that uses natural herbs for their healing powers. Believe it or not, there's an herb for almost anything that ails you during pregnancy. Dealing with morning sickness? Herbalists say you should try some chamomile as soon as you get up in the morning or a tincture of ginger three times a day. Want to get your body ready for labor? Red raspberry leaf is a uterine tonic that's full of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, and is said to be the best thing you can do to ready your muscles for the contractions you're about to face. Alfalfa provides you with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, which you need for blood clotting. Rose hips are said to help you fight infection and exhaustion at the same time.
Other herbs are considered to be more-general, overall tonics. Nettles, for instance, are said to be able to take care of almost any problem you might encounter, from strengthening your kidneys to getting rid of leg cramps to shrinking hemorrhoids.
Some of medicine's most effective — and potentially lethal — medications were derived from herbs. Just because something is a "natural" or herbal therapy does not mean that it is safe. You should take herbal medicines just as seriously as you take prescription medications. In other words, never take any herbal remedies — not even in the form of teas or powders — without first talking to your practitioner.
Even without an expert's advice, there are certain herbs any pregnant woman needs to avoid because they might cause premature labor or birth defects, or otherwise prove toxic to you or your baby. Just a few of these include:
  • Uterine stimulants like aloe, barberry, black cohosh, blue cohosh, dong quai, feverfew, goldenseal, juniper, and wild yam
  • Herbs that might be linked to birth defects, such as autumn crocus, mugwort (safe for moxibustion, not for ingestion), pokeroot, and sassafras
  • Herbs that have other toxic effects, such as comfrey and mistletoe
Again, if you are unsure about a particular herbal remedy, consult your ob-gyn or midwife before taking it. And keep in mind that the companies that produce herbal pills and supplements are not regulated in the same way as are drug companies. That means that the strength and quality of the herbs you get may vary from package to package. Do your research. Buy only from companies you know you can trust with your life — and that of your baby.
  • Hydrotherapy
Basically, any massage treatment using water counts as hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is particularly effective during pregnancybecause the body's physiological response to water helps improve your circulation, ease your aching back (and feet, knees, you name it), ease the pain of labor and delivery, and generally make you a happier gal.
Depending on your symptoms, there is a variety of ways to harness the power of water. Soaking in a warm tub is one of them. During labor, spraying your face with cold water will help you concentrate and stay calm. A cold compress on your neck will help you breathe more steadily and deeply and decrease exhaustion. A warm compress placed on the lower back can help your pelvic muscles relax between contractions.
Some women believe so deeply in the power of hydrotherapy that they choose to spend much of their labor immersed in water, and some even deliver their babies there. One reason that water works so well is that floating eases pressure on your spine, helping the pelvis to open. Once you're in the tub (or a special birthing pool, if you're lucky) you no longer need to concentrate on your posture — your body is decompressed, which helps minimize the pain of contractions. Plus, if you give birth underwater, there's less stress on your perineum, even if tearing occurs.
No hot tubs during pregnancy — and no hot-hot water at all for that matter. It's important to keep your body temperature in a safe range — think soothingly warm, not blisteringly hot, when it comes to your bathwater.
And while hydrotherapy is fine for almost any pregnant woman, delivering underwater may not be. As long as you're healthy and have no complications, this option shouldn't be a problem; talk to your practitioner if a water birth appeals to you to make sure there are no medical objections. If you get the green light, do some research on how and where to take your delivery dip.

There are many different relaxation tips and techniques out there. This just touches on a few of them. AS WITH ANYTHING, CHECK WITH YOUR OBGYN BEFORE TRYING ANY OF THESE ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES!!!!!!
Sources: BabyCentre and What to Expect
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Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Thrush During Pregnancy – 11 Tips To Fight Thrush

   Thrush is unfortunately more common when you’re pregnant, leaving many pregnant women wondering how to get rid of it as soon and as safely as possible. If you have thrush during pregnancy, this article will help you to understand how thrush can be safely prevented and treated. You’ll also find out why thrush is more common during pregnancy – and how you can prevent getting thrush long term. Thrush During Pregnancy – What Causes It? Candida albicans is the microscopic fungus which is responsible for most cases of thrush. Normally, this organism is found in the intestinal tract of men and women. It’s where all cases of thrush originate from, no matter where it appears on the body. Nearly one out of three women have candida albicans present in their vagina. This becomes a problem when the number of bad bacteria outgrow the good bacteria. It’s a battle of bacteria, and the side with the most soldiers wins. During pregnancy, the vagina becomes rich in a form of glucose named ‘glycogen’, which feeds the growth of candida albicans. It’s believed the higher levels of glycogen occurs due to increased oestrogen levels and reduced acidity in the vagina. This is why pregnant women are much more likely to get vaginal thrush than normal. Add to that a poor diet (especially if you have terrible morning sickness and unhealthy cravings) and any stress, it can be an open invitation for thrush. Other things which can kill good probiotic bacteria include: Antibiotics Birth control pills Steroidal/hormonal drugs Coffee/tea/carbonated drinks Synthetic vitamins Radiation Stress Additives Pesticides Fertilisers However a major cause of thrush is an unhealthy diet and lifestyle. A diet high in sugars, artificial sweetener, caffeine and grains can cause havoc with the good bacteria in your body, allowing bad bacteria to thrive. Symptoms Of Thrush Increased cervical fluid production is common during pregnancy. You may have already noticed a thin, milky discharge which is a result of your body’s hormones doing their job. If the discharge becomes thick, white and creamy — like cottage cheese — and if you have itching in your vaginal area, you may have thrush. Some women notice a stinging or burning sensation on the labia during urination. Others experience pain or burning during sexual intercourse. It’s important to have these problems checked out by a midwife or doctor, to ensure nothing else is going on. Sometimes what you may assume are symptoms of thrush can actually be something more sinister, especially if you’re having trouble getting rid of it. Bacterial vaginosis or STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) can have the same thrush-like symptoms. The only way you can be sure is to have a swab test performed by your carer. Don’t feel embarrassed if you have any of these conditions – in the United States, around 30% of women aged 14-49 have bacterial vaginosis at any one time. You can have bacterial vaginosis without being symptomatic, so it can be hard to pinpoint when it began. But just like thrush, this happens when the good bacteria have been depleted and they are replaced by potentially harmful bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is often accompanied with a fishy odour (which can understandably be very embarrassing or distressing for women), and its important to note that those who have bacterial vaginosis are also at higher risk of pre-term labour. So while vaginal bacterial imbalances are fairly common problem, its best prevented and kept under control as described below. How Do I Prevent Thrush? Prevention is much better than cure, but chances are that you’re reading this because you already have thrush. Thrush can be kept under control or prevented by a change in diet and lifestyle. Obviously, the more you change, the better and quicker results you will get. Once you fix up what’s going into your body, good quality, regular probiotics are essential to keep on top of it. You can purchase probiotics that are especially beneficial for the female reproductive system (more details below). Over the counter or pharmaceutical preparations may help your case of thrush fairly quickly. They usually take a few days to kick in, but its important to know that it’s only fixing a symptom of an underlying problem. If you don’t address the root cause, you may find thrush or other infections reoccurring. Some over the counter preparations are no longer working for some women. This further strengthens the argument to look at the root cause of the imbalance — which is in your gut. Vaginal Thrush and Probiotics Many people are familiar with probiotics like acidophilus, but what most people don’t know is that the many strains of probiotics all have their own unique functions. They don’t all do the same thing. In the 1980’s, Dr. Gregor Reid and Dr. Andrew Bruce discovered two lactobacillus strains, L. rhamnosus (GR-1™) and L. reuteri (RC-14®). These two strains have been shown to be very beneficial for improving the health of the urinary system and the vagina. They help to restore normal vaginal microflora, particularly in women with bacterial vaginosis. As a result, there have been over 20 published clinical trials and over 200 peer-reviewed publications documenting these benefits when taking these probiotics orally. I have included a presentation by Dr. Gregor Reid at the end of this article, which you’ll get some great information from, helping you to successfully prevent and treat thrush. There are many probiotic preparations on the market, usually found in health food stores or pharmacies. Probiotics are usually stored in the fridge because they are a live bacteria. So you will likely need to ask for it as it won’t be on the shelf. However, its important to remember that different strains of probiotics have different properties, so you can’t just grab that bottle of acidophilus and expect miracles. You also need to ensure you purchase a good quality probiotic in adequate amounts. Many probiotic products are being sold that are not sufficient enough to have a noticeable health benefit. Probiotics are often added into dairy food products, like drinks, yoghurts etc. However, the manufacturers often don’t test their products to see how effective they are. The problem isn’t to do with how much probiotic they have added into the product, but what amount is left at the end of the shelf life. Don’t waste money on products that wont help – choose a good, effective probiotic from a naturopath or trusted health food store, who can help with advice on the best brands to take. Thrush Treatments Thankfully, there are lots of natural remedies you can use to treat thrush that are safe in pregnancy. Please note that douching is absolutely not recommended – do not douche or you may further upset the flora balance in your vagina, as you’ll not only wash away the bad bacteria but the good bacteria too. Thrush Treatments – Over The Counter Remedies If you are in your first trimester, your carer will be least likely to want to prescribe you something for thrush. However, if you are able to choose a pharmaceutical solution, be aware that it may solve the problem for you, yet some specific products may not be as effective. For example, if you get no relief from Canesten, it doesn’t mean that another brand like Nilstat won’t work. They have slightly different ingredients, so it may be a matter of finding what works at the time. If nothing seems to be working (and you’ve ruled out other health issues with your doctor) or if you really want to target the root cause of thrush, you need to look at your diet and lifestyle choices. If you aren’t eating as well as you should (and throw in there an already lowered immune system, little exercise and added stress), your body isn’t going to be able to fight infections as well as it normally would. If you don’t make changes to your diet and lifestyle, then you could be headed for a long battle with thrush. Boost your immune system by eating lots of fresh vegetables in a variety of colours, dark leafy green salads, some fruit (not too much!), protein, good fats (e.g. found in foods like avocado, coconut oil, chia seeds, eggs and fish) and other omega rich foods. I love making up delicious salads with baby spinach leaves as the base, with either chicken or tuna, avocado, tomato, sesame seeds, sometimes cubed roasted sweet potato (cooked in coconut oil) and I drizzle either a tablespoon of greek yoghurt or a mix of 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. Its so yummy and filling and so very healthy! Replacing cooking oils with organic virgin coconut oil is very beneficial, because coconut oil is a anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral – its a brilliant health food. You can take it orally and it can even be used as a healthy, safe lubricant – but be aware that if you have sex while you have thrush, you could pass it onto your partner. Thrush Treatments – Self Help & Natural Remedies If you’d like to try some natural, or self help remedies, here are 11 things to try: Thrush Self Help Tip #1: Natural Yogurt Natural yoghurt contains a probiotic called acidophilus. However, the level of probiotics in yoghurt is quite low, so it can take a little more time to help, which can be frustrating especially if itching is a problem. You can eat yoghurt if you like, however some women swear by inserting some plain natural yoghurt into their vagina, which gives them a sense of relief. You can soak a tampon in the yoghurt, insert into the vagina for 2 hours, then change for new one. Alternately you can lather your vaginal area with yoghurt and wear a pad. Make sure you choose a natural, organic yoghurt, instead of a flavoured sweet yoghurt which has little health benefit. Thrush Self Help Tip #2: Garlic (Internally)


Inserting a clove of garlic internally is one of the most effective, speedy ways to rid of thrush for many women. Read the full article on how to do this here: How To Treat a Vaginal Infection With a Clove of Garlic. Thrush Self Help Tip #3: Choose Cotton Underwear Avoid underwear that is tight or contains materials like lycra or other fabrics which reduce air circulation. Natural, breathable cotton underwear is best. Avoid underwear altogether when possible. Thrush Self Help Tip #4: Avoid Tight Pants Don’t wear jeans or trousers if possible – opt for skirts or other loosely fitting clothing. Thrush Self Help Tip #5: Keep Baths Short Candida albicans thrive in moist, warm environments so try to avoid long, hot baths and be sure to dry yourself properly afterwards. Do not use any bubblebath or any other artificial additives. Thrush Self Help Tip #6: Apple Cider Vinegar Apple cider vinegar as a soak in a bath and/or taken orally is a great way to balance your body’s pH level. This will only work if you buy ACV which is raw and unpasteurised, ideally unfiltered and organic. If the packaging says it has ‘the mother’ in it, buy it. Add one cup to your bath, or take 1-2 tablespoons daily (until the infection clears, not as a once off), which can be in a glass of water, on salads or in a cup of hot tea. If you need to use a little bit of honey to sweeten ACV this may help, but don’t use too much. Thrush Self Help Tip #7: Avoid Grains, Yeast and Processed Wheat Products Lots of women swear that yeast in their diet increases the growth of candida. It’s often present in iron tonic supplements, so check the list of ingredients when taking them. Grains broken down are effectively sugars, so cut them right back too. Thrush Self Help Tip #8: Boric Acid Capsules You will need to source these from a compounding chemist, however the usual recommended dose for vaginal thrush is 600mg inserted into the vagina each night, for 2 weeks. Many women have said that it works a charm for them. Thrush Self Help Tip #9: Cut Out Sugar Too much sugar in your diet can cause thrush, as well as a host of other diseases, so be sure to look at seriously amending your diet. Cut out soft drinks (even the low/no sugar foods and drinks, as they are full of artificial sweetener which is even worse for you), processed foods, pre-packages fruit juices, flavoured milks, sweets, breads and pastries – most of these are pretty obvious. You’d be surprised where sugar is hidden, so always read the labels. Sugar really plays havoc with your body’s health and thrush thrives in it. Thrush Self Help Tip #10: Choose Water Based Lubricant Avoid personal lubricants with glycerine in them – and do not use baby oil (petrochemical byproduct) or other synthetic oils which make it hard for your skin to breathe. Water based lubricant is much better for your body, and coconut oil is a brilliant natural lubricant. Thrush Self Help Tip #11: A Bit Of Sunshine Just as you’ll be advised as a treatment for nappy rash (which is often fungal based), exposure to the sun can help stop thrush in its tracks. Thrush thrives in dark, moist places. Lying in a private spot in the sun and giving yourself some sun time can help. Of course, be mindful not to do this for too long and burn in the sun. Can Thrush Hurt My Baby? If you have thrush when you go into labour, there is a small chance that your baby will catch it as he or she moves through the vagina. If a baby has thrush this is often seen as white patches in the baby’s mouth, but it isn’t serious and is easily treated. If your baby does get thrush in the mouth, this may be passed back to you through breastfeeding. This means that you can keep re-infecting each other, so it’s important to treat both of you at the same time. If you have nipple thrush, you may experience sore, tender nipples and a ‘shooting’ pain while breastfeeding your baby. The shooting pains may also occur after feeding, radiating from the nipple right through to the back of the breast. The pain can make your eyes water. Because it can create so much tension prior to feeding, it can make for an unpleasant experience — you may even want to give up breastfeeding. At the earliest signs of thrush, make sure you seek the services of a qualified lactation consultant (ideally an IBCLC – International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). Lactation consultants can come to your home and help identify any problems and diagnose any conditions, getting you back on the road to more pleasant feeding! You can locate Lactation Consultants through the following organisations: Australian Lactation Consultants Organisation Network of Australian Lactation Colleges National Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners Some Great Information Worth Watching Below is a presentation by Dr. Gregor Reid, Ph.D., MBA, who is a renowned probiotic researcher and the world’s leading expert in using clinically-documented probiotics to address women’s health concerns. This presentation is brilliant – it’s easy to follow and detailed, so you will understand probiotics much better, especially with regards to women’s health (including thrush and bacterial vaginosis). I very much enjoyed watching this and learning so much about this common problem, which is on the rise with current lifestyle habits. It’s been broken up into several chapters due to YouTube restrictions – enjoy! 

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Sunday, April 19, 2015

The difference between Picky eaters and not picky eaters

I have found out that there is a difference between picky eaters and normal eaters. Yes it may be called picky eaters but there is also other problems that are called Selective Eating Disorder or Fussy Eating.

For being a picky eater entails this: this is a duration for the ages of 18 months to 3 years old. For picky eaters they will accept 30 or more foods and they also have to choice and control of the food. Picky eaters prefers a specific type of food for a period of time. Usually by the age of 6 is when they should have outgrown it. Some children do not outgrow it and stay picky eaters. As far as I have read, there is no known medical conditions that is linked to picky eaters. Also another advise for picky eaters, let them come to the table hungry, they will eat until they are full. And also this is a normal part of development as they are discovering new foods, so do not be alarmed if your child likes certain foods one time, but a few weeks later they do not.

Now for Selective Eating Disorder(SED) that is a Medical Condition and can be linked to several medical conditions. For example OCD, ASD, food trauma, oral-motor delay, swallowing disorder, SPD, or gastrointestinal disorders. Basically this can be discovered from birth to age 4. Normally they accept less than 20 foods and they also have fear and anxiety of the food they are eating. Most of the time they reject entire food groups and that is mainly meat and vegetables. For this disorder they are often repulsed by the texture, taste, smell, and/or touching the food. This disorder can persist into adulthood and this disorder becomes very stressful and sometimes avoided. Even though with picky eaters on hunger, they will refuse unfamiliar foods despite they are hungry. And this is an eating disorder.

Fussy Eating: will reject certain foods one day but will gladly eat them the next meal. Sometimes this can turn into very angry meal time due to them liking the food one time, but not the next. As they get older, I would be firm and tell them that you like it, and need to eat your food. I know sounds harsh but you cant always feed them greasy, junk foods like McDonalds or Chocolate at every meal. That is not healthy whatsoever. Do not make separate meals, you eat as a family and if the kids adapt then that is a much happier meal and dont have struggles with the fussy eater stage.

In the end, be firm about your decision on food and dont give up. I have some helpful websites if anyone is interested. Now I think I am understanding my sons eating habits now.


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Saturday, April 18, 2015

Are you using the car seat correctly??

Alot of people do not understand how to use a car seat correctly! It is quite sad so I thought
I would just give a quick over view of it all! First of all, Newborns can be very tiny and they
can be very floppy! Instead of buying the very unsafe Head Supports and body supports(those
not only aren't safe but they void the car seat warranty) you can roll up some receiving blankets
and place it on either side of baby! That will help with the floppy baby syndrome that scares
many ladies! Having those receiving blankets can also make the baby feel more cozy since he/she
is already squished in the womb they like being cradled tight.

Next is the straps! Straps need to be at or below the shoulders for rear facing!
The Chest clip needs to be at nipple/ arm pit level! There is a reason it is a chest clip so please do not
place it on the belly! It is NOT a belly clip! I have also noticed parents just clipping the chest clip
and never securing the buckle. There is no such thing as I did a "good enough" job! This is your child's life! Lets take every precaution and just do it correctly! Taking the extra 2 seconds and securing the child in correctly will save that Baby's life!

Next we will talk about appropriate ages to turn a toddler from Rear Facing to Forward Facing! Most states laws say that you could turn a child at 1 year AND 20 pounds! New AAP car seat Guidlines state that you should keep a child in a rear facing seat till age of 2 minumum but have a goal to get the child to the age of 4! I know some are screaming at the screen," What about the legs? I don't want my daughter to be Bow Legged!" I only have one question for you.. How does your child sit most
the time? I doubt the child sits with their legs perfectly straight right out in front of them! They are usually always bent or sitting Indian Style! It has been proven that kids who are kept rear facing
longer say that they are more comfortable rear facing because they like to rest their little legs! All you have to do is type in Google Search Rear facing vs. Forwards facing and you will get hundreds of videos and about 532,000 results proving that Extended rear facing is so much better for them!









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Friday, April 17, 2015

Baby sleep advice

Some babies sleep much more than others. Some sleep for long periods, others in short bursts. Some soon sleep through the night and some don’t for a long time.
Your baby will have their own pattern of waking and sleeping, and it’s unlikely to be the same as other babies you know.
It’s also unlikely to fit in with your need for sleep. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps. If you’re breastfeeding, in the early weeks your baby is likely to doze off for short periods during a feed.
Carry on feeding until you think your baby has finished or until they’re fully asleep. This is a good opportunity to try to get a bit of rest yourself.
If you’re not sleeping at the same time as your baby, don’t worry about keeping the house silent while they sleep. It’s good to get your baby used to sleeping through a certain amount of noise.

How can I get my baby used to night and day being different?

It’s a good idea to teach your baby that night time is different to daytime from the start.
During the day, open curtains, play games and don't worry too much about everyday noises when they sleep.
At night, you might find it helpful to:
  • keep the lights down low
  • not talk much and keep your voice quiet
  • put your baby down as soon as they’ve been fed and changed
  • not change your baby unless they need it
  • not play with your baby
Soon, your baby will learn that night time is for sleeping.

Where should my baby sleep?

For the first six months your baby should be in the same room as you when they're asleep, both day and night. Particularly in the early weeks, you may find that your baby only falls asleep in your or your partner's arms, or when you're standing by the cot.
You can start getting your baby used to going to sleep without you comforting them by putting them down before they fall asleep or when they’ve just finished a feed.
It may be easier to do this once your baby starts to stay alert more frequently or for longer.

Is it important to have a routine for your baby from day one?

Newborn babies will sleep on and off throughout the day and night. It can be helpful to have a pattern, but you can always change the routine to suit your needs. For example, you could try waking your baby for a feed just before you go to bed in the hope that you’ll get a long sleep before they wake up again.

Establishing a baby bedtime routine

You may feel ready to introduce a bedtime routine when your baby is around three months old. Getting them into a simple, soothing bedtime routine can be helpful for everyone and can help prevent sleeping problems later on. It's also great one-to-one with your baby. The routine could consist of:
  • having a bath
  • changing into night clothes and a fresh nappy
  • brushing their teeth (if they have any!)
  • putting to bed
  • reading a bedtime story
  • dimming the lights in the room to create a calm atmosphere
  • giving a goodnight kiss and cuddle
  • singing a lullaby or having a wind-up musical mobile that you can turn on when you've put your baby to bed
Leave your baby still awake, happy and relaxed in their cot and they will learn how to fall asleep on their own. Try to avoid getting them to sleep by rocking or cuddling them in your arms. If they get used to falling asleep in your arms, they may need nursing back to sleep if they wake up again.
As your child gets older, it can be helpful to keep to a similar bedtime routine. Too much excitement and stimulation just before bedtime can wake your child up again. Spend some time winding down and doing some calmer activities, like reading. 

Avoid bedtime feasts for your baby

Leave a little time between your baby's feed and bedtime. If you feed your baby to sleep, feeding and going to sleep will become linked in your baby's mind. When they wake in the night, they'll want a feed to help them go back to sleep.

How much sleep is enough for a baby?

Just as with adults, babies’ and children’s sleep patterns vary. From birth, some babies need more sleep or less sleep than others. This list shows the average amount of sleep that babies and children need during a 24-hour period, including daytime naps.

Newborn sleep needs

Most newborn babies are asleep more than they are awake. Their total daily sleep varies, but can be from eight hours, up to 16-18 hours. Babies will wake during the night because they need to be fed. Being too hot or too cold can also disturb their sleep.

Sleep requirements at three to six months old

As your baby grows, they’ll need fewer night feeds and be able to sleep for longer. Some babies will sleep for eight hours or longer at night, but not all. By four months, they may be spending around twice as long sleeping at night as they do during the day.

Baby sleep at six to 12 months of age

For babies aged six months to a year night feeds may no longer be necessary, and some babies will sleep for up to 12 hours at night. Teething discomfort or hunger may wake some babies during the night.

Sleep requirements from 12 months

Babies will sleep for around 12-15 hours in total after their first birthday.

Two-year-old sleep needs

Most two-year-olds will sleep for 11-12 hours at night, with one or two naps in the daytime.

Sleep requirements for three- to four-year-olds

Most children aged three or four will need about 12 hours sleep, but this can range from 8 hours up to 14. Some young children will still need a nap during the day.

Coping with your baby's disturbed nights

Resist the urge to rush in if your baby murmurs in the night. Leave them for a few minutes and see if they settle on their own.
Having said that, newborn babies invariably wake up repeatedly in the night for the first few months and disturbed nights can be very hard to cope with.
If you have a partner, ask them to help. If you’re formula feeding, encourage your partner to share the feeds. If you’re breastfeeding, ask your partner to take over the early morning changing and dressing so that you can go back to sleep.
Once you’re into a good breastfeeding routine, your partner could occasionally give a bottle of expressed breast milk during the night. If you’re on your own, you could ask a friend or relative to stay for a few days so that you can sleep.

Baby sleep problems

All new babies change their patterns. Just when you think you have it sorted and you've all had a good night's sleep, the next night you might be up every two hours.
Be prepared to change routines as your baby grows and enters different stages. And remember, growth spurts, teething and illnesses can all affect how your baby sleeps.
If your baby is having problems sleeping or you need more advice about getting into a routine, speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor.

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pages/getting-baby-to-sleep.aspx#close

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