Quick Snacks For the Busy New Mom

When you’re caring for a newborn – or even chasing after a toddler – maternal nutrition may be the last thing on your mind. But taking care of yourself needs to be a priority so you can in turn care for your family. Good nutrition can help moderate some of the fatigue new moms feel, and can help you keep up with the demands of being a mom.

Instead of three meals a day, try for five or six smaller meals and snacks to keep your blood sugar steady and your energy up. This will also keep you from getting overly hungry and binge eating whatever you can get your hands on!

Make every food count nutrient-wise. The most filling meals and snacks will be a combination of a protein, a carbohydrate and a fat. Choose fresh foods with little processing, if possible.

Keep your cupboards and refrigerator stocked with foods that you can grab and go (bonus points if you can eat them one-handed while holding a baby in the other arm). Consider these convenient, yet healthy, choices:

  • Yogurt: The probiotics in yogurt will improve your gut health, and the protein will fill you up. Opt for low fat and organic without added sugar, if you can. Pre-made smoothies are a great convenience food to invest in for the early days at home with a newborn.
  • Fruits, such as bananas, apples, pears, grapes: Keep a bowl of cleaned fruit within reach on your table. Having it in sight makes it more likely you’ll grab a piece when you’re feeling hungry. The fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants will provide you with a nutritional boost.
  • Nuts: Almonds, walnuts and other tree nuts are nutritional powerhouses, full of healthy fats, protein and heart-healthy minerals. Add some dried fruit and seeds for trail mix goodness. Breastfeeding mothers whose children have a high risk of developing an allergy, may want to discuss with their healthcare provider about eliminating foods such as dairy, nuts, eggs, and fish from their diet. However, so far there is no clear evidence that a breastfeeding mother’s diet will have any effect on whether her baby develops an allergy.
  • Vegetables like baby carrots or celery sticks: Just like fruits, the added vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables will keep you healthy and the fiber will keep you feeling full. Having pre-cut choices in the crisper will make it more likely for you to grab a handful when you’re hungry.
  • Cheese sticks / string cheese: Cheese makes a fantastic snack, and the ease of prepackaged cheese sticks or string cheese make them a likely choice for a busy mom. A part-skim mozzarella stick contains protein and calcium while limiting calories – grab some whole-grain crackers to go along and you’ve got a complete snack.
  • Granola bars / whole grain cereal bars: While these easy snacks come in an amazing variety of choices, be sure to choose brands with less sugar and more fiber. Protein bars also make a good choice for moms who are having difficulty fitting in meals.

In addition, keep water by your side throughout the day, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches and more. Make sure you’re drinking about eight 8-ounces glasses of water each day to feel your best – more if you’re breastfeeding.

What are your favorite snacks to have on hand?

Written by Michelle, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

You Can’t Hold Your Baby Too Much

“If you pick your baby up every time he cries, you’re going to spoil him!”
“He’s just trying to manipulate you!”
“I see he’s already got you trained!”

How many of these have you heard? But science is on your side – you can’t hold your baby too much, and you’re not creating a whiny brat by picking him up. Instead, responsive parenting teaches your baby about trust and compassion.

Research shows that infant crying usually peaks around six weeks of age, and then decreases by half by 12 weeks of age. Did you know that if mom responds within 90 seconds of baby starting to cry, baby calms quickly? If she waits longer to respond, however, prolonged calming is needed. Who doesn’t want less crying? A quick response to a fussy baby makes a happier, less stressful environment for everyone.

Babies cry for all sorts of reasons, and you’ll be amazed by how quickly you learn to tell the ‘I’m hungry’ cry apart from the ‘I’m tired’ one. As your baby grows, you’ll learn all the other cues he uses to communicate with you. When you respond to those attempts at communication, your baby learns to trust you. You’re teaching your baby how to develop a secure attachment to you, the caregiver.

Studies from the 1950s to present day show that babies who are not responded to tend to grow up insecure, unsure, and more fearful. Babies who are responded to consistently and positively grow to be independent children and adults. In fact, as these babies grow, they …

• Have higher self-esteem
• Have improved focus, and fewer behavior problems
• Are better able to regulate their emotions
• Experience less fear and anxiety
• Are more likely show altruistic behaviors, such as, gratitude, appreciation, and caring

One of the most amazing benefits of responsive parenting and secure attachment is to baby’s brain. Babies experience incredible brain growth during the first two years of life when millions of connections are made between neurons. And the more connections, the better the brain functions. Studies show that parents can influence this growth by their interactions with baby. Being sensitive to baby’s cues, responding consistently, and interacting with baby will all add to baby’s intellectual development.

Holding, cuddling, touching and interacting all boost your baby’s nervous system development without being stressful. Oxytocin, the feel-good hormone of love, is released for both baby and caregiver during these interactions. A win-win for both parties!

So you won’t spoil your baby by picking him up all the time, especially in these first few months – in fact, you’ll do just the opposite.

Written by Michelle, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

You would do anything to keep your baby safe and healthy. You don’t even want to think about something bad happening to your little one. But it’s important to be aware of certain dangers, such as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), so you can take certain steps to prevent it.

What is SIDS?

The unexplained and sudden death of a seemingly healthy baby under age one is referred to as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The risk of SIDS decreases as your baby gets older. Ninety percent of babies who die of SIDS are under six months old, and most are between one and four months of age.

There are several theories as to why SIDS occurs. Some research indicates that a percentage of babies who die of SIDS may have abnormal functioning in the part of the brain that controls waking up from sleep.

Other research links SIDS to certain environmental factors, such as sleeping tummy down. Although additional research is needed to state a definite cause of SIDS, there are measures identified that appear to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Steps to Take

One of the most important steps you can take to decrease the chances of SIDS is putting your baby to sleep on his back. SIDS deaths decreased by 50 percent when the recommendation was made by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development to put babies to sleep on their back. Just remember to allow for plenty of tummy time when your little one is awake to strengthen his neck muscles.

Your baby should also sleep on a firm surface. Soft objects, such as toys and loose bedding should be avoided. Pillows, blankets and crib bumpers area also not recommended.

Breastfeeding may also decrease the risk of SIDS. Studies have shown that babies who are breastfed for at least six months have a lower incidence of SIDS.

Some research has also found SIDS occurs less frequently in babies who use a pacifier when they sleep. Although the exact reason this may occur is still being studied, The American Association of Pediatrics recommends giving your baby a pacifier at bed and nap time. If you’re breastfeeding, it’s best to wait about a month until your little one gets the hang of nursing to offer a pacifier.

Another way to decrease the chances of SIDS is by not allowing anyone to smoke in your home. Secondhand smoke appears to increase the risk of SIDS.

Overheating may also increase your baby’s risk of SIDS. It’s best to put your baby to sleep in light clothing. The temperature of the room should be similar to what an adult would be comfortable in. Also, don’t use blankets since your baby can get tangled up. If you’re concerned about your baby staying warm, consider placing her in a “sleep sack” or in onesie pajamas.

There are products on the market, such as wedges and sleep positioners that claim to decrease the risk of SIDS. Doctors advise against using these types of products since there is no evidence they work, and they could be unsafe.

Written by MaryAnn DePietro @writerlady34

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Is Your Baby Eating Enough? 5 Ways to Tell

Feeding your baby, whether by breast or bottle, is supposed to be such an enjoyable time for bonding. And it is, as the days and weeks go by and you find yourself more comfortable with those feedings. But in the beginning, it can be a little scary, if only because you don’t fully know what to expect. And that unknowing produces a lot of questions:

  • Is the baby latching correctly?
  • Is your milk coming in as it should?
  • And is your baby eating enough?

For those first 2 questions, visiting a lactation specialist can always help you to find the answers you need. But when it comes to knowing whether or not your baby is getting enough to eat, how can you tell?

The truth is, all babies are different, and some will simply need more to eat than others. The general guidelines suggest you should be nursing your baby every two to three hours in that first month, or 8 to 12 times in every 24-hour period. Formula fed babies can eat a little less frequently, maybe one less feeding a day. But as long as you are within those guidelines, all is likely well.

During those feedings, most babies should be getting about two and a half to three ounces, though you obviously wouldn’t be able to measure that if you are breastfeeding. So for you breastfeeding mamas, you would be looking at between 10 and 20 minutes for each feeding; keeping in mind that some babies take longer than others.

Given all of that, how else can you tell if your baby is eating enough?

  1. How do your breasts feel? If you are breastfeeding, your breasts should feel softer after each feeding, because your baby should have just relieved some of the milk pressure.
  2. How does your baby seem? A full baby is happy, relaxed, and alert baby. Follow your baby’s cues. He or she will let you know when they are done, and as long as they seem healthy and alert after, you’re probably doing just fine.
  3. How many diapers? A baby who is getting enough to eat will have five to eight wet diapers a day.
  4. Is your baby gaining weight? If you have concerns about how much your baby is eating, a visit to the pediatrician may be in order. As long as he or she is gaining 4 to 10 ounces a week in the first month, they are getting enough to eat.
  5. What about the poop? After your milk comes in, your little one should be producing at least 3 poopy diapers a day. That poop should be soft and mustard yellow brown in color for the first month.

As always, if you have any concerns at all, book an appointment with your pediatrician. But don’t be afraid to trust your mommy gut as well. If all the signs above are positive, your baby is probably right on track!

Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Introducing a Bottle to Your Breastfeeding Baby

Maybe you are going out to dinner with your partner, or you’re returning to work soon. Maybe your baby has problems latching, or you need to supplement for health reasons. Whatever the reason, you find yourself unsure how to go about introducing a bottle to your breastfeeding baby.

What kind of bottle?

Anyone who has shopped for baby gear knows the crazy number of choices available for bottle feeding. Which bottle and nipple you use are up to you – and your baby. It sometimes takes trial and error before you find one your breastfed baby likes. On the other hand, some babies aren’t particular.

Try a slow-flow nipple – this will make your baby work a little harder to get the milk, making it more like breastfeeding. And try to match the nipple size and shape to your own anatomy, if possible.

How much milk?

Research shows that from one month to six months, breastfeeding babies’ intake is fairly stable at about 25 to 35 ounces (750-1050 ml) per day. In order to determine how much you need per bottle, take this average and divide it by the number of times your baby eats in 24 hours. If, for example, your baby nurses 10 times each day, that would be about 2.5 to 3.5 ounces (74-104 ml) per feeding. Your baby nurses 8 times per day? You’ll need more per bottle. Your baby nurses 12 times per day? He may take less but expect a bottle more often.

How do I do it?

Make bottle feeding as much like breastfeeding as you can. Follow your baby’s hunger cues rather than offering the bottle at a scheduled time. Cuddle baby, tickle his lips with the teat, and let him draw the nipple into his mouth. Hold the bottle more horizontal so that baby can control the flow a little better, and give him pauses just like he normally does at the breast. You might even consider switching sides halfway through the bottle feeding.

Your baby may be more likely to accept the bottle if someone other than mom provides it. Mom may need to leave the room or even the house!

What if my baby resists?

If your baby resists the bottle:

  • Warm or cool the nipple under running water before offering it to baby.
  • Try warmed, room temperature or even cold milk. Some babies enjoy milk slushies.
  • Try a different nipple.
  • Express some of the milk onto the bottle nipple.
  • Feed on the go – stand, walk, or move.
  • Stay away from his preferred nursing chair.
  • Try holding baby facing away from you, or other positions to make bottle feeding less like breastfeeding.
  • Hold a blanket or t-shirt that smells like mom when feeding baby.
  • Consider using a cup or medicine spoon rather than a bottle – just keep in mind it will be messier and more time consuming.

Be patient. Continue to offer the bottle occasionally and your baby may gradually become accustomed to it. Even if you’re in more of a hurry (with that back-to-work deadline looming perhaps), try not to make it a battle. Eventually your baby will figure it out.

Are you giving your baby both breast and bottle? What tips do you have for other moms?

Written by Michelle, Lamaze instructor, lactation consultant, and mother to 4 busy kids

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Help! My Boobs are Leaking Milk

Some women find that their breasts start leaking colostrum as early as four months into the pregnancy. For others, leaking breasts doesn’t become an issue until after the baby is born. And some women don’t experience it at all. If you’ve just unwittingly given the postman a peek at your milk stained outfit of the day, you may be wondering what is causing the leakage and what you can do about it.

What causes it?

Leaking is common in women who have an oversupply of milk though it can happen to other women too. It may be that your breasts are full and simply need to release some milk, or it could be caused by your letdown kicking in at an unexpected moment. Breast leaking can occur:

  • between feeds – if your breasts are full they may release some milk between feeds
  • during feeds – some report the unused breast leaking during feeds
  • when you hear a baby cry – this is your body’s way of preparing you to soothe your upset baby. The only problem is that it can happen when it’s not your baby crying
  • during sex – it isn’t unusual to leak milk at the point of orgasm
  • when you take a shower – the warm water is thought to stimulate the breasts causing let-down

Milk leakage may be a little bit embarrassing, but it’s totally normal and most breastfeeding mothers will experience it at some point. Plus, it will give you some hilarious anecdotes to share at your breastfeeding support group/child’s 18th birthday party.

If you want to try and get the leaking under control, you could try the following tips:

  1. Breast pads

Breast pads are your new best friend. Discretely nestled away in your nursing bra, they will mop up any spilt milk. You can purchase disposable or washable breast pads. With disposables, simply chuck them in the bin after each usage. Washables can be used time and time again, you simply need to stick them in the washing machine between wears. You should change your breast pads each time they get wet, or at least every four hours.

  1. Breastfeed

Increasing the number of feeds could help to reduce the risk of leaking. If you’re not with your baby, you could try expressing some milk to reduce some pressure. This milk can then be safely stored and given to your baby later.

  1. Layer up

Sadly, for some women, leaks are inevitable. Choose clothes that will hide any mishaps, and wear layers so you can easily change the affected items without too much trouble. Carry spare clothes with you when you’re out and about, just in case. Breast pads and a padded nursing bra will offer some protection, but a couple of layers of clothes on top can help too.

  1. Apply some pressure

If you can feel your letdown kicking in and aren’t able to breastfeed at the moment, apply some pressure to your nipples. This should restrict the flow of milk, keeping any leakage to a minimum.

  1. Leaking boobs during sex

Talk about an inopportune moment! If you are worried about leaking breasts, try feeding your baby or expressing before sex. You may also wish to talk to your partner about this issue beforehand. Some couples do not find the leakages to be an issue though others may feel a little uncomfortable about it. If it bothers you, you could try wearing a padded nursing top during sex to contain any leaks, there are plenty of sexy designs out there.

Are you experienced leaking boobs?

Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.

Yikes! I Think I’m Going Bald Postpartum

During pregnancy, your hair may have been thick and shiny. In fact, it may have never looked better. So now that you have had your baby, you might notice you once lush locks are getting a little thinner or even a lot thinner.

Why all the Hair Loss?

It may seem like you’re losing hair at a record pace, but try not to freak out. Although it may not feel pretty, it’s actually pretty normal. Rest assured you won’t go bald. Here’s the deal: your hair goes through a normal cycle of growth and rest. When your hair is in the resting phase, some hair is lost every day. You normally shed on average 100 hairs every day, even though you probably don’t notice or give it much thought.

When you’re pregnant, increased hormones cause your body to hold on to those hairs, which is why your hair may have been thicker. But like many good things, your thick mane may come to an end when estrogen decreases shortly after your baby is born.

Somewhere around three months postpartum, the hair that should have shed during pregnancy may start to fall out. Between your hair follicles making up for lost time and normal daily shedding, it may seem like you’re losing a lot. The good news is postpartum hair loss is temporary. By the time you’re celebrating your baby’s first birthday, the extra shedding should taper off.

Is There Anything I Can Do About Postpartum Hair Loss?

You probably won’t be able to stop postpartum hair loss. But there are a few things you can do to deal with thinning locks. For example, treat your hair with extra TLC. Comb it gently when wet and consider cutting back on daily heat styling, which may damage hair.

It may also help to use a volumizing shampoo. Products containing silica and biotin may make hair appear fuller. Also, consider applying conditioner only to the ends. Applying it to your scalp may weigh hair down and make it look thinner.

If you wear a ponytail or bun, avoid pulling it too tightly. Pulling your hair up too tight places added stress on your hair and may contribute to hair loss.

While you don’t necessarily have to rush out and cut your hair, you may want to experiment with different hairstyles. Some looks may make hair appear fuller. For example, some women find a shorter hairdo makes their hair look thicker, plus it may be a time saver.

If your hair loss continues past a year postpartum or seems extensive, speak to your doctor, just to be sure there is not another cause.

Written by MaryAnn DePietro @writerlady34

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.