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Eating Cake during Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
Most women have unusual food cravings at some point during their pregnancy. These cravings can range from certain spicy foods to some inedible items to irresistible sweets too. If you are craving sweets, then at some point you will be tempted to eat cakes or pastries, won't you? Cakes are simply hard to say no to! But can you eat cakes or pastries during pregnancy? Read this article to find out!
Can a Pregnant Woman Eat Cakes?
You can enjoy one or two pieces of cake once in a while during pregnancy as eating in moderation won't harm you or your baby. But you must avoid binge eating cakes or any other food item during pregnancy as it might affect your health.
You must eat healthy foods during pregnancy as a well-balanced diet will ensure that your baby gets all the nutrients required for his growth. The bouts of morning sickness can also take a toll on your body, so you eat nutritious foods and drink a lot of water. Having one or two pieces of cake is fine but you must know that cakes do not offer any nutritional value and satisfy the hunger for a short period of time. So it is best avoided.
Why Should You Not Eat Cakes During Pregnancy?
While cakes, be it a chocolate cake or vanilla cake, taste delicious, they may not do any good for your health, especially during pregnancy. Eating cakes can pose a risk to your health. Here is why you should avoid eating cakes during pregnancy.
1. Cakes May Contain Bacteria
While pregnant, your immune system will be weak, so you must avoid eating anything that may lead to an infection. Even if the cake is a homemade one, there is a high chance that it might contain bacteria like salmonella, E.coli, Toxoplasma and many more. If any of these bacteria enter your body, it can lead to severe complications. The batter can sometimes form a breeding ground for bacteria. Hence, you must avoid eating cake during pregnancy.
2. Eating Cakes May Lead to Unhealthy Weight Gain
Yes, you need to gain weight during pregnancy but that weight gain should happen from healthy and nutritious foods. Eating cakes, pastries, or other junk food will offer you empty calories which will result in unhealthy and excessive weight gain during pregnancy, and make your pregnancy journey difficult, so they are best avoided. You can enjoy a piece of chocolate-walnut cake served at your baby shower, but resist the temptation to reach for the second piece. Also, avoid cakes that have saccharin in them as it can cross the placenta and affect the foetus. Stick to a healthy diet - eat foods that contribute to healthy weight gain and promote your baby's growth.
3. Cakes May Contain Alcohol
Some cakes may contain alcohol such as rum in them that may not be safe for the health of your baby. Even though it is believed that cooking neutralises any alcohol content in the cake, but it is not entirely true. Alcohol enhances the flavour of cakes, but it can cross the placenta and lead to complications in the baby. It could result in premature delivery and birth defects, so if you are planning to eat a piece of cake that has alcohol in it, think about your baby and do not give in to your temptation.
4. Cakes May Contain Unhealthy Supplements
Instant cake mix available in the market and store-bought cakes may contain unhealthy supplements in the form of added flavour or taste enhancers, which might harm your baby.
Cakes That You Can Try During Pregnancy
If you have a sweet tooth and you love eating cakes, then you can enjoy them once in a while. However, we suggest that you opt for healthier versions and consume them in limited amounts too. Mentioned below are some cakes that you can try during pregnancy.
1. Angel Food Cake
Angel food cakes have no fat content in them and can satisfy your sweet cravings. This cake is made with stiffly beaten egg whites instead of butter. It has a light, fluffy texture, so there is no harm in eating it in moderation.
2. Dark Chocolate Cake
Dark chocolates and unsweetened cocoa contain antioxidants, which can prove to be beneficial for your health during pregnancy. So you can eat a piece or two of this cake while pregnant. However, make sure that the cake you buy or make has no alcohol content in it.
3. Yoghurt Cake
Yoghurt is an essential part of the diet of a pregnant woman since it contains dietary calcium, protein and good bacteria which can help in better digestion. You can make a cake using yoghurt, but make sure that it is consumed quickly as yoghurt cake may get spoiled soon and become a breeding ground for bacteria.
Things to Remember While Eating Cakes During Pregnancy
Here are some things regarding the consumption of cakes you should take into consideration during pregnancy.
Many people think eating cakes with eggs in them can harm the baby, but that is not true. Eggs are not harmful to the baby, so you can consume a cake that has eggs in it. However, do check that there are no added preservatives in it apart from the eggs, as they could prove to be harmful to the baby.
If you do want to indulge in cakes, we suggest that you eat homemade cake, instead of eating store-bought cake.
If you do not want to make one at home and plan to buy the cake from a bakery, ask about the nutritional composition and general ingredients used in the cake.
Consuming cakes in small quantities will not harm you or your baby, but you should make sure that your quantity does not exceed. Better yet, consult your nutritionist or a doctor before eating it and stay safe!
Also Read: Eating Ice-cream while Pregnant Read more
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Are Thongs a Health Risk?
Thongs are the sexiest variety of lingerie available. While your panty lines can benefit from a thong intervention, it could expose you to thong underwear problems. What's the reason, you ask? Well, for starters - most thongs aren't made from breathable materials, like cotton. Read on to learn more.
No matter how sexy a thong may look or how great it is at hiding those awful panty lines, the fact is, a thong does have its negatives. If you are a thong fan, are you taking measures to protect yourself from the various risks associated with it? We know that it’s really funny but now we have to worry about our underpants too!! Thongs can expose you to a number of health risks. There are some issues that you should take cognisance of.
The Itsy Bitsy Thong and The Big Problems it Can Cause
1. Not Protected Enough
If you have a bunch of fancy synthetic or nylon thongs, it's time you threw them away. Don't shudder yet! Synthetic thongs trap moisture, leading to the formation of bacteria and thereby increasing the chances of infection around the vaginal area. Even if you go for cotton thongs which are breathable and prevent the accumulation of moisture, avoid wearing them for a long time!
2. Irritable
Thongs can cause a lot of irritation to the clitoris if worn regularly. This happens when you wear thongs that are a bit too tight and uncomfortable. Other conditions that could result from your thongs grazing your privates every day are external haemorrhoids, and in some cases, lichen sclerosus. In simpler words, it can lead to vaginal infection and irritation. So, say bye to your nylon or silk thongs, as they are prone to trapping infection!
3. Wear Them Less Often
If you are prone to catching bacterial infections and other UTIs, it would be wise to give those thongs a rest. Let your privates breathe a little. Excessive use of thongs can irritate the nether region. The synthetic fabric of the thong could invite bacteria to camp in your vagina. Also, when you wear thongs throughout the day, it can transfer bacteria from the rectum to the vagina and urethra.
4. Grazing
Have you ever felt itchy down thereafter wearing a thong for an entire day? Well, chances are that the itchiness you feel could lead to an infection. Thongs can also graze and injure your private parts when worn often. This is especially true when the thong is made from substandard material or is stitched with cheap fabric. Take care of this, lest it escalates into a big problem.
5. The Thin Line
Most thongs are just thin strips of fabric, which are also snug. This tight fit grazes the perineum and puts pressure on it. This constant friction can lead to cuts in the perineum and infections in the vagina. To top it all, the air permeability of some fabrics used for making thongs is not good. This in turn causes skin allergies, vaginitis, and piles. So when you plan on wearing a thong the next time, just ensure that it isn't super tight.
6. Side Effects
Some rare side effects associated with wearing a thong includes cystitis and vaginal thrush. Thrush, a yeast, causes the area around the vagina to become inflamed, with white patches forming in some cases. While this problem is fairly easy to control, this thong underwear health risk should be addressed to swiftly.
The infections due to thongs made of non-cotton fabrics can cause a variety of uncomfortable problems for a woman. The only way to prevent these is by restricting the regularity with which you wear them. Also, once you get home, take them off and slip into something more comfortable. Also, try not to wear them while you sleep, no matter how tired you are. So remember to take some precautions, as prevention is better than cure!! Read more
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Progeria - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and More
Progeria is a condition that is very rare and happens to about 1 in every four to eight million new borns. It is believed that at any given point in time, about 200 to 250 children around the world will be living with Progeria. Children with Progeria, due to rapid ageing, tend to look like they have completely aged even at the age of 10 and also suffer from old-age-related medical conditions.
While there is no cure for the condition, proper medication and care can alleviate the symptoms of the condition and also delay the progression of the condition further.
What is Progeria?
Progeria, also known as the Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome, is a very rare genetic disorder that causes rapid premature ageing in new borns. The onset of HGPS is usually around 18 to 24 months. Children born with this progressive disorder will appear normal at birth and only start to show symptoms around 18 months. It isn’t inherited or passed down from the families.
Types of Progeria Syndrome
The most common type of Progeria is the Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome which presents in kids around the age of one to two years.
There is another type of Progeria Syndrome called the Wiedemann-Rautenstrauch syndrome, which presents in babies when there are still in the uterus.
Progeria that has a later onset age, somewhere during the teenage years, is called Werner Syndrome. People with this syndrome may live up to the age of 40 to 50 years.
There is also another kind of Progeria that occurs along with dwarfism or other abnormal growth features and is called Hallerman-Streiff-François syndrome.
Causes of Progeria
Progeria is caused due to a genetic mutation in the LMNA gene of the newborn. The LMNA gene is responsible for making proteins to support the structure of the nucleus. However, due to genetic mutation, the LMNA makes a protein called progerin, which breaks down cells easily and makes them unstable. This sets off rapid aging in children with HGPS.
Progeria Symptoms
Symptoms of Progeria are visible and easily identified. However, they do not appear at birth and only surface during the first or the second year of the baby. Some of the symptoms of Progeria are:
Stunted growth or growth failure in the first year
Loss of eyebrows and eyelashes
Baldness or loss of hair
Wrinkled face
Visible blood vessels on the scalp and face
Macrocephaly or a large head in comparison with the size of the face
Thin skin which is visibly dry and scaly
Small jaw and thin lips
High pitched voice
Prominent, protruding eyes and inability to close eyelids completely
Stiff joints
Loss of body fat and muscle
Ears that stick out
Diagnosis
It is likely that the doctor will identify the disorder by looking at the child. However, a physical examination will be conducted and the vision and hearing are checked, along with measuring the pulse and the blood pressure of the child. The height and weight are also taken to compare with normal height and weight at that age.
If Progeria is suspected, a series of lab tests to confirm the condition are conducted, including tests to measure insulin resistance and cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Blood tests and genetic testing can also detect the mutation in the LMNA gene.
Complications
Complications of Progeria include diseases that usually accompany old age like
Cardiovascular diseases and heart conditions (heart attack)
Cerebrovascular problems like stroke
Scleroderma, a condition where the connective tissue become tight and hard
Loss of hearing to a certain extent
Delayed tooth formation
Extremely fragile bones and an abnormal skeletal structure
Insulin resistance
Hip dislocation
Cataracts
Acute arthritic episodes
Osteoporosis
Atherosclerosis
Progeria Treatment
While there are no Progeria cures or treatments available, children may receive treatments for their symptoms. These may include medications to lower blood cholesterol and prevent the formation of blood clots. A prescription of aspirin may be given for daily intake in low doses in order to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Since growth failure is one of the major symptoms, growth hormones may also be administered to help build the height and weight of the child. If the child suffers from stiffness in the joints, then physical therapy may be suggested to facilitate movement. Also as heart disease is a potential complication, some children may undergo surgeries like coronary bypass or angioplasty to stunt the progression of the disease.
A type of cancer drug called farnesyl transferase inhibitors or FTI may have the potential to fix the damaged cells. Research is being conducted in this light to provide more feasible treatment options for kids with Progeria.
Home Remedies
Progeria is a genetic disorder and there are no effective home remedies to alleviate the condition or the symptoms of the condition. Here are some ways to relieve the symptoms:
It is important to ensure that a kid with Progeria is adequately hydrated as they are very likely to get dehydrated quickly.
Small meals at frequent intervals are the best to provide them with all the nutrition they need to develop.
Provide them with soft, cushioned shoes or inserts to relieve any discomfort.
Outlook For People With Progeria
For kids living with Progeria disease, the life expectancy on an average is about 13 years. However, some may live much longer, up to 20 years. But, since Progeria comes without a cure and is accompanied by a number of medical conditions, it makes the disorder fatal. Many children who are affected with Progeria tend to succumb to heart diseases.
When Should You Call The Doctor?
The symptoms of Progeria disease are quite pronounced. If you happen to notice them in your child, consult a doctor to seek a professional opinion. The doctor, based on physical examination and lab tests, will be able to confirm your suspicion.
Progeria Syndrome is a disorder that has no cure currently. However, with proper care and treatments, the symptoms can be put off to a certain extent helping the kids live a considerably longer life. There are no risk factors for Progeria and it is not something that passes down genetically. If your child suffers from Progeria, the best way to go about his or her care is to ensure that all the treatments are administered on time and regular visits to the doctor are made to rule out any immediate complications.
Also read: Edwards Syndrome In Babies Read more
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The Long-Awaited Red Lines - How They Changed Our World
After my wedding, I have patiently waited to see those two red lines on a pregnancy kit. It would break my heart each time the test came back negative. I wondered when I would be blessed with the joys of motherhood. After many disappointments and a couple of babymoons to Singapore and a two-month cruise to the Mediterranean and Caribbean, my husband decided to take me once again on-board but this time on a world cruise. It was a vacation I was looking forward to. I was over the moon as I was travelling to almost 26 different countries. As I packed my bags and prepared for my journey, I said to myself, "This is it, this time I'm not stressing out about baby plans. I am just going to lay back and enjoy what life has to offer and make the best of this vacation."
I embarked on the ship 'Arcadia' in February in Sydney, Australia, and sailed towards Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Since I had previously sailed on this ship before, I was well-versed with the surroundings and with most of the crew who worked onboard. It was like being at home away from home; a friendly environment. I met my husband's colleagues and spent some amazing time with them. Every new port was an adventure, everything had been planned out by my husband, the ports that I would be on tours and which ports we would go on a crazy adventure of our own.
My vacation had no limits. From spending an amazing day up close and personal with koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and other wildlife at the Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, Australia to a tea plantation tour in Sri Lanka, a day-long shopping spree in Hong Kong, a cable car ride to the Lantau Island to see the biggest outdoor Buddha statue, a crazy bus ride to the Petronas Twin Towers, followed by a tiring climb up the stairs to the Batu caves in Malaysia, an epic banana boat ride in the cool waters of Langkawi, an evening walk by the Garden by the Bay, the Cloud Dome and the Merlion in Singapore, a relaxing city tour of Vietnam, and a first-hand experience of China's busy streets (Shanghai), it was one wonderful trip. When we docked in Goa, I ended up inviting half of the ship's people over to my place for lunch; phew! That was a day to remember. I was living the dream until life brought in a sudden twist.
One fine day I woke up feeling sick and nauseated. Even though I spent the entire morning and afternoon in bed, I still felt exhausted. The food onboard which I relished now was nauseating. I remember pushing my husband away, as the smell of his perfumes repelled me. Only a cool glass of lemonade and a quick sniff of menthol balm would calm my temperament. I had no idea what in the world was happening to me. Each time I complained about my health and mood swings, my husband would sport a naughty smile, which annoyed me furthermore. Somewhere down the line, he knew what was wrong with me or rather, what was right with me. I feel like a fool for not being able to pick up these little signs or hints that my body was giving me. I guess I was too engrossed in my dream vacation.
When our ship reached Dubai, my husband and I decided to do a test just to rule out the possibilities of a pregnancy. I said to myself, “It’s going to be a negative result again as always.” We spent a good day shopping in Dubai, met my sister and her family. On our way back to the ship we picked up the kit. We had planned to do the test the next morning. My husband just couldn't sleep that night.
At the break of dawn, he woke me up and pleaded me to do the test. I could see the excitement building up in his eyes. But all I could do was yawn and return a drowsy look back at him. I somehow managed to drag myself out of bed and did the test. We waited for 5 minutes as per the pack instructions and casually glanced at the stick. My eyes could not believe what I saw. Two red lines on the stick had appeared. Tears of joy rolled down my cheeks while I silently gazed at the kit. Outside the bathroom, the scenario was different. My impatient husband was pacing up and down the room biting his nails off. He kept asking me for the results. I wiped my tears and slid the stick to him under the bathroom door. All I could hear was him jumping and screaming, “I knew it, I knew it. I was right all this time.” He was on cloud nine. As I opened the door he hugged me. It was a moment we will never forget.
Those two red lines brought immense joy into our life. Those two red lines changed our world. It was Easter Day and we couldn't have asked for anything more on such an auspicious day. Our little bunny was on her way.
My vacation full of adventure continued, from the salty waters of the Dead Sea to the cobbled streets of Spain and Italy. By the end of the world cruise, I was two months into my pregnancy without any medical care. I strongly believe that things happen when God wants them to happen. Overstressing and worrying about it is not the solution to problems. Everything is planned and given to us at the right time. All we need to do is patiently wait to unwrap our gift.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
18 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert
My baby is 15 months old and he poops everytime after eating...is it normal???
he poops 3-4 times in a day
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
17 mins ago
A. potty training can be started after the age of two years for the child. Here you need to gradually develop a conditioned reflex in the child and it is done by fixing a particular time on a regular basis in which the child should be make seated over the potty seat to make the child comfortableg first for it. It should be a playful and friendly activity for the child, do not force the child, otherwise the child will be repulsive about it, and once the child is comfortable, the child will be able to pass motion easily, and gradually the child will learn to indicate for the same
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
16 mins ago
Q. Can someone pls help me what can be done to increase the FL at this point of the pregnancy
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
15 mins ago
A. discussion with doctor. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
12 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert
hi doctor,
am in 39th week of pregnancy, in 36th week baby moved to cervix as said by the doctor i consult. but in 39th week baby is still not stuck in the cervix, how to make it?
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
10 mins ago
A. If you're not seeing any signs of labor at 39 weeks, it may mean you have some time left in this pregnancy
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
10 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert what ll do if my 5+ year kid eat only sweet in food not little bit of spice. it's not good when he eat daal chawal also he was drinking water at every bite of food. what's should I do?
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
8 mins ago
A. deae mom.
do not take water during meal time.
and sone kuds do have liking for sweet food. better to use healthy source of sweetening her food.
but equslky offer nornal food too
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Mom of a Newborn child
6 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert
please suggest me
my baby was born on 17 April
iski nabhi par ye blood ana normal h ya koi problem h and iska kya treatment kare
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
6 mins ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. But it is really very difficult to say anything without proper examination of the baby. It is advisable to get the baby evaluated by a doctor and follow doctors advise properly. You can also book online doctor’s appointment on FirstCry where the doctor can help you and guide you properly
Thanks and take care
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 mins ago
Q. hi mam my new born baby for body wash soap or body wash suggest me which is good for baby skin
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 mins ago
A. whenever you are choosing any baby product whether it is baby oil lotion soap powder shampoo or any product, you have to see whether the child is having any allergy after its usage or noxt.
so if the child is comfortable you can use it but if the child develops allergy or any other problem then go for another brand.
.
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