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Shaving a Baby's Head for Thicker Hair - Fact or Myth
Many people believe that shaving a baby's head can make the hair grow thicker. If your baby has soft and gentle tresses, even you may want to shave his head hoping that your baby will have thick and dense hair later. While some of you may opt for shaving your baby's head to promote good hair growth, others may do it as part of their traditional values. But does shaving a baby's head actually promote hair growth or is it just a myth? Well, if you are wondering how true or untrue it is to shave baby’s head for thicker hair, we suggest that you go through the following article to know more on this topic.
What Is the Right Age to Shave a Baby's Head?
If you are planning to shave your baby’s head, it is recommended that you at least wait till your baby’s head becomes hard and firm. Babies are very unpredictable with their movements and shaving requires your baby to sit steady without moving. It may not only be difficult to shave your baby’s head, but it may also lead to various kinds of fatalities too. In some cultures, the ‘mundan’ or head shaving may take place as early as in the seventh month after birth, in other cultures, it may be done within the first, second, and in some cases even in the fourth year after a baby’s birth.
Can Shaving a Baby’s Head Make the Hair Grow Thicker?
If you think that shaving a baby's head induces better hair growth, then think again. Many experts are of the opinion that shaving does not promote good hair growth. This may be explained better by putting forward a scientific fact. The fact states, hair grows from the hair follicles, which are present beneath the scalp. When you shave the hair, it does not impact or affect the hair follicles. Thus if it does no good to the hair follicles, it does nothing to the hair too. In reality, your baby’s hair grows better after four months of age. Also, the texture and density of your baby’s hair may majorly depend on the genes, which mean if you have shiny and lustrous locks, there are good chances that your baby may have them too once he grows.
Indian Tradition of Shaving a Baby’s Head
The tradition of shaving a baby’s head is followed in many countries. People of various cultures and ethnicities shave their baby's head within a few years of their baby's birth. It is also very much prevalent in Indian tradition and culture. Shaving a baby’s head is concerned with religious and auspicious sentiments. In many cultures, it is a sign of beauty and thus shaving may encourage healthier and stronger hair growth. As discussed above, there is no scientific evidence or proof that states that shaving may lead to better hair growth. However, hair may grow uniformly after shaving, which may render a uniform and healthier look to the hair.
Tips to Shave a Baby's Head with Ease
If you are planning to get your baby's head shaved, we suggest that you hire a professional to do the same. People who are experts in this field may know better about shaving. However, for your comfort, here are some tips that will help you get your baby's head shaved without any difficulty:
The first and foremost thing to consider is your baby's mood. Your baby should be in a calm and happy state when you plan to shave. It will be a good idea to do this during the daytime as babies are less cranky during the daytime.
Next in line is your baby’s comfort. If your baby is fairly young and unable to sit, make sure you make him lie down comfortably on your lap. If he is big enough to sit, make sure he is sitting on a comfortable surface.
Keep your baby’s toys and other things he likes handy to distract him. You can also sing or talk to your baby to help him stay calm. Try to feed your baby as sucking may help him feel better.
If your baby’s hair is too long, it will be a good idea to cut the hair short to make shaving easier.
Begin shaving in sections and move forward as one section gets over.
It will be a good idea to lather your baby’s head with a gentle shampoo as it may make shaving easier and will be done faster too.
If you are shaving your baby's head with a razor then you may have to be extra careful as it may lead to cuts and bruises. Shaving your baby's head with a trimmer will be a better choice as it poses a lesser risk of cuts.
When your baby's head is being shaved, clean the hair that fall on your baby's face as it may cause irritation or itching.
Once the shaving is over, you should give a warm water bath to your baby and get rid of all the fallen hair all over the body.
What to Apply After Shaving a Baby's Head
After giving a good warm water bath to your baby, you can apply any good disinfectant on your baby’s head. The disinfectant will take care of any bruises or cuts that may have occurred during the shaving procedure. After that, you should moisturize your baby’s head with any good oil or moisturizer to prevent itching and dryness.
Should You Shave a Baby’s Head If He Has Cradle Cap?
Cradle cap is dry and dead skin that may be present on your baby’s scalp. Some parents may think that shaving may get rid of this condition. However, this doesn’t always work. Instead of shaving, you can use other measures to cure cradle cap such as using natural oils, medicated shampoos, and other preventive measures.
Shaving your baby’s head should be your choice, don't do it because someone forces you to. Keep in mind that even if you do plan to shave your baby's head, he should be prepared for it. Also, it would help if you consult your baby's doctor first before and then take an informed decision.
Also Read: Tips for Washing Baby's Hair Read more
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Huggies Premium Soft Pants - Did it Pass the “Best for my baby” Test? Find Out now!
Parenting is a beautiful journey isn’t it?. New parents go through so many emotions and experiences after a baby enters their lives. It is that moment when everyone in the house come together to welcome the new member of the family. There is so much happiness as the new born radiates positive vibes all around. When it comes to baby care, parents tend to get extra cautious and carefully handpick each and everything for their little one. Be it the soft toy, gentle wipes or the softest diapers, everything needs to be soft and comfortable.
Specifically for diapers, as parents we make a silent checklist in our mind every time we set out to buy them The diapers should not only be soft, but also has a good soaking capacity. It should be gentle on baby’s skin. easy to wear and remove and is also, easy to dispose off,. These are just some of the basic things most parents keep in mind before choosing the best diaper for their baby. After all, babies are in their diapers all day, nothing but the best will do!
I have used diapers from a few brands so far, but honestly not one brand was able to meet my expectations mentioned above. The ones that were soft, didn’t soak enough. The ones that did soak gave rashes to my baby. Flash forward to when I found Huggies Premium Soft Pants, I was all up to try the new product and check out if all its claims were true. The USP of the diaper is that it is both soft and it can easily pull an all-nighter.
There is a cushioned waistband which ensures a gentle and comfortable fit that helps prevent red marks. it also has a wetness indicator which changes colour to help you figure out if it’s time to change the diaper.
The bubble bed technology spreads the liquid evenly and rapidly keeping your baby’s skin dry and comfortable all night. Also, it has a 360° silken outer cover which provides luxurious softness.
These premium soft pants by Huggies are available in 6 sizes ranging from XS to XXL making it easier for parents to find the right and the perfect fitting diaper for their baby according to the baby’s weight.
I have used Huggies Premium Soft Pants for my daughter and haven’t had any problems with it so far. Touchwood.
For all parents who are looking for the best diaper pants for their little ones in terms of quality, softness, value for money, and gentleness on skin, I’d recommend trying out the newly launched Huggies Premium Soft Pants. It checks all my boxes!
Now that I’ve found Huggies Premium Soft Pants as my go-to brand in diapers for my baby, it’s going to be hard for another diaper brand to change my mind! But it was a journey to find the best diaper, and I’m glad to have found one that suits all my needs.
Remember that your little ones will not be little forever and these moments will never come back. Learn all you can while your baby is still little, making memories along the way. Parenting is all about hits and misses, and hugs and kisses! Read more
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How to Deal With Dry Cough in Infants
Coughing in babies is very common. Irritants often enter the lungs while breathing, and in some cases, it may lead to a dry cough. Coughing is an effective means by which these irritants get thrown out of the lungs – it may result in a heckling sound and it can be uncomfortable for babies. A dry cough may irritate the baby’s lungs and throat.
What Is a Dry Cough?
A dry cough is a cough without any phlegm, mucus, or sputum. While your baby coughs, you will notice a loud, empty noise. A dry cough is usually associated with an upper respiratory tract infection (nose and throat) which may cause medical conditions like cold or influenza. A dry cough under such conditions may worsen once the child stays in a warm room. In some cases, a dry cough may be associated with a lower respiratory tract infection that may cause bronchitis or pneumonia.
What Causes a Dry Cough in Babies?
If your baby is suffering from a dry cough, it can be very uncomfortable and painful. There are many reasons that lead to a dry cough in babies. Mentioned below are some of them:
1. Common Cold
A common cold may cause dry cough in babies. Although a dry cough is not the first symptom of a common cold, it appears during the last stages of the cold. A common cold is a viral infection that may cause a tickling feeling in your baby’s throat. Your baby may have mild and wet cough bouts at the initial stage of the cold, but as the cold progresses, the cough bouts will become drier. Home remedial measures work best to soothe your child’s cold and cough.
2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD affects babies as well. GERD occurs when the contents of your baby’s stomach make their way back up through the oesophagus. This may lead to vomiting, a burning sensation, or spitting up. The acid may irritate your baby’s throat, resulting in a dry cough. There are many over-the-counter medicines available to cure this condition. However, it is suggested to consult your doctor before administering any medicine to your baby.
3. Environmental Irritants
Sometimes your baby may react to environmental irritants that can lead to a dry cough. This condition is more evident in sensitive babies who react easily to strong chemical odours, cigarette smoke, or overly dry and hot air. Keep your child away from such environmental agents. To combat a dry cough resulting from hot weather conditions, you can use a humidifier in your baby’s room.
4. Influenza
The symptoms of flu or influenza can appear to be the same, but in young children and babies, these symptoms can be severe. Influenza begins with a dry cough, similar to the common cold. As influenza progresses, you will notice phlegm along with the cough.
5. A Whooping Cough
Whooping cough or pertussis may affect your baby. Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory tract of infants. If your baby is suffering from this condition, you will notice stronger, forceful and persistent bouts of coughing. Your baby will also make a strange noise while coughing. Cough in this condition is extremely dry and may lead to choking threats in infants. Under severe bouts of whooping cough, you may notice tears or a bluish tint in your baby’s eyes, along with a protruding tongue.
Treatment for Dry Cough in Babies
The causative agents of a dry cough are many, and its treatment varies according to the symptoms. It is very important to follow the correct course of treatment for your baby’s dry cough. It is suggested that you visit a paediatrician for the same – they will examine your baby thoroughly and decide the best-suited treatment. Following are some of the treatment options that may help in treating your baby:
1. Treatment for Dry Cough Due to Common Cold
Opting for home remedies is the best way to cure a dry cough resulting from common cold. Home remedial measures are not only easily available but are also safe for young children and babies. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before giving anything to your baby.
2. Treatment for Dry Cough Due to GERD
If the cause of your baby’s dry cough is diagnosed as GERD, your doctor will examine your baby thoroughly to know the exact cause of the same. Once your doctor knows the cause, they will prescribe some medicines to treat it. Though there are many over-the-counter medicines available for the treatment of GERD, it is sensible to go for the one suggested by the doctor.
3. Treatment for Dry Cough Due to Environmental Irritants
The most effective way to ward off a dry cough due to environmental irritants is to expose your baby a little less to the outdoors. Remember to use an artificial humidifier to keep the air moist for your baby during winters. Ensure that you clean the humidifier regularly as it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Refrain from using sprays, deodorants or room fresheners that may leave a residue in the air and cause irritation to your baby. Dress up your baby in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes as bouts of cough may make him sweat. Comfortable clothes will allow air circulation and also keep your baby’s temperature in check.
4. Treatment for Dry Cough Due to Influenza
If your baby develops a dry cough due to influenza, antibiotics won’t solve the problem. Your doctor may suggest adequate rest and a healthy diet for your child. It is very important for your child to stay hydrated and consume ample fluids to battle the infection. If you are breastfeeding, it is recommended that you continue doing the same. In case you have started giving your baby food other than breast milk, you can also give him warm, homemade soup or fresh fruit juices.
5. Treatment for Dry Cough Due to Whooping Cough
Once your doctor establishes that pertussis is the cause of a dry cough, they will prescribe a course of antibiotics to your baby. In case your baby is less than 1 year old, hospitalisation may be suggested to overcome any complication. Choking is a common complication that babies experience during a bout of whooping cough; therefore, proper medical supervision proves helpful under such circumstances. Your baby will be kept in a separate ward or in isolation as whooping cough is extremely contagious. Under conditions where your baby is unable to breathe, your doctor may administer corticosteroid medication. This medicine will reduce the risk of choking. The doctor may also make use of an oxygen mask to help your baby breathe better. Your baby’s symptoms, age, and condition will help your doctor decide the best-suited treatment.
Home Remedies for Dry Cough in Infants
The first thing that may pop into your head as soon as you see your baby suffering from any ailment is to go for some age-old effective home remedy. Here, we shall be discussing some easy and effective home remedies that will help your child battle a dry cough. It is recommended that you take a heads up from your doctor before administering any home remedy. Your doctor will help you understand what ingredients may work best for your baby.
Following are some home remedies you can try for your baby:
From Birth to 6 Months
If your baby is under six months, you can make use of the following home remedies to ward off a dry cough:
1. Mother’s Milk
For a baby under six months of age, mothers milk is the best home remedy to treat a dry cough. Keep feeding breast milk to your baby as and when required. Breast milk is rich in nutrients and provides antibodies to the baby to fight infections.
2. Garlic and Carom Seeds
Take a few garlic cloves and 2-3 spoons of carom seeds, and roast them in a pan. Put these roasted spices in a muslin cloth and make a pouch. Place this pouch on your baby’s pillow or crib. The anti-bacterial properties of garlic and carom seeds are effective in fighting cold and congestion.
3. Herbal Rub
You can make a herbal rub with mustard oil, carom seeds, and garlic. The warming properties of mustard oil and anti-bacterial properties of garlic and carom prove beneficial in combating congestion. Heat ¼ cup of mustard oil in a pan, and add in two garlic cloves and half a teaspoon of carom seeds. Take it off the heat after it turns brown. Apply this warm oil on your baby’s chest and feet.
4. Basil (Tulsi) and Coconut Oil
This is an effective remedy to treat a dry cough in babies. Take ¼ cup of coconut oil and warm it. Add crushed basil leaves to it. Apply this warm oil on your baby’s chest, back, throat, and feet.
5. Nasal Saline Drops
Saline drops are very effective in clearing the baby’s nose. Put a few drops in each nostril by tilting your baby’s head backwards. You can make saline drops at home too. Take 8 to 10 tablespoons of warm, filtered water and add ½ tablespoon salt in it.
From 6-10 Months
If your baby is six months or older, the following home remedies may work for him:
1. Cumin Water
To make cumin water, all you need is 1 to 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds and a glass of water. Put both the ingredients in a pan and bring them to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, cover the pan with a lid and let it boil for a few minutes. Let the decoction cool down a bit. Strain it and feed it to your baby several times a day. This remedy is very effective in treating dry cough in young children and babies.
2. Turmeric Paste
Make turmeric paste by adding few drops of water in some dry turmeric. Apply this paste on your baby’s torso, feet, and forehead to provide relief from a cough and cold.
3. Carrot Juice
Carrot juice is good for treating cough and cold in babies. Take fresh carrot juice and add some warm water to it. Feed your baby carrot juice to provide relief.
4. Mustard Oil Massage
Take mustard oil and heat it in a pan. Add some nigella sativa (kalonji) seeds to it. Massage your baby’s chest, back and feet with this oil, and also put some under your baby’s nose to provide comfort.
5. Vapour Rub
You may apply vapour rub on the baby’s feet to provide relief from a cough.
From 10-12 Months
If your baby is 10 to 12 months of age, any of following can be used as an effective dry cough remedy:
1. Infused Coconut Oil
Take 1 betel stem, 3to 4 basil (tulsi) leaves and 1 pearl onion; warm all these ingredients in half a cup of coconut oil. Add a pinch of camphor after turning off the heat. Apply this infused oil on your baby’s chest, back and throat.
2. Coconut and Camphor Oil
Heat coconut oil and add a pinch of camphor after taking it off the heat. Use it to massage your baby to cure cough and cold.
3. Increase Fluid Intake
Help your baby drink more fluids, as adequate hydration stops the thickening of mucus. Choosing warmer beverages such as soups helps in relieving sore throat and loosening of the mucus.
4. Black Pepper, Cumin, and Jaggery
Take one cup water and add a pinch of cumin seeds, half a spoon black pepper and 1-2 spoons of jaggery. Boil all these ingredients together for about 10 minutes. Give 1-2 teaspoons of this concoction to your baby not more than once a day.
5. Ladies Finger Soup
This soup aids in fighting cold and cough symptoms. Take some fresh ladies fingers (okra) and chop them. Boil them in water for about 10 minutes, and strain. Give the liquid to your baby as soup.
These home remedies will surely work. However, if you notice that your baby’s symptoms still persist, seek medical help.
Tips to Keep Your Child Comfortable
The following tips may comfort your baby during dry cough bouts:
Help your baby sleep better by creating a calm and quiet environment.
You may try to rock and pat your baby during coughing bouts to ease the pain and discomfort.
Don’t leave your baby alone for long, as severe bouts of dry coughs may lead to choking.
Do not give cough and cold medication to kids under the age of 4 unless specified by your doctor.
With proper care and medical attention, you can help your baby recover from a dry cough. You may also get in touch with your baby’s doctor and know about various ways of dealing with this condition in the best possible way.
Also Read: Cough in Babies – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Read more
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45 Beautiful Bhai Dooj Wishes, Messages, and Quotes
The festival of Bhai Dooj is celebrated two days after Diwali every year. Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhau Beej, Bhai Pota, and Bhai Tika, celebrates the special bond that a brother and sister share. As per the Hindu calendar, Bhai Dooj is observed on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the lunar month of Kartik. This year, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on November 6.
This Bhai Dooj, if you want to send a special message to your sibling, or need a witty caption for that picture of you both, that you plan to post on your social media profile, we have some cute and funny Bhai Dooj wishes for you to choose from!
Bhai Dooj Wishes and Messages for Brothers
Want some meaningful (and funny) Bhai Dooj wishes for brothers? We have covered them for you—from heartfelt and hilarious to downright cheesy ones, choose what you like!
Nobody can stop me from loving you (and annoying you), my dearest brother. Happy Bhai Dooj to you.
I know I am fortunate enough to have you as my brother, but I know you are the luckiest—you have a sister like me! Happy Bhai Dooj!
You are the one person with whom I can share my secrets, and be assured that they will be safe with you. Thank you for being such an understanding and protective brother. Happy Bhai Dooj!
You might be taller than me, but remember, I will always be smarter and wiser than you. Happy Bhai Dooj, my little brother!
I can’t wait for the gift of this Bhai Dooj. I know whatever you pick for me, you will outdo yourself. Happy Bhai Dooj!
Another Bhai Dooj is here, and it’s just another official occasion to ask for a gift. I am so fortunate to have an elder brother like you. Happy Bhai Dooj!
I want to let you know that my childhood was fun only because of you. Thank you for being there for me always! Happy Bhai Dooj!
Thank you for standing up for me and supporting me always. I couldn’t have asked for a better sibling. Happy Bhai Dooj!
Hello, brother! I know you are thanking the stars for sending you a cute sister like me. Happy Bhai Dooj, bhaiya!
When you have a brother, you don’t need a reason to bully or annoy him! Happy Bhai Dooj!
Apart from being a good brother, you have also been a very good friend with whom I have shared a special bond. Thanks to you, brother. Happy Bhai Dooj!
You have been a constant inspiration and motivator in all endeavours of my life. I wish you success and glory for being such a good brother. Happy Bhai Dooj!
You are my hero, my protector, and my world, my dear brother. May god give you everything you wish in your life. Happy Bhai Dooj!
I could reach heights, solve all problems, and become a better person with you and your support in my life. Wish you all success and a happy Bhai Dooj!
Bhai Dooj Wishes and Messages for Sisters
This Bhai Dooj, whether you want to wish your younger sister or elder sister, we have the best Happy Bhai Dooj wishes and messages for sisters for you!
I hope with each passing day, our bond only gets stronger and we stay in touch, no matter where we go. Happy Bhai Dooj, my sister!
I love you, my little sister, and I promise you that I will continue to annoy you for the rest of my life.
P.S. Mom and dad love me more!
I am so grateful that God sent me as your brother. I wonder what you would have done without me. Happy Bhai Dooj!
I don’t say it every day, but I hope you know that I am glad to have a sister like you. Happy Bhai Dooj!
You’re a cute and precious gift sent to me, whom I will adore and protect for the rest of my life. Happy Bhai Dooj, my little sister!
Thank you, my dearest sister, for always saving me when I messed up. I don’t know what I would have done without you. I love you, and Happy Bhai Dooj!
I wouldn’t have had the best and the funniest memories of growing up, today, had you not been a part of my childhood. I love you, and Happy Bhai Dooj!
On the happy occasion of Bhai Dooj, I want to thank you, sister, for everything you did for me. Thank you for taking care of me like a mother. You are the best sister in the world!
To all the fights over chocolates, television remotes, and gifts, Happy Bhai Dooj!
Consider yourself extremely lucky to have an elder brother like me! Happy Bhai Dooj, sister!
Day by day, I am discovering new meanings of who a sister is. Thanks for being a wonderful sister. Happy Bhai Dooj!
You have the best companion in all aspects of my life, whether it be happiness or sadness. Happy Bhai Dooj to my dearest sister!
You are the diamond I will never sell and the pearl I will always treasure. Happy Bhai Dooj to the apple of my eye!
May our bond grow infinitely with each passing day, and you stay all blessed and beautiful as always. Happy Bhai Dooj, dear sister!
Cute Bhai Dooj Quotes for Brothers and Sisters
Here are some quotes that define the wonderful relationship of siblings. Use these quotes to wish your siblings a Happy Bhai Dooj!
“We shared parents, home, pets, celebrations, catastrophes, secrets. And the threads of our experience became so interwoven that we are linked. I can never be utterly lonely, knowing you share the planet.” — Pam Brown
“What brothers say to tease their sisters has nothing to do with what they really think of them.” —Esther M. Friesner
“You and I are brother and sister forever. Always remember that if you fall I will pick you up, as soon as I finish laughing.” — Unknown
“Brothers are playmates in the beginning and best friends for life.” — Anonymous
“To the outside world, we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each other’s hearts. We’ve shared private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. We live outside the touch of time.” — Clara Ortega
“There is a little boy inside the man who is my brother. Oh, how I hated that little boy, and how I love him, too.” — Anna Quindlen
“Siblings: children of the same parents, each of whom is perfectly normal until they get together.” — Sam Levenson
“Sisters and brothers are the truest, purest forms of love, family and friendship, knowing when to hold you and when to challenge you, but always being a part of you.” — Carol Ann Albright Eastman
“The greatest gift our parents ever gave us was each other.” — Unknown
“With a sister, one can never fear that success will go to one's head.” — Charlotte Gray
“Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet.” — Vietnamese Proverb
“Brothers are just born to bother sisters.” — Unknown
“Sisters and brothers just happen; we don’t get to choose them, but they become one of our most cherished relationships.” — Wes Adamson
“I have a wonderful shelter, which is my family. I have a wonderful relationship with my brother and sister; this makes me feel that I know always where I belong.” — Jose Carreras
“What are sisters for, if not to point out the things the rest of the world is too polite to mention?” — Clair Cook
"Having a sister is like having a best friend you can’t get rid of. You know whatever you do, they’ll still be there." — Amy Li
“We may look old and wish to the outside world, but to each other, we are still in junior school.” — Charlotte Gray
We hope these Bhai Dooj greetings and messages have all the right words you need to convey your feelings to your siblings. Who knows, you might even get a wonderful gift from them for sending a thoughtful message! Celebrate this festival with your brothers and sisters, and have a very Happy Bhai Dooj!
Also Read:
Beautiful Choti Diwali Wishes and Messages for Your Dear Ones
Diwali Wishes, Messages & Quotes for Your Loved Ones
Best Dhanteras Wishes, Messages & Quotes for Your Family and Friends Read more
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Taking Vitamin B3 (Niacin) during Pregnancy
Proper nutrition during pregnancy is vital for the healthy growth and development of the unborn baby. Vitamin B3, also called Niacin, is an essential vitamin that is necessary for the proper growth and nourishment of the developing foetus. This article tells you about the benefits of taking vitamin B3 during pregnancy, the recommended dietary intake, and the food sources of vitamin B3.
What is Niacin?
Niacin or nicotinic acid is Vitamin B3, a water-soluble chemical that is an essential human nutrient. Vitamin B3 is also found in another form called nicotinamide. Both forms of Vitamin B3 are vital for human life. Vitamin B3 is converted to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), which is necessary for metabolizing fat, carbohydrates, protein, and alcohol in the body to give us energy. Vitamin B3 is also necessary for DNA repair, cell signalling, and synthesis of fatty acids.
Importance of Vitamin B3 in Pregnancy
Vitamin B3 is an important essential nutrient that is required for pregnant women so that the foetus is well-nourished and develops properly. Here are some reasons why Vitamin B3 is important for pregnant women:
1. Prevents Birth Defects
According to research, flaws in the genes that produce NAD cause birth defects in babies. Hence, taking adequate amounts of vitamin B3 can prevent certain birth defects and complications.
2. Essential for Development of Baby’s Brain
Niacin is necessary for the healthy development of the baby’s brain and nervous system.
3. Prevents Miscarriages
If the developing foetus has abnormalities, miscarriage can occur. Hence, taking Vitamin B3 can also prevent miscarriages.
4. Gives Us Energy
Vitamin B3 plays a crucial role in the metabolism of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and alcohol to give our body the energy we require.
5. Keeps Skin and Other Organs Healthy
Taking vitamin B3 is necessary for healthy skin, nervous system, and mucous membranes.
6. Reduces Nausea and Improves Digestion
Taking vitamin B3 has been found to reduce morning sickness and aid in digestion.
7. Reduces Migraines
Vitamin B3 has been found to reduce migraines.
Recommended Daily Intake for Pregnant Women
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of Vitamin B3 for pregnant women is 18 mg per day. The upper limit is 35 mg per day. Any amount between 18 to 35 mg is acceptable for pregnant women. However, more than 35 mg per day is not recommended for pregnant women.
Niacin Deficiency
Niacin or vitamin B3 is rare these days as most foods and grains are fortified with vitamin B3. However, the deficiency of Vitamin B3 can cause a serious disease called Pellagra characterized by symptoms like lesions on the body, butterfly-shaped lesions on the face, lesions around the neck, pain and swelling of the mouth, vagina, and urethra, diarrhoea, vomiting, depression, and dementia. Signs of vitamin B3 deficiency are:
Redness and irritation of the skin
Headaches
Digestive problems
Depression and mood swings
Inability to focus
Dizziness
Fatigue and poor circulation
There are some people who are at a higher risk of vitamin B3 deficiency:
People who consume corn or sorghum as a staple diet
Alcoholics
People with poor diet or those suffering from malnutrition
People with slow-growing tumours
Food Sources of Vitamin B3
The various food sources that contain Vitamin B3 (Niacin) are:
113 g chicken breast - 14.4 mg of niacin
113 g salmon - 11.3 g niacin
113 g tuna - 5 g niacin
133 g turkey - 5 mg niacin
142 g mushrooms - 5.4 mg niacin
113 g lamb - 7.8 g niacin
Niacin is also found in green peas, peanuts, beef, sunflower seeds, avocado, asparagus, liver, broccoli, and veal.
FAQs
Here are the answers to some most frequently asked questions about vitamin B3:
1. Can you take vitamin B3 supplements while pregnant?
If you are wondering, is niacin safe during pregnancy, the answer is yes. Niacin is safe if taken within the RDA of 18 to 35 mg per day.
2. What happens if you take too much of vitamin B3 in pregnancy?
Niacin and pregnancy are interlinked as niacin is essential for the proper development of the baby’s brain. However, taking too much vitamin B3 can cause side effects like skin flushes and liver damage.
Vitamin B3 is a vital nutrient essential for pregnant women to ensure the healthy development of the unborn baby. However, talk to your obstetrician before taking vitamin B3 supplements. The doctor will decide if you require it and will recommend a dosage that is suitable for you.
Also Read: Is It Safe to Take Vitamin B6 in Pregnancy Diet? Read more
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
16 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
11 hours ago
A. dear mom.
better to take tab pcm for time being n do take steam inhakation couple of tines a day, follpw good home renedies for cold, taje more rest .
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
10 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
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