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Hair Colouring or Perming during Breastfeeding - Is it Safe?
If you are wondering if hair dye for breastfeeding moms is safe for the health of the baby, then you are not alone. With processes like hair colouring or perming that heavily use chemicals, it is natural to wonder if these chemicals will find a way into the system of your baby. After nine months of pregnancy, where every move and thought is only centred around the health of your developing baby, you might be in the mood for some 'me time'. Spending a day at the salon to pamper yourself is one of the best ways to relax and rejuvenate. However, some salon procedures for getting your hair dyed or permed may not be safe for you yet, particularly if you are breastfeeding.
Can You Colour, Dye, or Perm Your Hair while Breastfeeding?
If you are wondering if you can colour your hair while breastfeeding, here is what you need to know. While most breastfeeding mothers stay away from any chemical products, there isn’t any proof to suggest that hair colouring or getting a perm can have any negative effect on your baby. The chemicals used in these processes are mild and cannot be absorbed through the hair follicle. However, getting any hair treatment is entirely up to your discretion. There are plenty of mothers and doctors who will tell you to stay away from these procedures. But you are the only one who alone should take this judgement, keeping in mind the studies and facts in front of you.
Can Chemicals in Hair Treatments Cause Harm to Breastfeeding Moms?
There are certain chemicals that are used in hair treatments such as for hair dyeing and perming, which when applied to the skin, can be absorbed into the bloodstream. However, the absorption levels are low and the occurrence of these chemicals in these treatments is at low levels. But if you want to stay safe, then make sure that the chemicals used in the treatments do not come into contact with your scalp.
Side Effects of Hair Dye or Hair Perming on Breastfed Babies
There can be some side effects of the chemicals used in hair dyeing or perming on babies.
Some of the older and cheaper dyes use ammonia for hair colouring. The fumes of ammonia if inhaled by the mother can be extremely harmful to her. An easy solution is to use dyes that do not contain ammonia. Thankfully, most companies now make ammonia-free dyes.
Most of the treatments will leave a strong smell on your hair which your baby might not like or he may find it too strong. These smells might prevent you from being able to nurse your baby.
Alternative Methods Nursing Mothers Can Consider
Your doctor may dissuade you from getting any hair treatment but you must not lose heart. There are many alternate processes that are chemical free, hence are safe to use on your hair without fear of any side effects on you or your baby. Post pregnancy, your hair might require much-needed love and care and while these alternative hair treatments might not give what you desired for, they will still help you feel relaxed.
1. Vegetable Dyes
One of the major complaints of breastfeeding women is the appearance of grey hair soon after giving birth, hence they wish to dye their hair. Since chemical dyes are not safe, you can always choose natural vegetable dyes. Dyes like henna will hide your grey hair, make your roots healthy while giving your hair shine and bounce. You can boost the colour and depth of henna by adding beetroot juice and coffee decoction.
2. Highlights
Instead of hair dyeing or perming, you can get only highlights for your hair. The dye then will be restricted to only small parts of your hair and the exposure to chemicals will be drastically reduced. This option is stylish and in trend too.
3. Temporary Treatments
Another great idea is to choose treatments that are temporary and hence do not require any chemicals. So instead of getting a perm, you can just use a curler to set your hair the way you want. The same trick can be applied to straightening your hair. This way, you can also change your style according to your mood and occasion. This option requires less upkeep and will still ensure a great and relaxing spa day for you.
Precautions to Take While Colouring or Perming Hair for Breastfeeding Moms
Since the chemicals have little chance of being absorbed by the hair itself, you can pay attention solely to your scalp. Make sure that your scalp is healthy and does not have any cuts or infections. Also, do not use products without doing an allergy test on yourself.
If you want to get your hair coloured while breastfeeding, it is recommended that you consult a doctor first. Frequent hair colouring or hair perming should be avoided and should be done when it is absolutely necessary. If you do colour your hair during this time, follow your doctor’s instructions.
Also Read: Getting Tattoos during Breastfeeding Read more
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Top 12 Potassium Rich Foods
Potassium is an essential mineral that’s required for many of the critical functions of the body, such as fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, building healthy teeth and bones, and controlling the functions of the nervous system. A deficiency of Potassium can cause irritability, fatigue, hypertension, weakness, and heart palpitations. Continue reading to know what makes Potassium an important mineral, as well as a list of potassium-rich foods.
What Makes Potassium a Vital Nutrient for Our Body?
Potassium is a critical electrolyte that’s essential for the regulation of fluids, conduction of nerve signals and regulating muscle contractions. Here's how Potassium does all of that:
Functions as an electrolyte in the body: 98% of the total Potassium in the body is found in the cells, out of which 80% exist in the muscle cells and 20% in the bones, red blood cells and liver. When dissolved in water, Potassium turns into a positively charged ion that can conduct electricity. These ions have a range of functions essential for the body’s functions. (0)
Regulation of fluid balance: Our bodies are approximately made of 60% water. About 40% of it exists in the form of intracellular fluid (ICF) and the rest is in the form of blood and spinal fluid, as extracellular fluid (ECF). The balance of water in the ECF and ICF is regulated by electrolytes such as Potassium and Sodium. Potassium being the main electrolyte within the ICF regulates the water inside the cells, while sodium being the main electrolyte in the ECF regulates water outside the cells. Together, they maintain the flow of water in and around the cells. (1)
Plays a critical role in the functioning of the nervous system: The nervous system uses electrolytes extensively to conduct nerve impulses. These electrical signals relay messages from the brain to the body and also control muscle movement, reflexes, sensory receptors and heartbeat. The nerve impulses are regulated by the Sodium and Potassium ions, and their movements in and out of cells generate the voltage needed to conduct the electrical signals.
Regulates the functioning of muscles and heart: Potassium levels in the blood and muscles have a strong effect on the heart's contractions. Too high or too low levels of potassium can affect the voltage and disturb nerve impulses. Improper potassium balance is also critical to keep the heart beating at a steady rhythm. Heart arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat caused by improper levels of potassium can sometimes be fatal.
What Foods are High in Potassium?
Here a list of Potassium-rich foods you need to include in your diet.
1. White Beans
Beans and lentils are rich sources of Potassium. White beans contain 829mg of Potassium per cup (179g), which is about 22 percent of the RDI (Recommended Daily Intake). One review involving about 250,000 people showed that increasing dietary Potassium intake by 1640 mg, which is about 45 percent of the RDI every day, cut down the risk of stroke by 21 percent. White beans are also rich in other essential nutrients such as Folate, Thiamine, Magnesium, Iron and Manganese, along with containing plenty of fibre.
2. Spinach
Spinach is one of the best among vegetables high in Potassium, with many essential nutrients present in it. One cup (180 g) of cooked spinach has about 675 mg of Potassium which is 18% of RDI making it a great choice for those looking to add it to the diet. Spinach also has 4 times the RDI of Vitamin A, 30 percent RDI of Calcium, ten times the RDI of vitamin K and 90 percent RDI of Manganese. All of these essential nutrients aid in good vision, bone health, metabolism and immunity.
3. Beets
This red root vegetable with its sweet flavour makes for a tasty addition to your salad while giving you about 518 mg of Potassium per cup ( 170 g) which is 13% of the RDI. Beets are also rich in Fibre, Manganese and Folates. The pigment which gives them their deep red colour is a powerful antioxidant which fights free-radical damage to improve immunity and overall health. Beets, while being high in nitrates along with Potassium, are good for the cardiovascular system as well.
4. Bananas
Banana is a common fruit with high amounts of Potassium. One medium sized banana contains 422 mg, which is about 14 percent of the RDI. It’s a fantastic way to restore your Potassium reserve after a heavy work out or a hot day in the sun. Green bananas are also high in starch and fibre, making them excellent sources of carbohydrates and roughages for the intestine. Bananas are ideal to bring your Potassium levels up to the RDI, along with other food sources on a daily basis.
5. Avocados
Avocados, while being tasty, are packed with nutrients making them a favourite among fitness enthusiasts. When it comes to foods with Potassium that are good for the heart, avocados rank high on the list. One medium sized avocado contains about 750 mg of Potassium or 20 percent of RDI. They are rich in monosaturated fats, fibre, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin K, Folates, and Antioxidants, making them excellent for heart health.
6. Salmon
People who regularly eat fish will have no problem with meeting their dietary requirement of Potassium. With half a filet of salmon (187 g) containing about 683 mg of potassium or 17% of RDI, the fish is rich in Potassium. What’s more, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins and minerals essential for the brain. It’s also seen that a diet rich in Potassium and fatty fish is linked to a decrease in risk of heart disease. (2) (3)
7. Coconut water
Coconut water has always been a favourite go-to drink during summers, and for good reason, with a high concentration of electrolytes in it. One glass (240 g) of coconut water contains 600 mg of potassium, which is about 15% of the RDI. It is excellent for rehydrating the body after going out on a hot summer day or high-intensity workout. Studies have found that it is more effective than plain water and just as effective as sports drinks at rehydrating the body.
8. Dry Fruits
Dry fruits and nuts are an excellent choice of a nutritious snack that's high in Potassium. Dried apricots are a great source of Potassium that will also satisfy your sugar craving while adding a number of other essential nutrients, along with fibre. When served dry or dehydrated, you also tend to eat more and get about 1500mg of potassium per cup, which is a little more than half the RDI. If you’re not a fan of dried apricots, try dried raisins, peaches or figs, which are also rich sources of potassium. Preferably go for unsweetened and unsalted dry fruits for the maximum benefits.
9. Dairy Products
Although fruits and vegetables are the best sources of Potassium, dairy products are surprisingly high in the mineral. One cup of whole milk contains about 300 mg of Potassium, while the same amount of skimmed milk has 400 mg, which is 11 percent of RDI. Yoghurt, which is a popular probiotic, also contains abundant amounts of Potassium. One cup (245 g) of yoghurt contains 400 mg Potassium and plenty of good bacteria that are essential for the healthy functioning of the gut. When choosing yoghurt, go for the plain variety that is not loaded with flavours or sugars.
10. Oranges
Oranges and other citrus fruits are popular for their Vitamin C content. However, they are also excellent sources of Potassium. One glass of orange juice contains about 400 mg of Potassium or 11 percent of the RDI. It is also loaded with Vitamin A, Folate, Thiamine and antioxidants. Orange juice is a refreshing drink on a hot summer day or to replenish electrolytes after a mild workout session. Its high antioxidant content fights free radicals and boosts immunity along with Vitamin C to keep you healthy.
11. Potatoes
Potatoes have long been part of our diet due to their abundance of every essential vitamin and mineral. They are also one of the densest sources of Potassium among all vegetables. One large (300 g) baked potato has 1275 mg or 34% of the RDI. Although most of the potatoes’ Potassium is in its flesh, the skin contains a third of the mineral. Therefore, eating it whole is the best way to get all of its nutrients. Sweet potatoes also have a significant amount of Potassium in them, along with healthy carbs and fibre. A 180-gram sweet potato can have up to 675 mg of Potassium, which is 18 percent of RDI.
12. Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is not only popular for its taste, but also the range of essential nutrients it has. When it comes to Potassium, a cup (244 g) of tomato sauce has about 638 mg or 17 percent of the RDI. It is also rich in Vitamins A, C, E, B6 and copper. The antioxidant lycopene present abundantly in tomatoes combats free radical damage, fights inflammation, and boosts immunity.
FAQS
1. How to Know If My Potassium Level Has Gone Low?
Quite often, Potassium levels are tested for in blood tests when a related illness shows up. Potassium deficiency rarely shows up as isolated symptoms. However, low Potassium can cause muscle cramps, weakness, fatigue, and constipation. The most troublesome complication of low Potassium is heart arrhythmias or irregular heartbeat in people who have heart diseases.
2. How Much Potassium Do You Need Per Day?
The recommended intake of Potassium by the ICMR is 1100 mg/day for children between 1-3 years, 1550 mg/ day for children between 4 to 6 years, 3225 mg/day for the average woman and 3750 mg/day for the average man.
The 12 mentioned foods are the best sources of Potassium. It is ideal to combine as many of them in your diet as possible to get your fill of Potassium, along with other essential nutrients.
Also Read :
Foods That Increase Your Metabolism
Foods That Will Boost Your Energy Levels
Power Foods to Boost Your Stamina
Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/high-potassium-foods
https://draxe.com/top-10-potassium-rich-foods/
https://www.myfooddata.com/articles/food-sources-of-potassium.php
https://www.everydayhealth.com/pictures/foods-high-in-potassium/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-does-potassium-do#section7
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/low-potassium/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050632
https://www.nestle.in/nhw/nutrition-basics/nutrients/minerals/sodium-potassium Read more
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"Babyhug Weighted Pink Straw Sipper for Toddler" Detailed Product Review
PRODUCT REVIEW: Babyhug Weighted Straw Sipper
Basic Details:
Your Name: Lovleena Mishra
Age & Gender of child: 2 years, Female
Product Name: Babyhug Weighted Straw Sipper
My Overall Take on Babyhug Weighted Pink Straw Sipper:
As our babies grow, we all need to ensure that they are being given safe ways of drinking water, storing milk and other juices. We all need to be sure that this daily need is being met both at home as well as outside. Kids cannot carry regular cups without leaving messes everywhere. On top of that, you will be busy cleaning up the spills and changing their clothes from time to time.
Babyhug Weighted Straw Sipper is the answer for that. It is designed in such way that a baby can carry it both at home and outside. Hygiene is a must in today's situation. This sipper has a swipey lid to keep the straw clean and hygienic. It also has a cover for hygiene. It gives a unique drinking experience to your baby. 360 degrees drinking edge eliminates spills completely. It is for children above 9 months of age. This is made of BPA free materials and it is easy to clean and assemble. It is easy to get the right amount of liquid for your baby since the cup is made from a transparent plastic material. It has a holding capacity of 360 ml, enough to satisfy your bab and enjoy different kinds of liquids.

MAIN FEATURES:
a) It is made of BPA free Polypropylene. And that is why it is safe to be used by your baby.
b) It has a swipey lid to prevent the straw from getting dirty.
c) It has a cover that helps in keeping its contents free of dust and germs.
What I liked:
a) Easy to clean and maintain.
b) Provides copious quantity of fluid when sucked.
c) Available in attractive colours of blue, orange and pink which captures a child's attention. It has beautiful prints for kids.
d) Has smooth edges thus safe for your child.
e) Has a 360 degrees drinking edge and hence no issues of leakage especially with a playful child.
f) It comes with a straw spout for easy sucking and when not in use, the swipey lid can be used to seal the straw and hence can be kept clean for your child's use.
Performance Ratings:
a) Features: * * * *
b) Product Design: * * * * *
c) Performance (Basis Features): * * * *
d) Value for Money: * * *
Would I recommend Babyhug Weighted Straw Sipper?
YES Read more
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Understanding Independent Behaviour in Preschoolers
Independence is a trait that you'll increasingly see developing in your child at each stage. However, you can also play a role in it by getting your kid engaged in independent activities for preschoolers. By doing this, he'll be more assured of his abilities.
You may have come across situations when your toddler is unable to execute a task and you rush to his side to help him. As long as you’re only 'helping' him to perform it and not doing the work, it’s fine. Shouldering the task can curb his desire to become independent. As parents, we always want the best for our children and pamper them to an extent. However, not letting them do things on their own can make them overly dependent and incapable.
Development of Independent Behaviour in Preschoolers
Tasks such as doing artwork that requires assembling objects and using them will have to be a combined effort at 36 months while a 42-month-old confident preschooler will be able to do it on his own.
Hand-eye coordination improves and preschoolers more readily find solutions to problems on their own. This could be as easy as taking out stickers and pasting them independently.
Emotional dependency gradually reduces so while a 3-year-old might still be clinging on to his mother at the mall, a 4-year-old will be busy exploring the place independently.
Concepts like sharing, keeping the room clean, and other similar activities will be taken up enthusiastically by a 4-year-old while you may still have to convince your 3-year-old to do them.
You’ll see the beginning of your child’s decision-making ability. A 4-year-old will begin to assert himself and make small decisions like what to wear and what to eat.
3-year-old Vs. 4-year-old: Behaviours Exhibited
36 months to 42 months is an interesting time in the life of a toddler. In this period, he’ll engage in the same activity in different ways depending on what his age is. You’ll see that a task done with much concentration and assistance initially will soon become a breeze for him as he grows. Here’s what you can expect to observe:
Your Role in Encouraging Independent Behaviour in Kids
The motivation of a parent goes a long way in instilling a sense of confidence in your child. Training children to be independent can be done by engaging them in the following:
Making simple changes like placing your preschooler’s toys, objects and other knickknacks at a height where he can reach them are the first steps towards independence.
Providing wooden toys, wooden puzzles and board books that do not get damaged easily, and that can be given to your child without supervision should be encouraged.
Talk about the activities he can accomplish independently and be generous in praising him when he completes them.
Put chart paper on a board, listing down the tasks that your preschooler is able to execute independently and those that he’ll learn at this stage. Every time he masters any one of them, give him a small reward.
In today's modern times, teaching children to be independent is extremely important. It’ll go a long way in helping them develop into responsible adults. Read more
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POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
will women get stomach ache at 40th day of implantation.
which means after 10 days of her missed period
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. The duration of implantation cramping varies from person to person but doesn't last longer than a few days. Some people experience a few minor twinges over a few hours or the course of a day. On the other end of the spectrum, some experience intermittent cramping that comes and goes over one to three days.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
1 hour ago
Q. If a diabetic mother is pregnent chance of baby having diabetes?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. No it is a very common thing with women to be seen that they are diabetic or they have thyroid during the time of pregnancy but that does not mean your child is also going to have the same problem as these things are not contagious you are not going to pass it on to your child during pregnancy so don’t worry about it
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. New born baby is not poop more than 1 week? How to recover that
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. Stool pattern of small children changes from time to time.
It can be more than 7 times per day also and sometimes the child will not pass stool for 10 days also.
The most important thing is the consistency of the stool and if it is Semi solid to solid or semi liquid then there is no need to worry about the frequency axs well as colour as well as the smell of the stool
Also straining and crying while passing urine and stool is very normal.
the crying of the child is due to colic pain and not due to constipationx
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
40 mins ago
Q. hi, I'm 4th month pregnant. my last period date was jan 7th. I was asked to take iron and calcium supplements. after started with those supplements, my body's temperature started increasing. how do I get rid of this. can I stop taking these supplements?
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
26 mins ago
A. there is no relation taking calcium and iron and body temperature. 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
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
28 mins ago
Q. 11Weeks on going and the problem is continuously vomiting, body&headache pain.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
26 mins ago
A. please check the temperature can be a viral infection. 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
10 mins ago
Q. is it normal to have 2 dominant follicles in Right ovary? Today is my D8 and the size of both the follicles are 20x18mm and 19x18 mm Is it normal.
and left ovary follicles 12x18mm.and ET size 7.89
pls advice
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
6 mins ago
A. Your doctor would be able to give you better clarity help and advice on the situation that is there so kindly get in touch with your gynaecologist she will be able to clear all your queries whatever you have associated with the things that you have posted
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