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11 Common Baby-Making Mistakes You Are Making and How to Correct Them
Couples planning for a baby may not realise that their carefree approach may hamper their chances of getting pregnant. An unhealthy lifestyle can be a common baby-making mistake. You should plan the right time before, during and after ovulation to increase your chances of conception.
Both partners need to be healthy and fit when they are trying for a baby. There are many factors that can affect their efforts along the way. It is important to recognize these misconceptions about conception (pun intended!) and ensure a successful pregnancy.
Are You Trying to Conceive Since Long?
If you are thinking why can’t you pregnant even after doing everything right, then it’s time to look up the definition of your ‘right’. When it’s your body and hormones, there are ‘n’ things that could go wrong. You must have thought that making a baby is not difficult, but it turns out that it is. Some couples don’t take time to get pregnant, while others could have to wait for too long that they lose hope.
But do you know why does this happen? When ‘trying to conceive’ you might be making certain mistakes or there might be some problem with your body that might be coming in the way.
WATCH: How to Get Pregnant as Explained by Dr Suhasini Inamadar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJWwyAnrrus
Key Takeaway:
Although there are no sure ways for getting pregnant, there are certain tips that might help:
To get pregnant stay away from stress.
Lead a healthy and active life. Exercise and eat healthy food.
See a doctor and get the basic checks done. Both man and woman should get their blood tests done.
Women should get scans done to see if they have some problem with ovaries and similarly men should get done with semen analysis.
If women have regular cycles, then days between 10 and 18 of your cycle are good for getting pregnant.
11 Most Common Baby-Making Mistakes
Listed below are the 11 most common baby-making mistakes couples make:
1. Irregular Sex
One of the top mistakes that couples commit is not having enough sex. If you’re planning a baby, you need to be aware that intercourse before and during ovulation is the best time for conception. Some couples miss the right time, leading to gaps in frequency.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake:Couples who have sex around three to four times a week may have more chances of conceiving than those indulging in it once a week.
2. Too Much Physical Intimacy
It is said that having intercourse every day is not a good idea when a couple is trying to conceive as it can decrease the amount of sperm that a man produces.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake:Doctors recommend having intercourse on alternate days. This allows the male partner to produce enough sperm.
3. Being Unaware of the Fertile Window
Many couples are not aware of the best time to have intercourse - the best time is three to five days before ovulation, and on the day of ovulation. Having sex during this time will improve your chances of getting pregnant. Some women are unaware of their ovulation cycle dates.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: To be certain about your ovulation cycle, you can opt for an ovulation prediction test and maintain a fertility chart to know about your fertile window.
4. Waiting for Too Long Before Seeing a Doctor
For couples who are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for more than a year with no success, it’s probably time to see a specialist and ensure that you are both in the clear. On the other hand, if both of you are above 35 and have been trying for six months, you should see a doctor right away to figure out the problem.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: In either of the two cases, see a doctor and get the necessary tests done.
5. Irregular Periods
Women with irregular periods are more likely to have a medical condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects hormone levels of women, making them vulnerable to fertility problems. If a woman has prolonged menstrual cycles, she is subjected to less opportunities of conceiving as she ovulates only once per cycle.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: In such cases, it’s best to see a doctor, in order to improve the chances of getting pregnant.
6. Using Lubricants
Most lubricants are not sperm friendly and can reduce the chances of conceiving. A woman’s vagina produces a natural lubricant that works as a pathway for the sperms to reach the ovules. External lubricants are not safe and do not work the same way as your body’s natural lubricants.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: You can try a sperm-friendly lubricant or natural oils such as olive oil or coconut oil. These may be safer and more effective.
7. Assumptions About Regular Cycles
It is often assumed that women with regular menstrual cycles are fertile. However, it may not be the case. There are many factors that affect a woman’s fertility. Regular cycles usually are considered a good sign that a woman is ovulating, but this certainly does not rule out the possibilities of poor egg quality, unhealthy fallopian tubes or uterus, or insufficient progesterone production to support a pregnancy.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: Do not assume things and see a doctor as he will check and tell you what exactly the problem is.
8. Leading an Unhealthy Life
It is important to note that your health plays an important role in getting pregnant almost as much as regular intercourse. An unhealthy diet, smoking, intake of alcohol and drugs, are some factors that need to be curbed to increase your chances of successful conception. Even stress and depression can affect your chances of fertility.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: If you soon want a baby in your arms, switch to a healthy lifestyle. Quit drinking alcohol and smoking and switch to healthy foods.
9. Saving Sperms for the Right Time
It is believed that a man should hold on to his sperm until the day of a woman's ovulation. Couples make the mistake of believing that having intercourse prior to ovulation can finish off ‘good sperm’, not leaving enough for the day of ovulation. Note that sperms have a lifespan of three to five days which means that you may conceive even if intercourse occurs in the days just prior to ovulation. The more sperm a man releases, the higher the number produced in his body.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: Have sex regularly, as it will help in improving a man's sperm quality and production.
10. Always Thinking That the Problem is with Women
Since ages, women in our country have been told that if they are unable to conceive, then they have fertility issues. But, nobody points to a man. Fertility problems can happen in both men and women. And there is no need to be ashamed about sharing it with your doctor.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: If you have fertility issues, go to a doctor and both husband and wife should get checked.
11. Sticking to One Position
Many couples think that a certain position is suitable for getting pregnant. It is also believed that a woman has to keep her hips elevated for a while after having sex to get pregnant. But the truth is after ejaculation, sperm swims into cervical mucus and enters the fallopian tubes. So, the actual process is of few minutes and your position does not matter.
Tip to Avoid This Mistake: Instead of sticking to one position while having intercourse, try different positions in which you have fun and make your experience interesting.
So, now as you are aware of what mistakes you might be making, it shouldn’t be hard for you to get pregnant. Although remember, patience is the key and don’t lose hope if the result is still negative. Give yourself some time and you sure will be pregnant soon!
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Sterilising Baby Bottle - Methods & Important Safety Tips
Pregnancy and childbirth is an experience that weaves agony and ecstasy together. Suddenly, you find yourself in charge of a tiny, vulnerable little human being whom you protected until now in your womb. Now, exposed to the outer world, they are vulnerable to many things! Your baby’s immune system develops slowly and needs to be protected from any bacterium and other harmful substances that enter his body.
Reasons to Sterilise Baby Bottles
Babies are vulnerable to the outer environment from the moment they make their entry into this world. Below are some of the reasons that will tell you why you need to sterilise the baby bottles:
Harmful microorganisms are deposited on the bottle. Entry of these bacteria and viruses in your baby's body can result in vomiting and diarrhoea in your baby. Hence, it is necessary to sterilise bottles before feeding them.
When a child is born, his store of antibodies is limited to those that have been passed on from his mother during the last three months of pregnancy. This protection wanes in the first few months of his life.
The water that you get at home may be contaminated and contain disease-causing microbes. So, you should sterilise bottles without forgetting.
It is crucial that utmost care is taken of what goes into their mouth, as the mouth is the primary entry point to the body. Sterilisation helps kill these microbes and cleans your bottle thoroughly.
How Often to Sterilise Baby Bottles?
While everyone agrees that sterilisation is important, experts have the different opinion on how often this needs to be done. Child care experts are divided into two schools of thought on this matter.
Only Once: According to the American Academy of Paediatrics, you simply need to wash the baby bottle with hot water and soap once after every feed, and it doesn’t need to be sterilised constantly. The rationale behind this suggestion is, the water and silverware that are clean enough for you to drink and eat from, is just as suitable for the baby.
Weekly Wash: Some doctors feel the bottles just once is not a safe practice. Matters regarding the health of your precious little treasure cannot be taken lightly. Sterilisation does not inhibit the growth of your baby's immune system and can help prevent your child from contracting life-threatening diseases.
How to Sterilise Baby Bottles?
Sterilisation is the process of killing microbes that may be clinging to the surface of the bottles, lids, teats, pacifiers, etc. Sterilisation can be done through methods like boiling, steaming, or even putting the bottle in a microwave. All the methods above are equally effective, and you can choose your mode of sterilisation based on personal preference and availability.
[Also Read: Effective Ways to Sterlize Baby Bottle]
Methods of Sterilising Baby Bottles
Some of the methods used to sterilise baby bottles include:
Boiling: Boiling baby bottles is the most common method of sterilisation used all across the world. It is also the easiest method and by doing so you can store breast milk and even formula in a bottle. But, you should clean the bottle first. To sterilise a bottle by boiling follow these steps:
First, wash the bottles, lids, and nipples you are going to sterilise with normal dishwashing soap.
Place them in a large saucepan filled with ample water so that all equipment get fully immersed. Also, it should not have air bubbles.
Once the water is brought to a boil, keep it rapidly boiling for five minutes. Then, turn off the gas and allow the water to cool down naturally.
If you are feeding right away, clean your hands and the kitchen surface where you will prepare the bottle, and then take out the bottle. Do not use a cloth to wipe the sterilised items dry as contaminants will pass from the cloth to the bottle. Just shake the bottle to get rid of dripping water.
If you are not feeding right away, put all the sterilised equipment in a clean, dry container, and place the container in a refrigerator.
2. Chemical Sterilisation: There are sterilisation chemicals that you can buy especially for sterilising baby feeding equipment. These chemicals are mixed with water in specific ratios to make a sterilising solution. Chemical sterilisation uses room temperature water and hence is safer for the nipple/teats, which may disintegrate if exposed to high temperature for long periods of time. However, you should check manufacturer’s instructions for the confirmation of heat withstanding ability. Following is the process of chemical sterilisation:
When making the solution, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, especially, with regard to the ratio of chemicals to the water.
Just as with the boiling procedure, your equipment needs to be fully immersed in the solution with no air bubbles caught in them.
The minimum amount of time the equipment needs to stay in the solution will be specified in the manufacturer’s instructions (usually half an hour). If you are not feeding straight away, then let it remain in the solution until you use it.
Before using the equipment, shake off the dripping water, and allow it to dry naturally. Again, do not use a dishcloth or napkin to wipe it dry, as that may contaminate your sterilised equipment.
Before using this method of sterilisation, clean the large container, your bottle, teats, etc with hot water and soap.
3. Steam Steriliser: Several manufacturers sell steam sterilisers for baby feeding equipment. Similar to boiling, the process uses heat to kill harmful microbes. This option is suitable for parents living in urban apartments, and for those who do not use gas stoves. Steam sterilisers can be plugged in and operated with electricity! This is how you should use steam sterilisers:
Clean the bottles, caps, teats, etc with hot water and soap before the sterilisation process.
When placing them in the steriliser, make sure to face the openings of the containers downward, to allow maximum exposure of steam onto the inner surface.
Instruction regarding the amount of water that needs to be put into the machine will be provided by the manufacturer. The machine will turn off on its own after the steaming process.
You can leave the equipment inside the steriliser until you need to use it. But, check the instructions about the time they can be left in the steriliser without having to re-sterilise it.
4. Microwave: Using the microwave to sterilise your baby feeding equipment works on the same principle as the steam steriliser. However, the inside of the microwave should be extremely clean, which is almost impossible for microwaves that are in regular use to heat household food. To sterilise in a microwave, follow these instructions:
Fill half of the baby bottle with water and in a separate glass bowl of water, submerge the nipples, rings, and other accessories. Place them in the microwave.
Now, microwave on high setting for one and a half minutes.
Keep them inside until they are sufficiently cool enough to be picked up for use.
Do's to Sterilise Bottle for Your Child
Sterilising baby bottles is not a daunting task. Almost, anyone can do it. But, there are certain points you should remember before you go for it:
Make sure your baby bottle and accessories are thoroughly washed in clean water, with soap, before the sterilisation process.
Wash and disinfect your hands and the counter on which the bottle will be prepared.
Avoid wiping them down with towels or napkins unless the towel is disinfected itself.
It is best to leave the sterilised equipment in the sterilising machine or water until required for use. If sterilised in boiling water, then keep the saucepan shut.
If you are not going to use the sterilised equipment for a longer amount of time (over 15 to 24 hours), then it is best to keep them on a disinfected surface till dry, put on the nipple and cap and then store it inside another container, in the fridge.
Safety Tips
Take a note of these safety tips while sterilising bottles:
Avoid accidents by keeping your baby or other children in the house away from the boiling saucepan and the steamer being used for the sterilisation. Steam has heat trapped in the form of latent energy making is more destructive than boiling water.
Be sure to read specifications on the nipple. As these are made of pliable material, their ability to withstand the heat of sterilisation may be lower than that of your bottle. Too much of heat can disintegrate the nipple.
Always buy toxin-free plastic bottles, free of BPA and other chemicals that are known to seep into the food causing hormonal imbalance.
Glass bottle lasts longer and is much safer to sterilise with heat than plastic bottles. However, they need to be replaced at the slightest indication of cracking.
If your baby does not agree with a certain bottle and nipple, it may be best to replace them. Constant wear may also lead to the faster discharge of milk from the worn nipple.
When to Stop Sterilising Baby Bottles?
Feeding equipment needs to be sterilised on a weekly basis. If your water supply is contaminated, this can be switched to once in two or three days. Sterilising needs to be done regularly until your child is 12 months old. After that, the practice could be relaxed or even stopped completely depending on your child’s health and the environment.
Sterilising your baby’s feeding bottles and accessories is necessary. However, this counter-measure against harmful bacteria needn’t keep you up at night. But then again new parents will find sound uninterrupted sleep hard to come by, as most of you will have heard or even experienced already! With proper scheduling, proper equipment, and a systematic approach, you will do it without missing a beat!
Also Read: Tips For Bottle Feeding Your Newborn Read more
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20 Healthy and Yummy Sandwich Recipes for Kids
Sandwiches are easy to make and prep up. If you're planning meals for the week, it's good to throw in a couple of those goodies in your kid's school lunches or even dinners. Heck, they can have sandwiches for breakfast too! Check out these simple sandwich ideas for kids and start whipping some tasty treats for those hungry tykes. Experiment with the quantities and make the sandwiches to suit your baby's taste buds. They'll love them!
Easy Sandwich Ideas for Children
Below is a compilation of the 20 most popular bread sandwich recipes for kids. Try these out, and your kids will feel fully satisfied by the end of their meal.
1. Club Cheese Sandwich
This sandwich is an all-time classic that kids love to munch on. Here's a slightly modified version of the delicious Club Cheese Sandwich for those hungry little monsters.
Ingredients Needed
Thin strips of smoked bacon (optional)
Slices of whole wheat bread
Grated carrots
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced cucumbers
Soft cheese, grated
Lettuce leaves
Some toothpicks
Salt and pepper as per taste
How to Make
Grill the bacon for five minutes on both the sides.
Cut the sides of the bread and spread out the slices on a platter.
Top them with bacon.
Mix the grated cheese and carrots, and add some salt and pepper.
Lay the carrot filling on top of bread slices.
Layer the filling with some slices of tomato and cucumber.
Add another layer of cheese.
Top it with another slice of bread and use a toothpick to secure the filling in place.
Repeat the procedure for as many sandwiches as you want.
2. Smoked Gouda and Roasted Bell Pepper Sandwich
If your kids love gouda and muenster, we've got a special treat for them!
Ingredients Needed
Half-inch slices of Pullman Bread
Thin slices of smoked gouda cheese
Some slices of muenster cheese
Roasted bell peppers (chopped/sliced)
Arugula leaves
Soft butter (unsalted)
How to Make
Spread some butter on each slice of bread.
Then, add a layer of gouda and muenster cheese.
Layer with some bell peppers.
Add a thin layer of Arugula leaves
Add one more layer of smoked gouda cheese.
Top it with another slice of bread.
Toast these sandwiches on medium flame in a nonstick frying pan and cover it with a lid.
When you see your sandwich turning golden brown, flip it over and continue to cook till the other side looks the same.
3. Mozzarella Cheese Sandwich
Kids love a cheesy snack, and this one's really simple to make.
Ingredients Needed
White sandwich bread
Mozzarella cheese
Butter
Basil or oregano
Marinara sauce or ketchup
How to Make
Butter all the bread slices generously.
Heat a non-stick pan and toast the bread slices. buttered side down.
Immediately add some slices of mozzarella cheese.
Sprinkle some oregano and basil.
Add another slice of bread that has been buttered, keeping the buttered side up.
Toast the sandwich for a few minutes until the bread turns golden brown on both the sides.
Add more butter to the pan if required.
Cut the sandwiches into equal triangles and serve with a dash of marinara sauce or ketchup.
4. Salami and Cheese Sandwich
A sandwich that barely takes ten minutes to make and serves as a quick and wholesome snack for your little munchkins.
Ingredients Needed
Bread
Salami
Cheese slices
Mayonnaise
Butter
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
How to Make
Spread some butter on one side of each bread slice.
Preheat the pan and place the bread slices on them, buttered side down.
Top it with some cheese and allow it to melt.
When the cheese melts, layer it with some salami, lettuce leaves and sliced tomatoes.
Cover it with a slice of buttered bread.
Toast the sandwich on both the sides till it turns golden brown in colour.
5. Apricot, Cheddar and Cheese Sandwich
Variety is the spice of life and nutrition as well. This sandwich takes the cake and is very easy to make.
Ingredients Needed
Shredded rotisserie chicken
Bibb lettuce leaves
Sourdough bread slices
Dried apricots
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Chopped pistachios
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced sweet onions
Honey
Stone-ground mustard
Grated horseradish
Salt
Pepper
How to Make
Mix the chicken, mayonnaise, apricots, horseradish, salt, pepper, honey, sour cream and the chopped pistachios in a large bowl.
Lay some bread slices on a platter.
Add layers of sliced onion, tomatoes and lettuce leaves.
Add a layer of the chicken mixture.
Add another layer of with tomato and onion slices along with some lettuce.
Cover the sandwich with a slice of bread slices.
Press firmly, and cut the sandwich diagonally.
Serve with some crisps.
6. Cheese 'N' Greens Sandwich
A great option for fussy eaters. This recipe exemplifies simplicity and can be prepared within a few minutes.
Ingredients Needed
Bread slices
Broccoli florets
Olive oil
Salt
Unsalted butter
Crushed black pepper
How to Make
Drizzle some olive oil, and sprinkle some salt, pepper on the broccoli florets and mix.
Spread the florets on an oven tray and bake it for ten minutes in a preheated oven.
Smother some butter generously a bread slice, and place it in a skillet with the buttered side down.
Layer with cheese, broccoli florets and add another layer of cheese on top.
Once the cheese melts, cover it with a slice of bread.
Smother some more butter on top and cook the sandwich on both the sides approximately 5 minutes or till the cheese binds the slices together and the bread turns golden brown in colour.
Cut the sandwiches and halves and serve with some sauce.
7. Apple, Cheese, and Ham Sandwich
Sometimes kids crave a fruity treat, and this one delivers exactly that.
Ingredients Needed
Multi-grain bread
Cheddar Cheese
Ham Slices
Grated apple
Light mayonnaise
Mustard
Honey
How to Make
Whisk the honey, mustard, and mayonnaise together.
Spread this mix over the bread slices.
Top the slices with cheese and layer with ham and grated apple.
Cover the sandwiches with the other slices of bread.
Cut the sandwiches in halves and serve with a garnish of leftover ingredients to your kids.
8. Cucumber Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Say goodbye to summer heat with these delicious cucumber cream cheese sandwiches. Here's how you make them.
Ingredients Needed
Whole grain bread
Cream cheese
Sliced cucumbers
Lemon zest
Fresh dill
Salted butter
Black pepper (ground)
Salt for taste
How to Make
Tap the cucumber slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Mix the cream cheese, dill, lemon zest, pepper and salt in a bowl.
Spread some butter on one side of the bread slices.
Add a layer with the mix cream cheese mixture.
Top the filling with some slices of cucumber.
Cover the sandwich with bread slices.
Cut the edges of the sandwich and serve.
9. Grilled Pear Sandwiches
Who says pear and sandwiches don't go hand-in-hand? Try out this recipe and see for yourself.
Ingredients Needed
Slices of french bread
Brie cheese slices
Sliced pears
Softened butter
Fresh thyme leaves
Salt
Pepper
How to Make
Heat a skillet on medium heat.
Butter up the bread slices on one side and toast them with the buttered side down.
Add a slice of brie cheese on the bread.
Sprinkle some thyme.
Once the cheese melts, add the pear slices, salt and pepper.
Close of the sandwich with another slice of bread and flip it over, continuing to cook for two to three minutes.
Cut diagonally and serve hot.
10. PB Carrot Sandwiches
Kids love peanut butter, and by adding carrots to the spread, you introduce more nutrition to this already healthy snack. Here's how you can do it.
Ingredients Needed
Creamy peanut butter
Shredded carrot
Apricot marmalade
Raisins
How to Make
Mix the peanut butter, raisins, carrot and marmalade thoroughly in a bowl.
Generously spread it on a slice of bread and add another slice of bread on top.
You can use this spread pita bread, buns and tortilla rolls and prepare more variety of this nutritious snack.
11. Boiled Egg Sandwich
You can turn a boiled egg into a delicious evening snack with this recipe below.
Ingredients Needed
Boiled eggs
Sliced bagel
Large tomato slices
Lettuce leaf
How to Make
Cut the egg into slices.
Cut the bagel horizontally in two halves.
Layer the sliced egg, lettuce leaf, and sliced tomatoes on one-half of the bagel.
Complete the sandwich with the second half of the bagel.
Serve for a hearty breakfast or lunch.
12. Egg Mayo Sandwich
A classic among classics, this sandwich is for those times when you want to treat your little one like a king (or queen!). Please note this is high in fat and is a great option if you want your child to gain weight.
Ingredients Needed
Boiled eggs
Mayonnaise
Chopped green onions
Yellow mustard
Paprika
Salt
Pepper
How to Make
Remove the shells and dice the boiled eggs.
In a bowl, mix the eggs with some mayonnaise, green onions, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread the mixture generously over a slice of bread and top it off with another slice of bread.
13. Cold Cut Sandwich
If you're looking to add some protein to your child's diet, meat is the way to go. Here's our signature cold cut sandwich recipe.
Ingredients Needed
Corned beef cold cuts
Rye bread loaf
Sauerkraut
Thousand island dressing
Butter
Swiss cheese
How to Make
Butter up the rye bread loaves and place them on a baking sheet.
Add some thousand island dressing and follow up with a dash of sauerkraut.
Layer the cold cuts and some cheese on the top.
On another slice of bread, spread some thousand island dressing.
Put it face down over the cheese.
Apply some butter to the sandwich on the top.
Bake it for 3 to 4 minutes approximately at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and serve immediately.
14. Grilled Turkey and Parmesan Sandwich
Have some leftover turkey in the kitchen? Then it's time to put it to good use and whip out from it a couple of delicious sandwiches!
Ingredients Needed
Sandwich bread
Mozzarella cheese
Grated parmesan cheese
Turkey breast, thinly sliced
Marinara sauce
Unsalted butter
How to Make
Heat a skillet on medium flame.
Butter up one side of the bread slices and place them on the skillet with the buttered side down.
Add a slice of mozzarella cheese over it.
With a spoon, drizzle some marinara sauce over the cheese.
Sprinkle some parmesan cheese and layer up the turkey slices on them.
Add another layer of mozzarella cheese and complete the sandwich by covering it with another slice of bread.
15. BLT Sandwich
Every sandwich queen knows that BLT is the king of all sandwiches. BLT or Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato sandwiches are very wholesome and filling. Here's the recipe.
Ingredients Needed
Bacon
Sliced tomatoes
Slices of bread
Iceberg lettuce leaf
Mayonnaise
Cooking oil
How to Make
In a skillet, roast the bacon for approximately 10 mins. Remove them in a plate.
In the same pan, prep up the slices of bread.
Add layers of bacon, lettuce leaf and sliced tomatoes.
On a slice of bread, apply some mayonnaise and place it on top of the sliced tomatoes.
Cut the sandwich into triangle-shaped pieces and serve hot.
16. Peanut Butter and Jelly Bagel
This sandwich recipe is for kids with a sweet tooth!
Ingredients Needed
Plain bagel
Cream cheese
Fresh fruit jam
Peanut butter
How to Make
Cut the bagel horizontally in two halves.
Layer some cream cheese and peanut butter on one half.
Spread the fresh fruit jam on the second half of the bagel and place it on the half that has the peanut butter and cream cheese spread.
Ta-da! Your Peanut Butter and Jelly Bagel is ready!
17. Grilled Cheese and Peanut Butter Sandwich
If your kids are all up for trying out new things, why not show off this cool little recipe that leaves them hungry for more? Here's how you can make it.
Ingredients Needed
Slices of bread
Peanut Butter
Cheddar cheese
Margarine
How to Make
Generously spread some peanut butter on one side of the bread slices.
Add some cheddar cheese on the top.
Cover up with the other slices of bread.
Apply some butter to both sides of the sandwich.
Cook it in a skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
Cut into equal triangles and serve fresh.
18. Fruity Peanut Butter Sandwich
Fruits and peanut butter together are a powerhouse of nutrition. Try this whopping recipe out and let your kids surge with energy.
Ingredients Needed
Slices of bread
Sliced strawberries
Sliced green apples
Banana slices
Sliced pears
Peanut butter
How to Make
Toast the bread slices and layer them with a generous serving of peanut butter.
Top them with the sliced fruits of your choice
Complete the sandwiches by topping them up with other slices of bread.
Press gently and cut it into triangle-shaped pieces.
19. California Wrap Sandwich
Here is a vegetarian version of the famous California wrap sandwich, one of our signature veg sandwich recipes. Enjoy!
Ingredients Needed
Hummus
Whole wheat tortillas
Grated beetroot
Grated carrot
Fresh peas
Sprouts
How to Make
Take the hummus and generously spread it over the tortillas.
Top it with beetroot, carrot, fresh peas, sprouts, and wrap it up neatly to make a delicious and filling California Wrap Sandwich.
20. Turkey and Bean Burrito
Burritos are the avant-garde of dinner delicacies and are filling too. Beans and turkey are rich sources of protein and here's a protein-filled, power-packed meal recipe to boot.
Ingredients Needed
Canola oil
Crushed garlic cloves
Shredded turkey
Pinto beans
Whole wheat tortillas
Sliced onions
Cumin powder
Chilli powder
Diced tomatoes
Chopped green chillies
Lime juice
Green cabbage
Grated pepper cheese
How to Make
Pour some canola oil in a large saucepan and heat it over a medium flame.
Throw in the onion slices and follow up with cumin powder, garlic, pepper cheese and keep cooking for a few minutes.
Add green chillies, tomatoes and switch over to low flame for 15 minutes afterwards.
Then add the shredded turkey and beans in the mix.
Keep cooking it for the next 5 minutes. Let it cool.
Spread out the mix by topping it over your tortillas evenly.
Top your burritos with cabbage, pepper cheese, make sure to roll and serve fresh.
Things to Remember While Making Sandwiches for Kids
Always include some ingredients that your kid loves, and ensure the flavours go well together.
Do not go out of the way while experimenting with the sandwich recipes.
Always pack a fruit along with the sandwich to ensure your kid gets all the nutrition he requires for the meal.
Bread generally can be dry, so pack some juice or give him a bottle of water along with the sandwich.
You may choose to keep the bread crust on as that will help fill your kid's stomach. Or, you can prepare a fresh vegetable salad with croutons made from the bread crusts and pack it along with the sandwich.
The trick to sandwich making is variety and creativity. Try out these sandwich ideas for kids, give your own creative spin and watch your kid look forward to school time lunches. You won't see your kids being fussy eaters anymore once you give these a try.
Also Read:
Nutritious Snacks for Children
Easy Lunchbox Recipes for Kids Read more
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Sexual Performance Anxiety - Causes, Symptoms and How to Overcome It
If you have ever laid in bed, wondering how it was over even before it began, you are not alone! Ladies and gentlemen, sexual performance anxiety is real. You may not be alone in this if you can understand what performance anxiety is and how you can remedy it. Making love is an integral part of a healthy relationship. It improves the bonding, trust, and intimacy between two people. However, one or both partners may sometimes feel pressured to satisfy the other, and this leads to growing anxiety. This anxiety if unchecked, can lead to low performance in the bedroom and create resistance in the inclusiveness of a relationship.
What is Sexual Performance Anxiety?
Sexual performance anxiety is a psychological state where a person feels nervous and apprehensive about everything that can go wrong. It affects both genders and brings in a paralysing fear that you will not be able to accomplish anything sexually or you don’t enjoy the sex. It can seriously affect the status of your relationship if you suffer from such unchecked anxiety.
What Causes Sexual Performance Anxiety?
There can be several reasons that cause sexual performance anxiety. Certain causes affect performance in both genders while some reasons are restricted to the performance of the male gender.
Stress is the primary cause of performance anxiety in both men and women. The stress could originate anywhere from financial issues, family related problems to work-related issues. Even though the origin is an external occurrence, it causes people to be distracted and reduces the ability to focus during sex. Other causes could be as follows:
Low self-esteem or no confidence in oneself
Fear that one is going to underperform during sex
Fear that we will be rejected based on sexual performance
Fear that we cannot satisfy our partners
Body image problems
Previous sexual experiences that were bad
Sexual Performance Anxiety Symptoms
The top symptoms of sexual performance anxiety manifest in the following ways:
Erectile dysfunction in men
Premature Ejaculation in men
Inability to have an orgasm in both men and women
Incapability to get lubricated in women
Anxiety can disrupt your mindset for sex. This, in turn, causes a cyclic problem of sexual non-performance, leading to more stress, and further non-performance. Being with a person who is appealing sexually or arouses you is still no guarantee of performance if you are anxious. If you are too stressed over pleasing your partner in bed, your worry might make it impossible to achieve precisely that.
How does Sexual Performance Anxiety Affect Your Sex Life?
Issues of the mind can manifest into physical problems as a result of performance anxiety. Worrying about sex can affect your capability to be aroused, enjoy or climax satisfactorily. In men, the blood vessels of the penis constrict due to stress hormones. This cuts off blood flow to the penis and causes trouble with erections. Sex also becomes a task if the woman is not well-lubricated. It makes the activity physically uncomfortable. Premature ejaculation leads to embarrassment for men and disappointment for women, causing further strain on an already strained love-making attempt.
Tips to Deal with Sexual Performance Anxiety
There is some solace to know that sexual performance anxiety can be treated through several different options. You can pick your course of treatment as you see fit.
1. Psychological Therapy
Getting over sexual performance anxiety may not be easy for everyone. Thankfully, psychological therapy is one of the best treatments for anxiety. The therapy allows individuals to speak freely about any worries that are bogging them down. Therapy addresses the underlying issues and helps in resolving concerns and lightening stress.
2. Speaking to your Partner
Be open with your partner about the issues you are having. Also, speak up about how they may be affecting your sexual prowess. This may result in your partner supporting you and reassuring you when needed. You should also discuss what you find comfortable during sex and what works for you.
3. Medication
If you are facing problems with erectile dysfunction, medical treatment may be a viable route for you. Sexual performance anxiety medication can be taken orally after you discuss your symptoms with your doctor and are prescribed the right course of medication. Medication like anaesthetic creams and prescription tables also helps with premature ejaculation issues.
4. Exercise
One of the best natural remedies for sexual performance anxiety is exercise. Strength training, cardio, and pelvic floor exercises release endorphin which is a hormone that increases positivity and happiness. Pelvic floor muscle strengthening, in particular, helps to reduce erectile dysfunction in men and improves orgasms in women. Exercise also improves overall health and reduces stress levels automatically.
5. Self-awareness
Know yourself well and show yourself some respect. If you are not in a mood, give yourself that break. Set realistic expectations for your partner and yourself and go with the flow sometimes.
6. Follow a well-balanced diet
Eating healthy food reduces lethargy. Good food also improves mood, so remember to add aphrodisiac food like chocolate, hazelnut, or asparagus into your regular diet.
7. Experiment under the Sheets
Get creative with your sexual routine. Over extended periods, couples tend to get bored of the same formulaic sex. Mix it up a little by using toys, scented oils, change the lighting, or even try new positions.
8. Give it Time to Work
Couples often underestimate the role of foreplay. Hurrying sex often ends up in nobody attaining orgasms. Indulge in cuddling, kissing, and caressing before you get to the real game. Touch and play to have a fun and erotic night.
9. Look for Erogenous Zones that Work for Each Other
Take a detour from tedious and tested methods and find other erogenous zones on your partner's body. There are a mind-boggling 15 or so erogenous zones on both genders put together. Have fun finding them and experimenting a little with your bodies.
10. Keep at It and Lose the Stress
Do not make the mistake of withdrawing from sex because of non-performance. Like any other activity, try till you succeed. Unless you stay at it, you will find that you feel anxious every time you approach your partner. Do not assume that you are not worth the effort.
When to Consult with a Doctor?
Sometimes, it may not suffice to take personal steps to reduce performance anxiety. This is when you should consult a medical expert for treatment. Individuals who experience dysfunction or disruption to their love-making routinely should go in for a consultation to overcome the anxiety. Men whose erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation seems to be getting worse should definitely consult a doctor. The doctor would help identify the fundamental issue and prescribe medication accordingly. Therapy may be suggested along with medication in some cases.
Making love is natural, beautiful, and essential to healthy living. Be kind to yourself when you face issues in the bedroom and address these issues systematically. Do not add to your anxiety and depression through non-performance under the sheets. Take a holiday to an exotic destination and create the mood if you need to, but be persistent and enjoy what nature intended us to enjoy.
Also Read:
How to Boost Your Sexual Confidence
Way to Make Your Home Ready for Sex
How to Deal with Sex Performance Anxiety in Husband Read more
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There are some points to ponder if you are a mother of a preemie. These points come from my personal experience.
Stay Positive - Overthinking will only worsen the whole scenario. Mother should be emotionally strong.
Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) or Commonly known as Skin to Skin Contact - Try keeping baby more close to your chest so that he can relate and feel the heartbeat of his mother. It enhances the healing of both mother and child. Even the father can provide KMC to the baby.
Stay Hydrated - It helps in accelerating the recovery and production of breast milk.
Eat Lots of Greens - Include more of water-rich veggies from gourd family which are easy to digest.
Liquid Gold - Also known as breastmilk, it should be a priority to feed the baby. But again don't stress out if it's not sufficient initially. In the meantime, try feeding formula milk.
Hygiene - As preemies are more prone to infections, maintain complete hygiene and avoid giving the baby in the hands of every visitor initially. Sanitizer and hand wash should always be used when you are taking the baby in your hands.
Your Better Half- Love and care from husband helps emotional healing and acts as a strong support system.
Massage - With light strokes and a lot of love try to massage baby softly to establish the bond. Again father can do this task. So the mother can relax for a while.
Family - Don't hesitate to ask for help from your family members.
Sleep Talk- Prepare a script in the positive present tense as what you want to tell baby and narrate this script to your baby daily with a lot of optimism and conviction.
Stay away from negative vibes and people who pity your baby's weight and development.
Patience is the key.
Keep a constant touch with your paediatrician for baby's development updates.
This all really helped me throughout my journey. It is always said that parenthood doesn't come with an instruction manual. This all suited me and my baby. It may vary from mother to mother.
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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I have a 2-year-old son and I raise him alone. I'm a single mom but I give him so much love and care that he doesn't need anything else in life. This pandemic life is a little hard but I'm trying my best to be the hero and the she-man for my son. Need help but I'm just trying on my part to fulfil my son's dream. I will raise him so well that he will value things more than the price. My husband got into an extramarital relationship when my baby was just a month, but now that I'm a single mom, I'm raising my only prince so well. We do not need to worry about anything, placing all our trust in God. This lockdown life is really hard at the same time I get more time to play with my baby and have fun playing with him. I pray that we get a better life one day and with a head held high and I hope I will be able to give the best education to my son and he will make me proud someday and he will help me to grow old with lots of love and care. I'm jobless at the moment, so life is hard but yes I have faith in God that he will show me his miracle. Life is beautiful when we smile and live only in the present. We must avoid living in the past or the future because today is very precious. My every second is so precious because every moment I breathe with my son, he always makes me feel good and better. Life is so pleasant when I spend time with my son and he loves being with me. He is so cute and funny that always makes me happy.
If there is any single mom please don't be sad but be the hero for your child and try everything in life to be happy. Don't worry about anything and give all your faith in God.
I need financial support from someone who could help me fulfil my dream and my son's. But I will keep this problem with God because I know he will be there for us and help us get what we want in life. I will never make my son feel lonely or depressed but will make him laugh and play.
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. Read more
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
14 hours ago
Q. Hlw dr its my 6th month pregnency can i intimate with my partner
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
13 hours ago
A. Hello dear! If your pregnancy is going on fine without any high risk factors then it’s okay. Still, would advise you to check with your doctor once before going further. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
11 hours ago
Q. My breasts feel full and heavy, but there’s no milk when pumping and during feeding baby —what do I do?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
4 hours 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. It is advisable to get yourself 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 Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
10 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
5 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
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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
2 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
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Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour 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
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Guardian of 0 children
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Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
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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.
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