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How to Give Corn to Babies - A Definitive Guide
Corn, which is also called maize in many countries, is a delicious food known for its sweet taste, bright yellow colour and protein value. Because of this, you might think that it might be a perfect food to introduce to your little one early.
However, it is best to know all the health benefits as well as side effects of corn before proceeding to introduce it into your baby’s diet. Below we will discuss all that along with how to feed corn to your baby and what are the precautions to take while doing so.
Is Corn Safe for Babies?
First and foremost, corn is safe for your baby, but it is best not to make it a part of the first solid food. Corn contains a good amount of proteins and carbohydrates, making it a great energy food, but is lacking in many other nutrients. Also, due to reasons like the risk of allergies, indigestion etc., it is believed that corn should be withheld from the baby’s diet until he or she is at least one year of age. If your family has a history of corn allergies, avoid giving corn to your baby until he or she can sustain it. Also if your baby has eczema, stay away from corn unless the doctor says so.
Nutritional Value of Corn
Corn is high in B-vitamins: thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid (B5) and folate. It contains dietary fibre, minerals, magnesium and phosphorus in moderate levels. The table below shows its nutritional values:
Nutritional value per 100g (3.5oz)
Energy
360kJ (86kcal)
Carbohydrates
18.7g
Protein
3.27g
Fat
1.35g
Vitamins
Vitamin A
9 μg
lutein zeaxanthin
644 μg
Thiamine (B1)
0.155 mg
Riboflavin (B2)
0.055 mg
Niacin (B3)
1.77 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5)
0.717 mg
Vitamin B6
0.093 mg
Folate (B9)
42 μg
Vitamin C
6.8 mg
Minerals
Iron
0.52 mg
Magnesium
37 mg
Manganese
0.163mg
Phosphorus
89 mg
Potassium
270 mg
Zinc
0.46 mg
Types of Corn
There are five different types of corn: dent, sweet, flint, popcorn and flour
Dent: Also known as field corn, dent is yellow or white. It is used in livestock feeds, processed foods and industrial products.
Sweet: Sweet corn is so named as it has a higher natural sugar content than the other types of corn. Dent has 4% sugar while sweet corn has 10%. It is consumed directly rather than being added to food. Hardly used as livestock feed, sweet corn should be eaten immediately after being picked, as 50% of the sugar turns to starch after 24 sugars.
Flint: Flint corn has a hard outer shell and is grown in Central and South America. It is either yellow or red.
Flour: Flour corn is the oldest type and is used in baked food items. It is usually white, and its kernels are soft and filled with starch.
Popcorn: This type is soft and starchy on the inside and pops up when heated. The moisture inside the kernel acts as steam that causes it to explode. Other types of corn can also pop but not to the same extent as popcorn, due to the high levels of starch and moisture in them.
Keep in mind that corn is not as healthy as other vegetables, fruits and cereals.
How and When to Introduce Corn in your Baby's Diet
Corn can be given to the baby after six months of age when he or she begins eating solid food. To reduce the risk of allergies, you can wait till the baby turns one year old. It is also better to wait until the baby’s digestive system is improved as corn is fairly difficult to digest. Here are several ways you can introduce corn into your baby’s diet:
Make corn puree and feed the mixture to an infant. It will be soft and easy to swallow.
When your baby becomes a toddler of 18-24 months, you can start giving him creamed corn.
Once your baby is two years or more and develops teeth to chew, you can give him corn kernels to eat but make sure to check that he chews them.
If you have to choose between giving corn or nutritional food to babies, always choose the latter. Never substitute with corn as it is considered to be less in nutritional value. You can always introduce it as finger food in later months. Some tips for introducing corn in your baby’s diet are –
Don’t give your baby corn as a first food. Wait till he is enjoying a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and is comfortable with digesting them.
Choose corn ears that are tight and green. Avoid ones that are dry. Ensure that the corn kernels are bright in colour and plump, and not indented.
Both yellow and white corn is equally tasty. There are some new varieties in the market which stay sweet for longer, as the sugar in them takes more time to convert to starch.
Kernels may pose a major choking hazard, so until your baby is at least one year of age, avoid giving him solid corn.
Canned corn is less nutritious that fresh corn, which contains more protein. Make sure you check the ingredients of canned corn carefully and avoid buying those with added sugar and salt.
Prepare and eat the corn as soon as you buy it to prevent it spoiling. Until the time of consumption, keep it refrigerated as this slows down the conversion of sugar to starch.
Try starting off your baby with creamed corn as it is easier to digest. You can make creamed corn by pureeing the kernels in a food processor and using the right amount of water depending on the consistency you want to achieve.
Benefits of Corn for your Infant
Corn, when introduced in limited to moderate amounts, can be beneficial for your baby. Here are a few ways it is beneficial -
Weight Gain: 100gms of corn has about 350 calories – a great energy food. If your baby is underweight, a corn diet can help him gain a few kilograms. Even a baby with normal weight can be given corn to help maintain his body weight right after you stop breastfeeding.
Body Growth and Development: Corn is rich in a variety of minerals and vitamins which help in body development. For example, the kernels are rich in B complex. Thiamin which supports nerve and brain development. Niacin improves metabolism of sugars, proteins and fatty acids; and folate helps new cell development.
Protects Blood Cells: Anti-oxidants in corn (which is in the form of Vitamin E) help protect cells from damage. Anti-oxidants also help prevent tissue and DNA damage in the body. Corn contains the phenolic compound ferulic acid which is anti-carcinogenic.
Good Eyes and Skin: Yellow corn is rich in Vitamin A, a source of beta-carotene which is important for good eyesight. Beta-carotene is also an anti-oxidant which is good for the baby’s skin.
Muscle and Nerve Function: Corn contains phosphorous (which supports bone health), potassium, magnesium (which are necessary for muscle and nerve function) and iron (which improves brain development).
Improves Digestion: Corn is rich in fibre which acts as a laxative. If your baby has a digestion or constipation problem, corn seeds and corn flour can help relieve the problem.
Side Effects of Corn in Babies
Natural sugars in corn can turn to starch very quickly and hence are not considered very healthy for babies. The side effects of eating corn can include -
Allergies
Allergies manifest due to the proteins present in corn kernels. Lipid transfer protein (LPD) is responsible for the allergies and stays on in the corn even after processing or heating it or post-digestion. The storage proteins and corn pollen present in the kernels are also potential allergens. Corn and corn-based products can both trigger allergic reactions like eczema and allergic rhinitis. Below is a list of some major corn-based products in the market –
cornstarch
baking powder
corn oil
cornflakes
corn tortillas
popcorn
vanilla extract
confectioners’ sugar
corn meal
mannitol
margarine
colour hominy
lactic acid
invert sugar
corn syrup
caramel
dextrin
dextrose
fructose
maltodextrin
sorbitol
Here are the corn allergy symptoms to watch out for in babies –
Skin rash
Asthma or anaphylaxis
Stuffy or runny nose
Sneezing
Headaches
Nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhoea
Hives
If your baby exhibits symptoms of a corn allergy, do not panic. The first and most obvious step is to restrict corn and corn-based products from the baby’s diet. Store-bought food may contain traces of corn so make sure you give your baby only home-cooked food. If the symptoms are severe, take him to a doctor who can administer medication.
Intolerance
Intolerance is derived from digestive problems and is different from allergies. If your baby has the following symptoms, it may mean he is intolerant to corn –
Stomach pain
Bloating
Diarrhoea
Gas
Intolerance can be easily cured as compared to allergies. Just stop including corn in your baby’s diet and feed him with lighter, healthier fruits and vegetables with plenty of water.
How to Select and Store Corn?
Once you know for sure that your baby is fine with corn and doesn’t have any allergies or intolerance with its consumption, you can go ahead and buy it from the market. Here are some tips to select the best corn in the market –
Select fresh corn and not canned ones, as eating fresh corn is the best way to consume it.
Corn kernels need to be plump and shiny
Husks protect corn from heat so buy corn with husks still attached
If the supermarket or store allows it, peel back the husk from the corn and check the quality of the kernels and the tip.
The tassels (the brown threads near the top) need to be sticky and glossy.
Purchase organic corn which is non-GMO
You can also buy frozen corn
Ensure that the husks are tightly closed and green. Dried husks indicate that the corn may be stale.
Press the corn with both hands to feel its firmness. Firm corn is fresh and has healthy kernels.
Corn needs to be away from sunlight and heat as the sugars in it can convert to starch easily.
Consume corn within the first three days
If you are buying canned corn, check the ingredients very carefully to see that there is no added sugar. Canned corn is less nutritional than fresh corn.
Store corn in an air-tight container and place them in the fridge.
Delicious Corn Recipes for your Baby
Corn is a versatile ingredient which can be served in various ways. From sweet corn soup to corn porridge for your baby, here are a few ways to prepare it so that your little one slurps it up!
1. Corn Puree Recipe
Ingredients: One cob of sweet corn, a teaspoon of water, breast milk or formula
Recipe
Run a knife across the kernels and get them off the cob
Put the kernels in boiling water and let them boil till they are soft
Add water or breast milk and make a puree. Add more water for a runnier consistency
2. Sweet Corn Soup Recipe
Ingredients: Fresh sweet corn, salt to taste, a tablespoon each of finely chopped carrots, beans, broccoli and spring onions
Recipe
Cook the corn cob and take off the kernels after they cool down
Keep a few kernels away for later use and puree the rest
Cook the other vegetables in a heavy bottom pan with a pinch of butter
After cooking for two minutes, add the corn puree, a bit of salt and boil
Add water for the desired consistency
Add the rest of the kernels and simmer
3. Pumpkin and Cornmeal Porridge Recipe
Ingredients: 1 cup water,1 cup milk, 1 cup pureed pumpkin, water as needed, yellow cornmeal as needed, one tablespoon brown sugar, ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional), a pinch of salt.
Recipe
Add water, milk and pumpkin in a pan
In another bowl, mix cornmeal with water. Make sure there are no lumps.
Add cornmeal paste and sugar to the mixture in the pan, heat it and stir till it thickens
Add ginger and salt
Let it cook for 3-5 minutes
Serve the warm, corn porridge
4. Carrot, Potato and Sweet Corn Puree Recipe
Ingredients: 1 carrot, 1 potato, 1 tablespoon peas, 2 tablespoons sweet corn kernels, 4 tablespoons water and 1 teaspoon olive oil
Recipe
Oil a pan and sauté finely chopped carrot till it softens
Add potato, peas, sweet corn and water
Let the mixture come to boil and let it simmer for 15 minutes to make a corn puree
5. Corn and Cauliflower Puree Recipe
Ingredients: 1 cup chopped cauliflower, 1 cup yoghurt, 2 cups corn kernels, pepper as needed
Recipe
Cook the corn and steam the cauliflower
Puree both in a blender or food processor
Mix in yoghurt and pepper for taste
6. Corn Fritters (for a baby above 1 year of age) Recipe
Ingredients: 2-3 tablespoons of milk, 2-3 teaspoons of sauce, 1 cup of sweetcorn kernels, 1 cup of multipurpose flour, vegetable oil
Recipe
Mix the flour and milk to make a smooth batter
Add sauce and corn kernels
Add a thin layer of vegetable oil to the frying pan and spread small portions of the batter on it
Press them lightly while cooking and toss the fritters a few times
7. Maize, Apple and Sweet Potato Puree Recipe
Ingredients: 1 peeled apple, 1 sweet potato, 2 cups corn kernels
Recipe:
Cook the corn and steam the apple and sweet potato
Puree the three
Add some formula or breast milk to thin the consistency
8. Corn flour Cutlets (for a baby above 1 year of age) Recipe
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon corn flour, 1 boiled potato, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, salt to taste, pepper to taste, oil to fry
Recipe
Mash the boiled potato
Mix corn flour, salt, lemon juice and add a bit of pepper to it
Make the mix into small flat rounds using your fingers
Fry the rounds in a pan, tossing them now and then
Cornmeal usually mixes well with carrots, apples, peas, brown rice or rice meal which are all easily digestible
FAQs
1. Can your baby drink corn (Karo) syrup to cure constipation?
Karo corn syrup does not cure constipation. It does not contain the necessary chemical structure that allows liquid into the intestine and loosens stool. It used to be a common home remedy but is not an effective one.
2. Is corn syrup present in formula good for infants?
Corn syrup is an artificial sweetener and makes formula high in fructose content. It is only used to sweeten the product and hence should be avoided for infants. Not only will high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) cause the baby to be over-weight, but also accustom him to over-sweetened foods. This could make him eat only such foods when he grows up. What you can do, is check the ingredients in the formula before buying it and select the one that has low levels of corn syrup.
3. Is it safe to give cornflakes to a one-year-old baby?
Babies who are one year old and above can safely eat cornflakes, but it is important to choose one which has less salt. Rice flakes, oatmeal and wheat flakes have better nutritional value than cornflakes.
4. Can you give cornstarch to your baby?
Babies who are yet to develop teeth should not be given starchy foods like cornstarch. It is usually given as it can be easily swallowed. However, swallowing poses the risk of the food not being properly salivated, which may interfere with the baby’s digestion.
5. Is guinea corn good for babies?
Guinea corn, also known as sorghum, is rich in unsaturated fats, proteins, fibre and minerals like phosphorous, potassium, calcium and iron. It is high in starch, so if you are giving it to your baby, make sure to balance his diet with other less starchy foods.
6. Is corn puffs an ideal finger food for my baby?
Fruits and vegetable snacks are much more nutritious than corn puffs.
7. Is corn flour used for a baby rash?
First determine the kind of rash the baby has. Corn flour can soothe a non-fungal rash but helps the fungus grow if applied to a fungal rash.
8. Can you use cornstarch to treat a diaper rash?
Cornstarch supports bacterial growth so avoid using it to treat diaper rash. Instead you can use a baby powder.
Corn has various health benefits but it is also important to introduce it at the right time, right form and also in the right quantities to your baby’s diet so that you don’t have to worry about any adverse effects. Read more
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Collagen Powder During Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
According to research, both pregnant and nursing mothers need to consume high-quality food rich in nutrition. The micronutrients in the food and supplements have a direct impact not only on the mother and child’s health. However, they affect more than one generation as most conditions and diseases occur in health during fetal life. Collagen in pregnancy is crucial to support your body throughout this period and increases the strength and elasticity of tissues in the body. However, as collagen supplements are not a replacement for food, it is important to understand the risk of collagen during pregnancy for specific cases.
Types of Collagen
Most pregnant women like to take their daily servings of protein minus the taste of a traditional protein powder, as most of them suffer from food-related aversion at this time. In such cases, collagen powders or peptides can be the best option due to their colorless and flavorless taste and ability to blend into several dishes. Collagen is a type of protein that makes up one-third of the protein in the human body, especially in the muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments. Small subunits of collagen are two to one hundred amino acids. These amino acid-rich animal parts (cowhide, chicken feet, and fish skin) are soaked in hot water to release their collagen, then milled to create a powder form. Over time, sugary diets, smoking, UV exposure, autoimmune disorders, and aging breaks down collagen in our bodies. Among the general 16 types, here are some recommended collagen type options that pregnant women can take.
1. Type I
About 90% of your body’s collagen is the Type I variety, and it is made of densely packed fibers and connective tissues that contribute to healthy teeth, bones, and tendons. Primarily found in both marine and bovine collagen supplements, it is abundant in the skin and makes it look youthful and supple for a long time.
2. Type II
More loosely packed than Type I, Type II collagen is found in elastic cartilage cushions the joints in the ribs, nose, larynx, and trachea. It may also work to manage joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. This type of collagen is found in marine collagen but not grass-fed bovine.
3. Type III
Taking just one type of collagen, Type III, works alongside Type I in the skin to support the structure of the muscles, organs, and arteries. Those with less collagen often suffer from viral and non-viral liver diseases, kidney fibrosis, and vascular disorders. Type III collagen is found in grass-fed bovine collagen and promotes skin health and elasticity.
4. Type V
Collagen works with type I collagen to provide structure to the bone, skeletal muscle, liver, lung, along with the cells of a pregnant woman’s placenta.
5. Type X
Found in endochondral bone, Type X helps in cartilage formation.
Are Collagen Powder and Supplements Safe During Pregnancy?
Collagen, collagen peptides come in many forms, including pills, powders, ready-to-drink beverages, or specialty items like collagen coffee creamer. The collagen in these products can come from two distinctly different sources: bovine collagen (and other land-animals) and marine collagen. Since it is not established by research whether collagen is simply a supply of amino acids, you should not take it in large quantities. Although peptide collagen is considered safe during pregnancy, it is always best to consult with your doctor about the addition and recommended dosages before starting any new supplement in your diet.
Benefits of Collagen Powder for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy, expansion of the skin on the belly, hips, thighs, breasts, and stretch marks is normal. Despite popular belief, cosmetic creams and lotions can’t prevent or treat stretch marks and loose skin. The collagen present in your skin, bones, cartilage is the most abundant protein in your body. Listed below are some of the promising effects of the different types of collagen on the overall health of a pregnant woman and make your beautiful pregnant body look beautiful.
1. Bone Health
Women are at risk of bone resorption during pregnancy and breastfeeding, indicating that bone density may be compromised. Hydrolyzed collagen supports bone health by stimulating bone-forming cells and optimal calcium absorption. Therefore, a daily collagen supplement may reduce the chances of osteoporosis later in life.
2. Skin Health
Extra pigmentation, breakouts, and skin texture changes are common during pregnancy. As many facial treatments and products are unsafe for women at this time, taking collagen is an excellent option for skincare. Hydrolyzed collagen has properties that positively influence skin hydration, wrinkling, and elasticity.
3. Hair Health
Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can lead to dry hair and even hair loss. Although Collagen brands claim to make the hair of all users thicker and longer, there is not much scientific evidence to prove the effects of collagen on hair growth and health. Hair comprises the protein keratin, and Proline is one of collagen’s primary amino acids and the main component of keratin.
4. Joint Pain
As the fetus grows and during delivery, the muscles surrounding the uterus relax, leading to joint pain and weakness in other body parts. Collagen helps to reduce joint pain in non-pregnant individuals leading to the hypothesis during pregnancy and the early days of postpartum.
5. Combating Morning Sickness
Nutritional deficiency results in morning sickness for most pregnant women. Collagen provides the nutrient content to balance blood sugar fluctuations that induce nausea in pregnancy.
6. Promotes Good Immunity and Baby Growth
Just as collagen is critical for a mother’s skin, bones, and cartilage, its vitamins and minerals are also suitable for growing a baby in the mother’s belly.
7. Source of Protein
Collagen is a compliment for other well-sourced proteins in your diet, and it offers an easy way to sneak protein into your daily food intake and offers a protein boost to the body that helps in a good immune system.
How to Consume Collagen Powder While Pregnant?
In case you’re wondering, “how much collagen peptides should I take?” intake of collagen depends on the reason for its consumption. You can take 1–2 scoops (vary 2.5gm-15gm) daily in powder form, depending on the supplement, and increase slowly throughout the different stages of pregnancy and postpartum. As these servings can vary significantly in collagen content, check the nutrition facts on the label for detailed dosage information.
Here are some of the ways to include collagen pesticides in your daily diet:
1. Collagen Into Smoothies
Add two or more tablespoons of collagen peptides, two cups of coconut milk, a frozen banana, two tablespoons of almond butter, and a quarter cup of cacao powder into a mixer to blend them into a yummy smoothie.
2. Collagen in Water or Juice
Stir collagen powder into a glass of water or fruit juice without masking its original flavor.
3. Collagen in Oatmeal or Yogurt
Stir in collagen in a cereal bowl full of oats. Pour half cup of hot over oats and stir thoroughly. Add blueberries and bananas to the softened oats.
4. Collagen in Morning Coffee or Tea
Brew your coffee and heat the milk. Add sugar and collagen powder. Use a whisk to mix it all and make it extra frothy.
5. Collagen in Scrambled Eggs
Add a scoop of the collagen peptides to eggs and then scramble them up in a bowl. Pour them into your skillet with a nice dollop of butter, and they will cook up like scrambled eggs.
As collagen is a supplement, it is not regulated by FDA. Since it doesn’t pose any significant risk to our health, choosing a reputable brand with a third-party safety certification is better to ensure quality and safety for pregnant women.
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Is Biotin Safe during Pregnancy
Magnesium Intake when Pregnant
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Thyroid Problems after Pregnancy
Post pregnancy thyroid problems are quite common for mothers just after giving birth. Surprisingly, the risk of a postpartum thyroid condition developing can be as high as twenty percent, with rates increasing in women who already have pre-existing conditions like diabetes. In fact, women who have experienced this condition before are forty percent more likely to develop it again. This article will help you understand the causes, complications and treatment methods to combat postpartum thyroid problems.
What is Thyroid?
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the anterior of the throat. Endocrine glands are those which produce hormones essential for the body, in this case, thyroid hormones, T3 and T4. These hormones are essential in metabolism that is in the cellular production of energy. They are also important in the regulation of body temperature as well as organ functioning.
How can Childbirth Affect your Thyroid Condition?
Thyroid problems after pregnancy are often underestimated and overlooked conditions. Due to this, it takes quite some time for mothers to be diagnosed correctly and receive the appropriate treatment. There are three main types of thyroid diseases:
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is due to the thyroid gland functioning at low levels, producing lesser thyroid hormones than required. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, constipation and body aches. Hypothyroidism can be controlled by administering the synthetic hormone, levothyroxine, which can make up for the lack of thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine has minimal to no side effects and can be taken indefinitely without any long-term complications. Approximately half the women with postpartum hypothyroidism develop a more severe case called Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, which can be treated by increasing the medication dose.
2. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is caused when the thyroid gland overproduces hormones. It affects less than one percent of pregnant women. An autoimmune disease known as Graves’ disease is often the cause of hyperthyroidism. During pregnancy, this condition can cause preterm labour, hypertension, placental abruptions, uterine tearing, preeclampsia and so on. Treating hyperthyroidism involves a range of antithyroid medications, such as propylthiouracil and methimazole. The risks associated with these medications are rare but they can sometimes lead to birth defects. In order to avoid this, your doctor might recommend a minor surgery known as a thyroidectomy. In this case, the surgical procedure removes part of or the entire thyroid gland in order to avoid the symptoms of hyperthyroidism symptoms.
3. Postpartum Thyroiditis
Postpartum thyroiditis is a rare disease wherein a perfectly functional thyroid gland undergoes inflammation within the first few months after giving birth. It can take a few weeks to several months or even years to subside. This condition is tricky to diagnose as the signs are often confused with postpartum depression and stress that most new mothers go through after childbirth. While most mothers have their thyroid glands back to normal within a year or so after birth, some women might end up having complications for the rest of their lives.
Postpartum thyroiditis occurs in around five to seven percent of new mothers. Since the immune system attacks the thyroid during this condition, it first causes hyperthyroidism which then leads to hypothyroidism. This results in the increase in thyroid hormone concentrations in the bloodstream, leading to thyrotoxicosis. Its symptoms include stress, irritable behaviour, inability to tolerate heat, raise in appetite, sleeplessness, anxiety, increased or palpitating heart beats, body tremors and so on. In time the hyperthyroidism abates, which is due to a depletion in the levels of the thyroid hormones. After this, the symptoms of hypothyroidism set in. These are tiredness, dry skin, mood problems, reduced appetite, inability to bear cold, and so on. Postpartum thyroiditis hair loss is another common symptom that affects many women.
Since these symptoms match with postpartum depression, also known as the baby blues, this condition is often misdiagnosed. Treatment during the first phase of hyperthyroidism is often not required as the symptoms are tolerable and temporary. If they are unbearable, your doctor will prescribe you beta blocker drugs which can calm anxiety and reduce heart rate. Hypothyroidism requires hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine, as already mentioned before.
Can Thyroid Medication Affect Milk Supply?
No thyroid medications, whether synthetic hormones or antithyroid drugs, can affect milk supply. However, the lack of medication will certainly have a negative impact on it. This is because both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect the release of milk. In both these conditions, there is an influx of certain hormones like FIL, known as the feedback inhibitor of lactation. This results in the reduction of lactation, which subsequently leads to the reduction or stoppage in the milk supply entirely. A simple treatment technique involves massaging the breasts slowly downwards while moving towards the nipples. This has been known to stimulate the production and release of breastmilk.
Can Thyroid Medication Pass into the Breastmilk and Affect your Child?
Hypothyroidism medication, levothyroxine, is completely safe, as it is found in breastmilk at negligible levels or not at all. However, hyperthyroid drugs like propylthiouracil and carbimazole require monitoring of the baby’s thyroid functions. This is because it can cause neonatal hypothyroidism in infants. Radioactive iodine treatment is not recommended while breastfeeding your child.
How Common is Congenital Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism in Newborns?
1. Congenital Hypothyroidism
In most cases, congenital hypothyroidism is due to an underdeveloped thyroid. This condition is extremely rare, occurring in less than one percent of all babies. Some of the causes include
Iodine-deficient maternal diet is when the mother does not have enough iodine in her diet, which is an essential requirement for the foetus’ thyroid gland in the production of the thyroid hormones. It is common in regions of the world which lack iodine in their diet, for example, the Garhwal Hills in Himachal Pradesh. Babies born with hypothyroidism usually receive treatment to fix this condition, but it often resolves by itself.
Thyroid Medications Sometimes maternal thyroid drugs can cause temporary congenital hypothyroidism, but this kind usually vanishes a few days after childbirth.
Genetic Causes In rare instances, congenital hypothyroidism can be caused by genetic defects in certain genes. This leads to malfunctions in the synthesis of the thyroid hormones.
The symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism include puffed faces, inflamed tongues, dull appearance, constipation, dry skin and hair, jaundice, fatigue, refusal to eat, and so on.
2. Congenital Hyperthyroidism
This disease is uncommon in newborns. It can be caused by maternal Graves’ Disease, in which the thyroid-promoting antibodies enter the placenta and affect the baby’s thyroid gland development. In other cases, the condition can be temporary and is known as transient gestational hyperthyroidism. Around five percent of babies are known to have this condition.
While most mothers recover from post pregnancy thyroid conditions, around thirty percent of women tend to experience thyroid problems permanently. This might mean long-term medications. If you have recovered from postpartum thyroiditis, it is recommended that you go through testing at least once every two years. It is important to have a support system during this time, especially since postpartum periods come with a host of potential problems in addition to thyroid diseases. Make sure your family, partner and friends are aware of your conditions, so that help can be accessed whenever you require it.
Also Read: Thyroid during Pregnancy Read more
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Essential Safety Tips For Toddler Cycling
Cycling is an excellent outdoor activity and great fun for toddlers. However, biking-related injuries are more common in children than many other sport-related injuries. To ensure cycling safety for children, it's important that a child learns to ride a cycle under parental supervision and in a safe environment.
A growing child looks for many ways to learn new things. You, as a parent, are also looking for constructive and healthy ways to channel his energy. One healthy outlet is cycling. There are so many reasons it’s a good sport. For starters, it’s fun and offers freedom and exercise to your tot’s tiny muscles. It also helps develop balance and coordination. But, for all its positives, there are safety concerns to take into account. Listed below are a few simple rules to keep toddlers safe while cycling.
Important Road Safety Tips for Toddlers When Cycling
1. Supervise
Children learning to ride should always be under adult supervision until they’re a little older and responsible enough to ride on their own. Even then, you need to insist they follow all safety rules and that includes wearing safety gear.
2. Adjust the Seat Height
Ensure that the bicycle seat is at the proper height so that your child can touch both feet to the ground. When you're adjusting it, do take into account his comfort as well.
3. Use Safety Equipment
There are various bicycle safety equipment for toddlers, the foremost being a safety helmet. It’s the most effective tool to reduce head injury from bicycle crashes. While your toddler doesn’t need full riding gear if you’re providing support for his balance, always make it a point to have him wear a helmet. Besides bicycle helmet safety for kids there are other protective items available like riding gloves, and knee and elbow pads. All these will be useful once he’s a little older, or once he’s started bicycle training more seriously. A 23-month-old and bicycle safety gear may seem far-fetched but a little care at this time will prove to be prudent.
4. Educate About Road Rules
Teach your child to ride on the left side of the road. He should always ride with the traffic and never against it. You also need to teach him to look behind before turning, overtaking or stopping. These simple bicycle safety rules for toddlers will remain with him even when he grows up.
5. Teach Traffic Signals
Aside from basic road rules, you need to teach your toddler to halt at all stop signs and explain to him the significance of red, green and amber traffic lights. Equally important is the knowledge about zebra crossing. Educate your child about hand signals as well, and how he should extend either arm before turning right or left. These signals may be meaningless to him right now, but he will learn to use them once he’s a little older.
Children are most vulnerable to injuries and accidents in the absence of adult supervision. Bicycle safety for toddlers should be taught by example and guidance with a trusted adult, from an early age. Read more
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Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. In my growth scan doctor found that 2 round cord has been partly around baby necks. Is there any problem with this. will I get normal delivery?
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. better cesarean. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the child
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. I m preganant in 5 month in twin baby. Last lmp is 22/12/2023. my expected due date
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. 29.9.24. 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
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
4 hours ago
A. to increase milk take latction supplement as lactare...
take green papaya bottle gourd bitter gourd fennel seeds garlic oats ragi dalia sabudana ...
regular pumping increase milk use Babyhug electric breast pump...
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. hi doctor from two days i am eating milk cream with sugar and i want to burn it in my stomach I am 5 month pregnant plzz help ??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. at present weight no exercise is other than moderate walking. 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
3 hours ago
Q. I am in my 8th month of pregnancy (last week), and for some reason I am continously facing lot of fatigue. I am feeling deprived of energy and I don't have any energy to do anything. resting isn't Helping in any way and taking small walks isn't too. what can be the possible reason and how to overcome this.
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. yes that can be both physical and psychological problems during pregnancy ok. 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
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. Hello dear! We understand your eagerness and concern. It is advisable to check with your consulting doctor regarding this matter. Clarify your concerns and follow your doctor’s advice. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
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