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Drinking Hot Water During Pregnancy
As a pregnant woman, you are bound to be getting a lot of advice on pretty much every topic. While the information might seem overwhelming, one piece of advice that you must take to is to drink the right amount of water during the pregnancy. Water is vital to the overall health of your pregnancy; however, most pregnant women have worries regarding drinking hot water and its effects on their pregnancy.
Is Drinking Hot Water Safe During Pregnancy?
Drinking water in the right quantity is extremely important when you are pregnant, for the proper development of your baby. The right amount of water will ensure that you are energised and detoxified, aside from being hydrated.
Drinking warm or hot water has plenty of benefits and helps combat dehydration, fatigue, and infections. However, ensure that the water isn't scalding hot because it can burn the lining of your mouth, which makes it harmful whether you're pregnant or not. Dehydration is usually the gateway for a host of other issues such as nausea and cramps, and it can even cause preterm labour.
Benefits of Drinking Warm Water While Pregnant
As mentioned above, staying hydrated during your pregnancy is something you must prioritise. The following are five of the most important benefits of staying hydrated during your pregnancy.
Helps With Detoxification and Digestion
Drinking warm water will aid in digestion by clearing out all the toxins from your body. It also cleans out the digestive tract, allowing your body to absorb nutrients better. These nutrients are then easily passed on to the baby. Warm water is also said to dissolve fat and oil droplets.
Reduces Morning Sickness
Most mothers will attest that morning sickness is one of the hardest aspects of being pregnant. Nausea is caused by dehydration, and this kickstarts a vicious cycle where nausea will put you off, wanting to drink water. In order to break the cycle and keep yourself comfortable, it is imperative that you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Relieves Constipation
With so many changes occurring in your body and in your diet when you are pregnant, you will most likely find yourself battling constipation, which is a common issue during pregnancy. Warm water is known to be a good combatant for constipation and will help you have regular bowel movements.
Maintaining Bronchial Health
One of the things that your doctor will tell you is that you must avoid unnecessary medication during your pregnancy in order to keep your developing baby’s health intact. This means that you must take care of your general health and avoid situations that will cause common illnesses like the flu. During winter months, it is especially important that you consume warm water in order to keep certain conditions like throat infections, cough, cold, and flu at bay.
Better Hydration
Drinking warm water will result in better hydration, which will help your body perform its functions with ease. With your body’s hormone levels changing, your system will need all the hydration it can get to continue its normal functioning. Adequate hydration helps you combat common pregnancy issues like oedema, morning sickness, cramps, and dizziness.
Does Drinking Warm Water in Pregnancy Harm Your Baby?
While hot water will not harm your baby directly, very hot or scalding water can cause burns in your mouth and throat. This can cause a lot of pain and restrict the type of food you can eat. A reduction in food intake can cause you to become weak and reduce the amount of nutrition reaching your developing baby. The burns may also get infected and may need medication for healing. These medications, in turn, could cause harm to your baby, as any changes in the mother’s body can have a direct impact on the foetus.
Precautions to Take
There are certain precautions you may take if you are still worried about the intake of warm water. Here are a few:
Make sure that the water you consume is boiled for long enough to ensure that all the bacteria and germs are all killed off.
Do not drink water from places you are unsure of. Carry a bottle of water with you from home wherever you go.
Make sure the water you drink has no occurrence of lead, which can be an issue if you live in an old house that still uses lead pipes.
Make sure that you use filtered water to boil and not regular tap water. It is best to be on the safer side when it comes to prenatal health.
Drink the right amount of water, but with frequent intervals. Drinking too much water too fast can put too much pressure on your kidneys.
Drink one cup of water for every hour that you are awake.
If plain water is not something you enjoy drinking, then add a couple of slices of lemon, or a few pieces of watermelon into your water for added taste.
Incorporate liquids into your diet. Soups and fresh fruit juices are great sources due to their water content. Make sure that the juice is made at home and that it is sugar-free.
Do not consume caffeine, soda, or processed fruit juices with too much sugar. These substances act as a diuretic, which is counterproductive.
Avoid strenuous exercise and going out when it is hot. You will need a large quantity of water and put unnecessary pressure on your body.
Ensure that you keep yourself hydrated, especially during your pregnancy when the hormonal imbalance can cause serious dehydration. It is imperative to recognise your body’s needs.
If you have any concerns or apprehensions related to the consumption of hot water during pregnancy, the best option is to consult your doctor. Make sure you are comfortable with the amount and temperature of water you are consuming and stop if you are feeling uncomfortable.
Also Read: Alcohol During Pregnancy -How To Avoid & Its Effects Read more
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What Medicines To Avoid When Pregnant
Pregnancy is a complicated time: the impending joy of having a child is marred by several complications. Pregnant women are especially susceptible to heachaches, stomach problems, back pain, and so on. However, care must be taken that you do not blindly consume over the counter (OTC) medication based on the word of the pharmacist. While most OTC drugs are perfectly safe, there are some which are known to increase the risks to your foetus. It is important to note that this article is meant to tell you that exercising caution for these nine months is of utmost importance. Please do not follow our recommendations before checking with your physician.
List of Drugs Better Avoided in Pregnancy
There are few medications to avoid during pregnancy as they might impact the health of your foetus. Some of them are:
1. Antifungal Drugs
Vaginal yeast infections are common occurrence during pregnancy. However, please do not medicate yourself with the usual Fluconazole tablets that are prescribed for oral thrush and other fungal infections. This is because the preparation of these drugs includes certain ingredients that could seep into the umbilical cord blood through the placenta, negatively impacting the development of your foetus. Contact your gynaecologist to handle the situation.
2. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are basically allergy medications which are given to control symptoms such as rash, breathing impairment and uncontrollable sneezing. Certain types of antihistamines contain active ingredients that could result in extreme reactions, especially in the third trimester. Additionally, antihistamines cause dryness, fainting and fatigue in pregnant women. If you suffer from hayfever or other allergies, consider alternatives such as ensuring clean and hygienic surroundings, breathing exercises and even salt water nasal sprays.
3. Herbal Remedies
Herbs offer a plethora of medicinal benefits, even for pregnant women. Although, some herbs are not recommended as they can have serious effects, leading to miscarriage, stillbirth or developmental defects in the foetus. A few of these herbs include liquorice, rosemary, ginseng, wormwood, cinnamon, ephedra, yarrow, cohosh and so on. Do your research before employing herbal remedies.
4. Antibiotics
Antibiotics are indispensable against infections, but pregnant women should avoid certain kinds during the second and third trimesters. Several studies have shown that taking tetracycline and streptomycin could stain and discolour your baby’s milk teeth and even severely impact their bone growth.
5. Substance Abuse
Consuming illegal drugs is an all-round bad idea to do when you are pregnant. Methamphetamines and marijuana are believed to cause heart problems in your growing foetus, as well as result in premature labour or miscarriage. This could also apply to prescription medications that have the potential for addiction, such as codeine, ritalin, and xanax.
6. Aspirin
Probably the most commonly used drug for headaches, aspirin can cause very dangerous health defects in pregnant women, leading to conditions such as miscarriage, placental tearing and stillbirth, especially in the first trimester. Consider ibuprofen in this same category, and avoid both these meds until your child is born.
7. Morning Sickness Medications
If you are suffering from morning sickness, and you certainly will, consulting your doctor is a far better option than taking OTC drugs like pyridoxine or ginger pills. These substances are believed to cause miscarriages if consumed in high doses.
8. Nasal Decongestants
These meds are very helpful in dealing with stuffy noses and itchy, watery eyes, symptoms which you will experience considerably more during pregnancy. These treatments are not recommended, however, as they tend to cause other symptoms such as nausea, migraines and sleeplessness, which will put further stress on your body. Instead, employ steam inhalation methods to obtain relief from your blocked respiratory tract.
9. Travel Immunisations
Vaccinations are compulsorily offered to travellers going to areas with high incidences of malaria and yellow fever, but some doctors consider them dangerous to foetal health. However, in most instances you will receive the vaccine as the risks associated with these diseases outweigh the risks to your pregnancy.
10. Tranquilisers
Chlordiazepoxide and diazepam are commonly used to treat mood disorders that cause anxiety, panic attacks and insomnia, providing a calming effect on the patient. But they can be very addictive, and might even cause withdrawal symptoms in your unborn child.
11. Anticonvulsant Drugs
These drugs, such as Clonazepam, are similar to tranquilisers. They are usually prescribed to control involuntary body movements in conditions such as seizures. However, there has been sufficient research linking them with premature birth and miscarriage, so avoiding them is a safe bet.
12. Psychiatric Medications
If you suffer from psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD and so on there is all the more reason for you to avoid OTC medications, as a few contain compounds such as paroxetine which lead to developmental impairments in the foetus, especially during early pregnancy.
13. MAO Inhibitors
These are active ingredients in many antidepressant drugs, such as Isocarboxazid and Phenelzine. They might cause irritability and withdrawal symptoms in your new born. Pregnant women have an increased risk of experiencing the symptoms of depression, but you should let your therapist decide how to handle the situation.
14. Acne Drugs
Acne can occur at any time, but more so when hormones are running amok in your body. While most acne treatments are fine, such as benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin, there are several that can cause serious defects in the unborn foetus. For example, vitamin A derivative drugs like Isotretinoin and Retino-AC are teratogenic, that is they result in heart, brain and skeletal abnormalities in the baby. Try natural methods of clearing acne such as turmeric paste, curds, and aloe vera. Staying hydrated will help keep your skin glowing.
Important Points to Remember
Here are some tips for you to deal with the various symptoms and discomforts that occur during pregnancy without resorting to pharmaceuticals.
1. Talk to your Doctor
This should be the first thing you do if you require medications during your pregnancy. Your gynaecologist will know exactly what drugs are dangerous for pregnant women, as well as what alternatives are available. Never consume OTC medicines without the clear permission from your doctor.
2. Know your Medications
Several common medications, such as Vicks Vaporub, whose active ingredients are perfectly safe might contain substances like caffeine, aspirin and alcohol, which are dangerous to foetal health. Always read the label before using them.
3. Don’t Cocktail your Drugs
Pregnancy is not the time you should be attempting treatments which fix multiple ailments. For example, medicines that fix the symptoms of cold, flu and allergies usually contain substances that are strictly off bounds for pregnant women. For example, acetaminophen works fine as an analgesic, but some variants of the drug come with decongestants like phenylephrine, which is harmful.
4. Skip OTC Medications Entirely
There are many ways to deal with our physical and mental issues that don’t involve pumping our bodies full of synthetic chemicals. You can attempt stress relieving exercises, massage, yoga, reflexology, meditation, and gentle cardiovascular exercise. Don’t forget to incorporate a balanced diet consisting of veggies, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Especially remember to stay hydrated with about 3-4 litres of water per day.
As someone concerned about the well-being of their baby, you certainly don’t want to add things to your body that might cause harm. Stopping the OTC medicines you’ve been using for years might not be entirely easy, but it is strictly recommended you avoid them for at least the first trimester of pregnancy, as this is when the baby’s organs develop. Over the next two trimesters, you can start incorporating a few of them back into your regimen, but always under your doctor’s guidance.
Disclaimer: This article outlines the general guidelines to be followed when taking medications during pregnancy, and is not a substitute for advice from a medical practitioner. Please consult your doctor for specific advice.
Also Read: Drinking Hot Water During Pregnancy Read more
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Teaching Toddlers to Scribble Their Name
Children learning to write their name will not just help them feel confident but they will also become better at coordination and concentration. This activity can be done in many ways, and just needs you and your toddler's time and attention.
The time between 3-4 years is wonderful for both the parents and the toddler. As a parent, it's overwhelming to watch your toddler during this phase talking nineteen to a dozen, singing nursery rhymes, showering innocent love and sometimes even asking such intelligent questions that they leave you amazed. At this stage, one of the many activities that the toddler enjoys doing is scribbling, coloring or even writing. This becomes a perfect time, then, to teach your tot how to write his name.
Tips for Teaching Your Child to Write his Name
1. Gauge Your Child's Inclination:
Some toddlers at the age of two or three years show an inclination towards holding a pencil or a crayon. It becomes relatively easier to bring around such toddlers to learn alphabets or write their name. For those kids who don't show much enthusiasm, coming up with fun ways for toddlers to write their names should help. Encourage him to draw to strengthen his hand muscles. You can even use playdough to make alphabets too.
2. When Should a Child be Able to Write their Name:
Some children learn how to write their names by the time they turn 4 years of age while others don't do this until 5 years of age. So, basically, there is no specific age but just a band anywhere between 3-5 years of age. Also, no two children develop at the same rate.
3. Learning to Write Your Name: Activities to Try:
StampingGive your toddler alphabet stamps and paper and teach him to stamp his name.
Magnetic LettersUse a magnetic board and letters. These are easily available in any shop. All you need to do is initially provide only the alphabets that are included in the child's name and ask him to put them in the proper order.
Typing on the computerOpen a word document and set a large colorful font and get going.
Salt PrintingSprinkle a lot of salt on a tray and ask your toddler to use his finger to trace out his name.
Water Painting on the ChalkboardWrite the name of your child on a chalkboard and give him water and brush to trace out his name. As he will do this, the alphabets will disappear making the exercise even more interesting.
Highlighter TracingWrite your toddler's name on a chart paper and provide him with a highlighter to trace it.
Letter BoxesOn a board, make boxes and write each letter of the name in the box. Ask your toddler to copy the same below in blank boxes using a piece of chalk.
Once you know how to teach a toddler to write their names, you can then graduate him to writing other alphabets and letters too. Make sure you make writing look more of a fun thing to do than it being a boring chore.
So how did you teach your child to write his name? Do share your experiences and tips with us! Read more
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Is Eating Green Apples Good during Pregnancy?
The idiom of apples and doctors has been as old as the beginning of time. In the same vein, many women tend to talk about consuming green apples during pregnancy as a wonderful healthy option. Opting for green apple juice during pregnancy is also a decision taken by many pregnant mothers and it just goes to show how wonderful it is to have them when pregnant. However, that should also come with some precautionary measures.
Nutritional Value of Green Apples
The nutrition that green apples provide spans from numerous vitamins to minerals and other healthy constituents.
Constituent
Quantity
Vitamin C
5 mg
Vitamin A
5 mg
Thiamine
20 mg
Riboflavin
25 mg
Protein
25 g
Potassium
110 g
Phosphorous
12 mg
Pantothenic acid
60 mg
Niacin
90 mg
Magnesium
6 mg
Iron
10 mg
Folic acid
5 mg
Fibre
5 g
Energy
220 kilojoules
Calcium
10 mg
Carbohydrates
15 g
Surprising Benefits of Having Green Apples in Pregnancy
With a number of healthy substances present in green apples, the benefits they provide are surprisingly widespread and affect various areas of the body.
1. Increase in Energy
A lot of nutrients are sucked from the woman’s body throughout pregnancy for the baby’s benefit as well as other activities. This also manifests in the form of poor skin health, even causing acne at times. Green apples help provide the necessary energy back to the body and restore it all to normalcy.
2. Numerous Antioxidants
When any toxic materials or chemicals are formed in the body due to free radicals or breakdown of DNA, these need to be kept away from healthy parts of the body using antioxidants. Green apples provide these antioxidants in substantial quantities in the forms of flavonoids and polyphenols. All of these reduce the stress of oxidation experienced by the body.
3. Better Digestion
Pregnant women are often tired of experiencing constipation through their journey. Most of the times this is primarily due to the absence of fibre in their diet. Recurrent constipation can be harmful to the developing baby, too. That is why consuming green apples is important as it helps about stimulating bowel movements and streamlining digestion.
4. Reduced Swelling
The swelling of feet and legs is experienced by many women throughout pregnancy, which can get quite discomforting and painful at times. Green apples contain the necessary substances to ease the swelling and bring much-needed relief.
5. Appetite Increase
Although a lot of energy is lost, at times, the appetite of a pregnant woman can take a hit. The absence of nourishment can be harmful to the baby since it requires regular and healthy meals throughout. Having some green apple juice has shown signs of restoring the appetite in women.
6. Treating Nausea
The stomach bears the highest brunt in pregnancy since the inner lining gets sensitive to acids. This primarily results in a vomiting sensation throughout. Green apples are sweet and sour to taste which helps reduce the feeling of nausea when pregnant.
7. Diabetes Control
Many women experience pregnancy-induced diabetes which can cause adverse effects to the baby as well as the mother. In order to maintain the right levels of insulin in the body, green apples play a vital role in achieving that in the best way possible.
8. High Protein
The development of the child is powered primarily by protein, which helps in the rapid and continued development of the baby. The proteins present in green apples can provide sufficient nutrition in that regard.
9. Reduced Premature Delivery Risks
At times, certain pregnant mothers do have conditions where their bodies secrete an unusually high level of bile. These can at times trigger labour pains causing a premature delivery. Green apples help keep the bile secretion in check and increase chances of a full-term pregnancy.
10. Body Weight Regulation
Gaining weight during pregnancy is a sign of proper development but that should be within healthy limits. Hypertension and high cholesterol can be a result of obesity and cause diabetes, too, making it difficult for the baby. Green apples not only help keep blood pressure in check, but their calorie count is low, which assists in weight control, too.
11. Protection for DNA
When free radicals are formed in the body, these begin attacking DNA molecules, many of which are responsible for the development of the foetus. Vitamin C and antioxidants present in green apples not only boost the immune system but combat free radicals, protecting the DNA from breaking down.
Side Effects of Consuming Excessive Amount of Green Apples while Pregnant
The very qualities that make green apples a great fruit to be consumed in certain circumstances, can deem it harmful to be consumed by others.
1. A Propensity for Weight Loss
Being overweight is definitely a problem, no doubt. The complications that obesity can bring to the pregnancy, as well as the health of the baby and the mother are far more dangerous than anything else. However, a mother does need to maintain an optimal weight to be able to carry the pregnancy full-term.
If the consumption of green apples is way beyond normal, it can cause rapid weight loss which can deem quite harmful for the pregnancy and lead to an underdeveloped child.
2. The Absence of Requisite Calories
Calories are the very source of powering various metabolic activities. Green apples do contain a lot of proteins that are beneficial for the foetal growth, but the calorie count is less. This could make you feel full but not give you enough energy, leading to fatigue. Therefore, green apples need to be complemented by food items that are rich in calories.
Are Green Apples Better than Red Apples?
Women often wonder if they can opt for red apples instead of green apples or do green apples provide an edge over the red ones.
When it comes to controlling diabetes, green apples are your best bet.
In times when your skin has lost its sheen and health, green apples can help bring it back to a healthy state.
Both red and green apples work towards protecting the DNA molecules from breaking down.
Appetite reduction can be restored almost easily by eating green apples.
No matter what trimester of pregnancy you are in, having green apples can be extremely beneficial to the growth of the baby. As always, keep things in moderation to reap the best benefits from it so that your baby grows fully and you have a wonderful natural delivery at the end.
Also Read:
Consuming Custard Apple (Sitafal) in Pregnancy
Eating Peaches in Pregnancy
Consuming Watermelon in Pregnancy
Eating Grapefruit during Pregnancy Read more
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Milk For Kids - Reasons, Types & Benefits
Breast milk is the first food your baby is going to consume. It contains nutrients, antibodies and various other factors that help in their mental and physical development. However, they will be weaned off sooner or later, and begin eating solid foods. Is it important for children to drink milk? Do they still need milk at this point? Read on to find out the benefits of milk and why it is vital that your growing child has it in their diet.
Why Should Children Drink Milk?
Do kids need to drink milk? For the first twelve months of their lives, it is imperative your child only be nursed, so they gain the most from breastmilk. But there is no need to stop giving them other forms of milk just because they can eat solid food. Children who drink milk avail of a whole range of essential nutrients. For example, fats and carbohydrates in milk provide energy, protein is critical for growth, calcium and phosphorus support bone and teeth development, vitamins help fight infections, and so on. However, it pays to be cautious due to the abundance of lactose, a milk sugar which causes diarrhoea and bloating as most people are unable to digest large quantities of it. Whatever the negatives, it is a scientific fact that children who grow up with milk in their diet are healthier than those who don’t drink milk while growing up.
How Much Milk Should Kids Drink?
Babies younger than twelve months should avoid animal milk at all costs, but after this milestone, they can be introduced to whole fat cow’s milk, as the fat is essential in neural development. Once your baby is two years of age, the real question arises: How much milk should you give your child?
2 to 3 Years
Toddlers at this age should not be given more than two cups of milk per day. This is because excessive milk drinking could fill your child up, making them reject other essential foods like fruits and vegetables.
4 to 8 Years
Four to eight-year-olds are restricted to a maximum of four cups per day, as too much might make them gassy. Another problem to consider is diarrhoea from milk consumption, as most people tend to be mildly lactose intolerant.
Type of Milk You Should Give Your Kids
There are multiple varieties of milk available for you to choose from. Some of them are:
Ultra high Temperature Pasteurised Milk
Also known as extended shelf life or long-lasting milk, it is quite safe for your child. The fancy name just implies that they have been sterilised in such a way that they take longer to expire. But be aware that once you open the milk packet or carton, they can spoil as fast as regular milk.
Rice Milk
This milk is extracted from rice grains and can be fed to your child occasionally. However, don’t make a habit of feeding them rice milk regularly as it does not have enough fats or protein to sustain your child.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is extracted from soybeans and is a great vegan alternative to cow’s milk. Make sure to give only full-fat milk that has been supplemented with calcium.
Goat Milk Or Sheep Milk
Consisting of a profile similar to that of a cow, they are quite suitable for children over a year old. However, you might want to consider supplementing your child with foods fortified with Vitamin B9, which is lacking in goat and sheep milk.
Nutritional Information On Milk
Is milk good for kids? Milk is considered as whole food as it is chock full of nutrients necessary for your growing child, such as:
Phosphorus, which is essential in maintaining bone strength, providing energy for metabolic reactions, as well as plays a role in digestion, excretion and brain functions.
Vitamin D, or the sunshine vitamin, improves bone density. It is also important for efficient blood circulation.
Vitamin A helps in vision development, maintains good skin as well as strengthens the body against infections.
Vitamin B2 helps convert complex foods into glucose, which can be easily broken down to provide energy.
Cyanocobalamin is used in the production of the myelin sheath, which is important in neuronal development. It is also essential in the production of red blood cells.
Niacin helps lower cholesterol levels and also prevents conditions like arthritis by improving joint mobility.
Calcium is an essential mineral used to build teeth and bones. It is required for the proper functioning of the circulatory system and the nervous system. It is also required in the brain, muscle and cardiovascular functioning.
Amazing Benefits Of Milk
There are several benefits of milk for kids. A few of them are:
Complete Nutritional Profile
Milk consists of carbohydrates and fats for energy, proteins for development and repair, as well as several vitamins and minerals that are essential in your child’s diet.
Bone And Teeth Development
The presence of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D in milk supports the healthy development of bones and teeth in children. Calcium and phosphorus are crucial in forming enamel, the coating on the teeth that protect them from wear as well as acids present in food. Also, a milk protein known as casein can coat the enamel, preventing loss of the deposited calcium and phosphorus. All three nutrients are helpful in preventing diseases such as rickets, osteoporosis and osteomalacia, which occur due to brittle or weak bones.
Maintaining Blood Pressure
Potassium, magnesium and calcium are the minerals in milk that are known to reduce blood pressure levels. Milk also contains special proteins known as bioactive peptides that reduce hypertension. Ensure your child’s diet too has low salt levels to avoid high blood pressure.
Hydration
Milk is 87% water, and a smart method of ensuring your child stays hydrated for the entire day, especially after physical activities or exercise.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Minerals like magnesium and potassium behave as vasodilators which enhance the flow of blood towards the organs. It also reduces the chances of diseases like atherosclerosis and other heart conditions. The calcium in milk also improves blood clotting as well as the functioning of blood cells.
Diabetes and Obesity Prevention
Vitamins and minerals in milk keep your child’s metabolism running efficiently, thereby allowing their bodies to control the breakdown of sugars. This reduces the likelihood of diabetes as well as obesity.
Immunity Boosting
Research has shown that regular consumption of milk reduces the risks of developing colon cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants like selenium, zinc and Vitamin E promote your child’s immunity, allowing them to ward off infections. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids can control inflammation.
Which Is the Best Type of Milk for Kids?
The type of milk you drink depends on your age. Babies younger than a year should be fed breastmilk, although dairy products like cheese and yoghurt can be introduced after six months. Post 1 year of age, whole milk should be good for a growing baby. Consult your family doctor if you have any hereditary heart problems. Once your baby turns 2, whole milk or non-fatty milk can be considered as both have similar amounts of protein, vitamins and minerals.
Ways to Have Milk in Your Child's Diet
Children and milk don’t usually get along because of its bland flavour. Here are some specific ways to introduce dairy into their diet:
Breakfast Cereals
Milk can be mixed in with fortified cereals or oatmeal, which are usually flavoured. Milk can be either hot or cold, depending on your child’s preference but ensure its intake before it turns soggy. You can add a bunch of nuts and raisins for that extra nutritional punch and make it taste better.
Add Milk to Dishes
You can replace the cheese or cream used to make pasta sauce with milk for a unique but delicious flavour. Milk can also be added to dishes like scrambled eggs. Add some extra dairy like butter if you feel it’s necessary. Don’t forget to include a variety of vegetables in your pasta.
Iced Milk
You can also make iced milk for your child. Combine milk with fruits, sugar, flavouring agents like vanilla and pineapple, beat them together till they are frothy and leave the concoction to chill in the refrigerator.
Flavoured Milk
You can mix in a variety of flavours to improve the taste of milk. Most kids prefer chocolate, but you can try out the cinnamon, strawberries, ginger, pistachio, bananas, vanilla, cardamom, turmeric, honey and so on.
Delicious Smoothies
Milk can be made into smoothies by adding fruits, nuts, ice cream, yoghurt, cream or anything tasty you can think of.
Dunking
Instead of forcing your child to drink, give them milk they can dunk snacks into, such as cookies or biscuits.
Coloured Milk
Your child might not want to drink milk due to its dull colour. Jazz up your preparation by adding a few drops of food colour. You can even add multiple colours to make a vibrant drink.
It is difficult for most parents to convince their children to drink milk, so these tips should be able to help you out. Milk is very healthy food, but it is only a supplement to solid foods, not a replacement. Make sure your child gets a variety of foods in their diet, such as whole grains, cereals, fish, lean meats, leafy greens, vegetables, and fresh fruit. Also, if you want non-dairy milk for your child, almond milk and rice milk are good options, but they do not have the rich nutrient content of cow’s milk, which cannot be replaced by these plant milk.
Also Read: Calcium-Rich Foods for Kids Read more
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What is self reliance... Most important virtue for today's kids
Self-reliance an important quality to be nurtured in children
Self-reliance is almost a trending word in these tough trying times of pandemics. Is it the need of the hour or a virtue to be proud of? What exactly does the word self-reliance mean? In simple terms reliance on one’s own power and resources rather than others is called self-reliance. It is a habit that gradually develops and expands rather than a skill which needs to be instructed or informed about. Young minds are often instilled with a lot of values and teachings. Of this self-reliance is one quality which has to be nurtured in kids from early childhood.
In today’s time, self-reliance is one such attribute which is fundamental in raising kids. It is indeed a superpower which would help curb anxiety and make kids more self-dependent and self-sustained. They can take good care of themselves with much confidence and be responsible for their actions. This would pave a way for them to become mature individuals with great life skills. As parents, it is really important to initiate self-dependency in kids right from the age of 2. Let’s throw light on a few junctures as how self-reliance can be achieved in kids at a young age.
Start with the daily routine
Right from brushing your child’s teeth to sipping on hot cuppa milk let your kids do it on their own. Yes, you heard it right! On their own.
Initially, it would be a bit difficult for your kid to get used to the changed circumstances, but eventually, they would love doing their own chores and even be overwhelmed about the same. Though you might need to supervise at the start slowly and gradually you would be happy to see your kids carrying out their daily routine activities on their own full of confidence. All this can be attained while your kid turns 2. By the age of 3-4 introduce them to dressing their hair, eating meals and washing hands thereafter, even changing clothes. Early childhood habits dwell in the child’s mind perpetually and they would be able to carry out these simple routine tasks on their own without anyone’s help or dependence. From herein their journey of becoming self-reliant individuals start in the actual sense.
Teach your child patience
Patience is the key. Teach your child to endure and tolerate. You need to toil to get the sweet fruits of labour. Inculcate this in your child. There’s always a next time so make your child realize that patience and hard work together can move mountains. Make them realize that for a favourable result they need to wait and accept till the time is right. It is important to reward children rather than just fulfil their every need. A patient child realizes the importance of a reward, understands the value of a gift he has received. Learn to say no to your kid’s requests and let them realize that they can’t get everything they demand. Patience is indeed the stepping stone for self-reliant individuals.
Teach your kid to be organized
When a child is organized his routine follows a set of rules. Children realize the value of discipline through organizing skills. A simple task like asking your child to make his own bed and putting the sheets back in the cupboard after he wakes up engages him in a routine of doing his own chores. Start by simple chores like folding and placing the laundry in the basket, picking up his own plate after meals, trying to put on his clothes and so on. Such simple tasks need not be done by you all the time. Initially, you can always instruct your kid as to how to go about it. In the long run, they would be able to do things on their own and you would surely beam with pride. Such practices forbid dependency on other individuals to perform simple tasks. This is certainly one step closer towards adopting the policy of self-reliance.
Let your child explore and learn
The fear of the unknown always resides in the minds of our children. Little do we know that if we do not allow them to explore new facets they will never conquer over their fears. Letting your child explore new arenas brings in new opportunities. They understand that there is a world outside which they have to face in the long run. As parents, we always try to keep our kids safe and secure and guide them throughout but sometimes try to just sit back and watch how your kid deals with an unknown circumstance or a situation. If you feel you are pushing your kid too hard wait and do not rush. Sometimes it is possible that your child might end up in a fix but no matter what always encourage and support your kid and let them know you are always around. Do not restrict your kids from achieving new horizons on their own but at the same time supervise them.
It is important to talk to your kids
Talk, talk and talk. Nowadays due to social media and internet access, it’s just impossible to sit and talk to each other. People are getting too busy in their lives, and are totally entangled in this world of web. Wait! As the adage goes time and tide wait for none! Stick to this! When you have time and your kids are able to listen to you talk to them. Respect their emotions, ask about their well being always. Make them feel important and accept them as a part of your family while making decisions. “You are too small to decide upon this” or “ I was not even allowed to talk in front of elders while I was your age” do not make such statements, it would hurt your kids and make them feel less important. There’s always a way to put forth your thoughts. “ So what colour would you prefer your bedroom in?” this statement asks your kid his views on painting his own bedroom. This makes them a part of the decision making pertaining to their own bedroom and playroom. They feel they are old enough to decide about their own choices and even we as parents respect that. Such small efforts from parents in early childhood help build-up great minds in the future.
Takeaway
· All in all, self-reliance is a quality which helps an individual explore his own abilities and powers without depending on others.
· Kids are like clay pots which can be moulded into the desired form. Remember, this and start teaching your kids self- reliance at an early age.
· Do not hesitate to pass on simple chores to your kids in the ages 3-5 like wiping washed plates, putting used clothes in the laundry bag or brushing their teeth and washing their face.
· Always be the guiding source of inspiration for your kids. Allow them to decide for themselves and shoulder responsibilities while also be accountable for their own actions at the same time.
· Self-reliant kids are less prone to anxiety or panic attacks and episodes of depression.
So in the better interest of the society and overall welfare of our children, let’s pledge to make our kids self-reliant from now.
Dr. Archana Prabhu Yeolekar Read more
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
17 hours ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant and had growth scan recently.My baby is in cephalic presentation.does this change after 36 week or does this remain the same?
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
10 hours ago
A. usually fixed. 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. it's my 5 month n I still didn't went for check up yet not even once is it okay if I go now or?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. You should have started going from the very beginning itself once you get to know you’re pregnant but since you haven’t reached that now if you’re pregnancy has been healthy last five months please get it checked with your doctor also if you need to start with any supplements or diet the doctor would advise you after a ultrasound so please visit your gynaecologist
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. size chart is not correct for age of the baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. generally it is available from Indian academy growth chart download from Google. 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
Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. Mera 8 month start hu white distance hora mere ko
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. hello since u are a expecting mom this would require a proper medical attention and it is better to check with your doctor and your doctor will be able to guide you better on examination of the same and advise you accordingly
Akifa Tahreem has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
3 hours ago
Q. hello doctor, I'm 3 weeks pregnant. can we sleep on our belly or which side We can sleep on during pregnancy...
Akifa Tahreem
Mom of a 7 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. no you can't sleep in your tummy
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
11 mins ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
7 mins ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. You can take pregnancy test after 1 month of missing your period. If the test comes negative then please try again after one week. Also it is advisable to get yourself evaluated by a gynaecologist and follow doctors advise properly.
Thanks and take care
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