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Fibre During Pregnancy - Benefits and Food Sources
If mama is healthy, then the baby is healthy! Pregnant women in particular need to keep this in mind and make sure to maintain a healthy diet. There are many hormonal changes that take place in a woman’s body and having problems with the digestive system is quite common. Many pregnant women suffer from constipation, haemorrhoids, and diarrhoea. Having foods rich in fibre keeps these at bay or keeps it to a minimum.
What is Fibre?
Fibre is found only in plants, and it is not something that can actually be digested by the human body. We do not gain any nutrients from it, but it does provide an important function in the body. Having enough fibre in your diet ensures a healthy and well-functioning digestive system as it helps the body remove waste that could be harmful. Another name by which fibre is known as “roughage.”
The only side effect of a diet rich in fibre is that you may fart a bit more than you usually would. This is because through our bodies generally cannot digest fibre, the bacteria inside the colon and intestine can digest it to an extent.
What Are the Types of Fibre?
There are two types of fibres:
Insoluble Fibers: This type of fibre acts as a natural laxative, and it helps in faster and easier waste movement through the digestive tract. It softens the stool and prevents constipation. It can be found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and dried peas.
Soluble Fibers: This type of fibre helps to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Soluble fibres can be found in dried peas and beans, fruits, vegetables, barley and oats.
Benefits of Eating High Fibre Foods During Pregnancy
A hormone called progesterone, which is produced by the ovaries during pregnancy, relaxes the stomach muscles and slows digestion. Adding fibre to your diet can make all the difference here as it helps to curb the irregularity. Here are some other ways that fibre is good for you during your pregnancy.
Helps Keep Pregnancy Weight Under Control: As high-fibre foods keep you fuller for longer and they do not contain too many calories, they are a great way to help you manage your pregnancy weight.
Helps to Prevent Constipation: Having the recommended amount of fibre in your diet will prevent you from becoming constipated, a problem faced by most pregnant women.
Helps Regulate Blood Sugar: Fibre slows the digestion of food, and this prevents the blood sugar from rising too fast.
Fibre Helps Reduce Risk of Heart Problems: Fibres help to trap cholesterol-rich bile acids in the digestive system, resulting in the body being unable to absorb cholesterol.
Fibre Rich Food Options for Pregnant Women
In order to avoid constipation and all the other problems that a faulty digestive tract can cause, add more fibre-rich foods to your meals and notice the difference it makes to your system. Here are some high fibre foods for pregnancy:
Fibre Rich Vegetables:
Artichokes
Green Peas
Parsnips
Brussels Sprouts
Kale
Okra
Carrots
Fibre Rich Fruits:
Berries
Oranges
Pears
Apple
Kiwi
Mango
Avocado
Fibre Rich Grains And Cereals:
Millet
Barley
Wheat
Brown Rice
Whole Grains
Oats
Wild Rice
Fibre Rich Legumes and Nuts:
Lime Beans
French Beans
Chickpeas
Black Beans
Lentils
Coconuts
Almonds
Instant High Fiber Recipe
It might be tricky remembering to prepare these oats the night before, but this 'Apple-Cinnamon Overnight Oats' recipe makes for one good fibre packed and instant breakfast meal, and makes things easy for you in the mornings.
What You Will Need:
One cup of milk of choice (non-fat, if dairy)
2/3rd cup rolled oats
¼ teaspoon cinnamon.
Directions:
Pour the milk over the rolled oats and then stir in the cinnamon. Cover the bowl with some cellophane and keep it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, add some chopped walnuts, some sliced apples and enjoy.
Other Things to Consider
If you increase the amount of fibre you consume during pregnancy, then it is very important for you to drink a lot of fluids each day as it helps in keeping your digestive system working well as well as keeping you hydrated. The recommended amount of fluids you should be drinking is ten to twelve cups. Coconut water is especially beneficial to pregnant women as it contains many essential nutrients, dietary fibre and lauric acid that help in protecting the body from infections.
The high-fibre content of a plant-based diet is the healthiest for pregnant women as it contains less toxic waste than any animal products. Plant fibre ensures correct bacterial population in the gut, and it also helps to prevent the build-up of putrefactive bacteria. It is also advised that pregnant women stay away from soybeans or any soy products as they are most often genetically engineered.
Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful times in a woman’s life. Most women anticipate it with a lot of joy. But in order for you to really and truly enjoy your pregnancy, knowing that you are doing your part for your baby, you must ensure that you are maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. After all, you are eating for two now. Remember to have a more plant-based diet and drink a lot of fluids in order to keep your body functioning at the best level it possibly can, for you and your baby.
Also Read: Foods that can Cause Miscarriage in Early Pregnancy Read more
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Using Nasal Sprays for Babies and Kids - Are They Safe?
No parents like to see their child suffer and it breaks the hearts of the parents when they see their child in intense pain. If you see your child suffering from a blocked nose and struggling for every breath, you will want to do everything you can to help him. There are many nasal sprays available in the market that can provide relief from a blocked nose, but are these sprays safe for children?
What are Nasal Sprays?
Nasal sprays are just a short-term solution that provides instant relief from congested nasal passages, caused by colds, sinus infections, and allergies. Although nasal sprays provide immediate relief, they should not be used for more than three days in a row. Also, you should not be used for infants unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
Types of Nasal Sprays
There are three types of nasal sprays that need to be looked at; they are:
1. Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline nasal sprays are made of salt water and do not contain any medications. The salt water helps in loosening the excess mucus in the nasal passage. It also moisturises the passage and even provides relief from breathing problems.
2. Nasal Decongestant Sprays
These provide relief pretty quickly as they contain chemical medications in them. Decongestant nasal sprays work by narrowing the tiny blood vessels in your nose and reduces the swelling. If these are used for more than three to four days in a row, they tend to have the opposite effect and can worsen the congestion once the effects of the medication wear off. You can purchase it for topical use with a doctor’s prescription.
3. Steroid Nasal Sprays
Used for allergic rhinitis symptoms and for nasal blocks, steroid nasal sprays work by blocking histamine, and only one dose of the medication will last for 12 hours and are anti-inflammatory.
Are Nasal Sprays Safe for Children?
You may be wondering if nasal sprays are safe for babies or not? While most decongestant nasal sprays can provide immediate relief to your child, but sometimes they may have a negative effect too; it might worsen the congestion once you stop the medication. This is why it is always said saline nasal spray for babies is the best as they do not contain any medication, but to unblock the nose, salt water should be used.
Do Allergic Nasal Sprays Affect a Child’s Growth?
Some children need to use nasal sprays to manage the symptoms of their allergies. These are often the steroid sprays, and they have been known to affect the growth of a child. Allergic rhinitis is the most prevalent allergy that requires the use of these nasal sprays. The sprays that contain the ingredient beclomethasone are known to slow down the growth rate in children. However, if the nasal spray has Nasonex (mometasone) as the main active ingredient, it makes the spray harmless and does not impact the growth of a child.
How to Use Nasal Sprays?
No child is going to enjoy someone squirting something up their nose, but sometimes as a parent, you don’t have a choice. Follow these simple steps to administer nasal sprays to your child:
For Babies
Babies cannot blow their own noses on their own, hence it is up to the parents to remove the mucus for them. Here are some ways to go about it:
Keep a nasal spray, towel, an aspirator and some tissues handy.
Lay your baby in your lap - his head on your knees and feet pointing to your belly.
Be gentle as you spray one or two drops into one of his nostrils. Wait for a few seconds as the spray will start to work and loosen the excess mucus.
Close the other nostril and then using a fully compressed aspirator, suck out all the mucus.
Discard the mucus into the towel or sink and then wipe off your baby’s nose with a tissue.
Repeat the same process on the other nostril.
Make sure you do not touch the nozzle of the spray directly to your baby’s nose as it can spread germs.
For Older Kids
Older kids can resist better against things they don’t like. But if you are gentle while administering the spray to your child, even this can go smoothly.
Support your seated child with one arm and use the other hand to administer the drops.
Ask your child to tilt his head back slightly.
Ask your child to breath and then squirt one drop into each nostril.
Do not touch the spray to your child’s nose, as the infection may spread.
Once you are sure that the mucus is melting, help your child blow his nose.
Alternatives to Nasal Sprays to Relieve Nasal Congestion in a Child
Not everyone is a fan of nasal sprays. If you are not sure how often to use saline nasal sprays for babies and nasal sprays for toddlers, there are alternative methods you can use to help your child get rid of congestion:
Steam
Steam is an age-old remedy for treating nasal congestion. You can use a vaporizer during bedtime or a makeshift sauna in the bathroom. Giving steam will help in loosening the mucus, thereby providing relief from nasal congestion.
Vapour Rub
If your child is older than four years old, you can always use eucalyptus oil or any vapour rub. These are known to be very effective in treating nasal congestion.
Warm Liquids
Giving warm liquids like chicken soup also help in decongestion. You can give any warm liquid to your child and he will relish it.
The immune system of babies are not fully developed, hence they may catch a cold easily. If you follow the guidelines given here, administering nasal sprays to your child will become easy. If you do not prefer the use of sprays, try one of the alternate methods. But remember, never to self-medicate your child.
Also Read: Nosebleeds in Kids Read more
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Scabies in Children: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Infections and infestations can be caused due to numerous reasons, these can be due to internal factors like a developing immune system, an allergy or a wound. They can also be caused due to environmental factors, bug bites, airborne or touch-borne disease and mites. Scabies is a form of infestation.
What is Scabies?
When mites penetrate the first layer of the skin and begin laying eggs in that region small and itchy bumps begin to manifest, this condition is called scabies. In some cases, scabies rashes in children can become visible as wavy lines underneath the skin. These lines are most visible between the fingers and toes as well as the inner part of the wrist.
Causes of Scabies in Kids
The main cause of scabies in a baby or an adult is the presence of scabies mites - tiny creatures that burrow into the top layer of your skin, defecate and lay eggs there. They are known to survive underneath the skin for up to one full month. These mites can be found anywhere and are known to require a 'host' to survive, specifically human hosts. Without one they usually die within a day or two.
Scabies mites are the only root cause of scabies but the infection can spread via touch. Scabies can also be caused due to skin-to-skin contact between a healthy person and one with scabies.
Where Do Scabies Mites Live?
Scabies mites can live in numerous public spaces for up to two or three days, they can live on bed linen, towels, clothing, or even in your baby’s diaper. This, however, is limited to three days at most, as mentioned earlier these mites require a human being to sustain their life beyond three days. The most common residence for these mites is probably another person’s skin. Due to the rapid life cycle of these mites they can reproduce in mass numbers and quickly. This also is one of the reasons they can spread to other people at a rapid pace.
Can We See Scabies Mites?
Part of the same arachnid family as ticks and spiders, mites are bugs that are very difficult to see with your naked eye. A fully grown adult mite is possibly only the size of a tiny pin. These mites are usually circular in shape and have eight legs. These insects cannot be easily seen on most surfaces but if you pay focused attention you may be lucky enough to notice them before they do you or your kids any harm.
Is It Contagious and How Does it Spread?
Scabies is contagious. When in contact with another person with scabies you can contract this condition. It is most common to contract this condition in small crowded places where skin to skin contact is the hardest to avoid such as -
Daycare
Train Stations
Bus Stops
Schools
Airports
It is recommended that you treat the infection before the symptoms begin manifestation in the circumstance that there is anyone around you or your child that has been diagnosed with scabies.
Signs and Symptoms of Scabies
Due to the fact that the mites themselves are so small, here are a few signs and symptoms to look out for that will help with the diagnosis of scabies.
In Babies
Scabies in babies can begin manifesting within a period of 3-4 weeks, this can cause big red rashes at the bottom of your baby’s feet, between their fingers and toes, on the inside of their wrists and on the inside of their elbows. During this period your baby may cry extensively due to the itchiness of the condition itself.
In Toddler
Although the symptoms are identical to the symptoms that manifest in babies, toddlers are old enough to scratch the itch, this may lead to the infection spreading to multiple parts of their body. Additionally, your toddler may begin to show signs of manifestation on parts of their body like the face or the sides of the sole, this is not common for scabies in babies
In Older Children
Like the symptoms of scabies rash in toddlers and babies, the symptoms for scabies in older children remain the same. In some cases, you may see light brown or silver wavy lines along the inside of the child’s wrist. As the child grows older they may be susceptible to more attacks of scabies or a recurrence. If the child has never had scabies before, the symptoms will take 6 weeks to begin to show. If they have, however, then the symptoms will show quicker.
Depending on the severity of scabies, your child may begin to develop pustules, pimples, and blisters all over the body. Whether it be scabies rashes in children or scabies in a baby the symptoms remain largely similar.
Why Does Scabies Infected Skin Itch So Much?
As mentioned earlier, mites can burrow through your baby’s or your skin, they then lay eggs and leave behind faeces inside the top layer of your skin, this can lead to severe allergic reactions as well as an infection. This creates an unbearable itch.
How is the Diagnosis Done?
The diagnosis of scabies can be done by a simple and pain-free test, a doctor will shave off some of the rash’s skin and examine it under a microscope for mites, their eggs and faeces. If present the diagnosis is positive.
Treatments for Scabies
The main treatment for scabies is usually topical. You may need to apply ointments and lotions on the scabs themselves as well as the remainder of the body.
Medicines Your Health Specialist May Prescribe
In most cases, your doctor will prescribe medicated lotions and creams to help terminate the mites. In some severe cases, they may prescribe oral medication instead of the more commonly found topical ointments and creams.
Steps for Applying the Cream
It is extremely important to understand that scabies is an infectious disease, to treat it thoroughly it is important to apply the medicated cream in the following steps.
Cut your child’s fingernails and toenails.
Ensure you gently apply and spread the medicated cream over the scabs and rashes first.
Apply the cream over the entire surface of your child’s skin as well.
If you have a child old enough to scratch, apply the cream on the face and scalp as well as the surface areas of the ears. Do not miss any portion of the body, this ensures every mite is dead and the infection is regressing.
Ensure the cream stays on for the required period of time as per the doctor’s instructions. A safe way of doing this is ensuring your child has the cream applied to them at night when they’re sleeping. When doing this please ensure the child has gloves on so they don’t accidentally swallow the cream.
The period required for the cream to take effect is between 8 to 12 hours, wash off the cream once the time period as mentioned by your doctor has expired.
Do not miss any days; continue this treatment religiously for the entire prescription period.
Possible Complications Of Scabies in a Child
Due to the particular nature of scabies, there can be numerous complications for the infection itself like:
Puss cells in the rashes
Infected pimples
A skin condition called Impetigo
For more information about the complications caused by scabies, please contact your doctor.
Prevention of Scabies
Prevention of scabies can be a challenge; the following can help prevent scabies to a certain extent:
Sweep and mop the floor regularly
Vacuum the house, throw away the vacuum bag
Wash all laundry with heated water
Dispose of diapers that you suspect are infected
It is not completely possible to avoid scabies even if you follow these steps as it can be contracted via touch. If anyone in your child’s proximity has scabies consult a doctor immediately.
How Soon Does Scabies Go Away
Depending on how severe the infection itself is and when treatment is started, scabies can last anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 weeks. To ensure a complete recovery please follow the doctor’s instructions to the letter for the entire duration of the treatment plan.
Can Your Child Get Scabies from Your Pet?
No, humans cannot be infected by the strain of scabies that affects animals
What Precautions Should Family Member Take?
As with other children who may have scabies, your child having the infection can spread to other members of your family, it is recommended that they consult a doctor immediately and take preventive action.
When Should You Call the Doctor?
It is recommended that you contact a doctor if your child begins crying extensively, if they begin to scratch uncontrollably or if you notice scabies rashes at any part of their body. It is also recommended that you consult a doctor and begin preventive treatment for scabies if anyone in your baby’s proximity has the infection.
Can Your Scabies Infected Child Go to School?
No, as mentioned earlier scabies is contagious. It is highly recommended that your child is kept from public spaces for the duration of the treatment to ensure nobody else contracts the infection.
Thing to Remember
It is important to remember the following:
Do not stop the scabies treatment midway
Keep the surroundings clean to ensure preventive action
Spread the cream to every portion of your child’s and your body.
Do not self-medicate
Do not self-diagnose
Scabies can be an extremely uncomfortable and troubling infestation for your child. Its contagious nature makes it difficult to manage the disease. If you suspect that your child may have scabies, place them under quarantine from the rest of your family and consult a physician immediately. For the wellbeing of your child, it is recommended they rest and recuperate completely before resuming their regular activities.
Also Read:
Psoriasis in Children
Eczema in Kids Read more
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How to Recognize and Treat Egg Allergy in Baby
Egg allergies, similar to other food allergies, occur when your baby’s immune system shows sensitivity toward egg proteins. The symptoms such as rashes and inflammation appear within a few minutes to even an hour after consuming egg. If you or your partner has an allergy to eggs, it is likely your baby has it too. Egg allergies can resolve themselves over time with your baby’s immune system desensitising as they grow older.
What is Egg Allergy?
An egg allergy is similar to other food allergies you might have heard of such as a mushroom or peanut allergy. Whenever people have allergic reactions toward some food, it indicates that their immune system is treating certain compounds present in the food as a threat and attacks it. Similarly, in an egg allergy, your baby’s underdeveloped immune system treats egg proteins as an invading pathogen and begins to attack it by releasing antibodies. These antibodies are called immunoglobulin E (IgE) and neutralize threats to defend the body. When the tissues in the body sense the presence of IgE, they release histamines which give rise to the familiar symptoms of an allergy such as a runny nose, inflammation and skin rashes. Babies can develop egg allergy to any form of it such as boiled, cook, raw or lightly-cooked. Allergies can also occur if the breastfeeding mother eats eggs.
Which Egg Proteins Cause the Allergy?
Eggs contain many different types of proteins that can cause an allergic reaction and egg white allergy in babies is more common than yolk allergies.
Proteins in Egg White
Ovalbumin
Ovomucoid
Ovotransferrin
Lysozyme
Proteins in Egg Yolk
Phosvitin
Livetin
Apovitillin
What Factors Can Put Baby at the Risk of Developing An Allergy to Eggs?
Certain factors can increase the risk of your baby developing an allergy to eggs. They are as follows:
General allergies
If your baby is sensitive to many other foods and shows signs of general allergic reactions, then there is a good chance they could be allergic to eggs as well. Babies that have allergies to nuts and grains have a higher risk of developing an allergy to eggs.
Illness
As allergies are a response from the immune system, a recent episode of a serious illness can make the body highly sensitive. The immune system is on high alert for foreign substances and it might mistake egg proteins for a potential threat. This would prompt the immune system to attack it and trigger an allergy.
Genetic predisposition
If one of both parents has an allergy to eggs, there’s a high chance the baby will have it too. If allergies run in the families, then chances the baby will get it is about 40%.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Egg Allergy in Baby?
Rashes on the skin: An egg allergy rash in a baby is among the most noticeable symptoms to appear along with hives, swelling or flushing of the skin. It might further complicate and turn into eczema.
Swelling of the mouth: This might be one of the first symptoms you would notice. The lips, tongue or the back of the throat might swell up and look red.
Redness in the eyes: Their eyes would tear up with swelling and itching.
Congestion of the nose: Running nose with a clear discharge accompanied by redness and itching.
Swollen throat: The throat might be red and swollen which can cause difficulty in swallowing and breathing.
Abdominal pain: Baby might experience abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhoea.
Nausea and Vomiting: Baby egg allergy with vomiting is also seen along with discomfort while feeding.
Difficulty breathing: Swelling in the throat or chest cavity makes it harder to breathe. It may also lead to asthma.
Weak pulse: It can cause dizziness and fainting.
Agitation: The baby might display a sudden bout of anxiety followed by fainting.
Fever: A rise in body temperature can be seen along with other symptoms mentioned above.
Anaphylactic shock: Anaphylaxis is a condition caused by an extreme allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. It is characterized by the following symptoms:
Muscle cramps leading to extreme abdominal pain.
Swelling and inflammation in the throat and surrounding muscles that constricts the air passage making it difficult to breathe.
Rapid heartbeat followed by a steep drop in blood pressure. It leads to loss of blood to the brain causing loss of consciousness.
How to Diagnose Egg Allergy in Infants?
Diagnosis starts with analyzing the baby’s diet and a history of allergies and other illnesses. It involves the following procedures:
Diet modification
The doctor picks out all the suspected foods (allergen) that can cause an allergy from the baby’s diet and ask you to eliminate all of them. Then you’ll reintroduce only one allergen at a time back into the diet to look for allergic reactions.
Skin prick test
The doctor places a small drop of an extract of the allergen and then gently pricks the skin to introduce a small amount of the allergen into the skin. If the skin shows a reddish raised spot in that region within 20 minutes, it confirms the allergy.
Blood test
Tests such as RAST (radioallergosorbent test) and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) are performed to look for antibodies related to the egg allergy.
Are There Any Complications if Your Baby Shows Allergic Reaction to Eggs?
Certain complications can manifest themselves as egg and other allergies. Your baby may or may not have any such complications, but they may show the following symptoms:
Allergic reactions to fur, pollen, dust and dust mites.
Allergies towards other protein-rich foods such as milk, fish, peanuts and soy.
Long-term asthma or shortness of breath.
Development of eczema or atopic dermatitis as a severe form of skin hives.
How to Treat Egg Allergy in Babies?
The allergy treatment depends on how severe the reaction is. The course of treatment involves eliminating symptoms that can be life-threatening. There are two treatments for it as follows:
Medication
Antihistamines are used to treat mild symptoms such as running nose, swelling and rashes. In the case of anaphylaxis, epinephrine, also called adrenaline is administered. Epinephrine is available as self-administered injections with an auto-injector that gives a shot of epinephrine when it is pressed against the skin with a certain force.
Modification of diet
You may be asked to eliminate eggs from the diet of your baby and avoid foods that contain eggs. If you’re breastfeeding, you will also have to stop consuming eggs and egg-based foods.
Foods That Have Egg in Them
Along with avoiding eggs directly, you will also have to avoid foods that contain egg derivatives from the white or yolk.
Egg derivatives
Powdered egg
Globulin
Albumin
Lysozyme
Livetin
Ovoglobulin
Ovalbumin
Ovomucoid
Ovotransferrin
Ovovitella
Simplesse
Silici Albuminate
Ovovitellin
Vitellin
Food products that may contain eggs:
Ice cream
Pudding and custards
Baked products such as cakes, pastries, bread, rusk etc
Mayo and salad dressings
Pasta
Dressing on fried meat
Healthy Substitutes for Eggs
Some healthy substitutes for eggs include,
Meat from poultry is a good replacement to egg once the baby is over 6 months old. It is an excellent source of dietary proteins and minerals to help the baby grow well. They can be fed in a pureed form initially and as solid nuggets once the baby is able to chew.
Soya milk works well as a substitute for those who are lactose intolerant and allergic to eggs.
Legumes such as daal are good vegetarian sources of protein.
Nuts and leafy vegetables are good sources of vitamins and minerals.
Tips to Prevent Egg Allergies in Babies
You may want to keep in mind the following tips to avoid egg allergy in your baby.
Introduce eggs in their diet at an early stage in their life. It is known that introducing food items in baby’s early life lowers their chances of developing allergies to those foods. The process desensitizes the immune system toward the food item and over time it does not see those proteins as a threat.
Desensitizing baby to egg proteins with breastfeeding is a good way to build up tolerance in your baby. Since breast milk strengthens the baby’s immune system, the mothers can eat egg-based products on a trial and error basis to lower the chances of baby breastfeeding egg allergy.
Immunotherapy is a treatment where the baby is given incremental does of some egg over a period of time to help desensitize the immune system.
Common Vaccines That Could Expose Your Child to Egg Proteins
Some vaccinations use egg whites or yellow in their manufacturing processes. Although this is almost eliminated in modern vaccine production, some of these might still contain egg in them:
Influenza (flu) vaccine: Modern versions of this vaccine have minimal use of eggs. Therefore, if your baby has a mild reaction to eggs, they can safely have this vaccine.
Yellow fever and typhus vaccine has a significant amount of egg proteins in its formulation. It is not recommended for babies allergic to eggs.
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe even for babies with egg allergies.
Egg allergies can be safely treated with medication and usually resolve on their own as the babies grow up.
Also Read: Egg for Babies Read more
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11 So-Sweet Things That Would Happen If Your Toddler Was on Instagram…
Today, social media is the most popular form of communication. It has taken over the world - quite literally! Applications like Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram are some of the most popular social media platforms used by everyone, from kids to the elderly. Now, while we do not recommend internet usage for toddlers, we can't help wondering - what would happen if they did get online?
Most of us use social media to share fun pictures of our kids and create memories to look back to in later years. But what if your toddler had control of your cellphone? What kind of updates or pictures would he/she post on Instagram?
We have compiled for you 11 things that are sure to happen if your little one had an Instagram account.
Since little ones learn by example, you'll be sure to see some social media trends like:
1. #Selfies to Show Off Their Cute Faces in Special Moments
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Source: https://houston.citymomsblog.com/if-my-toddler-had-instagram/[/caption]
2. #BFFGoals to Show Off Their Cool Little Friends and #Playdates
"Ridin' with my crew!"
https://www.instagram.com/p/BSpLV2Gglef/?utm_source=ig_embed
3. #BestJobEver To Show Off What We All Are Jealous Of – Toddler NAPS!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BDkfhQPQesi/?utm_source=ig_embed
4. #Throwbacks to the Time When They Lived in Your Belly!
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Source: https://www.instagram.com/insta2yearold/[/caption]
5. #FoodPorn for Those Special Treats that Will Entice You Too!
"Guess what I ate today? #blueberrylollipop #youjelly"
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLhf23qAUBi/?utm_source=ig_embed
They'd also have their share of #adulting experiences they'd brag about:
6. From Their First Haircut…
"First haircut! Oh God! #IHateThis"
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Source: https://www.instagram.com/lucylooksalittlelike/[/caption]
7. ...to Their First Ride!
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Source: Instagram[/caption]
Also, you'd be sure to see the scary moments...
8. The Dreaded #PottyTraining Time!
"Last night I reached the pinnacle of my toddler career. I peed on the potty! #celebratoryflush"
https://www.instagram.com/p/BB_JZu7v4Xj/?utm_source=ig_embed
Last night I reached the pinnacle of my toddler career. I peed on the potty. Apparently, this is the kind of thing my mother (ilanawiles) puts on snapchat. #celebratoryflush #linkinbio
9. The #MessyMeals that are Inevitable At The High Chair!
"You know it's going to be a bad day when the unacceptable pieces of muffin way outnumber the acceptable pieces of muffin. #saynotowalnuts"
https://www.instagram.com/p/BDyVTpDP4a-/?utm_source=ig_embed
10. The #WallArt or#BrokenToys That Are All An Expression of Their Inner Artist!
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Source: Instagram[/caption]
But the best part – they'd show just how much they love you!
11. #FamJam
"I gave my mom a Mother's Day card today. Then I took it back because I worked really hard on it and it's very special to me. #truestory #happymothersday"
https://www.instagram.com/p/BFKLA4-P4Uy/?utm_source=ig_embed
Their cute and hilarious attempts at understanding 'adult' things would surely translate well on social media! Read more
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Should You Feed Bones to Your Dog? - Advantages, Risks and Alternatives
Not every bone is good for your dog. Cooked bones are out of the question but raw bones are a highly debatable topic too. Some veterinary professionals will tell you that some raw bones are safe while others wouldn't recommend. Raw bones are soft and chewy but that doesn't mean they are good for your dog despite the digestibility.
What are the Risks of Feeding Bones to Your Dog?
Here are a couple of risk and side effects associated with feeding raw bones to dogs:
1. Choking
If your dog ingests the whole bone, he may choke.
2. Bleeding Gums
Bones have hard and edgy surfaces. When your buddy bites into them, they may hurt his gums and lead to bleeding.
3. Teeth Fractures
Sometimes bones are so hard that the minute your dog bites on them, it fractures his teeth and causes a fracture.
4. Other Complications
When the bone passes through your dog's throat, it could get lodged in the oesophagus, stomach lining, colon, or intestines. Surgery is needed to remove these fragments and sometimes it causes irritation and various health complications like constipation and even death when left unattended
Advantages of Giving Fresh Meaty Bones to Dogs
If you can't avoid giving bones to your dog, go for the fresh meaty ones. Here are a few advantages to eating them:
They help your dog chew mindfully and give them mental stimulation.
His dental health will improve since chewing on bones leads to stronger teeth and cleansing of gums.
Filled bones for dogs are also known to eliminate accumulated plaque.
He also gets a nice dental workout with all that pulling, stretching, gnawing, and tearing.
You also don't have to worry about your dog getting hurt or experiencing teeth fractures since meaty bones are both soft and hard.
It optimizes his appetite so no more overeating or taking in too many calories.
Finally, fresh but meaty bones deliver a host of beneficial nutrients like calcium phosphate which help build his skeletal system.
What Should You Keep in Mind while Giving Bones to Your Dog?
Here are a couple of rules to follow when you think of giving bones to your dog:
Give your dog raw bones which are a little on the meaty side. Don't give cooked bones because these soften and splinter when chewed on.
Get the right size. What we mean by that is, give your dog a bone that's smaller than or roughly equal to the size of his head. Avoid narrow bones since the pieces can fragment and get into the throat. Go for the thick ones.
Don't give them bones. Wait a minute. We're not kidding. Don't give your dog raw bones if he/she already has gastrointestinal problems. Because giving bones to your dog having these issues will affect nutrient absorption and make his digestion worse.
What Kind of Bones Are Safe for Dogs?
If you're asking "Are chicken bones safe for dogs?" or "Should I give large bones to my dog?", we're here to spill the beans.
There are different kinds of bones which are safe for your dog and here are a few of them.
1. Pork Bones
Pork bones aren't safe for your dog, be it raw or cooked. Ask a veterinary expert and you'll get the same answer.
2. Turkey Bones
Turkey bones are known to splinter a lot. We recommend avoiding them.
3. Lamb Bones
Lamb bones are close to beef bones in terms of density, so are a great choice.
4. Chicken Bones
Chicken bones are compatible nutritionally and are easy on his teeth and is one of their favourites.
5. Beef Bones
Go for large and raw ones. Cooked beef bones are okay as long as they're large. Generally speaking, if you're asking - "Are cooked bones safe for dogs?", in most cases, the answer is no. Because cooking kills the nutrients.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Eats a Bad Bone?
If your dog ends up eating a bad bone, here's what you should be doing:
Take him to the vet if he's ingested it already and is in pain.
Take away the bone immediately if he still hasn't eaten it.
If he's already eaten it and nothing seems wrong, watch carefully for a few days and notice red-flag signs like abdominal bloating, diarrhoea, bloody stools, and a lack of appetite.
Feed your dog some white bread slices or chunks if he's already ingested it.
Monitor your dog's stool and see if the fragments have passed or are still in his stomach/intestinal lining.
Take him to the vet for a checkup after 3-4 days just to be sure.
Are There Any Safe Alternatives to Bones for Dogs?
Is your dog munching on bones too much and you want to give him a reason to try something else? Let him try these and he'll enjoy munching away-
1. Frozen Carrot Sticks
Frozen carrot sticks give your dog a true challenge when it comes to chewing. Plus. they're low in calories and high on nutrients.
2. Bone Supplements
Bone supplements are soft, chewy, and don't choke your dog when chewed on. These contain a host of vital nutrients and minerals which are essential to their health.
3. Dried Fish Skin
Dried fish skin is pet-chewable which your dog will absolutely love. It's a safe alternative to bones and taste a bit jerky. These are also high in Omega-3s and supply your canine friend sufficient lean protein.
4. Himalayan Chews
If you're strapped for options, try asking your local pet store for a bag of Himalayan Chews. These are crafted from yak and cow's milk and infused with lime and salt for taste. Also, even if your dog bites and breaks them, they won't harm their GI tract (but that still doesn't mean you should let them swallow it in).
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about feeding your dog bones and what to do to make sure he chews safe.
1. How to Keep Your Dog Away from Bones?
If you want to take the bone out of the equation completely, here are some steps to follow:
Keep them out of reach
Do not discard bones any place where your dog can easily access it. It is ideal to keep your trash out of your dog's reach.
Give alternatives
Give your dog chew sticks that come with dental cleansing benefits to keep him away from bones. Treats work fine too.
Take it away
If your dog has managed to get his paws on a bone, you can distract him by waving a more interesting treat so that he loosens his grip on the bone. You can then take it away and discard it.
2. How to Avoid Your Dog Choking on Bones?
If you notice any small pieces, take them away immediately. The chewing time should be no longer than an hour.
3. How Much Bones Should You Feed Your Dog?
It's not about quantity but quality. Just make sure your dog gets the bone marrow part and the soft tissues. When he is done, take the bone away. In terms of intake, 27% of raw bones should form half of their diet to balance out the calcium and phosphorus levels.
Feeding your dogs bones may be one of the healthiest things you can do for him - but only if you do it right. Hopefully, these tips will help you to optimize his diet, make him grow stronger, and be his very best self. After all, isn't that what every pet owner would want?
Also Read:
Homemade Dog Food Recipes
Dog Care Tips
How to Potty Train Dog Read more
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
baby having nose block.. sleeping problem
what should I do?
Dr Sameer awadhiya
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1 hour ago
A. nasal blockage can be relieved by using nasal saline drops like nasoclear saline drops in thecg nose followed by nasal aspirator to take out the secretions very ghently
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Q. At what month does the baby go from breech position to cephalic position?
Nikitha
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A. hello nearing your delivery it will happen.any concern then it would be better to check with your doctor and she will be able to guide you better on examination of the same and advise you accordingly which would be better and also safe
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
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Q. @ the time of birth baby weight 2.475kg but after completed 6weeks baby weight approx 3kg, why baby weight gain very slow, till breast-feeding milk and urinate 6-7 times and potty 2-3 times. can u please suggest why slow in progress in weight gain???
Read moreDr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. the average birth weight of neonates is about 3 kg.
during the first few days after birth, the newborn loses
extracellular fluid equivalent to about 10% of the body
weight.
most infants regain their birth weight by the age of 10 days. subsequently, they gain weight at a rate of
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thereafter they gain about 400 g weight every month,
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an infant usually doubles his birth weight (taken as 3 kg) by the age of 5 months. the birth weight triples at 1 year and is four times at 2 years of age.
the weight of ca child at the age of three years is usually
five times that of the birth weight.
Manisha Singh has added a new answer
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Q. #asktheexpert mera baby 3 month ka h use gas bhuat banti h is karan wo bhuat rota hai
Manisha Singh
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
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A. it's very common for babies having gas problem ...you should recommend your doctor for this
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Q. Hi
what to give 6 months old baby to eat
Sai Prasanthi R L
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