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24 Foods You Must Avoid Eating during Pregnancy
A lot of things change as you go through one of the most beautiful phases in your life - pregnancy. Not only does your body change, but your entire lifestyle, your priorities, and your thinking change too. Prepare for the journey by acquainting yourself with the things to avoid during pregnancy and ensure good health not only for your baby but for yourself too.
Food is a very crucial element of your life as a mother-to-be. While good food nourishes you and your baby, potentially harmful food can pose a serious risk. Hence it is important to determine what to eat when pregnant as soon as you see that second line on your pregnancy test.
Video: Top 10 Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
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What Not To Eat During Pregnancy
Healthy food for pregnant women is vital for a healthy pregnancy. There are several things you should avoid as many different types of food can pose a threat to your child. We simplify your food choices by bringing you this list of what to avoid eating during pregnancy
24 Foods to Avoid While Pregnant
1. Raw, Undercooked, or Contaminated Seafood and Fish
Don’t worry; you don’t have to give up on your favourite seafood entirely. You just need to ensure that you steer clear of certain types of seafood.
Raw fish in your diet is definitely a big NO. This means that if you’re a lover of sushi, you will have to hold back for those few months
Certain fishes, like mackerel, sharks, swordfish, and tilefish contain high levels of mercury in them, and mercury consumption during pregnancy could lead to delayed development and brain damage to your child. Opt instead for fish like chunk light tuna which has low levels of mercury and can be consumed in moderate amounts. It is best to avoid refrigerated and smoked seafood as it may be contaminated with Listeria, a harmful bacterium. Being exposed to Listeria during pregnancy can put you at an increased risk of preterm birth, or infection spreading to the newborn
A few kinds of fish may have been cultivated in contaminated water bodies, like bluefish, salmon, walleye, trout, and striped bass. These fishes are exposed to high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), which is extremely unhealthy for both mother and child. Exposure to PCB while pregnant can also have a negative impact on your baby’s immune system
Raw and undercooked shellfish like clams, mussels, and oysters, carry a majority of the seaborne illnesses. While cooking them can prevent some diseases, they won’t affect the algae-borne diseases. This is why it is a good idea to avoid shellfish entirely during pregnancy
Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which should be a part of your diet as it helps in the baby’s brain development. During pregnancy, you only have to be more cautious when consuming fish. A good idea is to try sticking to fresh water seafood during your pregnancy. This includes salmon, shrimp, trout and sardines. Also, instead of raw fish, try having fish that is cooked at 145 ℉. Cooking helps destroy many potential infections and toxins present in seafood, thus protecting you and your baby from harm.
2. Raw or Soft Boiled Eggs
Eggs can be almost irresistible when they’re cooked perfectly. Many of us enjoy eating soft boiled or undercooked eggs. However, during pregnancy, they’re definitely a big no-no as they may be contaminated with salmonella, which is a bacterium that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. You should also avoid other foods and desserts which are made from raw eggs, including custards and mousse.
The best way to have an egg during pregnancy is by cooking it until the yolk is firm. Otherwise, head for eggless salad dressings, mayonnaise, and other things that have an egg-less counterpart. You can also use pasteurised eggs to eliminate the risk of getting diseases.
3. Raw or Rare Meat
It is vital for a non-vegetarian mother to include meat in her diet, but this should also be done with some care and restrictions. Research suggests that raw meat contains Listeria bacteria and must be avoided during pregnancy. There may also be some other parasites in uncooked meat like Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause vomiting, foetal damages, and also miscarriages in expecting women.
Make sure that whenever you eat meat, it is properly cooked. It is also advisable that you cook your own meat at home with the use of a thermometer. Wash the meat properly with salt and water to ensure all the bacteria have been removed.
4. Unpasteurized Dairy
It is extremely important that you consume milk on a daily and regular basis for the proper development of your child. It provides you and your baby with important nutrients like minerals, calcium, and proteins. But make sure that you consume only pasteurised milk. Unpasteurized milk may contain pathogens that can cause severe food poisoning. It is advisable that you avoid all kinds of dairy products which are not pasteurised.
Make sure that you always consume fresh milk which has been boiled. Always make a couple of simple quality checks so that you can avoid unnecessary diseases and enjoy a happy pregnancy.
5. Unpasteurized Soft Cheese
Cheese is a favourite of almost everyone who has ever tasted it. But when you’re pregnant, you will have to follow some rules even when consuming this delicacy. A lot of the unpasteurised soft cheeses contain the Listeria bacteria, and rank high in the list of what we should not eat during pregnancy.
Instead of soft cheese, simply opt for hard cheeses. Some of these are Cheddar cheese and Swiss cheese. Always make sure that you buy cheese after you check the label for Listeria-free pasteurisation.
6. Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables
There is no doubt that fruits and vegetables are extremely healthy for you and your child during pregnancy. But you may be surprised to hear that almost 78% of the people around the world consume unwashed fruits and vegetables. Not only can the skins of unwashed fruits and vegetables contain harmful pesticides and herbicides, but they may also be home to deadly pathogens like Toxoplasma gondii and Listeria. Unwashed raw vegetables like sprouts, lettuce and cabbage should be especially avoided during these times.
The fruits not to eat during pregnancy include papayas, pineapples and grapes. In fact, in some cultures, papayas are in the list of natural foods to avoid pregnancy, and are believed to cause miscarriages. Unripe papaya can be especially dangerous as it has certain compounds that trigger uterine contractions.
It goes almost without saying that you should wash each of your fruits and vegetable thoroughly before consuming them. You can also peel the skin off and keep them in separate utensils. Avoid leaving the vegetables and fruits in the refrigerator for long and then consuming them. Try cooking all of your vegetables, and make sure that the leafy ones are cooked well.
7. Raw Sprouts and Nuts Which Cause Allergies
Raw sprouts are an amazing source of protein and minerals, but they are still in the list of food not to eat when pregnant. This is because they may contain harmful viruses and bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Make sure that every time you have sprouts, you either shallow fry them or better even, cook them. They can still taste nice with proper seasoning.
You may enjoy various kinds of nuts during pregnancy, such as peanuts and cashews. Nuts are a rich source of vitamins and minerals which are beneficial for foetal development. But there are some nuts that can cause allergies and rashes on your body. Even if you weren’t initially allergic to them, you could develop allergies over time with extended exposure. Make sure that you consult with your doctor on what nuts to include in your diet and what to avoid entirely during pregnancy.
8. Restaurant Food or Store-Bought Salads
It is advisable to be extra cautious when ordering food for pregnant women at a restaurant, as one can never be sure of the ingredients that go into making it. It is best to avoid having salads that are available in restaurants or even in the store. The fruits and vegetables used in the salad may not have been washed properly, or they may have been cut a long time ago.
You can always make your own salad at home. Make sure that you clean the fruits and vegetables properly and cook your meat properly. And you also have the liberty of preparing your salad however you want at home, just as you like it.
9. Un-Hygienically Extracted Juices
You may argue that fresh fruit juice is always a good choice during pregnancy. But raw fruits and vegetables may carry the risk of being contaminated by deadly bacteria or viruses. Make sure you quench your thirst for fresh juice at home so that you are assured of freshness and hygiene.
When buying packaged juices, choose ones which have been pasteurised and refrigerated. Your immune system is suppressed during pregnancy, and you are more susceptible to bacteria that might be present in unpasteurised juices.
10. Excessive Caffeine
You might be a fan of coffee. But including caffeine in your diet is not a good idea during pregnancy. It is a diuretic, which can lead to excessive urination, causing you to dehydrate faster. Caffeine has also been linked to low birth-weight. Excessive consumption of caffeine can lead to higher risks of foetal deaths, stillbirths, and also abortions.
Make sure that you don’t consume more than 200 ml or 2 cups of coffee in a day. Also, enlist your doctor’s or pharmacist’s help in eliminating hidden caffeine in other products like energy drinks and medicines.
11. Herbal Supplements and Herbal Tea
Many people may suggest that you start taking herbal tonics and teas when pregnant, but these may cause more harm to you than good. Some herbs can even increase your risk of preterm labour or miscarriage, when taken in large amounts. There are also chances that you may end up buying unsafe or spurious herbs because there isn’t a way you can check their quality.
Avoid herbs like Wormwood, Saw Palmetto and Senna as they aren’t tested thoroughly like other medicines, and opinion is still divided on the advisability of consuming them during pregnancy. If you feel a lack of energy or fatigue, do ask your doctor to prescribe a multivitamin and continue with your regular tea instead of experimenting with herbal concoctions.
12. Canned Food
Canned foods are to be particularly avoided during pregnancy as they may contain preservatives and food additives which are added to increase their shelf-life. Besides, the walls of the can may contain Bisphenol A, a chemical which affects the endocrine activity of your child. Due to their long shelf life, the food may also contain harmful bacteria.
Whatever that you get in cans can also be purchased fresh. Always pick fresh fruits and vegetables. It is a good idea to choose seasonal fruits and vegetables for a meal to ensure that you get the maximum nutrients from your food.
13. Nitrate-Rich Food
Nitrate is a chemical that is added to some foods to prolong their shelf life. However, it can cause a lot of health issues especially for pregnant women. When nitrates react with haemoglobin in the blood, they produce modified proteins which interfere with your body’s ability to deliver oxygen to the placenta. Some of the foods that contain nitrate in high quantities are diet sodas, bacon, sausages and artificial sweeteners. These foods also have a very low nutritional value and must be avoided during pregnancy at all costs.
14. Excessive Sugar Rich Food
You might crave for ice creams and chocolates several times during your pregnancy. However, the high sugar levels in them could increase the sugar level in your blood, which could harm the foetus. Always keep a check on how much sugar you are consuming in a day and try your best to avoid sugar as much as possible.
However, there is no need to turn your back to the ice cream truck altogether; an occasional treat will do you no harm.
15. Street Food
Try your best to avoid your favourite street-food during pregnancy. Not only are they unhealthy, they can also cause food poisoning and other digestive problems. Don your chef’s hat and try your hand at preparing them at home where you are assured of quality and hygiene.
16. Excessive Fatty Food
Are you looking forward to eating as much fatty food as you want to during pregnancy because you’re going to gain weight anyway? Resist the temptation as too much fatty food can increase your blood cholesterol levels, making you vulnerable to obesity and heart disease. Make sure that you eat fatty food in moderation.
Consume food containing omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids as these are beneficial for your baby’s development. Some such foods include avocados, nuts, olives and pumpkin seeds. However, never binge-eat on these foods and always exercise moderation.
17. Excessive Artificial Sweeteners
You may think that artificial sweeteners are a great substitute for sugar, but it is not healthy to consume them during pregnancy. The placenta doesn’t filter the most commonly used artificial sweeteners, like saccharin, which means your child will be consuming the artificial sugar too. You can have them, but always make sure that you do so in moderation.
18. Un-prescribed Vitamins
Vitamins are surely a good source of nourishment for pregnant women, but they can be harmful when consumed in excess. They can affect the normal growth of your foetus and can also cause pre-term labour. Don’t make your own decisions when it comes to vitamins. Always consume them as prescribed by the doctor.
19. Simple Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy in your body, which makes them an important part of your pregnancy diet too. However, be careful with simple carbs foods such as cookies and corn syrup. Although they are not really harmful to your child, simple carbs tend to cause painful constipation. Try and avoid them by avoiding anything that is made from fine flour. Instead, consume high fibre flour like wheat, brown bread, and whole grain carbs.
20. Baked Food
Even if you love baked food, it is better to avoid it during your pregnancy. This is because the raw dough can attract harmful bacteria, which can cause severe food poisoning and even harm the foetus. If you just can’t resist baked goodies, then try opting for the commercially manufactured ones from popular and well-known bakeries.
21. Licorice
Many cuisines use Licorice, which is normally a harmless spice. But during pregnancy, Licorice tends to cause uterine contractions. This can lead to pre-term labour. Try and avoid it in all forms during pregnancy.
22. Leftover Food
You may feel guilty throwing away leftover food, but you should avoid eating leftover food during your special nine months. Even if it is stored in the refrigerator, there are chances that the food can attract disease-causing bacteria. Always eat freshly cooked food. If you have no other option, heat the leftover food in another clean utensil before consuming it.
23. Spicy Food
Spicy food is best avoided by a mother-to-be. During pregnancy, the chance of an acid reflux and heartburn is a lot higher, and consuming spicy food will only aggravate it. Spicy food can also lead to morning sickness. Always consume spice in moderation, and whenever you eat spicy food, make sure that you also have a glass of milk or a tablespoon of honey to prevent heartburn.
24. Alcohol
It goes without saying that alcohol consumption is bad for your health, not only when you’re pregnant, but at any time in your life. But in case you think that occasional drinking is okay when you’re pregnant, you’re terribly wrong.
Alcohol is another thing that isn’t filtered by the placenta and can reach your baby through the umbilical cord. This can not only cause miscarriage and stillbirth but also a range of lifelong physical and intellectual disabilities to your child through a condition called Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). There is no known safe time or safe amount of alcohol consumption during your pregnancy. It is best that you avoid consumption of alcohol entirely during pregnancy.
With this, you have the top 25 types of foods not to eat in pregnancy. It is advisable that you consult with your doctor before you decide to avoid any of the above-mentioned food in your diet. Consulting a nutritionist about the best diet for pregnancy will help you put together a balanced meal. Needless to say, you may indulge your pregnancy cravings as long you do so in moderation and stick to safe dietary choices. Read more
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Sinusitis in Children - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
A child’s sinuses do not develop until he or she attains teenage although two tiny sinuses, maxillary and ethmoid are present at birth. Unlike adults, sinus infection in kids is difficult to diagnose since it may occur due to other problems like allergies or viral infections.
What are Sinuses?
The air-filled passages or cavities near the nasal tracks are known as sinuses. The four types of sinuses found in a child are as follows:
Ethmoid Sinus:
This sinus is present at the time of birth and grows till the child becomes an adult. Ethmoid sinus is situated in the facial area near the bridge of the nose.
Maxillary Sinus:
This sinus is placed near the cheeks, inside the face. It is present at birth and continuously grows.
Frontal Sinus:
This sinus does not develop till the child is 7 years old and is located in the forehead area.
Sphenoid Sinus:
This sinus is placed deep in the face, just behind the nose. The sphenoid sinus does not develop till the child reaches adolescence.
What is Sinusitis?
The infected condition of sinuses near the nose or forehead is known as sinusitis. Sinusitis generally occurs if your child has an allergic inflammation or a severe cold. In children, it is referred to as paediatric sinusitis. Sinus infection in kids is a common problem in young children.
Types of Sinusitis:
Sinusitis is categorised based on the duration of infection.
Acute Sinusitis:
This type of sinusitis lasts for 7-10 days, and the child will get better when administered the right treatment for it.
Subacute Sinusitis:
The symptoms of subacute sinusitis can be seen for four to eight weeks. Treatment does not show any improvement initially and needs a sustained approach before the person shows any changes.
Chronic Sinusitis:
Chronic infections affect a child when he or she has acute sinusitis regularly or if the earlier infections were not treated in a professional manner. The symptoms of chronic sinusitis in children last for six to eight weeks or even longer. It can be identified by post-nasal drainage and extreme congestion in the nasal passage.
Recurrent :
When your child is affected by three or more bouts of acute sinusitis, it is known as recurrent sinusitis.
Causes of Sinusitis in Kids
Common cold or Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) can cause sinus problems in children. During URI, the nasal passages are swollen which blocks the paranasal sinus opening, and this leads to a sinus infection. Sinusitis happens due to allergies too because during this time, mucus production is heightened, and the nasal tissue is infected and swollen.
The following too can lead to sinusitis in children:
Deformities in the nose structure
Tooth infections
Trauma to the nose
Bloated adenoids
Passive smoking (inhaling second-hand smoke)
Cleft palate
Swimming or diving
Sinusitis Signs and Symptoms
Your child’s age is the primary criteria for symptoms of sinusitis. But these symptoms may vary from one child to another. These symptoms include the following:
Young children:
Swelling around the eyes
A runny nose for 7 to 10 days
Nasal discharge that can be clear, yellow or greenish
Cough at night
An occasional cough during the day
Headaches for kids over age five
Teenagers and adults:
Fever
A sore throat
Headaches
Drip from the nose to the throat
A runny nose
Cold symptoms for over a week
Bad breath
Facial discomfort
A cough
Swelling near eyes that is worse in the morning
Sinus headache in a child is generally found to be migraine-related as it causes pain in the face front and causes immense pressure under the eyes. If nausea or vomiting is missing, consult your child’s paediatrician to be sure about the diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Based on a preliminary physical examination and the symptoms your child shows, your child’s doctor will be able to diagnose sinusitis. Occasionally, some additional tests may also be required to confirm the doctor’s diagnosis. These include the following:
CT or CAT scan: Known as Computed Tomography, this scan is actually a diagnostic imaging procedure which makes the combined use of x-rays and computer technology to create axial images (slice-like images) of the body. Such a scan is far more detailed than x-rays and allows the doctor to view bones, fat, organs and muscles in a clearer manner.
Sinus X-rays: This is a diagnostic test that utilizes electromagnetic energy beams to create photographic images of bones, tissues and organs on film. This is mostly done to help in the diagnosis and confirm the condition.
Sinus culture: These are lab tests that consist of bacteria or microorganism growth in order to help in confirming the diagnosis.
How Sinusitis is Treated in Children
In order to reduce sinus pain in children, your child’s physician will arrive at a specific line of treatment after analyzing the following points:
Age, medical history and current health of your child
Type and severity of the infection
Your kid’s preference towards therapy, medication or medical procedures
Your own preference or opinion about a certain line of treatment
Sinusitis treatment for children includes the following:
Antibiotics that have to be taken for two weeks
Painkillers like Acetaminophen to ease discomfort
Nasal spray to stop inflammation
Endoscopic sinus surgery
Adenoid-removal surgery
Medications for GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Home Remedies for Sinusitis in a Child
There are plenty of home remedies that can provide your child with relief. These include:
Humidifier:
When sinusitis is on the ascendancy, consider installing a humidifier in your baby’s bedroom. Your tiny tot will be able to breathe easier. Relaxed breathing aids to create a better sleep pattern which gives the baby much needed rest to fight off infection.
Saline Nasal Spray:
A saline nasal spray is helpful in thinning out mucus and opening the nasal passage. Your baby may resist it initially, but it will be worth the effort as the mucus softens and can be easily removed. Use the spray when the baby is in an upright position at least a couple of times a day or as directed.
Steam:
In order to ease the congestion, steam is a pretty useful ally. The sinus passages are soothed while the mucus is softened to a large extent. Run the shower in the bathroom and let steam accumulate till the baby feels comfortable. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the baby’s tub to tackle stubborn congestion.
Tea Tree Oil:
If your little one is unable to rest due to stubborn sinusitis, try out a slightly aggressive home-based treatment. Mix one drop of tea tree oil with coconut or almond oil and apply this on the baby’s nostrils using a cotton swab. The anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties of tea tree oil help your little one to fight the infection and prove to be an effective sinus medicine for kids.
Hydration:
Offer your child water and fresh juices through the day to keep her body hydrated. This will help loosen mucus and clear the child’s sinuses in the most natural way possible.
Warm Washcloth:
Dip a clean washcloth or a soft hand towel in a bowl of hot water. Ensure the towel is warm and not hot when you apply it on your child’s face. Applying this encourages mucus draining and keeps the discomfort to a minimum level.
Can Sinusitis Be Prevented In Kids?
You can prevent your child from growing up as a sinus patient by doing the following:
Ensure your child’s immunizations are updated, and he/she doesn’t miss any.
Keep pets out of his bed and if possible, the bedroom too.
Avoid smoking when the child is around.
Use a HEPA filter to address dust issues if your home is plagued by it.
Wash rugs and bed sheets regularly to keep dust mites at bay.
While dealing with sinusitis in children, it is important to relieve them of their suffering by attacking the source of infection. Remember, a newborn and his systems are sensitive and will take time to adjust to the world around them. Make sure you consult your doctor if your baby’s symptoms persist for more than two weeks.
Also Read: How to Clean Your Baby's Nose Read more
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10 Yummy Ways To Make Pasta Healthier For Kids
You only have to say “pasta” and the kids are all over you, asking unending questions about what shape the pasta is, whether you'll use a white or red sauce, and most importantly, when it will be ready! Pasta is the latest food trend and enjoys immense popularity especially among the younger generation. But like everything else that feels tempting, pasta too is generally considered junk! As a responsible but doting mom, can you do anything to make a wholesome, balanced meal out of pasta without compromising on taste?
Pasta, now available in interesting shapes and sizes, is an instant hit among children. It is a very versatile food that works well as an evening snack, dinner or even Mamma's special comfort food for the days your child is feeling low. The only concern – and it is a big one – is that pastas aren't really health food. Many pastas in the market use refined flour or semolina, are cooked in high-calorie sauces, and don't do much nutrition-wise.
Well, no more! Nutrition experts around the globe have put their brains together to arrive at some genius hacks that make pasta a healthy meal. You only have to follow these steps to become the super mommy who serves her kids their favourite food but manages to ensure it is nutritious!
1. Look for Fibre-Rich Pasta
Do you steer clear of pasta because you think is is full of maida? Time to change that myth! Colavita, for instance, uses 100% whole wheat semolina and fresh mountain spring water – this means no artificial ingredients! Not only does this make pasta a filling meal but it also helps boosts dietary fibre in your kids.
Secret Tip : Try whipping up a pasta salad with veggies. The best part is that this recipe works well with whole-grain pasta, imparting it a nice nutty flavor that kids are bound to love.
2. Use This Tip to Limit Salt While Boiling
We have always been told to add a pinch of salt while cooking pasta. But did you know that this can increase the sodium content and actually make it take longer for the water to boil? What you should do instead is two-fold: 1. Avoid adding salt to the water you use to boil pasta, and 2. Save some of the cooking liquor after draining the pasta and use it to make a sauce. You'll get a rich creamy sauce minus the actual cream!
3. Cook Pasta Only Till This Point
Are you cooking your pasta right? The correct method is to cook until “al dente”, i.e. still slightly firm and chewy. Overcooking pasta makes it unhealthy for your kids as it raises the glycemic index or leads carbohydrates to be readily available in your blood stream! Here's a special Mommy hack: cook your pasta and allow it to cool. This will increase the resistant starch content of the pasta. This means when you reheat the food, this starch stays resistant and adds to the healthy bulk of food! This also means you don't need to eat cold pasta to enjoy the extra fibre.
4. Choose from One of these Healthy Sauces
More often than not, what makes pasta unhealthy is the calorie-rich sauce it is served with! But the good news is that the dish can be equally yummy minus the calories if you only pick the right sauce. Your best bet would be tomato sauce- maximum nutrition, minimum calories, and vitamins and antioxidants as a bonus! Just make sure you read the nutrition labels carefully and choose a sauce with less than 360 mg sodium per half-cup.
How about meat sauce, cheddar cheese sauce and the eternal favourite pesto? Typically, these sauces can be very high in sodium. But wait, there's hope! You can add to the health (and taste!) quotient of any sauce by drizzling some Colavita extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs. Yummy!
5. Sneak Some Veggies into the Pasta
Moms are experts at anything to do with sneaking veggies into savoury dishes! The veggies that work really well with pasta are broccoli, spinach, carrots, celery, onions, beans and peas. But feel free to experiment. You could also serve pasta with veggie side dishes. How about a bowl of pasta accompanied by a big green salad or sautéed greens? It will make you look like quite the Master Chef and we promise the kids won't mind either. Our pick would be this stunning Pasta Nest with Roasted Vegetables.
6. Give your Pasta a Huge Fibre Boost
Veggies aside, is there another way to up the nutritional content of pasta? Dietary fibre is a must-have for kids of all ages as it helps keep their digestive system in good working condition. When making pasta, do this: add a few tablespoons of oat bran, psyllium or chia seeds to the pasta sauce. Done! You have not only increased the fibre in the whole dish but also slowed down how quickly your body digests the pasta. This keeps blood sugar spikes in check.
7. Choose Lean Proteins Such as These
Did you know pasta can be a great way to include protein in your kids' diet? Since children enjoy pasta so much, you can use it as base to add cooked beans, or chicken shreds/sausage to the sauce. This will make sure they take in lean protein that speeds up their overall development. For a quick protein-packed recipe, try this Pasta and Bean Soup.
8. Refer to These Figures for the Right Portion Size
How much is enough? Ideally, if you're serving it as a side dish, one serving of cooked pasta should be ½ cup (50 grams). If it's your main meal, 1½ cups should suffice. If you're eating out, try and restrict your portions to these sizes. Remember, you also need to account for creamy pasta sauces, especially grated cheese. When used as a garnish, a tablespoon of cheese (15 grams) is all you need. As for olive oil, a teaspoon (5 grams) or two will work wonders to enhance the taste!
9. Cheese Works Best When Used Just for Garnishing
Think pasta and the mind conjures up images of Parmesan and Ricotta cheese! Well, while cheese and pasta definitely go well together, we recommend garnishing the pasta with shredded cheese on top. This lets you cut down on the saturated fats and calorie content of the meal. If you're worried that the outcome won't be appetising enough, don't worry! Try one of Colavita's unique pasta nests – they come in exotic shapes like fettucine and tripoolini – and we promise the kids will be spellbound!
10. Finally, Avoid Consuming Pasta as a Street-Food
Bhelpuri and panipuri aside, pasta is the latest rage among street vendors! Now, while we cannot deny that street food has an undeniable charm, especially to kids, it could also mean taking in too much oil and salt. Try making tasty and nutritious pasta dishes at home so you can closely monitor the cooking as well as the serving size. If you've never cooked pasta before, this easy masala pasta can be a good starting point.
What are you waiting for, Mom? Now that you're armed with these healthy pasta hacks, you can make a bowlful of wholesome, lip-smacking pasta your kids will love. The best part is you too can join them in the feast – without the fear of putting on weight! Read more
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Pregnancy After Breast Cancer - Can You Conceive?
Getting diagnosed with breast cancer may feel like the end of the world. And in case you are considering becoming pregnant, it can further complicate the issue. But many studies indicate that it is possible for most women to conceive after breast cancer. However certain breast cancer treatments can cause delayed pregnancy or make getting pregnant harder. So, it is best to discuss any fertility concerns with your doctor before you start breast cancer treatment.
Does Breast Cancer Treatment Affect The Fertility?
Many women may pose the question can you get pregnant after breast cancer. Getting pregnant after breast cancer can be hard in certain cases. Most breast cancer treatments are likely to curtail your window of the fertile period. The important factors that may impact fertility can be the age of the woman, the type and dosage of the drugs included in the treatment and whether the treatment involves radiation therapy. For example, pregnancy after chemotherapy for breast cancer can result in instant or delayed infertility.
How Long Should You Wait to Become Pregnant after the Treatment?
Many experts suggest waiting for minimum two months after stopping the use of anticancer drugs before trying to get pregnant. Some doctors recommend waiting for at least one or two years after discontinuing treatment before attempting conception as they believe that the chance of a recurrence greatly reduces after this point. Nevertheless, it is best to discuss with your doctor who can suitably advise keeping in mind your specific case.
Can Your History of Breast Cancer Affect Your Child?
There is no concrete scientific evidence available which directs that a woman’s history of breast cancer affected her child after getting pregnant. Researchers have not found any link between the increased rate of neonatal defects or lasting health problems in babies to the fact that their mothers are breast cancer survivors.
Can Breast Cancer Treatment during Pregnancy Affect Your Unborn Baby?
Certain breast cancer treatments during pregnancy can adversely affect the unborn child. For example, radiation therapy can harm the growing foetus. Similarly, hormone therapy involving the use of tamoxifen and targeted therapies during pregnancy can place the unborn child at risk of serious damage.
However, some breast cancer treatments are thought to be harmless during pregnancy. For example, breast cancer surgery is usually considered safe when pregnant. Due consideration to the type of treatment and the timing of treatment is important while treating breast cancer during pregnancy to protect the unborn baby.
Can You Breastfeed After Breast Cancer Treatment?
Most women can breastfeed after breast cancer treatment. But in the case of lumpectomy, breastfeeding may depend on the quantity of breast tissue taken away and the state of the residual tissue. Breast cancer treatment can lower the milk production or lead to structural changes in the affected breast which can make breastfeeding painful. In such an instance you can breastfeed your baby from the breast which was not touched by cancer or consider using breastfeed formula.
Does Breastfeeding After Breast Cancer Increases the Risk of Recurrence of Cancer?
A breastfeeding mom usually has higher levels of estrogen. Estrogen may have a role to play in the occurrence of breast cancer. Therefore, pregnancy after oestrogen positive breast cancer may be a possibility. However, there is no tangible proof to substantiate the notion that breastfeeding can increase the possibility of recurrence after successful breast cancer treatment.
What If You are Unable to Get Pregnant After Breast Cancer?
In case you are unable to get pregnant after breast cancer, you can opt for the following treatments:
1. Fertility treatment
Many fertility treatments like fertility drugs, hormone treatments, ovarian tissue freezing can improve the likelihood of a pregnancy. Also with the help of assisted reproduction which utilises different medical techniques like IVF (In vitro fertilisation), IUI (intrauterine insemination) a pregnancy is possible.
2. Surrogacy
Surrogacy can be another option which involves asking another woman to carry a pregnancy for you.
3. Adoption
You can also deliberate the option of adoption. You can refer to an adoption counsellor to learn about the procedure.
Consult A Doctor
You may like to consult a doctor about the following:
The impact of breast cancer treatment on your fertility
The waiting period after terminating treatment to get pregnant
The chances of a recurrence
The type of birth control
Becoming pregnant after breast cancer treatment can be tough but not impossible. Every woman’s medical case can be unique. Talk to a fertility specialist about the most suitable way of getting pregnant after breast cancer treatment and remain hopeful for positive outcomes.
Also Read:
Can You Get Pregnant Right After Stopping The Pill?
Can You Get Pregnant After Menopause?
What If You Are Underweight or Overweight When Trying to Get Pregnant? Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. ninth month mein kab tak delivery ho sakti hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. anytime after full term 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. my last period date Dec 26 pregnancy test date January 31 check panen apom 37 days ipom enaku evlo weeks and days what ?..
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. I don’t understand your language can you please post your question once again in English or Hindi whatever language you are more comfortable with because anybody on this only we can give you response on that
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. which good formula milk or baby food for 4 months old baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. no complementary foods below 4 months can use any branded formula milk. 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
Expecting Mom due this month
5 hours ago
Q. Iam 9month pregnant and having very painful condition due to constipation and gastric issues
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. during pregnancy better not to take medicines for constipation take lot of water green leafy vegetables seasonal fruits you can try suppository if the problem is more o k o k
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
2 hours ago
Q. hi Doc,
eating raw mango, chapathi or any heat producing foods cause miscarriage during first trimester?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. no relation ok c. 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 Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
2 hours ago
Q. Hi Doc,
I'm getting cramps on my right side of lower stomach. is this normal or do I have to visit doc?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. without examination it is difficult to tell proper treatment as well as advice so you should visit the doctor5 for health assessment as well as examination.
whether any investigations is required or not will be told by the doctor5
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