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Top 8 Ways to Increase Height in Children
Most parents would love for their children to be tall and strong, as it has been widely regarded as a sign of good health. Parents usually go to great lengths to ensure that their children grow up healthily, and their height is treated as an indication of their overall health condition by most parts of the society.
Genes have the most say in determining the height of the child – however, it is not the only factor which influences it. Many external factors, like living conditions and a healthy diet, can influence the height of children quite a lot. Therefore, it is possible for parents to improve the chances of their children grow up to be tall and strong, through simple methods. Let us take a look at the top 10 ways to make your child grow taller.
How to Increase the Height of a Child
There are many ways a parent can influence the height of their child, and here’s a list of the top ten ways.
1. A Balanced Diet
The most important aspect of how to increase your kid’s height is to ensure that he gets proper nutrition. The food he consumes has to be healthy so that he grows up to be tall. A balanced diet has to include proteins, carbohydrates, fat and vitamins in the correct proportion – loading up on only one of these can have a detrimental effect. You must also ensure that the child keeps away from junk food most of the time – this includes food like burgers, aerated sweetened drinks and fried items in general. Lean proteins have to be had aplenty, along with leafy vegetables and items rich in minerals like calcium and potassium. Simple carbs like pizza and cakes have to be avoided for the most part. Zinc has been found to have a huge effect on the growth of the child, so zinc-rich foods like squash seeds and peanuts must also be added to their diet. A balanced diet not only provides the right nutrients to increase your child’s height but it will also make him stronger in every sense.
2. Stretching Exercises
Stretching exercises, even if they are simple ones, can have a huge impact on the height of your child. Introducing your child to stretching exercises from a young age will facilitate the process of height growth. Stretching helps elongate the spine and also improves the posture of your child at all times. The exercises can be simple ones. Make him stand on his toes with his back against the wall and stretch the muscles in his leg while reaching up simultaneously. Another simple exercise for stretching involves the child sitting on the floor with his legs wide apart, and reaching to touch the toes of both legs with his arms.
3. Hanging
Hanging has been recommended for decades now, for parents who want their children to be taller. Hanging from bars also helps the spine elongate, which is an important part of becoming taller. Apart from regular hanging, you can also encourage your child to do pull-ups and chin-ups. Both make the muscles of the arm and the back stronger and are great exercises to help him keep fit.
4. Yoga Poses
The age-old practice of yoga involves a lot of stretching and balance, so it is ideal for children to make them taller. Some yoga asanas are especially beneficial in helping your child grow tall. The ‘Surya Namaskar’ gets the entire body to work, stretching out the muscles of the arm, back, and even the legs in a single, fluid motion. Another beneficial asana is the Chakrasana, which involves your child lying on his back. Then, he has to make his back arch upwards and prop his body up using his arms and feet, to maintain a U-shape. Try keeping this shape for as long as possible, for it to be effective.
5. Skipping
There are few exercises like skipping which help work the entire body. Known for its awesome effects on the heart, it is also a great exercise to do if you want your child to become taller. The body stretches entirely when a person skips, so it promotes vertical growth in the child. It is also an amazing cardio workout, and will definitely keep him fit and active.
6. Swimming
Swimming is another healthy habit, one which helps your child stay active and enjoy it, too. Swimming is a full-body exercise, meaning that it works all the muscles in the body to great effect. Swimming for a long time can help your child lose any extra fat present, making him healthier as a whole. The exercise involves a lot of stretching forward, which strengthens the spine and lays the groundwork for a tall, healthy body. Swimming is also a highly enjoyable activity- no child has ever said no to playing in the water!
7. Jogging
Jogging is an amazing exercise, not just for children- it has a range of benefits for grown-ups too. Jogging strengthens the bones in the leg and also increases the quantity of HGH, the growth hormone, which is required for any growth in the body. To make it even more fun, you can maybe join in with your child and make jogging be an activity you do together!
8. Sleep
The importance of sleep can never be stressed upon enough, not just for children – for adults, too. Skipping sleep occasionally does not affect the growth of your child in the long term- however, you have to ensure that the child gets a good 8 hours of sleep on most nights, in order for him to be taller and stronger. This is because the growth hormone in children, HGH, is released only when the child sleeps. This plays a direct role in making your child taller, so skipping sleep constantly is definitely a bad idea.
9. Posture
To increase your child’s height, it is integral that he has a proper posture. Slumping or slouching can put unnecessary stress on the spine which can have many negative affects on the body. Additionally, poor posture can alter the shape of your child’s spine which can compromise his growth. Make sure that your child practices good posture not only to increase his height but also to prevent any long term health issues. Remind him to sit and stand up straight every time you see him slouching.
10. Sunlight
Sunlight is a great source of Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps in muscle and bone growth which will help in increasing your child’s height. Vitamin D also helps your body absorb calcium from your diet and helps in strengthening your bones. So encourage your child to leave his video games and step out in the sun and play. Remember to keep your child indoors during the warmest hours of the day and make him wear sun screen to protect his skin from harmful UV rays of the sun. Other sources of Vitamin D include, fatty fish and seafood, mushrooms, and egg yolks.
There are many ways to make your child grow taller, but all of them work only when complemented by the other activities on the list. A good diet must be accompanied by regular exercise and sound sleep- else, you do not get what you want. Therefore, take care of your child the right way, and make him grow tall and strong.
Resources & References:
WebMD
Healthline
Also Read: Physical Development in Children Read more
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Your 38 Week Old Baby - Development, Milestones & Care
A 38-week-old or nine months old baby has life-changing development milestones. This phase has specific developments, weaning and wonders. Here we will discuss 38-week-old infant development and care tips.
A 38-Week-Old Baby’s Development
The development of the baby at this stage is quite discernable. However, a 38-week-old baby’s milestones may vary according to each baby’s rate of growth. They may be obvious in some babies and not be so obvious in other babies. This is a natural process. Your baby will reach these milestones sooner or later.
Have a discussion with your doctor along with our suggestions about the development pace at this age of the baby.
The development can be broken down into different sets of milestones. We have marked out the most significant of them.
[Also Read: 9 Months Old Baby Growth and Development]
Thirty-Eight-Week-Old Baby's Developmental Milestones
The thirty-eight-week-old baby's developmental milestones can be categorised into physical, mental, social developments, and medical needs:
1. Physical and Mental Developments
Baby will show greater mobility. Baby will try to stand from sitting few mins; creep; crawl; try to sit from the stomach; maybe hold something and dance a bit. Baby might even let go and take the risk of trying to stand without support. Baby will develop the ability to lift small things with some of their fingers.
Baby may be afraid of heights, changes in space and territory like if you put him on top of a high feeding chair, hold him on your shoulders and walk. This is because they are attempting to stand and walk and have been falling as a part of this process. This will go away once the baby has learnt to stand and walk.
Baby may not be talking properly yet. But baby understands more words and may start to say ‘mama’ or ‘papa’. Baby may be able to follow some instructions and make their needs felt with sign language.
Baby will show memory growth by remembering specific things like where you have kept their teether etc. Baby may also be able to mimic things they noticed a week ago.
Baby will resist, especially if you try to take something they like.
Baby will show new patterns in feeding and food habits. Playfulness with baby food is also often noticed.
Baby’s teeth may start coming out. The two front teeth come first.
Baby sleeping habits will also change, and we have discussed this in details in a dedicated section below.
2. Social Developments
Attachment and empathy to people and their things like a teether, toy, your hair etc. They hold on to these for security and comfort.
Sensitivity to emotions. For instance, if you cry for some reason, the baby may also cry with you.
Sibling emotions may also be on the rise because now the baby is moving around and getting into your other child’s space and conflicts may occur.
They may also look praise for something they do.
They will start to share things like food, toys etc.
Greater interest in things around like their toys, food, pets etc.
Social developments will also have an impact on their playing activities. Baby will enjoy a hide and seek game.
3. Medical Needs
Doctor check-up
Diagnostic tests
Vaccinations
While all of the above are vital developments and need baby weaning tactics, food and sleep always remain parents’ priority during a 38-week-old baby growth spurt. Let’s discuss development changes in feeding and sleeping first.
[Also Read: 9 Months Old Baby Milestones]
Feeding
This is a time when a baby’s tiny fingers are trying to grasp things. So, you can start finger food that is easy to hold, eat and digest like chunks of soft bread, hard boiled bits of egg white, boiled potato fingers, etc.
It is also a great time to begin food that can melt easily into baby’s mouth like soft fruit purees of banana, papaya, avocado, teething biscuits, and dissolving crackers.
This is also a time babies like to explore food. Use that to your advantage to introduce new food like pasta, fish, meat etc. There is a theory that suggests that you should introduce a new food every 3-5 days to reduce food allergy. However, other studies suggest that it is okay to try a new food every 1-3 days.
Babies will also like sharing food with you. Be prepared for baby food tantrums as baby becomes choosy.
You may still be breastfeeding along with all these experiments. However, baby’s need for feeds will vary depending on other activities that may interest baby, especially during sleep. Sleep cycles will also change.
[Also Read: 9 Months Old Baby Food]
Sleeping
The baby is full of new activities, and sleep may reduce and get disturbed both during day and night. That makes the baby irritable and exhausted. There may even be night terrors or nightmares.
There is also a sense of insecurity. Baby may not want to sleep with anyone else other than the mother or the primary caregiver. You may need a baby carrier during a busy day.
According to one study, “8% of babies aged 6 – 12 months still regularly wake at least once in the night, and 61% have at least one milk feed during the night.” Breastfeeding may not be a great need for baby now. Reading from a book or storytelling may induce sleep.
All this is very normal and due to rapid physical and mental development.
[Also Read: 9 Months Old Baby Sleep Basics]
A 38-Week-Old Baby's Care Tips
Baby needs some special care at this stage:
Keep all dangerous things out of their reach because of baby’s increased mobility
Try fall protection like lower beds to sleep on, strapped seating, babysitter to monitor movement etc. because their mobility makes babies more hazard-prone
Keep first aid handy for injuries due to increased mobility
Gentle baby tooth care can be started
Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed/swallowed
Be sensitive to baby sentiments; their emotions/opinion are growing
Accept things they give; they are learning to share
Food and sleep habits need special attention
Equally important things in a baby’s development at this stage are medical requirements that are discussed below.
Tests and Vaccinations
The Ministry of Health, Govt. of India recommends the first dose of measles vaccine at nine months of baby age. It is given with the first dose of Vitamin A oral vaccine by 12 months of age. The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine (first dose) is also under consideration.
The Indian Academy of Pediatrics also recommends oral poliovirus vaccine OPV 2, Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccine MMR-1 at nine months; Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine from 9-12 months.
The WHO guidelines recommend that Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine (HPV) should also be given as soon as possible from 9 months of age; Yellow Fever vaccine along with measles vaccine from 9-12 month; Meningococcal MenA conjugate vaccine from 9-18 months and Quadrivalent conjugate from 9-23 months.
According to another recommendation, the child may also receive the third hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) and the third polio vaccine (IPV) from 6-18 months of age; and the flu vaccine should be given annually.
There may be some side effects of vaccination; please discuss with your baby’s doctor before the vaccination.
Tests and Checkups Would Include:
Baby’s length, weight, head circumference measurement
Growth measurement against a growth chart
Complete physical examination
Development assessment
Games and Activities
This is a time to introduce baby to certain games and activities that:
Stimulate her intellect: an activity kit encouraging sorting, stacking, rolling and sharing
Enlighten baby about surroundings: colourful blocks that can be put in and out of big boxes. Make sure the blocks are not too small that they can swallow them
Attention-catching things: sound producing toys like musicals cars, keyboards, play drums and sticks etc
Toys, activities with some movement: opening and closing (toy house with a door that opens and closes), toys with levers, remote control cars, passing or rolling the ball game etc
Activities like simple storytelling or reading out and books with animal pictures and sounds
[Also Read: 9 Months Old Baby Games and Activities]
When to Consult a Doctor
While you engage in weaning, you must also consult the baby’s doctor at regular intervals. You must do this to discuss:
Whether mental and physical development is happening at the expected level
Improvement in any existing health problems
Vaccination
New health problems
Emergency illness/injury, though this should ideally be at a hospital with the doctors there.
38-week-old babies are full of new developments. You need to keep up with them, so please take very good care of yourself while you take care of the baby. You will need all the energy and good health as well!
Previous Week: 37 Weeks Old Baby
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Second Trimester Diet and Nutrition
The second trimester is also often known as the golden period of pregnancy as it marks the point where the discomforts of early pregnancy pass, and those of the third trimester have not begun yet. To make the most of this period, it is important to maintain a healthy diet which ensures adequate nutrition to you and to the growing baby.
What to Eat during the Second Trimester of Pregnancy?
The second trimester which is the period between 14th to 26th week, is when your baby grows to about 35 cms. Eating healthy food during the second trimester is as important as it was during the first. Healthy food will continue to provide the essential nutrients during this time. A nutrient-rich diet is essential for the bone and muscle formation of the baby. You should eat foods which are high on calcium, magnesium and vitamin D.
Essential Nutrition and their Sources for a Healthy Second Trimester
Your diet must have carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and plenty of water. Every meal should contain 3 portions of each food group. Your meal plan should be divided into portions in each of the meals and one snack to keep up your energy levels all day
Your diet should comprise of a combination of the following-
To ensure a steady intake of folic acid and iron you should have 5 portions of vegetables (green leafy vegetables like spinach, cabbage) and fruits in a day.
You should have carbohydrates (starchy foods, wholegrain bread, cereals) with every meal.
Dairy products which are low in fat should be consumed at least 2 to 3 times in a day to ensure calcium intake.
Food types high in protein (like fish, eggs, beans) should be eaten at least twice a day.
Oily fish (once a week and not more than two times in a week) to give you enough omega 3-fatty acids which help in the development of the baby’s brain.
You should switch to healthy options in snacks and drinks (like sandwiches, yoghurts).
Meal Plan for the Second Trimester
It is important that you follow a meal plan during the second trimester of pregnancy so that your baby gets the required nutrients in the right proportion and weight gain is on track.
While making the meal plan it is important to keep those fruits and vegetables in it which are available in all seasons. In case a fruit or vegetable is not available you may replace it with any other which is available in that season and provides the same nutrients.
Sometimes a single food can be a source of multiple nutrients; hence you may find the same food recommended for one trimester for a particular nutrient and the same one recommended for another in a different trimester.
All through this time, you should keep yourself hydrated. The caffeine intake during pregnancy should be limited.
Meal Plan Sample
Breakfast
2 servings of grain, 1 serving of fruit, 1 oz of meat/beans and 1 cup milk.
Sample breakfast – 2 oz wholegrain bagel toasted and 1 teaspoon margarine and scrambled egg, 1 cup cantaloupe and 1 cup of milk (non-fat).
During pregnancy you will need between 1000-3000 mg of calcium daily with dairy in most meals.
Lunch
2 servings of grain, 1 cup green leafy vegetables, 1 cup fruit, 1 serving milk and 2 oz of meat/beans.
Sample lunch – A roast beef (2 oz) sandwich made with whole wheat bread, 1 teaspoon mayonnaise, tomato and lettuce. You may also have 1 cup baby carrots, fresh orange and 1 cup non-fat milk.
During pregnancy you will need around 27 mg of iron in a day.
Dinner
2 servings of grain and vegetables each and 3 oz of meat/beans.
Sample dinner - 3 oz. chicken grilled,1 cup brown rice, 1 cup sautéed spinach on garlic with olive oil and garden salad with 1 tablespoon of salad dressing.
During pregnancy you will need 600 mg of folate per day.
Snack
A snack should include 1 serving of grain and milk each.
Sample snack - 1 cup of whole grain, cereal along with 1 cup of non-fat milk.
Food Disinclinations and Cravings
During this time many women may experience an aversion to certain kind of foods and craving for certain foods, this may be the result of the hormonal changes which happen rapidly.
Some women may have a craving for chocolates or spicy food or some kind of comfort food.
On the other hand some women develop aversions to certain food types. Essentially, they may never want to eat these foods. An aversion can be a problem if it is for vegetables or dairy that is important for the growth of the baby. In such a situation your doctor may suggest some alternate foods to eat, or recommend food supplements, so that the lack of nutrients is sufficiently compensated.
Weight Gain during the Second Trimester
The weight gain in your second trimester will be more than your first trimester. You will gain between 1 to 2 pounds every week. The weight gained does not go to the baby alone. It adds to the breast tissue, increase in the fluid content, increase in the amniotic fluid around the baby, increase in the placenta growth and uterus muscles and extra store of fat and protein in the body.
In the second trimester nausea stops and you are in a happy place because the baby is also not big enough to on pressure on your organs. However excess weight gain can cause complications during delivery.
Foods to Avoid
The 2nd trimester pregnancy diet is important. However, it is equally important to limit the intake, and avoid certain kind of food during the 6th and 14th week of pregnancy diet.
Raw and uncooked meat should be avoided due to the risk of contamination with bacteria, salmonella and toxoplasmosis.
Fish containing high levels of mercury or other pollutants should be avoided. Mercury delays development of the brain.
Consumption of raw eggs should be avoided during pregnancy because of the exposure to salmonella.
Some types of imported soft cheese contain listeria which should be avoided.
Milk which is unpasteurized may also contain listeria which should be avoided.
Caffeine intake during pregnancy can be done in moderation.
Alcohol should be completely avoided during this time.
Vegetables and fruits which are unwashed are not safe for consumption as they may be contaminated with bacteria, such as toxoplasma, which can pose hazardous for both the mother and baby.
Along with following a healthy diet plan, it is equally essential that the quantity of food should take care of your caloric requirements. You should consult your doctor about the daily calorie intake. The aim of the diet should result in healthy weight gain. Read more
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Pregnant and Breastfeeding - Benefits, Side Effects & more
Giving birth and nurturing a baby are few of the most wonderful and satisfying feelings in the world. You are enjoying your motherhood to the hilt and then you come to know that you are carrying again! You may be overjoyed and worried at the same time because you are still breastfeeding your little one. Do not let your joyous feelings fade away because in the following article we shall discuss how you can effectively manage to breastfeed your baby during pregnancy and we shall also talk about various side-effects associated with breastfeeding during pregnancy.
Is Breastfeeding Safe during pregnancy?
Breastfeeding is considered absolutely safe during pregnancy. Your body does not stop producing milk which means that you may continue to feed your baby. So if you are wondering can I breastfeed while pregnant, the answer is yes it ok to feed your baby during pregnancy until or unless you have been advised not to do so, by your doctor. Sometimes women who have had a miscarriage in the past may not be advised to breastfeed; however, there is not enough scientific evidence to prove the same.
You should eat a well-balanced diet to support your unborn baby and along with your breastfeeding baby. Therefore, you should let your toddler reap the benefits of breastfeeding while pregnant because it is perfectly safe for you and your unborn baby.
Can Breastfeeding during Pregnancy Cause a Miscarriage?
There are many myths about breastfeeding during pregnancy and one of the myths is that it may cause miscarriage. It is true that when you are breastfeeding, your body releases the same hormone oxytocin, which is released by your body during labour to stimulate contractions. However, the amount of oxytocin released by the in breastfeeding mom is very low that it is not sufficient enough to cause any kind of major contractions that may harm your unborn baby. Therefore, you should not worry about breastfeeding while pregnant miscarriage risks. The pregnancy hormones do get transferred into your breast milk, however, it does not pose any threat to your baby, however, there is no substantial breastfeeding while pregnant risks, if you have a healthy pregnancy.
When should you Not Breastfeed your Baby during Pregnancy?
Most women plan to nurse their toddler during pregnancy, however, you may wonder when to stop breastfeeding when pregnant. Though, breastfeeding during pregnancy is extremely safe for your toddler and also for your unborn child, however, your doctor may advise you weaning off your toddler under following circumstances or not to breastfeed your baby:
In case you are carrying twins or more babies.
In case you are having uterine pain and bleeding.
In case you have to refrain from having sexual intercourse during pregnancy.
In case your pregnancy is high-risk pregnancy and may cause preterm labour.
If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is recommended that you get in touch with your doctor and discuss your breastfeeding options.
What Changes Take Place in Breast milk while you are Pregnant?
As you enter your fourth of pregnancy, your breast milk composition will change. The mature milk will start getting thicker and turn yellow in colour, this is called colostrum. Colostrum is the milk that your newborn baby consumes after birth. However, sometimes toddlers may not like the taste and wean off on their own but if your baby is fine with the changed taste, you may continue nursing your baby.
Benefits of Breastfeeding during Pregnancy
Here are some of the benefits of breastfeeding during pregnancy:
Breastfeeding during pregnancy ensures that you keep sharing a special bond with your toddler.
It helps it building your toddler’s immunity.
It helps in building a sibling bond also because your toddler may adjust well to the new baby if he is already feeling secured and comforted.
Some mothers feel less nauseous if they are breastfeeding during pregnancy.
What are the Side-Effects of Breastfeeding during Pregnancy?
Where some women do not mind nursing their babies in pregnancy, others may find it extremely difficult to deal with their body’s changing demands and thus put an end to breastfeeding or wean off their babies. You can make either choice as it is majorly up for you to decide, however, there are some side-effects or breastfeeding while pregnant risks that you may have to deal with in case you decide on feeding your baby in pregnancy:
1. Effect on Unborn Baby
Many women fear that breastfeeding may cause harm to their unborn baby by increasing their risk of miscarriage. This belief is supported by the fact that the pregnancy hormone that aids contractions during labour is released during breastfeeding too and thus may cause miscarriage.
2. Sore Nipples
As soon as you become pregnant, your body starts releasing progesterone and estrogen, the sex hormones which makes your nipples and breast sore. Thus when you nurse your baby you may feel pain and discomfort, just the way you feel when you begin feeding your baby during the first few days after birth.
3. Morning Sickness
The ongoing hormonal tussle inside your body can make you extremely nauseous and cause severe morning sickness too. Breastfeeding tends to intensify your morning sickness, however as soon as you transcend to your second trimester, your morning sickness may subside or reduce to considerable amounts.
4. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy takes a toll on your hormones and you also experience changing hormones while you practise breastfeeding. Therefore, your body undergoes a lot of hormonal changes, which can make you cranky and irritable.
5. Criticism
Most women find themselves in a state of dilemma as soon as they find out they are going to have a baby again when they already have a nursing child. You are already hard on yourself and you may also fear about your friend’s and family’s reactions. You may find it a little difficult to deal with.
How Many Calories should you Consume if you are Breastfeeding during Pregnancy?
When you are pregnant, you need to pep up your calorie intake and the same applies when you are feeding your baby. When you are doing both, then you need to pay extra heed to your pregnancy and breastfeeding nutritional needs. Therefore, it is very important that you take a well-balanced diet and take enough calories to support both the babies. Make sure you include fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy in right amounts. Do not forget to drink an adequate amount of water because lack of water or dehydration may cause various complications during pregnancy.
You may wonder what should be your daily calorie intake. Well! That depends majorly on the age of your nursing child. In case your baby is less than six months old and is exclusively on breast milk, then you should consume 600 calories extra than your daily calorie intake. However, if your baby is older than six months and is eating other solid foods apart from breast milk, then you should include 500 calories extra in your daily calorie intake. Also, in addition, you may have to pep up your calorie intake by 350 and 450 calories a day in your second and third trimester respectively. If you experience nausea and morning sickness in your first trimester and find it difficult to gobble down extra calories, you may relax as you can go without extra calorie intake in your first trimester.
Can Pregnancy Affect Breast Milk Supply?
If you find your milk supply lesser than before or your milk supply reduces after you become pregnant, this may be due to the changing hormones in pregnancy. Here’s what should be aware of about your milk supply during pregnancy:
Your milk supply may reduce or drop as soon as you become pregnant or a little later in your pregnancy journey.
In case your nursing baby is less than a year old and your breast milk supply diminishes, you should talk to your baby’s doctor about the same. Your doctor may recommend you to give formula milk to compensate for your baby’s milk requirements.
If your baby is more than a year old, then it will be a good idea to include more solid food in his diet to cover up for the reduced milk intake. You may continue to breastfeed your baby and in addition, you may also give formula milk or whole milk to your baby.
In some cases, the reduced milk supply may make your baby irritable and fussy and they may stop breastfeeding completely.
However, if your baby has adjusted well to the changed milk supply, getting adequate nutrition from solid food and gaining enough weight, there is no requirement of adding formula milk to your baby’s diet. But if your baby is not gaining weight and seems fussy, get in touch with your baby’s paediatrician.
What if you are not able to Breastfeed your Baby during Pregnancy?
If you are healthy, then you may continue to breastfeed your baby even during your pregnancy. However, sometimes due to certain health concerns, you may not be able to breastfeed your baby. Under such circumstances, you have to make up for your baby’s nutritional requirements through other sources. If your baby is under six months of age, you can start giving him formula milk. In case, your nursing baby is older than six months, then along with formula milk, you can also start giving solid food to your baby. Though the sudden transition may be difficult for your baby to cope up with, gradually your baby will adjust well to it.
Tips to Keep in Mind when Nursing during Pregnancy
Here are some tips that you should keep in mind while nursing:
Consume a well-balanced and a healthy diet.
Drink adequate water.
Keep a check on your baby’s latching position to avoid sore nipples.
Brace yourself to meet your toddler’s additional nutritional requirements due to your decreased milk supply.
Try new positions for feeding as your pregnancy bump may make it difficult for you to feed.
You can give tandem nursing a shot.
If you feel nauseous, keep a few snacks handy and eat before you begin nursing.
Make sure you check with your doctor if breastfeeding is safe for your during pregnancy.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions or facts about breastfeeding during pregnancy:
1. Can Breastfeeding Affect Nutrition Of Baby In Womb?
No. If you are eating a healthy and nutritious diet, your body can take care of you, your nursing baby and also your unborn child.
2. Will Breastfeed Baby Get Nutritious Breast Milk During Pregnancy?
Yes. Your nursing baby will get adequate nutrition from your milk. However, your milk composition may change and also some of your pregnancy hormones may get into your breast milk but it will not cause any harm to your nursing baby.
However, if you have any complications in your pregnancy, you should consult your doctor about breastfeeding your baby.
Also Read: Chances of Pregnancy While Breastfeeding Read more
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8 Simple Ways to Identify Whether Your Diamond Is Real or Fake at Home
Most of us have looked at the sparkling necklace of a relative or friend and wondered if it was made of real diamonds or plain stones. Some of us even have hand-me-down jewellery from our grandmothers, but we may not have the time to take it to a gemologist to get it verified. How do we tell if a white stone is a real diamond or simply sparkling glass? Sometimes the glittery and lustrous stones can turn out to be similar to cubic zirconia or moissanite, which look like diamonds. To tell a fake diamond from a real one, there are some home tests that you can put the stones through. We list down some of these tips for you to try out.
Easy Home Tests to Identify If Your Diamond is Real or Fake
It may be prudent to know how to identify a real diamond and tell it apart from other gemstones. Here are some tests that you can do at home:
1. Look at the Stone through a Loupe
A loupe is a type of magnifying glass used by jewellers. When looking at a stone through a loupe, here are some things to consider:
A real diamond will have imperfections because it is formed naturally whereas a fake stone will look perfect. But caution is to be shown here because there are lab-grown diamonds which may look perfect too.
A diamond has sharp edges while a regular stone would have rounded edges..
2. Rub Sandpaper against the Stone
Use a piece of sandpaper to rub the surface of the stone. Sandpaper, being abrasive, will create some scratch on the stone if it is moissanite or cubic zirconia. Whereas if it's a diamond, it will remain unaffected as it is one of the hardest materials known to man.
3. Water Test
If you have an unmounted stone, the water test works well for you. Fill 3/4th of a glass with water and drop the stone into it. A stone that sinks to the bottom is a diamond while one that floats on the surface of the water is fake. This is because diamonds have a very high density and hence sink immediately.
4. Fog Test
Hold the gem out in front of you and breathe warm air onto its surface the way you would do to clean a glass surface. If the layer of moisture fades immediately, then the stone is a diamond. This is because diamond conducts heat efficiently and so it disperses the heat immediately too. Any other stone will reflect a coat of moisture for much longer.
5. Reflectivity of the Stone
Hold your stone under the light and observe how the light is reflected. Diamond reflects light uniquely. The inside of the diamond will reflect pure white or grey light known as ‘brilliance’. The outside of the diamond will reflect coloured light in a beautiful way called ‘fire’. As opposed to this, ordinary stones reflect a rainbow coloured light from the inside and are not as brilliant as the diamond.
6. Refraction
Diamonds sparkle largely due to their ability to bend light and reflect it. When light hits a diamond on its angled surface, this light is bounced and refracted by the flat surface of the diamond. You can test the refraction of a stone by placing its flat side on a newspaper and looking through the pointed side, try reading the lettering. If the letters are visible even vaguely, the stone is a fake. High refraction of a diamond will ensure that light is scattered in different directions and not a straight line. It means that you cannot see through a diamond onto the other side. This test works only if you have a loose stone and not if it is in a setting.
7. Heat Test
Again, this test works if you have a loose stone. Hold it between forceps or tongs and heat it under direct fire for about 40 seconds. Immediately drop it into cold water. Gemstones cannot withstand the pressure of such a sudden change in temperature and will shatter immediately. A diamond is a very strong substance and is not affected much by the temperature change. It remains unscathed because of its ability to dissipate heat quickly.
8. Setting and Mount on Metal
If your stone is already mounted on metal, it is appropriate for you to check the setting and the metal thoroughly. If the setting reflects poor workmanship, then the stone is definitely not a diamond. Look at the etching on the mounting. If you notice markings like 18K, 22K, or PT, it indicates that the metal used is gold or platinum. Real diamonds will definitely be set in quality metal such as these. If the mount is gold-plated or silver, you can be assured that your stone isn’t a real diamond. If you also notice markings of CZ, it indicates that the stone is cubic zirconia and not a diamond.
FAQs
Here are some most-asked queries about diamonds:
1. Is It True That Real Diamonds Sparkle Rainbow Colours?
In truth, a diamond does not sparkle rainbow colours. A diamond, because of high refraction, bends and reflects light in all directions. Due to this, white light is reflected as pure white or light grey on the inside of a diamond. The rainbow colours will only be reflected on other surfaces that are outside the diamond. For example, if your diamond is set in gold, the rainbow sparkle is a reflection of the coloured light on the gold. It doesn’t come from the inside of the diamond.
2. Can a Real Diamond Cut Glass?
Diamonds can definitely scratch or cut the surface of glass with ease. This is because diamonds are known to be one of the strongest materials on Earth. They are about 40 times harder than glass and rate 10 on the ‘Mohs scale’ of hardness while glass rates a 6.
There are other methods like the UV light test which show that some diamonds give off a blue glow in UV light whereas other stones will have green, grey, or other coloured glows. A lot of the above-mentioned tests work better if you have loose stones to identify. With each case, there should be prudence and caution applied because you risk losing your fake stone with some of these tests. If you don’t mind destroying a fake stone, then the shatter test or the sandpaper ones are effective methods of confirming the identity of your stone.
An important thing to remember is that none of these tests is ‘set in stone’ and the best way for you to categorise your stone would be by taking it to an authorised jeweller. Professional jewellery businesses have advanced tools like thermal conductivity probes and accurate high profile weighing scales to determine the correct value of a stone. They also have a keen eye for spotting the differences between moissanite, white sapphire, topaz, cubic zirconia and a real diamond. If you are unsure, seek the expertise of a professional to value your gems.
Also Read:
How to Clean Gold and Silver Jewellery at Home?
Tips to Organise and Store Your Jewellery Properly
Should You Consider Gold As an Investment Option in India? Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
5 hours ago
Q. Dr meri baby 12 month running hai uska weight 6 kg hai uska growth nahi ho pa Raha hai to kya kare or over active hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. ok see c. if the baby is not having proper height and weight it means that baby is having failure to thrive baby needs investigations like TSH and other related test to find out the reason
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby hai boy nd girl one month 8 days when I check eye and ear which month
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken jjand the expert will give you the proper answer .
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. is white discharge in 8th month normal?
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. hi
yes
but if it is too thick or clear like water,if there other symptoms like itching, irritation, redness,foul smell from vagina, please visit your gynecologist
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. My son is 5 months old is suffering from cough..what to do?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. give nasal saline drops every few hourly to the child in the nasal cavity.
try to prevent temperature variations around the child
you can go for indirect steam inhalation which will again help in decreasing both cough and cold
continue the regular diet of the child
if there is no improvement in few days then meet your doctoru
for fever and pain give paracetamol.u
anti-cold medicines at this age have got side effects so can be given only after medical consultation.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
2 hours ago
Q. hi. in Feb my period was last and I did pregnancy test in March its positive results but my belly is not being bigger
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Typically, your bump becomes noticeable during your second trimester. Between 16-20 weeks, your body will start showing your baby's growth. For some women, their bump may not be noticeable until the end of the second trimester and even into the third trimester. The second trimester starts in the fourth month.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
30 mins ago
Q. I am 7 weeks pregnant. Before pregnancy I used to take medicine named Cyra 20 mg for acidity. Now since the day when I got to know that I am pregnant I am not taking any medicine for acidity but daily I am suffering from it. After having breakfast it starts. I am not eating any spicy food , oily food etc. Please help on this
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
25 mins ago
A. Start having chilled milk directly from the refrigerator that usually helps a lot in reducing down acidity and anyways when you take so much of medicine in the body gets addicted to it to check with your doctor if you need to do anything or any other medication would be friendly in cases of emergency
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