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Drinking Coconut Water During Pregnancy
Coconuts grow in abundance in tropical countries, and coconut water has been consumed for centuries as it is known to have medicinal properties. Coconut water is often recommended to both the sick and the able; the drink has a natural, soothing effect. It is beneficial for pregnant women as well - it helps regulate the digestive tract, relieves morning sickness, constipation, and more. Health-conscious individuals also prefer coconut water as it does not contain cholesterol.
Pregnancy warrants a switch to a healthy diet, which also means leaving behind artificially packed drinks that have high sugar content. Coconut water can be a great alternative drink that is both nutritious and flavourful.
Is It Safe to Have Coconut Water During Pregnancy?
Exhaustion during pregnancy is a common problem, and it drains out the woman's energy levels over time. In order to overcome the feeling of tiredness and exhaustion, it is recommended that you have a glass of coconut water every day as it is full of essential minerals that can be beneficial to pregnant women.
The best time to drink coconut water during pregnancy is in the morning, as the nutrients and electrolytes it contains are easily absorbed on an empty stomach. It is rich in potassium, sodium, dietary fibre, moderate sugar, vitamins, and protein. It has been found to assist in countering dehydration due to morning sickness during the initial period of pregnancy. Due to its high fibre content, a glass of coconut water in the mornings can help ease constipation. During the latter half of the pregnancy, it can also be of assistance in tackling blood pressure as it is rich in potassium. However, since the drink is high in calories, women who have a tendency to add weight should be cautious. As it is also considered to be a diuretic, pregnant women might need to make more frequent visits to the restroom. Women who are on medication for blood pressure should be careful while consuming coconut water as the potassium levels in the drink can decrease blood pressure.
Nutritional Value of Coconut Water
Since time immemorial, positive correlations have been drawn between coconut water and health. It is not only a balanced nutritive drink but is also very refreshing. Working women who have little time to pay attention to their needs during pregnancy can compensate by drinking a glass of fresh coconut water every day, as the nutritional value of coconut eliminates tiredness and lethargy.
Nutritional Value of Coconut Water (per ounce)
Calories
5.45
Sugar
1.3 g
Potassium
71 mg
Sodium
30 mg
Fat
60 mg
Protein
0.2 g
It is a great natural drink that is rich in vitamins, electrolytes, and minerals. Thirst can be effectively alleviated by some soothing coconut water. Researchers have established that coconut water is an effective re-hydration aid. This, however, does not imply that other healthy foods should be restricted. A balance between nutrients and nourishment should always be kept in mind.
Health Benefits of Coconut Water for Pregnant Women
Coconut water is a cholesterol-free drink and can be had anytime. The health benefits of coconut water for pregnant women are immense.
It increases the expectant mother's immunity levels and protects her and the baby as it is rich in vital vitamins and antioxidants.
It helps relieve constipation due to its high fibre content.
As it is a natural diuretic, it balances the uric acid levels in the body, flushes out toxins and clears out the urinary tract.
The presence of magnesium, potassium and other minerals helps in the increased output of urine which is vital during pregnancy. This reduces the risk of kidney stone formation.
It also provides the necessary electrolytes to prevent dehydration that is caused due to diarrhoea and vomiting, the two symptoms of morning sickness.
The presence of potassium and phosphorous enhances energy levels.
It is low in cholesterol. It also helps in eradicating the bad cholesterol from the body by preventing the accumulation of fat in the body. Hence, it is an ideal replacement for sugary drinks.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause heartburn, which can be regulated with coconut water.
The lauric acid content in coconut water helps in the production of anti-virus that kills harmful bacteria.
The low sugar content in coconut water lowers the risk of gestational diabetes.
Coconut water hydrates the body, which increases the elasticity of the skin and thus reduces stretch marks that are caused during pregnancy.
To enjoy the benefits of this drink, it should be consumed immediately after it is cut. A doctor's advice is always encouraged before adding coconut water to the diet.
Are There Any Side-Effects of Drinking Coconut Water During Pregnancy?
Generally, coconut water does not harm the majority of pregnant women. However, it should be taken in moderate doses as coconut water lowers blood pressure. It is recommended that you discuss with your doctor before consuming it if you have blood pressure issues.
Precautions to Take While Drinking Coconut Water
Women are encouraged to consume tender coconut water when the pregnancy approaches the third trimester as the body requires essential nutrients during this period. Coconuts are best consumed immediately after they are cut as they are ripe with nutrients then. However, it should be borne in mind that a ripe coconut can be harmful as it leads to constipation and can also increase a person's body fat.
It is best to restrict the intake of coconut water to one glass a day in order to prevent an overdose of sodium or potassium. As coconut water has a diuretic effect on the body, it may cause uneasiness in pregnant women as the urge to relieve themselves will increase. Some doctors may recommend that you stop drinking coconut water two weeks before surgery. This is because it may interfere with blood pressure control before and after surgery.
Myths About Consuming Coconut Water During Pregnancy
Despite the fact that health-conscious people have endorsed the advantages of coconut water, there are a few myths about consuming coconut water during pregnancy that you should know.
Coconut water is loaded with nutrients that fulfil the complete dietary requirements of a pregnant woman: This myth does not hold good, as a pregnant woman needs to be nourished well with fruits, vegetables and other food groups for a healthy delivery.
The baby will grow thicker hair if a pregnant woman consumes coconut water every day: This statement has no scientific backing.
Coconut water causes acidity in pregnant women: It has been proven that a pregnant woman's growing belly is the main cause for acidity, which also potentially interferes with the digestion of food. The best remedy for this is to exercise to help digestion. It has to be borne in mind that every activity during pregnancy should be moderate, and drinking coconut water is one such activity.
Coconut water makes the baby fairer: This myth is baseless as the baby’s colour is only based on genetics and is not altered in any way by the consumption of any external substance.
Coconut water is the best source of hydration for pregnant women: Although coconut water combats dehydration, it is always recommended that you supplement it with at least eight glasses of water on an everyday basis.
How Much Coconut Water Should You Drink While Pregnant?
The quantity of coconut water to be consumed during pregnancy is debatable. The ideal consumption quantity should be limited to one glass per day. This quantity is ideal for a pregnant woman and can provide essential daily nutrients. It is best to avoid coconut water if you dislike the taste to prevent vomiting or any uneasy feeling.
Why Does the Taste of Coconut Water Differ?
The taste of coconut water often differs in each fruit; the taste may also differ from region to region. Organically grown ones also tend to taste different compared to ones grown using fertilisers.
There are different varieties of coconut that are widely known - the tall variety, the dwarf variety, and the hybrid variety. The taste of coconut water in the tall variety is sweeter than the other varieties. The hybrid varieties may not have the same sweet taste. The taste of the dwarf variety is also sweet, but it lacks the properties of the tall variety. The taste may also differ if the coconut water has not been consumed immediately, as it gets fermented due to exposure to the sun.
How Do I Choose the Right Coconut?
In order to enjoy coconut water, it is best to choose the green variety - it contains water that is sweet and laden with quality nutrients that are essential for the pregnant woman's health and well-being. In order to get your money's worth, shake the coconut before buying it to understand how much water it contains. While choosing the coconut, make sure it is green, has no brown rims, and is not damaged.
If the coconut is cut, stored and then offered, it is likely that it has more pulp and less water. The pulp may not be suitable for pregnant women due to the high content of potassium and sodium. It has been observed that coconuts from a tree that has aged between 5 and 7 months are tasty and full of nutrients.
The quality of coconuts also depends on the distance of the trees from the seashore and the salinity of the soil. Weather conditions also determine the quantity of coconut water. It is best to consume the whole coconut immediately after breaking it, else it will ferment and have a sour taste along with a pungent smell.
With its subtle flavour, soothing effect and abundance of nutrients, coconut water is a great choice of drink for a pregnant woman. Like any other food or drink however, it should be consumed in moderation so you can avail of the benefits without the fear of any serious side-effects on you or your baby.
Resources and References: Parents Read more
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Why Does Baby Keep Rubbing Ears - Reasons New Parents Must Know
A lot of behaviours of an infant are strange and scary for first-time parents. One of the common ones that leave them astounded is figuring out why babies rub their ears so much. The instantaneous thought is that of an illness or a condition that is severely disturbing for the child. However, many children simply prefer to explore their own bodies in their own way. Understanding the signs that differentiate a curious act from a need to resolve some kind of an ache, can help the parents support their children better.
Common Causes of Ear Itching in Infants
For most first-time parents, a baby scratching his ear might seem to be a sign of something wrong with the child. However, that isn’t always so. The scratching of the ear can range from something as minuscule as boredom to something as serious as an illness or an infection. Understanding the causes that commonly cause babies to scratch their ears can be helpful in this regard.
1. Your Baby is Tired or Extremely Bored
There doesn’t seem to be any understanding behind babies scratching their ears when they are tired, bored or even sleepy. But many scenarios have been observed which have shown such a connection to be present. A lot of children do this when they have just been fed and have been extremely tired. Therefore, if you notice your baby doing this, it might be worth a try to put him to sleep.
Home Remedies
No correction is required on this front. Do try to engage the child if the rubbing tends to get intense or hurts him in any manner.
2. Your Child Has Just Discovered the Ear
Babies are always exploring everything around them. This also includes their own body. As they discover hands and fingers one day and begin to understand that they can control them, there is also a possibility that they end up discovering ears on the sides of their heads by accident. When that happens, they will constantly attempt to feel them again and touch them repetitively.
Home Remedies
Curiosity is a good thing for this age. Talk to your child and show him your own ear, letting him understand what it looks like.
3. The Earwax Inside the Ear Has Built Up Considerably
The production of earwax is a natural process that begins early in life. Throughout that phase, parents attempt to clean the earwax by using earbuds or other unorthodox techniques. Since these are considerably larger than the canal, rather than pulling out the wax, they end up pushing it deeper within. This causes an itching sensation.
Home Remedies
Instead of using a cotton swab, make use of a cloth dipped in warm water. Wipe the outer area without letting any water enter the canal.
Make a solution using equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide, using it to clear the ears. Proceed only after your doctor agrees with it.
Similar to the above, using some warm olive oil might help allow the wax to flow out of the ears.
4. Your Baby is Undergoing a Teething Phase
There is a good connection between teething and rubbing ears in an infant. The trinity of ear, nose and throat are interconnected to each other internally. Which is why, any irritation in one part ends up causing sensations in the other, and even affecting it. When teething occurs, it begins to irritate the gums and the entire area of the mouth. This can result in a mild pain in the ears, which your baby might attempt to relieve by scratching or pulling his ears. These are also accompanied by excessive drooling, the need to chew on various items or even a fever at a temperature of 101 degrees or so.
Home Remedies
Sanitise your hands and gently rub the baby’s gums with your finger.
Use a spoon chilled in the fridge as a means to calm the gum irritation.
5. The Presence Of An Infection Due to Cold-Related Illness
Illness or an infection is one of the most common and strong reasons that can make a child itch or pull on his ears all the time. Catching a cold has a possibility of infecting the ear in multiple ways, which is usually termed as otitis media. This is where the infection affects the tube, connecting the ear to the nasal cavity. When it gets infected, the tube swells up considerably. As a result of the swelling, the mucus that needs to be cleared in the first place will fail to find a way out and remain stuck in the tube, infecting it further with the bacteria and other microbes.
In a normal state, the tube can easily flush out the fluids from the ear. But not in this case, which primarily affects babies that do not have a fully matured immunity system or suffer from a weak one due to birth-related problems.
Home Remedies
Let your child breathe in warm steam to clear the nostrils and allow the trapped fluid to flow out.
Keep a humidifier in the child’s room.
6. Your Child is Suffering From Swimmer’s Ear
Don’t let the name lead you to believe that your baby needs to have entered a swimming pool or any water body to have suffered from this infection. Similar to otitis media, which affects the internal part of the ear, this condition is termed as otitis externa, affecting the external ear canal. If any kind of moisture, either from a bath or even from a moist cotton swab, comes into contact with the outer canal lining, it can irritate the lining considerably. This leads to the baby constantly pulling and tugging at his ear. At times, this can even irritate the lining further and remove its protective covering, which opens up the gateway to further infections.
Home Remedies
Use the aforementioned techniques to clear any trapped water from the ear.
Keep the baby’s ears covered when bathing him.
7. Your Child Has an Ear Infection
Otitis is how ear problems are generally described as, with the primary ear infection being termed as otitis itself. It isn’t uncommon to hear about it and many infants who have completed around 6 months since childbirth, can fall prey to these infections. Behavioural symptoms of such a condition usually range from a crank child, who finds feeding in any form painful. His sleep cycle would also be disturbed and he might even suffer from a temporary hearing loss. Many babies also exhibit fever or a have yellow fluid draining out of the ears, accompanied with a runny nose and painful ears.
Home Remedies
Apply a warm compress on the baby’s ears.
In case of fever or extreme pain, talk to a doctor about administering acetaminophen.
General Tips to Comfort Your Baby From Ear Pain or Irritation
Seeing your baby rubbing his ears at night and failing to fall asleep comfortably can make you feel sad for him. There are a few tips that you can make use of to calm the child and reduce the irritation or pain in the ears.
Let the child sleep in an inclined position or use a pillow, if old enough.
Massaging the region around the ears can help drain the trapped liquid easily.
Apart from the treatment that your doctors advise, there are many home remedies for ear itching in babies that you can make use of. Some of them are pretty safe and tried and tested for generations. A few others make use of herbs or chemicals, which may or may not be safe for your little one. Consider your doctor’s approval to be a green sign to go ahead with them, and keep your baby healthy and happy.
Also Read: How to Care Yeast Infection Diaper Rash in Infants? Read more
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Low-Carb Diet During Pregnancy - Is It Advisable?
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey to motherhood which every woman cherishes throughout her life. While on this journey, you are bound to have a lot of ambiguity and fear in your mind, in which weight gain is also an important concern. As a result, to avoid too much weight gain, you may consider going on a low-carb diet. But is it safe to go on low carb or restricted diet during pregnancy? Read on to know more.
Weight gain during pregnancy is something that every woman dreads. But consuming less food or going on a low-carb pregnancy diet to reduce the pounds that you put on is not the right way. This is because you can't be sure if the diet you are following is safe for you and your baby. It would, in turn, affect your baby's weight as you are depriving her of the vital nutrients that she requires for proper development. Know more about what exactly is a low-carb diet and its effects on you and your baby.
What is a Low-Carb Diet?
As the name suggests, a low carb diet limits the consumption of carbohydrates and focuses on the intake of high protein and fat. Following this type of diet may help you in weight loss.
A low-carb diet plan includes protein rich food such as meat, poultry, fish and eggs. It avoids foods like grains, legumes, fruits and starchy vegetables. Some diets may restrict carbohydrates completely for the initial period and increase them gradually.
Low Carb Diets and Pregnancy
A health conscious woman who was on a diet before pregnancy would always have a question in her mind- can you eat low carb while pregnant? A diet without complex carbohydrates is a dIs It Safe to Be on a Low Carb Diet while Pregnantiet deficient in vital nutrients that are required for the proper development of your baby. These nutrients include vitamins, minerals, fibre, calcium and the most important- folic acid- which are all vital during pregnancy.
A low-carb diet concentrates on high-protein, whereas a moderate amount of it is sufficient to meet the needs of both you and your baby. A high-protein diet has its own side-effects and may increase the chances of kidney stones as well.
Low carb diets such as Atkins, South Beach and Dunkan diets may help you reduce weight and burn your fats, but it may also increase the level of toxic chemicals in your body. These remain in your body and prove to be harmful to you and your foetus.
How To Maintain Weight During Pregnancy?
Eat a well-balanced diet consisting of complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and veggies, proteins and calcium rich foods are sufficient to keep you healthy.
Sugar is a form of carbohydrate, but it is not a source of nutrients. Therefore, avoid foods that contain sugar like cakes and cookies.
No Image FoundTry to avoid drinks that contain high sugar and fats.
Keep yourself away from junk and fatty foods.
Consult your doctor and follow the exercise regime that she/he suggests. A well-balanced diet along with proper exercise is sufficient to maintain your weight and keep your baby healthy.
Is It Safe to Be on a Low Carb Diet while Pregnant
If you still feel the need to manage your weight, consult your doctor who may suggest a proper diet and explain you how much weight you can gain depending on your BMI before pregnancy. Read more
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#TricolourRecipe Instant Appam
Appam - easy-to-make, instant version of idlis and tastes awesome!! Crispy from outside and requires very less oil. A healthy snack for everyone at anytime of the day!
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
25 Minutes
10 Minutes
Ingredients
1 cup Rava/Semolina
6 tbsp plain yoghurt
2 tbsp spinach paste for green appam
2 tbsp carrot puree for orange appam
1-1/2 tsp baking powder or 1/2 sachet of Eno
Salt (according to taste)
1/3 cup water
2-4 tbsp of oil for cooking
Method
Step 1
Beat yoghurt with 1/3 cup water for 2-3 minutes. See to it that there are no lumps remaining.
Step 2
Add rava to this mixture, mix it slowly and make a batter by adding more water if required. The batter should of medium consistency - neither too thin nor too thick. Keep it aside for 10 minutes.
Step 3
Now, add baking powder and salt to the mixture. If you don't have baking powder, you can add 1/2 sachet of eno (fruit salt).
Step 4
Divide the batter into three equal portions in three separate containers.
Step 5
In the first container, add carrot puree. Mix well.
Step 6
In the second container, add a little more yogurt. Mix well.
Step 7
In the third container, add spinach paste. Mix well.
Step 8
All the three batters should be of the same consistency.
Step 9
Lightly oil the appam pan with cooking oil or olive oil. Add mustard seeds to the oil.
Step 10
Pour the batter carefully into the pan; sprinkle some oil over it and let it cook for 5 minutes on low to medium heat.
Step 11
Flip them over and let the other side cook.
Step 12
Remove them when they are cooked and they are ready to be served.
Step 13
Enjoy them with chutney or hot sambar!
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A Guide to Know How Preschoolers Communicate
Preschoolers are only just learning to connect and communicate with people and situations around them. It is at this point that they begin to understand the cause and effect of communication. They are also able to express ideas and feelings. They learn negation and assertion. Understanding how preschoolers communicate helps build better parent-child relationships.
Preschoolers use words and body language when they start connecting and communicating with people around them. As a parent or caregiver, this is an important phase for you. Understanding how preschoolers communicate will help you to foster and build a strong relationship with your children. This is an interesting phase for your children. One in which they begin to refine their understanding and express themselves. With a little love, attention and understanding you can connect with them better.
What to Expect Between the Ages 2-3
Children around 2-3 years of age learn to understand and use more complex sentences. This is the time when they are just beginning to think logically and interpret things. They are also able to understand a sequence of events. However, they are not able to understand all words, nor are they able to grasp abstract concepts. For instance, when they see your smile they understand you are happy. But when you are lying down if you are exhausted, they might think you want to sleep. This is because at this stage they think and interpret things literally. They might not understand exhaustion as a cause for lying down.
What to Expect Between the Ages 3-5
As children grow, they understand the cause and effect better. They learn to connect the links of simple occurrences and acts to communicate results and responses. For instance, children between the ages of 3-5 will know that “if you have medicine you will feel better”.
1. Imitation
Preschoolers often mimic comments and phrases, even complex sentences and exclamations that they hear. They tend to relate events in movies or stories and at times might misuse or exaggerate things. For instance, the result of listening to a fairy tale might manifest in play when your child tells a doll “the big bad witch is coming to get you”.
2. Using specific words
Preschoolers learn to use specific words or phrases to express ideas and feelings. It is now that they learn to realize the power of words. “Don’t pick up a knife, it is dangerous” or “I am scared to go out alone” are some examples.
The most commonly used words at this point will be “no” and “why”. Preschoolers use “no” to claim their space and “why” to understand the world around them and to question authority.
3. Learning decision-making
Preschoolers like to take decisions or participate in decision-making. “I want cereal for breakfast” or “I want a bicycle” are statements of assertion. They also represent a foray into decision-making. It is more of a discovery of being in the driving seat on a journey called life.
4. Repeating words
Preschoolers like repetition. In fact, when they ask you to tell a story again, it’s more about a need for reinforcement. Don’t let it irritate you. Hearing the same story again and again is their way of feeling safe and secure. It might make them feel good to hear happy endings. Repetition of stories also helps them to imagine new situations.
Preschoolers like to make up their own explanations. When they see rain, they might interpret it as the sky is crying. They are likely to indulge in wishful thinking. All this constitutes important milestones in connecting and communicating. Therefore, patience, love and understanding from parents and caregivers at this stage is critical and necessary. Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. I m preganant in 5 month in twin baby. Last lmp is 22/12/2023. my expected due date
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. 29.9.24. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
5 hours ago
A. to increase milk take latction supplement as lactare...
take green papaya bottle gourd bitter gourd fennel seeds garlic oats ragi dalia sabudana ...
regular pumping increase milk use Babyhug electric breast pump...
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
5 hours ago
Q. hi doctor from two days i am eating milk cream with sugar and i want to burn it in my stomach I am 5 month pregnant plzz help ??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. at present weight no exercise is other than moderate walking. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. I am in my 8th month of pregnancy (last week), and for some reason I am continously facing lot of fatigue. I am feeling deprived of energy and I don't have any energy to do anything. resting isn't Helping in any way and taking small walks isn't too. what can be the possible reason and how to overcome this.
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. yes that can be both physical and psychological problems during pregnancy ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Hello dear! We understand your eagerness and concern. It is advisable to check with your consulting doctor regarding this matter. Clarify your concerns and follow your doctor’s advice. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 7 m old child
36 mins ago
Q. Hello my baby is 20 months old by mistake he swallowed a earpod but he is normal is eat drink plz suggest??
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
33 mins ago
A. It’s fine it should come out into the poop of your child within 24 to 48 hours a lot of mishaps happened with kids these days but these things since they are not edible they do not get digested which is why they come out into the motion
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