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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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Mental Disorders in Children
Children of all ages tend to get stressed and this can have an adverse impact on their mental well-being. They are susceptible to many mental disorders that manifest in adults, though the symptoms may differ. Knowing what to look out for and identifying symptoms early on can make a world of difference in how you and your family cope with such a situation.
What is a Mental Disorder?
Good mental health is integral in enabling children to exploit their potential to the fullest with appropriate social and cognitive development along the way. Also known as a mental illness, mental disorder is a health condition wherein there are changes in thinking, emotions, and behaviour. It can lead to distress and problems in interacting with family and friends, functioning in society and at the workplace.
Different Types of Mental Illnesses in Children
Most mental illnesses can be treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Here are a few mental disorders that commonly surface in children:
1. Anxiety Disorders
There are many reasons why children may appear anxious such as peer pressure, academic burdens, and performance in school to name a few. But if the anxiety is persistent or is triggered by routine issues, you might want to have them tested for anxiety disorders. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are some conditions categorized as anxiety disorders.
2. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)
If your child has difficulty in concentrating and displays hyperactive or impulsive behaviour that borders on aggression, it might be due to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Since some children may have the disorder but none of the symptoms, professional medical testing is the only way to arrive at a diagnosis.
3. Elimination Disorders
Some children may show signs of elimination disorders which impacts on their behaviour relating to using the bathroom and completing bodily functions such as urinating or defecating. If this happens with children over five years of age, it is of concern.
4. Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD)
Previously known as pervasive development disorders, this is more likely to occur in children under three years of age. Children with this illness may find it difficult to communicate and interact with others in an effective manner.
5. Eating Disorders
Anorexia nervosa where the child stops eating in an attempt to lose weight and binge eating triggered by distressful situations are two common eating disorders that manifest in children of all ages.
6. Mood Disorders
Depression where the child suffers from frequent bouts of sadness, and bipolar disorder where the child swings from extremely active and happy to quiet and sad are two mental illnesses categorized as mood disorders.
7. Schizophrenia
This is a serious brain disorder where perceptions and thoughts of the child are distorted making it difficult for them to function in society, at school, or work.
8. Tic Disorders
In this type of disorder, the child will carry out sudden, involuntary, repeated actions and sounds which are usually meaningless. Known as tics or twitches they can occur anywhere in the body, though the eyelids and face are where they are seen the most.
Causes of Mental Disorders in Kids
A specific cause cannot be pinpointed for a majority of mental illnesses. It is believed to be brought on by a combination of factors such as heredity, biological reasons, psychological disturbances, and a stressful environment.
1. Genetics
Mental disorders can be passed down the generations and those children with parents or grandparents with a history of mental illness are more vulnerable to this.
2. Biology
An imbalance in chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, is to blame for certain mental disorders as also trauma to the brain or birth defects.
3. Psychological Trauma
Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse or neglect can lead to psychological trauma which in turn results in mental illness in some.
4. Environmental Stress
Certain traumatic or stressful incidents like the death of a parent or having been in a serious accident can lead to mental disorders especially in those at risk of mental illnesses.
Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Mental Disorders
Many mental illnesses in children are often ignored and left untreated. Here are some signs and symptoms to watch out for:
1. Changing Moods
Sadness or feelings of withdrawal which go on for more than a couple of weeks and also extreme mood changes swings that result in issues at home or in school.
2. Very Strong Feelings
These are feelings that seem to overwhelm your child and do not seem to have any basis. These could be accompanied with a rapid heartbeat or quick breathing. They are characterised as an intense fear or worry that interrupts normal day-to-day functions.
3. Change in Behaviour
Unexpected changes in behaviour, especially an escalation in violent or dangerous behaviour such as getting into fights unnecessarily, use of weapons, or the desire to hurt others.
4. Concentration Problems
The inability to sit still or focus on one thing can in turn lead to a decline in performance at school or in a sport.
5. Losing Weight Without Reason
Loss of weight, vomiting on a regular basis, or consuming laxatives can be indications of an eating disorder.
6. Unexplained Aches and Pains
Some children with mental disorders, unlike adults, might have headaches and stomach aches rather than emotional symptoms.
7. Self-Harm
In some cases of mental disorders, the children might resort to harming themselves through actions like cutting or burning. Such children might harbour suicidal thoughts or attempt to take their own life.
8. Substance Abuse
Using drugs or alcohol turns into a coping mechanism for some children with mental disorders.
9. Fatigue
Lack of motivation to carry out daily activities or pursue hobbies and interest due to unexplained fatigue can be a warning sign.
10. Obsession or Neglect of Appearance
Being too conscious of looks, shape, or weight is cause for worry as also the other extreme of completely neglecting one’s appearance.
11. Sleep Troubles
Insomnia, difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, or frequent nightmares over an extended period of time can be a symptom.
12. Avoiding Social Interactions
Not mingling with family and friends or avoiding all kinds of social interactions can be cause for alarm.
13. Increased Complaints About Behaviour
If your child has started bullying or hitting other children in school and is facing other types of difficulties in school which are new, it might require closer investigation.
Diagnosis
Children are vulnerable to the same mental illnesses that adults are prone to. But it is much more difficult to get a diagnosis when it involves children since children are still going through different phases of emotional and physical growth and development. Your doctor will focus on the signs and symptoms displayed by the child as well as evaluations by psychiatrists, psychologists, or behavioural therapists to arrive at a diagnosis. There is no simple test for mental illnesses and your doctor will also need information about the history of medical conditions, possibility of trauma, and family history of any mental conditions.
Treatment
The treatment will have be ongoing and depend on the condition diagnosed as well as what is likely to best benefit your child. For some a combination of treatments from the following works best.
1. Medicines
Medicines alone or used in combination with therapy are effective in treating children. Antidepressants, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety drugs, stimulants, and drugs that stabilize the mood are prescribed for children with mental disorders.
2. Psychotherapy
This involves counselling by qualified mental health professionals to help children deal with their symptoms, thoughts, and behaviour. Supportive, family, cognitive-behavioural, interpersonal, and group therapy are the categories of psychotherapy.
3. Creative Therapy
This is particularly beneficial to young children who are not as expressive as older ones and involves art therapy or play therapy to help them communicate their thoughts and feelings better.
Prevention
Different factors come together to cause mental disorders in children and thus, it not fully preventable. But identifying the symptoms early and seeking treatment immediately can help control mental disorders to a large extent and prevent disabling effects in future.
How to Help your Child Cope with a Mental Illness?
Guidance, empathy, and support from parents and teachers can be of immense help to your child in coping with their condition. Seeking training in how to handle difficult situations and behaviours in relation to your child, seeking counselling as a family, and joining support groups can assist you in helping your child through this difficult situation.
What is the Outlook for Kids with Mental Disorders?
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment results in full recovery or successful curbing of symptoms. However, chronic or severe disorders can mean a lifetime of disability for some children. Failure to seek treatment can result in children growing up to be adults with alcohol or drug use problems as well as violent or self-destructive behaviour including suicide.
What Research Is Being Done On Mental Illness?
So far, most of the research on mental illness was dedicated to disorders afflicting adults. But gradually, the focus is now shifting to mental disorders in children. Efforts are on to identify the risk factors that make a child more vulnerable to such illnesses. Attempts are also being made to increase research on medicines used to treat mental disorders in children.
FAQs
Here are responses to some concerns that you might have:
1. Can Death In The Family, Illness In A Parent, Family Financial Problems, Divorce, Or Such Other Events Cause Mental Illness In A Child?
Yes, because this can lead to immense stress which has an impact on young and old alike. Keep an eye on your child’s mental and emotional state as well as behaviour for a while. If your child has extreme reactions to the incident or doesn’t start coping within a month’s time, it may be time to seek professional help.
2. Will My Child Get Better With Time?
This will depend on your child’s individuality as well as the factors that brought on the illness. Some children recover fully with time while others may need continued professional help. Not delaying in getting a diagnosis and immediate help can result in better long term results when it comes to childhood psychiatric disorders.
3. Can Medication Affect Young Children Differently Than Older Children Or Adults?
Yes, this is because young children have brains which are still growing and developing making them extremely sensitive to medications. At the same time serious untreated problems like behaviour disorders in children can also adversely impact brain development. When treating illnesses like bipolar disorder in children, it is important to avoid drug interactions such as medication that the child may be taking for physical problems like asthma or a cold.
Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of and is a health condition that can affect anyone irrespective of gender, caste, and creed. As a parent, it can be difficult for you to admit and accept that your child has a mental disorder. But recognizing this problem and seeking help for your child at the earliest is half the battle won. Never forget that mental disorders are treatable and though it might be a long, dark journey there is light at the end of this tunnel.
Disclaimer: This information is just a guide and not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional.
Also Read:
Sleep Disorders in Kids
Conduct Disorder In Children
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children 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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"Babyhug’s Premium Baby Lemon Wipes for toddlers Review"
Babyhug wet wipes uses:
Baby hug premium baby Lemon wipes are too good they are moist, and are very soft .
It can be used form infants to toddler also .babyhug wet wipes can be used to clean baby's bottom, baby's face and baby's hand and feet.
I always prefer to use baby hug wet wipes during night at changing dipers and feeding baby is will be easy to clean andduring travelling also it's best no need to carry more water we can just wipe off hands and face it's too good.
Fragrance:
It has mild fragrance Lemon. As fragrance is mild it is good for children.
As the fragrance is mild children also loves wet wipes fragrance
Ingredients:
Baby hug wet wipes are enriched with vitamin e and alovera
Baby hug wet wipes are paraben free and alcohol free.
Overall:
Babyhug wet wipes are more moist as it contains 98 % water in wipes.
wipes are more help full for cleaning babies if they spill or can be used at the time of changing dipers.
And they have very mild fragrant .
Best for using during travelling for kids and Also they are not causing any type of allergic reaction on babies skin ,babies skin will be too soft after using wet wipes
And its low cost as it can be affordable for all .
Baby hug premium baby Lemon wipes can be used to clean baby face ,hands and baby diper area and it is safe on babies skin and it is suitable for sensitive skin children also.
And baby hug premium baby Lemon wipes contains 98 % water wipes
And wet wipes are paraben free and alcohol free
As wipes contains aloevera ,vitamin e it helps to keep baby skin moisturized
Over all baby hug wetwipes are best for all age kids Read more
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Vandana Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
14 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts hi I am at 35 th week 2 days and my baby weight is 1.880 I saw few video in that video they said baby weight would be above 2 kg is that any problem ? my baby weight is okay or not
Vandana Sharma
Nutritionist
14 hours ago
A. Hello mom every baby is different as every pregenancy as well too , so please avoid stress as it wouldnt be good to take that tension please have a healthy diet , and keep your self hydrated
Dr Bandana Joshi has added a new answer
Mom of a 3 m old child
14 hours ago
Q. can I bring 3 month old baby with me to the office.is there any physical harm with the baby
Dr Bandana Joshi
Ayurvedic Physician
13 hours ago
A. Better to avoid as they are so many people in office and you can’t ask everyone to sanitise the hands but if for particular occasion you are planning to taue the baby to office then you can plan
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
12 hours ago
Q. my mother died 9 years ago. Now I am 8 month pregnant(32 week).my due date is June 25.I am planning my delivery in hospital near to my home since this is my first pregnancy.I have only father and unmarried brother in my home.If there is emergency I don't have any female to support. Does hospitals allow male bystander during delivery. what should I do if I don't have any female support. My aunt live far from our home.
Read moreDr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
2 hours ago
A. yes. males can come. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert hi this is Sarika here . my question is how to encourage my baby to latch because he get irritated whenever I try to latch him
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 hours ago
A. It’s very important that when you ask a question please provide us the age of the child currently I would say that if your child is unable to latch properly so whenever you’re feeding Press your breast with your hands for the feeding of the milk is better because the milk flow is going to be better and hopefully that you do the trick
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
23 mins ago
Q. my baby have gastric problem..
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
20 mins ago
A. ok cse vsmall babies will be having lot of gas because of various reasons it is advisable to do burping of the baby immediately after feeding please give colimex DF drops to the baby they are safe
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
11 mins ago
Q. #asktheexperts red scretch marks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 mins ago
A. You can mix coconut oil and Kapoor together and that is what you can apply regularly want to your stretch marks is one of the best options that you can use currently other than that also I would recommend you that if you feel any kind of a burning sensation or irritation then you can have a word with your gynaecologist
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