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Facts and Information About Starfish for Kids
Starfish have always fascinated children and adults. Starfish are also called sea stars and no doubt, they are one of the most beautiful creatures found in the ocean. If you want to learn more about starfish, read on.
15 Interesting Facts About Starfish for Children
If you have wondered what these wonderful creatures are and how they live, here are 15 sea star facts that you need to know.
1. Starfish Are Not Fish
Starfish are not really fish. They are echinoderms. The echinoderms usually have five arms. These marine invertebrates are more closely related to sea urchins, sea cucumber, and sand dollar.
2. They Are Invertebrates
Unlike real fish which are vertebrates with a backbone and a skeleton, starfish are invertebrates; they do not have a true internal skeleton. They do have ‘ossicles’ which are calcium carbonate plates that take on the role of an endoskeleton and form spines and granules to offer structural rigidity to them.
3. Starfish Do Not Have a Brain
Starfish do not have a brain. They do have a system of nerves and nerve plexus below their skin that perform the function of a nervous system. They are perceptive to touch, light, and temperature.
4. Some Starfish Can Have As Many As 50 Arms
Most starfish have spiny skin and 5 arms but some of the specials can have up to 50 arms.
5. Starfish Cannot Survive in Freshwater
There are over 2000 different species of starfish, and they are all marine. They cannot be found in freshwater lakes or rivers.
6. They Do Not Have Blood
Starfish do not have a circulatory system to transport nutrients and waste throughout the body. Instead, they use circulating seawater through their vascular system.
7. They Move Using Their Tube Feet
Starfish use tube feet, located on their underside to move. The tubes get filled with seawater, and the muscles in the tube feet manipulate it to extend or contract.
8. Most Starfish Are Carnivores
Most starfish are carnivores, and they have specialised body parts to feed on other organisms such as clams, mussels, and even injured fish. Most of them have an unusual ability to consume their prey outside the body by pushing their stomachs out of their mouth over the prey and then withdrawing it to digest the food. Some species are omnivores and eat plant matter along with the animals. Some of them are also detritivores; they eat decomposing plant and animal matter at the bottom of the ocean.
9. Starfish Have Eyespots
Like most other marine invertebrates of its kind, starfish do not have eyes. They do have tiny eyespots on the tips of their arms which allow them to tell the difference between dark and bright. They use these eyespots to detect moving objects such as prey and potential threats.
10. They Have an Incredible Ability to Regenerate
One of the most impressive things starfish can do is to regenerate their whole body. For instance, if a predator eats almost the whole of the starfish except one arm, that arm can over a period of time regenerate the whole body back. The process is slow and could take up to a year if it is not attacked or killed again. If the starfish is cut in half, it will grow into two different starfish!
11. They Can Change Their Gender When Needed
Although starfish are distinctly male and female (they are not hermaphrodites), environmental conditions can prompt them to change their gender in their lifetime. They also use regeneration as a method of asexual reproduction.
12. Some Starfish Have a Lifespan of 35 Years
The lifespan of starfish depends on the species. The smaller ones weighing as little as 2 grams can live up to 10 years. Some bigger ones take five years to reach maturity and can live for as long as 35 years.
13. Starfish Aren't Social Creatures
Yes, they like to be alone. Starfish are solitary and prefer spending time alone. However, when they have to feed, they prefer hanging out in large groups.
14. Their Size Varies
Starfish, depending on the species, can range between the sizes of 1 cm and 65 cm. The biggest starfish species called the sunflower starfish can grow up to over 90 cms and weigh as much as 5 kgs!
15. Some Starfish Can Be Kept as Pets
One of the fun facts about starfish is that several species of starfish can be introduced into marine aquariums that have regulated temperature and salinity as they are sensitive to both the parameters. They usually feed off the plant, animal and bacterial matter on the aquarium floor and keep the water clean. So they function both as pets and water filters!
Starfish are fascinating marine creatures. They are found in almost all the oceans of the world. They strange abilities have allowed them to adapt and live in the ocean for a long time. We hope you like these facts and information about starfish. Read them to your kids, they will love knowing about starfish for sure.
Also Read:
Educative Aquatic Animals Information for Kids
Blue Whale Facts for Kids
Fun & Amazing Animal Facts for Kids Read more
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Eating Raw Vegetables during Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
Pregnancy is a blissful and joyous phase in a woman’s life. It is filled with excitement and pampering, but more importantly, it is accompanied by food cravings of different kinds. Fulfilling these cravings can be a roller-coaster ride for a pregnant woman because of the number of things that you are advised to avoid during pregnancy. One such speculative item on the list is raw vegetables. Here we discuss whether it is prudent for pregnant women to consume raw vegetables.
What are Raw Vegetables?
Raw vegetables comprise uncooked vegetables that contain edible seeds and roots. Raw veggies are a staple in the diet of vegans, vegetarians, and also herbivorous animals. Vegetables when consumed raw have numerous health benefits. Maximum nutrition can be absorbed when the dietary source is unprocessed as with raw vegetables. We look at the benefits of indulging in a raw diet during pregnancy.
Can You Eat Raw Vegetables When Pregnant?
Deciding to eat raw vegetables during your pregnancy can be a healthy and nourishing choice for your foetus. It is important, however, to understand the safety concerns and risks linked to the consumption of uncooked vegetables. Research proves that eating raw vegetables helps to take in more proteins and minerals.
Benefits of Having Raw Vegetables in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a delicate phase of life where you have to weigh the pros and cons of your choices before deciding to do anything. Here are the benefits of eating raw vegetables during pregnancy, that can help you decide:
1. Plenty of Fibre Intake
Raw vegetables are a rich source of dietary fibre. This comes in handy during pregnancy as a majority of women face issues of constipation and bloating during pregnancy. A diet that is high in fibre facilitates easy digestion.
2. Calcium
Calcium is a vital nutrient during pregnancy and can be easily sourced through raw greens like spinach, collard greens, and kale. It helps in bone formation and skeletal mineralisation of the foetus.
3. Vitamin C
Raw vegetables are also a good source of Vitamin C which is important to teeth, bone, and collagen formation.
4. Beta Carotene
Beta-carotene is very important for the proper development of tissues, immunity, and vision of the foetus. This is available in plenty of raw vegetables like carrot and sweet potato.
5. Potassium
This is another essential mineral that is essential to aid regulation of blood pressure in pregnant women.
6. Folate
Malformation of the brain and spine can be averted by taking sufficient folates like folic acid or folacin. Vegetables like broccoli, peas, asparagus, and cabbage are high in folates.
7. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Raw vegetables are an extremely rich source of omega 3 fatty acids which aid in the neurological development of the foetus. Good sources include cauliflower, squashes, and brussels sprouts.
8. Controlled weight Gain
Unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy can be controlled by eating raw vegetables As they are high in dietary fibres, they help to improve energy levels and regulate weight gain.
Raw Vegetables that are Safe to Eat During Pregnancy
Not all raw vegetables can be consumed during pregnancy. Following a raw diet during pregnancy requires some care. Detailed below is a list of vegetables that are safe for pregnant women:
1. Carrots
Carrots are a storehouse of nutrients that can work wonders on a pregnant woman. It also helps in improving the immunity and eye development of the foetus.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is a vegetable that is rich in calcium and vitamin C. When cooked, the water absorbs these vitamins and makes it unavailable to the body for absorption.
3. Green Peas
Green peas are a healthy, tasty and sweet option for women craving raw vegetables during pregnancy.
4. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins A, B, and C. Make sure to get some of this nutrient-rich vegetable while you are pregnant.
5. Bell Peppers
Rich in dietary fibres as well as vitamins, bell peppers eaten raw can be very beneficial to pregnant women.
6. Tomato
Rich in vitamin K and C, as well as biotin, tomatoes are delicious to eat in raw form.
7. Asparagus
Asparagus is very rich in folates and is very essential for the brain development of the foetus. When consumed in raw form, the body gets a good quantity of folates from asparagus.
Raw Vegetables to Avoid Eating When Pregnant
It is better to avoid certain vegetables in raw form during pregnancy. Here are some mentioned below:
1. Cauliflower
Although cauliflower is rich in omega 3 fatty acid, it also contains sulphur compounds which cause bloating and gas formation. Avoid cauliflower for this reason.
2. Sprouts
Sprouts require humid conditions to grow, and this promotes the presence of E.coli, salmonella, and other bacteria in them.
3. Okra
Eating okra raw can increase the risk of gastritis and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Precautions to Take While Consuming Raw Veggies
Wash vegetables thoroughly to avoid toxoplasma parasite that could be present in the peel or outer rind of vegetables
Cut away damaged and bruised sections of vegetables as they tend to have bacteria.
Wash your knife and chopping board with soap and hot water before cutting vegetables.
Soak your vegetables in salt water for a while before eating to kill any germs present on them.
Some Wonderful Ways to Have Raw Vegetables for Moms to Be
You could prepare coleslaw with shredded white cabbage and carrots.
Grated carrots mixed with raisins and nuts can be tossed in a delicious salad dressing.
Mix in some paneer or soya chunks with your bell peppers or leafy vegetables to get your daily dose of proteins.
Eat a raw carrot and asparagus sticks with a cheesy or sour cream dip. Hummus is also a good side to have with vegetable sticks.
Being pregnant comes with its fair share of perks and problems. Make sure you understand the implication of your choices on the growing foetus and make informed decisions. Eat right and take care of your gorgeous self to have a healthy little cherub.
Also Read: Consuming Triphala While Pregnant Read more
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Dimpal
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to give children when starting solids?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. After completing the time of six months you should start with dal water and rice water followed by all kind of fruits and vegetables porridge khichadi mash banana mash potato mash sweet potato dairy products and varieties made made out of ragi Suji and oats can also be given to your child
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Taking Nifedipine during Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
Nifedipine is one of the most effective drugs to prevent the unwanted early labour. If you are heading towards preterm labour for unexplained reasons, then chances are your doctor will put you on Nifedipine. However, before taking this drug, first, you need to understand its use and side effects. It may work like magic for many pregnant women, but the same may not hold true for you. Moreover, it may even not be suitable for you subject to its side effects.
What Is Nifedipine?
Nifedipine is an anti-contraction medicine. It helps in slowing down the uterine contractions which in turn delays the preterm labour. It is a calcium channel blocker which helps in treating medical conditions like high blood pressure and heart diseases.
How Does Nifedipine Work during Pregnancy
Basically, nifedipine slows down the contractions in the uterus since its a calcium channel blocker and the uterus requires calcium to contract. However, nifedipine obstructs the pathways, preventing calcium to reach to the uterus. So, you must be wondering how it helps in delaying the labour, aren't you? Nifedipine blocks the calcium and allows the uterus and other soft tissues in one’s body to relax which in turn delays the labour.
When Is Nifedipine Used in Pregnancy
Typically, your doctor will put you on nifedipine if you are susceptible to an unexplained preterm labour. The following cases usually lead to the prescription of nifedipine by your doctor:
If you are diagnosed with thinning of regular uterine contractions, and if your cervix dilates to 4 cm way earlier than your due date.
An outbreak of unexpected labour, even while the mother’s amniotic sac is intact.
Unexpected labour, despite the fact that the foetus is not in distress and still has time until the due date.
When other uterus contraction preventing medicines such as terbutaline (Beta- Sympathetic medicine) proves to be ineffective.
If the intake of other drugs has been ceased considering the unwanted side effects.
If there is a need to delay the labour for 24 to 48 hours to treat other underlying conditions such as corticosteroid treatment (lungs of the foetus are treated).
Side Effects of Nifedipine during Pregnancy
Although nifedipine works wonder for most of the women, by delaying the preterm labour, it has a few side effects like many other medicines. Usually, it is believed to inflict no damage or side effects on mother or on her child with an exception to serious medical cases. Following are some of the common side effects of taking nifedipine during pregnancy:
Headaches
Constipation
Nausea
Dizziness
Low blood pressure
Red skin rashes
Diarrhoea
Hot or warm flashes
Heart palpitations
Feeling faintSS ID: 613064750 (ALT:<A pregnant woman with a headache>)
Tips for Pregnant Women
It is always recommended to avoid any sort of unnecessary medication, especially, if it is something which is not prescribed by your doctor. Following are some tips for you to have a better understanding:
It is highly unlikely for your doctor to prescribe this medicine unless in case of sudden preterm labour. Moreover, in any other situation, this medicine will not be used at any point during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a delicate phase. Ensure that you follow through the advice of your doctor and are taking your medications on time.
Nifedipine and such other medicines are prescribed only in extreme cases.
If there is a possibility of using nifedipine during preterm labour, then it’s always better to discuss it in detail with your gynaecologist to rule out any odds.
Pregnancy requires the utmost level of care to ensure the safety of mother and child. If you are expected to have a preterm labour for reasons other than medical, then it becomes even more crucial for you to pay attention towards your health and well-being.
To analyse your condition precisely, your doctor also requires your correct medical history. So, always be honest to communicate your medical history with your doctor.
When To Call a Doctor
During pregnancy, you will experience a multitude of changes in your body. However, understanding those changes and their timings is also crucial to rule out any odd event. Normally, a normal pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. However, if one’s labour starts during at 37th week or before that, then it may prove harmful to both, mother and child. Hence, it is advisable to seek medical attention as early as possible. Following are some symptoms indicating that you need to visit a doctor at earliest:
Frequent contractions
Lower abdominal pressure
Vaginal spotting or bleeding
Pelvic pressure
Vaginal discharge
Diarrhoea
Water breaking
Consult with your doctor right away if you experience any of the above symptoms or other issues. It’s always better to address an issue at its earlier stage to ensure safety and health of the mother and her child. It is also recommended that you consult with your doctor before taking any medication, especially, if it’s a drug like nifedipine which is used only in the emergency situations.
Also Read: Reasons To Call Your Doctor In Pregnancy Read more
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3 Important Tips Every Indian SUPERMOM Must Follow To Keep Herself & Her Baby Healthy
When you are pregnant or breastfeeding, everyone around you is an expert and an advisor. While there is no death of cautionary tales and unsolicited advice, there is little support that many women actually get in terms of both baby-care and self-care. Yes, we all send out ‘Mother’s Day’ cards to the new moms, but to be honest, she is relegated to a secondary role as the baby assumes centre-stage.
“A woman’s life is all about sacrifices.” She sacrifices her wishes for her parents first, letting the baby brother be the focus of the household. As she grows up, she sacrifices her dreams and wishes for her husband, her in-laws, and eventually her children. Women in India have often been seen as the proverbial sacrificial lambs. But hey, this does NOT define the women and mothers of today’s generation anymore! Our hearts are still full of love and affection for loved ones, but we are strong enough to make conscious choices and not lose ourselves in the expectations of others. One particularly trying and high-risk time for women is the period of pregnancy and lactation.
This Mother’s Day, Mama Protinex has created a beautiful video to deliver an important message to all moms and moms-to-be out there: You need to be strong for your baby. And you need to do whatever it takes to find that strength.
The video showcases some excellent tips to find your inner strength at this time. After all, when you’re carrying your baby, you’re carrying a bundle of joy. You’re NOT carrying the world’s expectations, and should do what makes YOU happy and strong! Watch the complete video below:
The Health Risk Facing Pregnant & New Moms In India
Are you following the tips mentioned in the above video and taking adequate care of yourself? Many Indian moms are not. And this has given rise to a huge health and nutrition challenge for Indian women on the verge of motherhood.
During pregnancy and lactation, a woman’s body goes through tremendous change. It is preparing to nourish a whole new human being and this is a monumental task. Did you know that as per the Indian Council of Medical Research, pregnancy and lactation demand 50% increase in protein intake? But as per several studies, 90% pregnant women in India are PROTEIN-deficient!
Where are we going wrong?
The answer is actually staring us in the eye: we are simply not focusing on ourselves at all! It is very easy to be consumed with anxiety about your baby, and totally ignore yourself. But not only is this dangerous for you, it is actually also dangerous for the apple of your eye! Your health is of paramount importance and never forget that only a strong mommy can raise a strong baby!
Must-Follow Nutrition Tips To Be a Stronger Mama
If you’re pregnant or have recently become a mommy, it is imperative that you observe the following precautions to stay healthy:
1. Make Sure Your Body Gets These Nutrients
As per doctors, your body needs the following nutrients at this time for blood cell formation, skeletal development of the foetus, the mother’s bone health, and to prevent anaemia:
Iron
Vitamins A, C, B2, B12
Folic acid
DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid)
Copper, zinc and magnesium
Calcium
Phosphorus
You must include these nutrients in your daily diet. Some super-foods that can provide you with these nutrients are eggs, fish such as salmon, pulses, chicken, avocados and sweet potatoes. Fish oil can be particularly useful for getting DHA, which is an omega-3 fatty acid that builds your baby's brain, nervous system, and eyes. In fact, DHA is an essential nutrient for your baby even as he grows up, as it directly boosts brain development.
You should also consume dairy products, especially milk, as it is a wonderful source of several nutrients all in one go (including fats, proteins and vitamins).
2. Do Not Depend Only On Food Sources
When aiming to consume a healthy diet for your baby, please remember that there is no scope for error. It is extremely important to meet the nutrient needs of your body now – possibly more important than it ever has been before. A nutrient deficiency at this time can lead to serious repercussions in your baby in later life, and food sources MAY NOT be adequate to fulfil your baby’s needs.
To avoid this risk, it is a good idea to consume a doctor-approved nutritional supplement for mothers. This will ensure that you and your baby don’t miss out on any essential nutrients. Danone’s Mama Protinex, which contains both milk and soy protein, is a good option to meet the recommended nutritional intake for pregnant and lactating women. The recommended consumption is 1 glass of Mama Protinex daily to completely bridge the protein gap, as well as provide your body with the required amounts of iron, calcium, zinc and folic acid. Mama Protinex also has the recommended DHA supplementation which is fundamental to the growth and development of your baby.
3. Do What It Takes To Eliminate Stress
Finally, no amount of nutrition will help you or your baby if your mind doesn’t cooperate. It is absolutely critical to remain stress-free and relaxed, as much as possible. Early life stress can be very harmful for the baby’s development.
Consider taking up a hobby that gives you peace – knitting, maybe? You can also look at yoga, reading, and spending time with friends. Remember – nobody cares more about your baby than you do, and it is your responsibility to do all it takes to bring him into the world happily.
Take good care of yourselves, moms, and make sure you eat healthy. Both you and your baby deserve the gift of good health and strength. Happy Mother’s Day! Read more
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My Son Was Born With Hearing Loss
When I heard his first cry, when I held him in my arms for the first time, I was overwhelmed with joy and excited for the surprises on my motherhood journey. Soon I realised how tough it got with time. Kahn was 1 when I got to know he was born with hearing loss. I totally gave up on life and just put my soul into doing all I could for him. Travelling from Mumbai to Delhi to Hong Kong to Indore to Jaipur, I tried all treatments, begged all gods, just to make my child hear his Mumma's voice. My heart kept sinking day by day and life was just disheartening. Finally my husband and I decided on CI. While we collected all our life savings to give our child the best treatment, we faced discouragement from the entire world except my mom who supported and encouraged my every step. When the day for the surgery came, I had a nervous breakdown on one hand and on the other hand, I had the strength that a mother always has for her child. I fought like a warrior but seeing him trembling in my arms post surgery was the most heartbreaking sight my eyes had ever seen. My heart was weak with pain and sorrow every minute, every second. I now understood the meaning of the word 'sorrow'. But today, when I see him, I thank god for helping me make the best decision for my son's life. He is able to talk and mingle like an absolutely normal kid and is way more smarter than I had thought. I am a totally dedicated mother and living alone away from my husband and family for Kahn's therapy and progressive treatment but no regrets. I have my world-my child in my arms!! So to all the mothers who go through the toughest times, keeping the baby in their womb, travelling across the globe for the best treatment for their child, raising him alone, nurturing him to be a gentleman- it's never in vain when it is for your baby. Your baby who looks up to you as his only world- his moon and his stars is you! His day and night is you! His joy and sorrow is you... You, his mumma!!!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. can I take zanocin 200 during breastfeeding
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. I’m not aware about what medicine it is for I can only tell you that these basic medicines you can take throughout your lactation it’s not a problem the medicines that you could take before your pregnancy can always be taken during the time of lactation
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert mam iam 33 weeks now when can I expect delivery date
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. The basic delivery date is normally 39 to 3 40 weeks of your pregnancy whenever you are ready for your delivery and whenever you hit your labour that’s going to be the right time for you further move your Dr is going to tell you when are you going to deliver with the help of an ultrasound
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. iam 33 weeks pregnant now
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. What is your question associated with your pregnancy that you haven’t mentioned clearly can you please repost your question providing all the necessary details so at least I know and understand what are you willing to ask and accordingly I can give you help and assistance on that
Jennifer has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
4 hours ago
Q. I am 23 weeks 1 day pregnant. I was feeling the movements actively until today. Baby movements were not that good or maybe I didn’t feel it that way today. Is it a cause of concern? Should I wait for a day or two or should I go and see my gynaecologist?
Please suggest!
Read moreJennifer
Mom of 6 children
3 hours ago
A. please consult ur gynae asap.
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. she doing from yesterday at night time only once and she having breast milk as well as formula feed nan pro 1 ,I have concern about like this potty yellow and grey ,I want to know it's normal ???
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. Loose motion are most of the time infective where it is associated with fever and vomiting and its known as gastroenteritis where symptbomatic treatment along wjith management for dehydration is required if loose motions are associated with foul smell mucous high grade fever than it could be bacterial infection which needs antibiotics treatment
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Father of a 1 yr 11 m old boy
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