Log in



Author: Editor

Member Since: 2009-08-22 22:07:32

Posts by Editor:

Head Lice & Nits epidermic in children

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
December 14th, 2009 by Editor

Head lice are tiny greyish insects that invade the surface of the head clinging to the hair shaft. This epidemic is a common problem amongst children. Head lice are wingless parasitic insects that feed on the blood of their host. The eggs laid by the female head lice after mating are firmly attached to the scalp hair. Approximately a week after the eggs have been laid, they begin to hatch into offspring which are commonly referred to as nits.

What are Head Lice and Nits

Nits are lice eggs that appear as tiny yellow dots on the surface of the hair. The eggs begin to hatch at the hair shaft close to the scalp 1 to 2 weeks after it has being laid. Once hatched the lice appear as white or clear particles. These particles have a close resemblance to dandruff. The lice mature into an adult approximately 2 weeks after hatching. The adult lice which is referred to as a nymph, is the size of a sesame seed. These lice can lay up to 3 to 8 eggs daily.

Symptoms of Head Lice and Nits in children

*Itching of the scalp is commonly experienced. This irritation often occurs due to the biting of the scalp by the lice.
*In most cases a red rash may occur at the nape of the neck
*Inflammation may develop on the scalp
*Tiny red pimples or sores may also occur on the scalp
*A sensation of something moving in the hair may indicate an invasion of head lice and nits
*Excessive scratching can lead to the development of bacterial infection

What are the causes of Head Lice and Nits

*Head lice and nits are commonly transferred to from an infected individual to another.
*The contact of this contagious epidemic can occur with direct or close head to head contact such as a hug
*Poor hygiene can spread and worsen the epidemic but cannot be entirely responsible for the direct cause of the epidemic

Treatment and management of Head Lice & Nits

*The effective use of insecticides is commonly available in the form of a lotion, mousse or shampoo. Malathion, Permethrin and Phenothrin are the three common ingredients used in these topical treatments. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve effective results. Treatment should be repeated after 7 days as lice eggs are difficult to kill.
*The use of silicone based products such as Hedrin lotion, Itax lotion or NYDA pump spray are also effective forms of topical preparations. Silicone products kill the nits and lice by physically coating the surface and smothering them. It is important not to use a hair drier as the heat may alter the efficacy of the topical preparation.
*Combing wet hair with a fine tooth comb is a non-chemical method that is effective. Hair should be combed for a period of 30 minutes every 3rd to 4th day for a period of 2 weeks.
*Medicated shampoos may also be prescribed as an alternative treatment method. However it is advised that a child under 2 years of age should avoid the use of medicated shampoo and rather opt for the removal of nits and lice by hand
*Bed linen and stuffed toys should be washed regularly. Since nits and lice can survive without a host for 2 days it is advised to keep washed stuffed toys away until the epidemic has been treated.

Tags:
No Comments »

Childhood Eczema – Symptoms and Treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
December 11th, 2009 by Editor

Childhood Eczema-symptoms and treatment management

Eczema is an itchy inflammation of the skin that may be accompanied with asthma or hay fever. This condition is characterised by red, irritated skin occasional accompanied by small, fluid filled lesions. These lesions usually ooze out when it comes into contact with moisture. Eczema involves various skin diseases with the common form been Atopic Dermatitis affecting children of any age and appearing at any time. Although children usually outgrow eczema the vast majority will experience dry, irritated skin.

Children suffering with eczema have an inflammatory response to irritated substances such as pollen, mould, dust, animal dander and certain foods. The skin becomes red and irritated with the development of inflammation resulting in itching. Eczema is not an allergy but allergies such as hay fever can trigger the condition. This is a chronic condition that is not contagious.

Symptoms of eczema in children:
*Eczema usually appears in red, itchy and dry patches with small bumps
*The rash can develop into red open crusted lesion
*Eczema often occurs on the cheeks, forehead and scalp. It can spread to extremities of the arms, legs and behind the knees
*Chronic scratching causes the skin to become thick, scaly and appear leathery
*A raw sensation is often experienced due to scratching

Causes of childhood eczema:
*A child predisposed to a family history of allergies may have an increased risk of developing eczema
*Rough textured material such as wool can cause the skin to itch resulting in an allergic reaction. This reaction may develop into eczema.
*Environmental factors such as change temperature, high levels of humidity and dry dusty areas contribute to the development of eczema
*Fragrant soaps, detergents, certain foods, animal saliva, air conditioning can cause the development of eczema
*Eczema commonly appears at times of stress and emotional disorders. This causes the condition to aggravate and flare-up
*Upper respiratory infections, asthma and hay fever can often trigger eczema
*Long baths can dry the skin resulting in the aggravation of eczema

Prevention of eczema in children:
*Decrease the severity and frequency of flare-ups by avoiding environmental factors such as pollen and moulds that can trigger eczema
*Avoid a sudden change in temperature and humidity
*Reduce stress levels with calming and relaxing activities to decrease the frequency of eczema
*Avoid the use of rough textured materials to prevent an aggravation and development of eczema
*Fragrant soaps, detergents and other scented substances should be avoided
*Avoid the intake of food that can trigger eczema

Treating childhood eczema:
*A daily application of a cream or lotion can help maintain a moisture level in the skin preventing the skin from drying out.
*The ideal time to moisturise is immediately after bathing as the moisture from the bath is locked in.
*Cold compress applied to the skin can relieve itchiness
*Medication such as corticosteroid cream or an ointment is prescribed by a qualified medical doctor to help reduce inflammation
*Topical or oral antibiotics are prescribed if the eczema is recurrently occurring
*Living environment should be kept clean of dust
*Avoid the use of harsh scented soaps and detergents
*Identify and try to avoid the triggers that can cause eczema

Tags:
No Comments »

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eyes in Children) – Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
December 8th, 2009 by Editor

Conjunctivitis –Pink eyes in children- Causes, Prevention, Treatment
Conjunctivitis is a contagious condition commonly referred to as pink eyes. Pink eyes or conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the surface membrane that forms a covering over eye and eyelid. Inflammation of the eye area is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. Tiny blood vessels dilate in response to the inflammation resulting in eye appearing red or pink in colour.

Symptoms commonly experienced with conjunctivitis:
*Redness of the eyelid can occur in one or both eyes
*A gritty or foreign body sensation is usually experienced under the eyelid area. Avoid rubbing the eyes as this can aggravate and worsen the condition
*Pain and soreness accompanied with itching in one or both eyes is commonly experienced with conjunctivitis
*A white -yellow substance is usually discharged from the ducts of the eye forming a crust. The crust often covers the eye making it difficult to open the eyes especially during the morning.
*The eyes can develop sensitivity to light creating discomfort
*Swelling of the eyelids is a common complaint experienced with conjunctivitis
*Burning and tearing sensations are common symptoms experienced

Causes associated with conjunctivitis:
*Viruses such as adenovirus associated with colds and flu, ear infections and sinuses can cause conjunctivitis in one or both the eyes. Conjunctivitis caused by a viral infection produces a watery discharge
*Staphyloccocal and streptococcal bacteria are also responsible for the infection of the eye area. Bacterial conjunctivitis or pink eyes produces thick yellowish discharge associated with recurrent eye infection or a sore throat. This type of infection is common in children
*Allergies can contribute to conjunctivitis affecting both the eyes. The immune system produces antibodies to fight foreign material such as smoke, pollen or other allergens invading the body.
*Individuals with long term use of contact lens are at a high risk of contacting conjunctivitis or pink eyes
*Airborne irritants in the environment or a splash of foreign liquid in the eye can lead to the development conjunctivitis
*Individuals diagnosed with atopic dermatitis are prone in contacting conjunctivitis
*A child can be infected with conjunctivitis if he or she is in direct contact with an infected individual. This infection can spread through the use of contaminated water food or eating utensils. The symptoms of conjunctivitis can occur within a few days of the infection lasting for 7-14 days.

Treating conjunctivitis:
*Topical medication such as eye drops or ointment is usually prescribed as an effective remedy in the treatment of conjunctivitis. The condition often clears up within 1-2 days.
*The prescribed course should be taken to avoid a reoccurrence of the infection
*Avoid the use of eye make-up during the infection to prevent the condition worsening
*To decrease swelling and discomfort soothe the eye area with a lukewarm ice pack
*Avoid rubbing to prevent further agitation of the eye.
Preventing the infection of conjunctivitis
*Hands should be properly sterilised as this would prevent or decrease the occurrence of conjunctivitis
*During illnesses such as colds and flu the bed linen should be changed regularly
*Discard used eye make-up that can be contaminated with conjunctivitis
*Avoid close contact with individuals infected with conjunctivitis

Tags:
No Comments »

Tonsillitis in children-symptoms,causes and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
December 2nd, 2009 by Editor

Tonsillitis in children – symptoms, causes and treatment
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils which are the fleshy areas located on either side of the back region of the throat. The infection occurs due to the invasion of bacteria or a virus in the body resulting in the tonsils becoming swollen and painful. Tonsillitis is a common and contagious illness experienced by children of all ages.

Symptoms of tonsillitis in children include:
*Inflammation and redness of the tonsils that often leads to a sore throat
*Swallowing of food becomes painful and difficult due the swollen tonsils
*White patches may occur on the surface of the tonsil area
*Tonsillitis can cause the lymph nodes (glands located in the jaw and neck area) to become tender and enlarged
*Fevers, chills and headaches can occur
*Laryngitis, an illness that causes a loss in voice can develop with tonsillitis

Causes of childhood tonsillitis:
Tonsils trap foreign materials invading the body through the mouth and nose. These foreign materials include bacteria and viruses. The invasion results in a mild infection of the tonsils leading to tonsillitis. If this condition is left untreated, the swollen tonsils can affect normal breathing. An accumulation of pus between the tonsils and surrounding tissue can lead to the development of an abscess. The invasion of streptococcal bacteria in the body can lead to a throat infection which may develop into tonsillitis. This complication may lead to skin and nervous system disorders, kidney infections and Rheumatic fever.

Prevention of childhood tonsillitis:
*Frequent hand washing is essential to prevent infections
*Avoid close contact with individuals suffering with a recent illness
*Increase the consumption of fluids and avoid the sharing of drinking and eating equipment to prevent the spread of an infection.
*Throat Lozengers help to stimulate the production of saliva cleansing the throat and decreasing the occurrence of an infection
*Irritants such as smoke inhalation and other pollutants should be avoided to prevent the development a sore throat

Treating tonsillitis in children:
*Tonsillitis caused by a virus is usually treated with self care. This treatment includes: -The consumption of warm fluids that help to soothe the throat
- Frequent gargling of the mouth and throat area with warm salt water has an antibacterial effect preventing further complications from developing
-Medication can be taken to reduce pain and fever
-The combination of honey and lemon is effective in the treatment of tonsillitis. The honey coats and soothes the throat whilst the lemon decreases the production of mucus.
-minimise talking as this can lead to more throat infections and temporary loss of the voice.
-Children should avoid close contact with each other as tonsillitis is a common condition amongst children of school age as viruses and bacteria can easily spread.
*Tonsillitis caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with a course of antibiotics. It is essential to finish the prescribed dosage to prevent the reoccurrence of the infection. In rare cases steroid medication is given to reduce the swelling of the tonsils
If conventional treatment and remedies render unsuccessful tonsillectomy (surgical procedure remove the tonsils) may be recommended.

Tags:
No Comments »

Ear infection in children-causes, symptoms and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
November 28th, 2009 by Editor

Ear infection in children –causes, symptoms and treatment
An ear infection is an infection of the middle ear located behind the ear drum and is usually associated with a virus. Also referred to as Otitis Media ear infections are not a contagious illness. This infection is a common illness experienced in childhood as the Eustachian tube situated in the middle ear is shorter and narrower than an adult. Most ear infections tend to resolve within a few days without any treatment. Although an ear infection is not a severe illness it does pose discomfort to your child.

Symptoms of childhood ear infection:
*Due to the accumulation of fluid developing in the middle ear your child usually experiences pain, ear ache and difficulty in hearing.
*Your child may experience a fever due to the infection of the virus.
*Fevers may develop in the body as a response to the infection
*Children may tug or interfere with the ear as an indication of an ear ache
*Due to the pain commonly experienced during an ear infection your child may have trouble sleeping resulting in irritability or crying more than usual
*An upper respiratory infection can also develop

Causes of ear infections in children:
Ear infections are commonly caused by a viral illness such as the cold. The immune system in children is not completely developed resulting in frequent viral illness and an increased occurrence of ear infections. Inflammation of the ear lining occurs resulting in fluid build-up. This blockage causes fever and pain. Recurrent ear infections can result in short-term or long term hearing loss due to fluid build-up in the ear. The pressure of the fluid build-up can damage the ear drum by causing it to erupt. Blood and pus usually oozes out of the ear releasing the pressure and pain experienced. The ear drum can usually repair and reverse the damage caused by the infection. Children at a crèche or other learning institutes are at a greater risk in developing ear infections as the virus tend to spread between children. Bottle fed babies are prone to developing ear infections due to lying position during a feeding. Children with allergies that are triggered during the spring seasons are more susceptible in experiencing ear infections.

Preventing the occurrence of ear infections:
*The use of allergy medication can decrease the occurrence of an ear infection
*Breast feeding may be a better option to bottle feeding as the antibodies in breast milk increases the child’s immunity providing protection against illness and infections.
*If a child is bottle fed avoid propping the bottle in the baby’s mouth when lying down,
*Children should avoid contact with other children experiencing viral infections
*Avoid exposure to irritants that can trigger an allergy attack which can lead to illnesses. Use allergy medication to reduce the occurrence of an attack
*Immunisation can help prevent and reduce the occurrence of ear infections
*Do not share food or eating utensils with individuals experiencing colds or any other illness.

Treatment of childhood ear infection
*If fluid build-up does not clear within 72 hours antibiotics are usually prescribed. *Fluid can be drained relieving pressure against the ear drum.
*Ear drops and pain medication helps to relieve and numb the pain commonly experienced

Tags:
No Comments »

Psoriasis in children

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
November 23rd, 2009 by Editor

Psoriasis in children
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, non-infectious disease of the skin that manifests itself in the early years. This condition is identified by red dry patches with silvery white scales and sores with bleeding spots. These lesions can occur anywhere on the body but is mostly common in areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees and nails. Psoriasis is a hereditary disease which is not contagious and is associated with occasional joint pains and swelling.

Where does psoriasis occur?
Psoriasis occurs in the epidermis [upper layer of the skin]. This layer consists of living cells that divide and migrate in an upward direction to form a tough layer called the ‘horny layer’. The layer functions in the protection to the underlying structures. The process of the ‘horny layer’ formation occurs within 30 days but in the condition of psoriasis the process is shorten to about 4-7 days.

Due to the rapid cell regeneration, the cells that reach the surface of the skin begin to accumulate. This results in the development of scales in the skin, representing a thick ‘horny layer’. The skin under the ‘horny layer’ appears to be red, due to the increase in blood supply required to sustain the rapid cell growth.

What are the causes of psoriasis in children?
Psoriasis varies in the levels of severity from the trivial to the more life threatening cases with many causes associated with this condition:
*Trauma to the skin such as a surgical scar or scratch can cause psoriasis to develop in the area. This occurrence is known as koebner phenomenon.
*Infection caused by the streptoccal bacteria may cause psoriasis
*Drugs such as beta blockers, lithium and antimalarias can worsen psoriasis.
*Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, tension and worry can exacerbate psoriasis.
*Alcohol may be an aggravating factor in the condition of psoriasis

Symptoms of psoriasis in children
The basic cause of psoriasis is directed towards the relief of symptoms. These symptoms include:
*The scaling of the skin due to the rapid growth rate of cell regeneration
*Thickening of the skin occurs due to the accumulation of skin cells
*The skin appears red due to the dilation of capillaries underlying the skin

What treatment can help in the management of psoriasis in children?
Psoriasis should be viewed as a chronic illness much like diabetes which can be controlled but not cured. However relief can be provided for the sufferer in the following ways:
*Salt water helps to alleviate the discomfort of psoriasis
*Exposure to sunlight has a beneficial effect as in most case psoriasis tends to improve
*Group therapy helps the psoriasis sufferer develop confidence and hope as they have the opportunity to discuss their condition with other sufferers.
*Symptoms are improved when vitamin D, zinc or linoleic acid is increased in the dietary intake
*Fish oils suppresses substance such as leukotrienes that trigger inflammation
* Topical medications such as calcipotriol, salyclic acid, dithranol and corticosteroids remove excess scales from the skin. These preparations must be used under supervision as side effects are common.
* Crude coal tar ointment is the most effective remedy as it slows down the growth rate of the epidermis [upper layer of skin cells]. This ointment must be used at night to prevent sunburn
* Oral systemic medication such as etretinate, methotrexate, hydroxyurea and cyulosporin are used for the severe cases of psoriasis. The side effects of these medication includes: dryness of the lips, liver and kidney damage and darkening of the skin
*PUVA inhibits cell regeneration preventing the thickening of the skin from forming

Psoriasis that is life threatening or unresponsive to topical treatment may require systemic treatment. Benefits must be weighed against the side-effects of these therapies. The use of toxic drugs is used by the justification of their ability to transform a childs life from severely restricted to leading an almost normal life.

Tags:
No Comments »

How to wean baby off breast milk to solid food

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Dental Care Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
November 18th, 2009 by Editor

The process of wean baby completely off breast milk can take up to a period of approximately 2 weeks. Individual circumstances and needs will determine the exact time period taken to wean baby off breast milk. Weaning baby is part of the natural breast feeding experience. It is much easier to wean baby during the infancy years than toddler years. The quality of breast milk reduces as the baby grows resulting in the decrease in nutritional value of the milk. The benefit of breast feeding decreases resulting in the breast becoming more of a pacifier or a soother rather than a food source.

Guidelines on wean baby off breast milk
*Considering the baby’s age and the reason for wean baby off breast milk, you as a parent need to decide the time period to under take this task. Once the decision is made it is important to adhere to it both mentally and emotionally
*Plan a healthy meal menu that is balanced and incorporates as many vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. This will increase the food intake of your child and reduce the quantity of breast milk consumption.
*To encourage the consumption of solid meals try to eat with your child and make mouthing sounds such as yummy or ‘hmmm’. This will entice your child psychologically to eat the variety of food presented to him/her.
*It is essential to stick to your decision although at times it may prove difficult. This would prevent you and your child from reverting back to breast feeds.
*At the age of 2 your toddler is able to comprehend and verbally communicate adequately. You can use this communication skill to your advantage by explaining to your child that he/she is big and is ready to do big kids stuff, and breast milk is best left for little babies. It is important to also stress that you are not taking the breast away but merely making space for much tastier and yummy big kid’s food. This prevents the child developing psychological and emotional issues such as abandonment and separation anxiety
*Your child should consume a meal every 2 hours as he/she needs energy to maintain his/her active lifestyle. Snacking on in- between meals such as fruit, juice, yoghurt or nuts will also help to maintain energy levels.
*Reduce breast feeding gradually by replacing each feed with a solid meal. Do not stop all together. Start to reduce day time feeds first and gradually reduce night feeds.
*Before bedtime ensure that your child has consumed a good meal as a child with a full tummy will have a good night sleep with fewer awakenings during the night.
*During night awakenings you can offer warm milk, Milo, or Nes-quick instead of breast milk. This will allow your child to relax and remain content with her/his night time feed. It is essential to offer water after the milk beverage as to avoid the development of cavities in the long term that can occur with milk residue in the mouth. Milk beverages and water can be offered in a feeding cup as your child finds the sucking action soothing and comforting.

Tags:
No Comments »

Dehydration in children-symptoms and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
November 11th, 2009 by Editor

Dehydration in children- symptoms and treatment
Dehydration is a condition that occurs when loss of fluid in the body is greater than fluid intake. This can often interfere with the proper functioning of the body. Dehydration usually occurs in cases such as vomiting, extreme sweating, exercise, fever, diarrhoea and inadequate intake of fluids.

Symptoms of dehydration:
*Children often become sleepy or tired due to a decrease in energy levels.
*The passing of urine may be less frequent. The urine may resemble the colour of dark yellow to amber. In infants less than 6 diapers indicates dehydration.
*Children may have a dry, sticky mouth due to thirst
*A moderate bout of diarrhoea can have an onset of dehydration
*Little or no tears when crying and a lack of sweating are also indications of dehydration
*Muscle weakness, headaches, dizziness are also some of the symptoms your child may experience.
*If your child has vomited for more than 8 hours and is unable to keep down fluids, he or she can eventually become dehydrated.
*In severe cases of dehydration your child can experience irritability accompanied by fussing and a lack of sleep. Blood pressure can increase leading to a rapid heart beat, fever, delirium, and unconsciousness.
*The skin and mouth may appear dry.
*Dryness of the nasal passages can occur.

Treatment of dehydration in children
*The common and most effective method is using oral rehydration solution in children and infants who have suffered from bouts of vomiting, fever and diarrhoea.
* An oral rehydrate solution contains ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon bicarbonate soda, 3 tablespoon sugar and 1litre of water. The water and salt content helps to replenish fluids lost as well as balance the electrolytes in the body. The water used in the rehydrate solution should be purified water or it should be boiled and cooled.
*The measurement of the ingredients used in the rehydrate should be accurate to prevent the condition from worsening.
*Consumption of fluids is most effective if kept at room temperature.
*The ingestion of fluid should be at a slow pace until the appearance of the urine is clear in colour or your child is able to keep down fluids without vomiting or passing it out through diarrhoea.
*If your child is unable to keep fluids, wait for an interval of 30- 40 minutes and try again.
*Breastfed babies should continue with regular feeds with the addition of oral rehydration fluids.
*If bottle fed babies suffer with diarrhoea and become dehydrated, the formula should be change for a lactose free formula.
*Your child should avoid consuming spicy or salty foods, milk, fruit juice or cool drink. Consuming plain water should also be avoided as it has no electrolytes.
*In severe forms dehydration hospitalisation may be required. The condition is treated with fluids transmitted intravenously providing the body with water and essential nutrients much quicker than oral rehydration.

Tags:
No Comments »

Cholesterol and fat intake in children

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
November 8th, 2009 by Editor

Cholesterol is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and the manufacture of important hormones in the body. This white waxy substance that has no smell or taste is made either by the liver or is part of the daily dietary intake of food. Cholesterol commonly found in foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, whole milk products and seafood is the common cause in the development of artery clogging plaques on the inner walls resulting in the artery hardening and blockages developing. This hinders the flow of blood entering the heart resulting in a heart attack and stroke.

Cholesterol regulates itself throughout the body in 3 different forms. These include:
*LDL-Low density lipoprotein which is manufactured by the liver and contributes to the fatting deposits around the artery walls resulting in the clogging of the artery.
*Triglycerides- which are unsaturated fat that is not entirely broken down by the liver
*HDL-High density lipoprotein is made in the liver and responses to exercise, certain foods and can often reverse the damage done by LDL.

An important factor to consider in the manufacture of cholesterol in your child’s diet is to identify the 3 different types of fats that affect the blood cholesterol level:
*Saturated fat causes a raise in blood cholesterol levels resulting in weight gain due to the high amount of kilojoules and the increase risk of heart disease. This type of fat commonly found in animal sources (meat, cheese, butter) remains solid in room temperature. Saturated fat is difficult to digest and store in the body.
*Polyunsaturated fat is similar to the effects of saturated fat except the kilojoules consumed are nutritious as they provide essential fatty acids (EFA). This fat is commonly found in vegetable oils, oily fish nuts and seeds. EFA provides the body with protection against heart disease, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and eczema. These fats are essential for the development of the baby in the uterus.
*Trans-fats are the by-product of the hydrogenation process used to manufacture vegetable oils. The hydrogenated process can cause damage to the body cells.
*Monounsaturated fats are beneficial to health of the body as it is a rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. It also contains antioxidants that can prevent cancer, arthritis and heart disease.

How to limit the intake of cholesterol in your child’s diet:
*Encourage your child to eat less fat especially foods that contain saturated fats
*If your child is over weight, limit the intake of food that is high in fats and modify your child’s diet to include healthier food options. Encourage your child to get involved in physical activities to promote weight loss.
*The healthy foods consumed should include fibre rich foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, whole wheat bread, rice and pasta.
*Limit the intake of fat by trimming the visible fat of meats, the rind of soft cheese and the thick spreading of butter. Reserve the intake of biscuits and cakes for treats rather than daily snacking.

Tags:
No Comments »

Urinary tract infection in children- causes and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
November 3rd, 2009 by Editor

Urinary tract infections in infants and children-causes and treatment
Urinary tract infection is a serious condition affecting children and adults mainly in the female gender. This is due to the short distance of the opening between the urethra and the anus. This condition causes an infection in the kidney, urethra and bladder. Urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria invades the body and travels in an upward direction to the urethra leading to the bladder. This causes an infection of the bladder resulting in pain of the lower abdominal area and swelling which is commonly referred to as cystitis. If the bacteria travel’s further up towards the kidneys, a kidney infection can occur. There are 3 types of urinary tract infections. These include the kidney (acute pylelone phritis), bladder (cystitis) and urethra (urethritis).

Symptoms of urinary tract infections in children include:
*The inflammation and irritation of the urethra and bladder
*Burning sensation and pain experienced during urination
*The persistent urge to urinate frequently
*The urine passed is often cloudy in appearance and is usually accompanied by a bad odour or blood
*Pain may be experienced in the lower abdominal area, side or back
*A mild fever may occur
*Your child may pass frequent small drops of urine
In serious cases of urinary tract infections the following symptoms may be experienced:
*A high fever may be experienced
*Persistent pain can be present in the back, waist or side areas
*Nausea, vomiting and shiver chills are also signs of a serious urinary tract infection
*In newborns the baby may experience a high fever or hypothermia. Jaundice and poor feeding are indication of urinary tract infection.
*Children often become irritable and they can suffer with loss of bowel movement which is often accompanied by loose or watery stools.

Common causes associated with urinary tract infection in children:
*UTI occurs when bacteria (E.coli) that lives in the bowel of the colon invades the urethra of the bladder resulting in an infection. The bacteria can enter due to poor hygiene as children have trouble wiping themselves after bowel movement.
*Young children are at a risk of developing kidney infection due to urinary tract infections. If the child has poor kidney growth, juvenile diabetes, spinal injury, aids or high blood pressure they are more susceptible to urinary tract infection
* UTI in children can also indicate an abnormality in the urinary tract such as a blockage
*Delayed trips to the bathroom or catheterisation (an insertion into the urethra to drain urine) can promote the occurrence of UTI.

Treatment for urinary tract infection for children:
*Seek medical help immediately where a qualified doctor can examine and diagnose your child. A urine test is often done to help diagnose the condition. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the condition.
*Ensure that your child consumes plenty of fluids especially cranberry juice.
*Use a hot water bottle to help relieve the pain in the abdominal, side and back areas
*Avoid the consumption of caffeinated beverages and spicy food as it can irritate the bladder.
*Encourage your child to take regular trips to the toilet
*Children especially girls should wipe from the front to the back to prevent the bacteria entering the urethra from the anus.
*Your child should avoid using perfumed products around the genital area

Tags:
No Comments »

Acute diarrhoea in children-causes and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
October 27th, 2009 by Editor

Acute diarrhoea in children is a common condition lasting for approximately 1-2 days. Diarrhoea is usually characterised by the excessive evacuation of watery stools. This condition is often caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic infection. Diarrhoea is dangerous in newborns and infants due to the dehydration often experienced as a result of fluid loss. Infants aged between 6-32 weeks suffering with diarrhoea cannot be vaccinated with the virus called Rotateq as it can worsen the episodes of diarrhoea. If your child experiences diarrhoea for more than 3 days it is considered dangerous and medical help should be advised.

What are common symptoms experienced during diarrhoea?
*Cramping of the stomach
*Pain is usually experienced in the abdominal area
*A lost in appetite
*A constant urgency to pass stools
*Fever may be experienced due to the onset of dehydration
*The passing of loose watery stools during short intervals
*Nausea can often be experienced
*Bloating can occur due to gas build up

What are the causes of acute diarrhoea in children?
*Food or water that is contaminated with bacteria can result in an infection leading to diarrhoea. The different types of bacteria include salmonella, shigella, E.coli, camplyobacteria.
*Rotavirus, Norwalk virus, Herpes simplex and viral Hepatitis are a few viral infections that contribute to diarrhoea.
*Certain parasites that enter the body through the digestion of food or water settle in the digestive system and colon resulting in diarrhoea.
*Children who suffer with food intolerance usually experience diarrhoea due to artificial sweeteners, colourant, lactose ingredients and certain prservatives.
*The side effects of certain medication due to overuse or long term use can lead to diarrhoea. These medications that are commonly related to diarrhoea include antibiotics, blood pressure tablets, cancer medication and antacid containing magnesium
* Intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease, colitis, inflammatory bowel disorder and irritable bowel syndrome often results in diarrhoea.
*Trips to foreign countries can lead to diarrhoea developing due to the risk of food and water contamination by bacteria, parasite or a virus.

Treatment and management for diarrhoea
*Due to the onset of dehydration, fluids and electrolyse must be replaced
*Stop using medication that is causing an aggravation in the occurrence of diarrhoea
*Avoid the consumption of caffeinated beverages, greasy foods, milk products, foods high in fibre and foods that can result in the aggravation of diarrhoea
*As the diarrhoea begins to subside, your child can consume foods such as toast, rice, crackers, steamed carrots or potato, banana.
*During travelling avoid drinking water from taps rather opt for bottle water where you can break the seal. Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables, meats shellfish and food from the local vendors
*Seek medical attention if:
-diarrhoea persists for more than 3 days
-severe pain in the abdomen or rectum
- High fever
-The passing of black stools or pus in the stools
*Medication should be prescribed by a qualified medical doctor as the dosage of medication differs from adults to children. The wrong dosage of medication can aggravate the condition of diarrhoea.

Tags:
No Comments »

Iron defeficiency anaemia in children

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
October 20th, 2009 by Editor

Iron deficiency anaemia in children
Iron deficiency anaemia is a condition affecting many children due to the inadequate intake of iron in the diet. This condition indicates an insufficient supply of oxygen to the body tissues and organs resulting in the decrease production of red blood cells. Iron deficient anaemia results when a disruption occurs between the production of the red blood cells in the bone marrow and spleen due to the inadequate intake of iron or through loss of blood due to injury or the early onset of the menstrual cycle.

What are the symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?
In healthy children anaemia can present itself with symptoms such as:
*Tiredness
*Dizziness
*Shortness of breath
*Poor memory
*Frequent bouts of colds and flu
*A pale shade skin colour
*Frequent infections
In severe anaemia the following symptoms are commonly experienced:
*Heart palpitations
*Angina
*Headaches
*Leg pains
Children suffering with long term anaemia can suffer with:
*Burning sensation of the tongue
*Dryness of the mouth
*Throat sores
*Dry brittle nails and hair
*Pica (A condition where the individual suffers with insatiable cravings such as sand, ice cubes and many other unusual things)

The causes of iron deficiency anaemia in children
*A decrease in dietary iron is common in vegans and vegetarians as the main source of iron is mostly found in red meat.
*Premature babies can develop iron deficient anaemia as the storing capability of iron is not completed until the end stage of pregnancy
*Loss of blood as a result of injury or the early onset of the menstrual cycle in young female children can often deplete the body of its iron stores
*Diseases such as crohns disease or gluten intolerance can cause a disruption in the body’s ability to store iron.

Treatment for iron deficient anaemia in children:
*The prescription of the daily intake of iron tablets will help to increase iron stores in the body whilst reversing the condition of anaemia. Iron tablets are to be taken after consumption of food to prevent an irritation in the stomach lining. The stools passed are often black in colour due to the ingestion of iron tablets. Diarrhoea or constipation can often result with the intake of iron supplements.
*Anaemia can also be resolved through dietary intake of iron. The sources of iron in food include liver (not to be consumed during pregnancy), egg yolks, lean meat, lentils, dried or tinned beans, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, dark green and leafy vegetables, seaweed, oatmeal, prunes, fortified breakfast, broccoli, asparagus, wholemeal bread, dried fruits, soya products and brown rice.

Tags:
No Comments »

Hay-fever in children- causes and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
October 13th, 2009 by Editor

Hay-fever is an allergic reaction of the immune system in response to foreign material such as allergens that invade the lining of the mucous membrane of the nose. This condition is usually seasonal and commonly occurs in the spring season. Also referred to as Pollinosis, hay-fever is an acute form of allergic rhinitis. Hay-fever usually presents itself at the onset of the pollen season with itching in the nose, palate, eyes and throat areas.

What are the symptoms of hay-fever?
*Bouts of sneezing that usually occur during the mornings
*A nasal discharge of a clear watery fluid that is usually followed by itching
*The child can often suffer with headaches that usually appear at the front of the head. This is due to the increased amount of pressure caused by the blocked nasal passages of the sinuses
*Due to the constant sneezing, the nasal mucous membranes appear bluish-red and swollen
*As the spring season progresses, coughing and wheezing may develop
*Irritability can occur due to the symptoms experienced by your child
*Anorexia, insomnia, and depression are common symptoms experienced by the hay-fever sufferer.
*Repeated nose bleeds are usually common in children suffering with hay-fever
*Snoring can often occur due to nasal congestion caused by the excess secretion of mucous.
*The occurrence of dark under the eye circles is also common in hay-fever sufferers

What are the causes of hay-fever?
*When a foreign allergen invades the airways of the respiratory tract, the white blood cells of the immune system produces antibodies. These antibodies fight off the foreign allergen invader. This reaction is referred to as a hypersensitive reaction.
*Seasonal hay-fever is often caused and aggravated by1or more of the following:
-Air borne fungal spores
-Weed pollen
-Grass pollen that usually occurs in summer
-Tree pollen present in the spring season
-Mould

Risk factors of hay-fever
*A genetic predisposition where Hay-fever is experienced by one or more family member
*The presence of nasal polyps (growths) in the lining of the nose
*The repeated exposure to the possible allergen that can cause or aggravate the condition of hay-fever.
*An individual who is already predisposed to allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma

The treatment and management of hay fever:
*The first step of treatment is to identify the allergen. Once the allergen is identified, the individual should avoid contact to prevent the bout of hay-fever from occurring
*Oral antihistamines are often prescribed to decrease the allergic reactions caused by hay-fever
*Tropical treatment can often be prescribed to alleviate itching eyes or the irritated skin area around the nose.
*The living environment should be kept free from moulds and other potential allergens.
*Desensitisation- Allows the individual to be injected with minute amounts of the possible allergen causing hay-fever. The allergen is slowly increased to allow the body to eventually become tolerant to the allergen.
*The use of steroid sprays help to decrease the inflammation of the nose linings.

Tags:
No Comments »

Constipation and fibre-causes and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
October 10th, 2009 by Editor

Constipation can often be defined when less than 3 stools are passed per week. This is due to a difficult, sluggish or less frequent bowel movement. During digestion as food moves through the colon it absorbs water to form stools. The contraction of muscles in the colon pushes the stools towards the rectum. As the stools reach the rectum it bulks up with the absorption of water, to form a solid mass. Constipation occurs when the stool becomes hard and dry because of a decrease in water absorption preventing the passing of stools out of the body.

The common symptoms of constipation are:
*Straining during bowel movements which can often lead to the development of haemorrhoids.
*The passing of hard and dry stools due to the inadequate intake of water
*Bowel movements that occur less then 2 times a week often indicates constipation
*A swollen or bloated abdominal area that appears hard
*Pain experienced on the abdominal region

Causes of constipation are commonly due to the following factors:
*Inadequate intake of water
*An interruption of regular bowel movement due travel, change in diet e.t.c
*A poor diet with a decrease intake of fibre contributes to sluggish bowel movements.
*The consumption of large amount of dairy
*Resisting the urge of bowel movement results in constipation and a possible development of haemorrhoids.
*The decrease in physical activities also contributes to constipation
*The overuse of laxatives weakens the colon muscles reducing bowel movement
*Conditions such as hypothyroidism, depression, eating disorders, T.B, colon cancer increase the risk of constipation.
*Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menstrual cycle have an increase in progesterone and oestrogen levels resulting in the reduction of bowel movement
*Medication such as calcium, contraceptive pill, antidepressants and iron play a role in constipation

Treatment of constipation:
*A well balanced diet with an increase in fibre intake helps in the management of constipation. Fibre is found in vegetables, legumes, wholegrain breads and cereals.
*Consume at least 6-8 glasses of water daily to prevent dehydration which can lead to constipation
*Avoid the intake of caffeinated drinks as their dehydrating effects can often lead to constipation.
*The consumption of warm liquids in the morning has a soothing and comforting effect on the tummy. This helps in the preparation of bowel movement
*The use of a mild laxative can help with a more frequent bowel emptying. Laxatives should not be used for more than 2weeks as the overuse of laxatives can worsen and aggravate the condition.

The role of fibre in the management of constipation:
*Fibre is a material made by plants which is not easily digested by the gastro intestinal tract.
*Fibre should be introduced in small quantities and increased every 1-2 weeks until the desired effect is achieved.
*The combination of fibre and water allows the stools to be easily passed through the colon as fibre adds bulk to the stools and the water softens the stools.
*The common side effect of fibre is the pass of gas as the bacteria found in the colon produces gas during the digestion of fibre

Tags:
No Comments »

Immunisations – Why immunise your child?

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
October 6th, 2009 by Editor

What is immunisation?
Immunisations are series of vaccines that provides protection to your child from life threatening illnesses. Vaccine is a virus or bacterium that is synthetically altered to prevent it from causing an infection or illness. This results in the stimulation of the body’s immune system to produce antibodies to protect your child from illnesses and diseases.

What are the routine immunisations?
*Polio (poliomyelitis) – This is a form of a virus that causes damage to the nervous system. Permanent paralysis and death can often result.
*Diphtheria – Is a bacterial disease that begins in the throat and spreads to the heart and the nervous system.
*Tetanus – A potentially fatal bacterial infection that can cause paralysis of the muscles.
*Whooping cough – Is a bacterial illness that is accompanied with a mild fever, violent coughing spasms which can lead to vomiting, seizures, and lung damage.
*Hib (haemophilus influenza B) – A bacterial infection that can cause meningitis, pneumonia and many other diseases.
*Meningitis C – This is a fatal form of bacterial meningitis.
*Measles – Is a virus resulting in chest infections permanent brain damage, meningitis and seizures.
*Tuberculosis (TB) – This bacterial infection affects the lungs.
*Mumps – Is a virus that causes swelling of the salivary glands. This virus can also cause meningitis and deafness.
*Rubella – This is a virus that can often result in birth defects in unborn babies.

At what age is a child immunised?
* At 2,3 and 4 months your baby is immunised with polio drops that is ingested and injected with a combination of Hib, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and meningitis C
*At 12 to 15 months your baby is given oral polio drops and is vaccinated with the combination of measles, mumps and rubella.
*At 5 years your toddler is administered with oral polio drops and immunised with 2 injections. The first injection is the combination of dipheria, tetanus, whooping cough. Measles, Mumps and Rubella viruses make-up the second injection.

When should immunisation be delayed?
* If your baby has contacted a mild fever with an illness, you should delay the vaccine until he/she is well.
*Consult a medical doctor if your child:
-has reacted to any of the previous vaccines
- suffered with a convulsion
-is under treatment for cancer
-has an allergy to eggs
-or has any disease that can weaken the immune system
*If you have any concerns regarding immunisation, consult your doctor

What are the side effects of vaccines?
*The insertion of the needle causes pain that lasts for a few minutes.
*Soreness accompanied with slight redness of the skin usually appears at injection site
*A small lump may occur and this usually resolves on its own
* The baby may suffer with general discomfort resulting in a restless nights sleep
*A mild fever may be experienced for a day or two after the vaccine.

Tags:
No Comments »

Toddler tantrums-coping with tantrums

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 28th, 2009 by Editor

Tantrums are commonly defined as an outburst of bad temper. As your toddler grows she/he begins to gain and assert her/his independence. Independence plays an important factor in your toddler’s emotional development as it allows your toddler to do things on her/his own increasing her/his self-esteem. Not all toddlers have tantrums but around 18 months, when they experience a surge of independence, difficult behaviour is common.

What causes tantrums and how can you overcome it?
*Tiredness- A toddler that has become overtired and exhausted finds it difficult to settle down especially at bedtime. A happy bedtime routine will help relax your toddler allowing her to feel calm and secure.
*Insecurity- Toddlers often suffer with separation anxiety which can last for months. It is a good idea to give your toddler a comfort object such as a blanket or a toy when you are unable to be with her/him. These objects will allow him/her to feel secure when you are unable to be around.
*Boredom- Your growing toddler spends more time awake then asleep which often leads to boredom. The attention span of your toddler is quiet short making it difficult for you to keep her constantly occupied.
*Frustration- Either your toddler is over ambitious in his/her daily activities or he/she is prevented by you in doing what he/she wants. It is important to recognise what your toddler wants and find as few reasons as possible for you to say no to him/her.
*Injury- Your mobile toddler is bursting with energy and is much more prone to falls. A little scratch can bring on serious sobbing. Always be sympathetic towards your toddler- he/she will forget about the injury faster if you comfort him/her.
* Teething-Between the age of 10 to 14 months your toddler’s molar teeth begin to cut through the gums. The pain of teething brings about a lot of discomfort making your toddler feel miserable. A chilled teething ring or a massage on the gums helps to alleviate discomfort and pain your toddler may be experiencing.
*Hunger- Due to the pain of teething your toddler may quiet often miss a meal resulting in a decrease in blood sugar levels. It is important to feed your toddler many small snacks during teething to prevent weight loss and irritability.
*Thirst- Your toddler may dehydrate due to the shortage of fluids making her/him more likely to be fretful and difficult to handle. Encourage plenty of fluid in-take –ideally plain water.
*Restriction of behaviour- Your toddler has developed new physical skills that allow him/her to explore the surrounding environment. However she/he can’t manage or is restricted in to do what she/he wants. This often results in tantrums as it is your toddler’s form of expression due to the overwhelming experience of frustration.

Coping with tantrums:
*It is important to understand your child as tantrums most often occurs when your toddler feels insecure or misunderstood. It is hard for your toddler to make himself/herself understood when he/she is unable to talk properly.
*Give your toddler lots of praise and encouragement when she/he behaves well. This will encourage her/him to behave.
*Be patient and do not expect to much from your toddler as her/his learning will be at a slower pace due to her/his short attention span.
*Redirect or distract your toddler when you notice a potential situation arising by singing or drawing her/his attention to the television.
*Allow your toddler a few choices like choosing his or her clothes from 2 of the sets that you have chosen. This will allow her/him to feel in control.

It is important to remember that tantrums are a part of your toddler’s development and not to take them personally as they are not aimed at you.

Tags:
No Comments »

Bottle feeding-tips and guidelines

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 27th, 2009 by Editor

The wide variety of milk formulas and information on bottle feeding ensures that your baby will be well fed. Milk formulas are available in many varieties from hypo-allergenic, lactose-free, cow’s milk protein-free, anti-reflux, soya bean protein feeds and many more.

Cleaning and sterilizing feeding bottles:
It is important to sterilize your baby’s bottle after each feed to prevent a built- up of bacteria from the milk of the previous feed. Rinse and then wash the bottle and teat separately using a brush to remove milk residue. The teat should be turned inside out and rinsed again to ensure the hole of the teat is not blocked. The bottle should be sterilized using one of the following methods:
*Boiling: boil the bottle and teat for 10 minutes
*Steam sterilizer: This method uses an electric sterilizer that produces steam to sterilize the feeding equipment. It takes approximately 10 minutes
*Sterilizing fluid and tablets: The feeding bottle and teat are placed in water containing sterilizing fluid or tablets for 30 minutes.

Preparation of a bottle feed
*Use cooled boiled water and the measured amount of formula into a sterilized feeding bottle. It is important to follow the manufacture’s instructions to give your baby optimum nutrition.
*Fasten the teat and place the lid on the mouth of the bottle. Shake thoroughly until the powder has completely dissolved.
*Bottles can be made up in batches and kept at the back of the fridge until needed. *Bottle feeds that are not used within 24 hours should be discarded.
*Babies under 1 year should not be fed with cow’s milk as it contains too little iron and vitamins. Cow’s milk is difficult to digest as it is high in protein and sodium

Feeding techniques:
*Baby’s milk needs to be warmed if it was kept in the fridge. The temperature of the milk should not be too hot as the baby’s mouth is sensitive to high temperatures. It is best to keep the milk at room temperature.
*To check the temperature of the milk test a few drops at the back of your wrist
*Tilt your baby in your arms to prevent gagging of the milk.
*Ensure the bottle is tilted so that milk covers the teat and baby does not draw in air.
*Do not leave baby unattended with the bottle propped in the mouth as this could cause him/her to choke. This also causes the teeth to decay and form cavities.
*Do not force your baby to finish her feed when she/he has had enough.
*Allow a maximum of 40 minutes per feed. The baby may need a break half-way through for a minute or two to catch his/her breathe before starting again.
*If you are able to hear the baby gulping the milk it is likely the baby is drinking to fast. This will result in discomfort and tummy cramps caused by wind. Adjust the flow of milk by selecting a smaller teat or adjust the angle of the bottle.
*After each feed your baby needs to be wind. The baby should be placed over your shoulder or on your lap and gently tapped on the back to release swallowed air.

How many feeds should a baby have?
The baby should be offered a feed whenever she/he seems hungry. Formula feed babies stay fuller for a longer period of time then breastfed babies. Bottle fed babies need a feed approximately every 3-4 hours.

Tags:
No Comments »

Boost your child’s immunity

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Dental Care Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 24th, 2009 by Editor

Hygiene: Good personal hygiene is essential to stop germs from harming your child. Encourage your child to wash his/her hands regularly as this is the easiest way to prevent the spread of illnesses such as colds and flu’s. Children need to wash their hands before meals, after using the toilet, playing outside or touching animals. This helps the body to defend itself against germs. To prevent the build up of germs and bacteria encourage your child to bath twice a day. Children need to have their nails kept short to prevent the build up of germs under the nails.

Dental care: It is important to brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a fluoride tooth paste. A daily flossing regime is also essential to remove plaque and food residue between the teeth. A balanced diet is important for oral health and should include vitamins, minerals, calcium, phosphorus and fluoride to help protect the teeth from tooth decay. When food particles remain in the mouth, bacteria starts to feed on it creating an acid that eats away at the tooth enamel. Encourage your child to brush his/her teeth especially after consuming sweets. Regular check-ups at the dentist is essential to maintain healthy teeth.

Diet: A diet that contains sufficient amounts of vitamin and minerals to sustain a child is important to boost the immune system and develop a healthy body. Children require more fat in their diet than adults as it provides energy for their rapid growth. The cholesterol contained in foods such as full cream milk is essential for brain development. During snack time including foods such as a peanut butter sandwich with a glass of milk or grated cheese on a muffin helps to meet your child’s daily fat intake. Restrict the intake of fat if your child is overweight. Protein should be included in every meal to provide amino acids essential for your child’s growth. It is also the building block for muscle development. Your child’s diet should comprise of a variety of different foods from the food pyramid. Kid’s need to eat frequently during the day as their meal portion size is small.

Exercise: Exercise is important in keeping the body healthy and fit to sustain a good immune system. Physical activity and a balanced diet will prevent and decrease the risk of heart diseases, cholesterol, diabetes and lower blood pressure whilst increasing a healthy immune system. Sport activities will help to boost your child’s confidence level and develop a positive attitude. An increase in energy levels allows the body to function efficiently.

Sleep: Sleep is as essential for development as a healthy diet and exercise. Insufficient sleep causes;
*Changes in behaviour
*A decrease in attention span
*Increase aggression
*A decrease in tolerance
*mood swings
*An increase in tantrums

Tags:
No Comments »

Asthma in children-prevention and treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 23rd, 2009 by Editor

Asthma is a condition that results in the constriction of the airways leading to the lungs. This results in the accumulation of mucous in lungs. Asthma is characterized by the obstruction and inflammation of the airways triggered with exposure to allergens such as pollen, viral infections (cold and flu), exercise, crying, screaming, laughing, dust, smoke and animals. Symptoms of an asthmatic attack includes coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, pain or tightness in the chest and insomnia due to difficulty in breathing. An asthmatic attack can be quick, mild or frequent and last from a few minutes to hours.

Prevention of childhood asthma:
*Children should avoid exposure to tobacco smoke inhalation
*Replace carpet with tiles to minimize dust accumulation on the floor
*Reduce dust exposure on linen with frequent washing of beddings and the regular use of plastic covers on the mattress
*Children should avoid the consumption of cool drinks containing sulphur dioxide and sodium benzoate as these ingredients can worsen the condition
*Avoid drugs that can aggravate an asthmatic attack. Some of these drugs include medications such as beta blockers and aspirin
*Food allergies are a rare trigger factor but milk allergies can affect children with asthma
*Children should avoid contact with furry animals. Cat allergies may persist for several weeks after the cat has been removed.
*Avoid outdoor areas that have an accumulation of mould, plants or compost heaps
*Minimize the amount of physical activity to prevent the onset of an attack

Treatment of childhood asthma:
Treatment involves preventing and treating an asthmatic attack. Recognize the triggers that stimulate asthma to minimize the severity of an attack. It is important to have asthma diagnosed by a qualified medical doctor to ensure an effective treatment in the management of asthma. Drug therapy enables your child to live a relatively normal life with a few adverse drug effects. A controller and reliever is the basic medication prescribed to be used at least twice daily to minimize the inflammation of the airways. These medications include seretide and symbicord. Babies and toddlers require a nebulizer which is a machine that turns the prescribed liquid medication into fine droplets. A mask is placed on the mouth area and the medication is inhaled. The main aim of the treatment is to alleviate acute respiratory distess without maintenance follow-up treatment the symptoms return within 24 hours.

Tags:
No Comments »

Childhood asthma-symptoms and causes

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 21st, 2009 by Editor

Childhood asthma is a chronic condition affecting the airways of the lungs. During an attack constriction of the airways and mucous accumulation occurs as the airways begin to inflame. This limits the activities of the airways resulting in minor coughs to serious flare-ups. Although asthma cannot be completely cured its symptoms can be treated and managed.

Symptoms and causes of childhood asthma:
The symptoms of an asthmatic attack can differ in frequency and severity. Some asthmatics may be symptom free with an occasional attack that is quick and mild, whilst others may have mild coughing or wheezing during an attack exacerbated by crying, screaming, laughing or external factors.
The external factors that trigger an asthmatic attack are:
*pollen
*smoke
*viral cold
*dust mite
*moulds
*Allergies to furry pets and cockroaches
*medication such as aspirin and paracetamol which can worsen or increase the risk of an asthmatic attack
Other symptoms include:
*shortness of breath
*Pain or tightness in the chest
*Insomnia due to shortness of breath
Although these factors stimulate an attack they do not cause permanent damage. When asthmatic attacks occur frequently it often indicates the condition is worsening. An increase use of inhalant medication is also an indication that asthma is worsening.

Asthma can be divided under 2 categories:
1)Genetic- The risk of developing asthma increases by 20% if one parent suffers with the condition. However if both parents suffer with asthma the child’s risk increases by 60%.
2)Occupational Asthma: This type of asthma occurs in adults who are not necessarily predisposed genetically to the disease but are susceptible to develop asthma due to constant exposure of external factors that stimulate an attack.

Risk factors of childhood asthma:
*Living along or around the coastal areas
*Residential areas situated near factories or chemical plants
*Children born at a low birth weight

Tags:
No Comments »

Toddler colds and flus

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 17th, 2009 by Editor

The common cold is caused by many forms of viruses that are a challenge to fight with one type of treatment as each virus differs in its structure. The flu is a contagious disease that is spread through coughing and sneezing and lasts for about 4 weeks. The cold affects the head area and last for 4 days to a week. The cold and flu boost your child’s immune system making her less susceptible to colds and infections as she gets older. Colds are not a serious ailment but if not taken care of it can develop into a secondary infection.

Symptoms:
*A blocked or running nose
*sore throat
*coughing
*aches and pains
*fevers reaching 38’c
*Headaches

Treatment:
There are no treatments to cure the cold or flu but there are remedies to alleviate the symptom while the cold and flu takes its course.
*Your child needs to have plenty of rest to allow the body to recuperate
*Paracetamol tablets or syrup is usually prescribed by a doctor to help control the fever
*Antibiotics will not aid with the flu or cold as it is designed to fight bacteria
*To relieve a postnasal drip elevate the head of the mattress with a towel
*Use an air humidifier to add moisture to the air and reduce nasal congestion making breathing easy.
*A blocked nose can also be alleviated by running hot water in the bathroom to create steam. When your child inhales the steam it will help unblock her nose
*A saline nasal spray can also be used to aid a blocked nose
*Soups are ideal as they provide fluid and eases nasal congestion
*Your child needs to have plenty to fluids to prevent dehydration
*Although your child does not have an appetite because of her symptoms, her appetite will return after a few days
*Increase your child’s immunity with fresh strawberries, papaya, apricots and guava as it boosts the number of infection fighting white blood cells

The flu vaccine:
*The flu vaccine is administrated yearly and consists of the common strains of the virus
*Once immunised the body’s immune system fights against the virus. The information of the shape of the virus is stored so when the body is invaded with the flu it is able to fight against it

Precautions with medication:
*Ensure that the medication that administrated to your child is suitable for her age
*Do not over dose the child to alleviate the symptoms. Always be advised by a pharmacist on the safety and dosage of medication
*You will need to call a doctor if -your child’s symptom has not cleared up
-Her temperature is not dropping
-Your child is producing a yellow or green mucus as this is an indication of an infection
*Do not get a flu vaccine if you are pregnant or just recovering from the flu
*Your child can be vaccinated and the dosage of the injection will be calculated according to her weight

Prevention:
*During the winter months when the colds and flu are common ailments increase your intake of vitamin c
*Keep the body fit with a healthy diet and physical activity
*Wash your child’s hand to prevent infections from spreading
*Limit exposure time with your child and individuals with the cold
*Change your child’s bed linen frequently
*Coughs and sneezes should be covered
*Discourage kissing between your child and ill family members to prevent a cross infection
*Do not allow the sharing of toothbrushes or eating utensils with an ill individual

Tags:
No Comments »

Food allergies in children

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
September 15th, 2009 by Editor

What is food allergy?
Food allergy can be defined as an oversensitivity of the body in response to a substance [allergen] that is either touched or ingested. Genetics play an important role if the parents have allergies. The type of allergy a parent suffers from may differ in comparison to the child’s allergy. A parent may have an allergic reaction to shellfish whilst the child may suffer with a pollen allergy. A child with an inherited tendency to an allergy will react only after being exposed to it. You can not become allergic to a substance at first contact.

What are the causes of food allergies?
Food allergies are caused by the reaction of the immune system. The body misinterprets a particular substance [allergen] as a foreign invader causing the immune system to react by producing antibodies to attack the substance or allergen. At first the ingested allergen may not cause a reaction but when exposed to the allergen at a later stage, the immune system releases large amounts of antibodies to protect the body. These antibodies can trigger an array of allergic symptoms that can affect the digestive system, respiratory system and the skin.

Symptoms of food allergies
*Diarrhoea
*Constipation
*Vomiting
*Gastric reflux
*Eczema
*A blocked nose and fatigue
*Formation of lesions on the skin
*A phlegmy chest due the over production of mucous

What are the differences between food allergies and food intolerance?
Food intolerance is the reaction of the body to certain foods like milk and preservatives. Food allergies are the reaction of the immune system to foods that are seen as a foreign invader. A large number of eating problems are related to lactose or protein intolerance. In certain cases children can out grow food intolerance and allergies by their teenage years.

Treatment of food allergies
*Note and check the family history of allergies as the child’s risk increases if both parents suffer with an allergy.
*Consult a doctor for a diagnosis and seek medical advice
*Notice and be aware of foods that trigger an allergic reaction
*Do a skin allergy test or a blood test to identify the trigger foods by a medical doctor. Blood tests measures the amount of allergen antibodies to the allergen in the blood
*Don’t eat foods that cause an allergic reaction.
*The child would be placed on a diet once the trigger food is identified.
*Foods that are commonly known for causing a reaction are peanuts, strawberrys, sesame seeds, milk, egg, wheat and sugar. However omitting foods such as milk, eggs, sugar and wheat from a child’s diet can impair their mental and physical development

Tags:
No Comments »

Healthy eating for toddlers

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 11th, 2009 by Editor

Food becomes a battle ground as mothers find that their fuss free babies have now become picky toddlers. You should not force feed your child as he or she will view eating in a negative light. As long as your child is growing and gaining the stipulated amount of weight for his or her age, your child’s health will not be at risk.

What type of foods should your toddler be eating?
*Although your child should be eating the same type of foods as the rest of the family, you still need to prepare his or her foods with a lower amount of sugar and salt
*Your toddler’s meal should include meals from the 5 different food groups. These foods groups are:
-meat, fish, poultry and eggs
-Dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt and milk. Include milk that is full creamed and not fat free
-Rice, cereals, whole grains, pasta and breads
-Fresh fruit and vegetables
-Fats and sweets that need to be eaten in moderation. Although this food group increases the risks of diseases in adulthood, fat is an important component in brain development in your toddler’s younger years

Tips for feeding time for toddlers
*Meal time must be made into a fun activity
*Sit with your toddler and enjoy eating together. You would find that certain types of foods that were previously refused will be appealing to your child if she or he sees you eating it.
*Make food look appealing. This will tempt your child to eat
*Although your toddler is able to eat on his or her own your toddler will be tempted to play with the food
*Rather give your child finger foods to eat while you spoon in the occasional mouthful
*Foods should be accompanied with water during meal time.

How to prevent choking during meal time?
*Do not leave your toddler unattended during meal times
*Be attentive and supervise your child when he or she is eating raw carrots, grapes, uncooked peas, hard sweets and other round hard foods as these foods can choke her
*Ensure that food is chopped into bite sized pieces. This allows your toddler to chew on the food comfortably.
*Guide your child during the intake of fluids as excessive amounts can be ingested resulting in choking.
*Children should be seated on a chair to allow the proper swallowing of food as a lying down position can promote choking.
*Water should be consumed after the ingestion of a few bites of food to prevent dryness of the mouth.

Tags:
No Comments »

Juvenile diabetes

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
September 9th, 2009 by Editor

What is juvenile diabetes?
Juvenile diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the sufferer in the childhood years. This condition occurs when there is an accumulation of sugar [glucose] in the blood stream resulting in a reduction of the body’s ability to produce insulin. Juvenile diabetes is incurable but can be managed with medication and a healthy diet. This condition also plays a role in the emotional state of the child as poor psychological well being and depression are affected. Children who are diagnosed with juvenile diabetes need to change their lifestyle by incorporating physical activities, relaxation and good eating habits to ensure a healthier future.

What causes juvenile diabetes?
*Being over weight causes an imbalance of blood sugar (glucose) levels resulting in an increase risk of developing diabetes in chilhood
*Diagnosed with conditions such as high blood pressure and cholesterol in childhood increases the occurence of diabetes
*Genetic factors play a role as if the parent or siblings suffer with diabetes the child’s chances of suffering with the condition is increased.
*Incorrect eating habits of children where the consumption of junk food such as chips,burgers and sweets are a norm

There are two types of juvenile diabetes mellitus:
Type 1:
This type occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin in the blood stream causing in an imbalance of sugar (glucose) levels. This results in the child becoming insulin dependant. A daily insulin injection is required to help balance the sugar levels in the body. The symptoms include an increase in thirst or hunger, excessive urination, weight loss and fatigue.

Type 2:
Occurs when there is a production of insulin present in the blood stream but the body can not sufficiently utilise it. This results in the accumulation of insulin in the blood. The symptoms include abnormal blood glucose levels, itching of the genital or rectal area, wounds and cuts that do not heal.

How do I manage my childs diabetes?
*To prevent blood sugar [glucose] levels increasing, your child needs to eat small sized portions of food more frequently during the course of the day. Ideally 6 meals a day is sufficient.
*Ensure that your child is taking the correct dosage of medication if he or she is prescribed with one.
*Medication should be taken at the same time every day
*Foods high in fats, sugar and salt need to be consumed in very low amounts. Children’s daily intake of sugar is often high as sugar is found in soft drinks, sweets, chips, cakes and processed foods
*The sugar found in the above foods contain no nutritional value except to supply energy which can be obtained from a variety of other foods
*Unrefined sugars contain more nutrients such as calcium, potassium, iron and magnesium
*Your child’s diet should include lots of fibre which can be found in cereals, raw fruit and vegetables, beans and whole grains
*Encourage your child to exercise daily as physical activities can balance sugar levels stabilising the levels for many hours after exercising.

If juvenile diabetes is untreated or poorly managed, complications can arise leading to heart disease, kidney disease and nerve damage. Juvenile diabetes must be properly diagnosed by a qualified medical practitioner to prevent or delay the above mentioned complications.

Tags:
No Comments »

Dehydration in toddlers

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
September 7th, 2009 by Editor

Water is a compound composed of hydrogen and oxygen. It is also the main nutrient in the completion of a healthy balanced diet. Water is essential for your child’s body to work efficiently. The daily recommended dietary allowance [RDA] for a child is approximately 6-8 glasses of water. This allows the body to function at its optimal level.

Why is water important in your childs diet?
*Water is an important structural component of the skin cartilage, organs and tissues making the body dependant on it
*The brain, blood, bones, muscles and kidney’s comprises of water. The functions of these components will deteriorate if they are not nourished with pure water.
*The foods we consume need to be moistened by saliva and digested in gastric juices. Water is the medium for these functions to occur
*Water provides a lubricating effect to help avoid friction between body parts such as bone joints
*Body temperature is regulated through evaporation of water in the skin
*Water maintains the body’s moisture such as tears, mucus and perspiration
*Without water the body will dehydrate

What is dehydration?
The average child loses water daily through perspiration, excretion and breathing daily. Dehydration is a medical ailment that requires prompt attention. Fluids are either given by mouth or intravenously.

Symptoms of dehydration occur when the body loses 5% of its total water volume. These symptoms are:
*Fatigue and lethargy as energy levels are affected
*General discomfort
*An imbalance of electrolytes and sodium in the body
*Disorientation
*Basic focus and short term memory are affected
*Headaches
*Dry skin
*Constipation
*Urinary tract infections
*Coughing
*Sneezing

Preventing dehydration in your toddler
*Ensure that she has at least 6-8 glasses of water daily. This would increase her energy levels and concentration span
*Include fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in water content such as water melon or cucumber

Why hydrate your child adequately?
*If your toddler is not properly hydrated the body will draw water from the blood stream.
*This results in the heart working harder placing it under severe pressure.
*The kidneys are unable to purify blood efficiently placing strain on the liver and other organs.
* Blood circulation and pressure, digestion and kidney function become affected.
*Continuous loss of water will result in the increase risk of contracting diseases

Although water is the largest nutrient in the body it is the first nutrient to get depleted. This essential nutrient is often not consumed daily resulting in adverse effects mentioned above. Water is the key element to your toddler’s nutritional balanced diet.

Tags:
No Comments »

Baby Teething – Symptoms and Treatment

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Dental Care Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 4th, 2009 by Editor

Teeth buds start to occur around eight weeks of baby developing in the womb of the mother. At birth the teeth buds start to mature in the preparation for the formation of teeth. First tooth usually appears between the ages of six to nine months. The teeth start to cut through the gums leaving the baby in pain resulting in night awakenings and a lack of sleep for both the baby and the parents.

(more…)

Tags:
No Comments »

The importance of a nutritionally balanced diet

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
September 3rd, 2009 by Editor

The knowledge of realising the healthy foods from the unhealthy foods is often learned from an early age. Children learn from those around them so to encourage good eating habits parents need to follow a balanced and healthy diet. The option of food chosen by children is often high in fats and low in unrefined carbohydrates. Children need to follow a balanced diet as it is the basis for a healthy future.

What is a healthy and balanced diet?
*A diet that includes 5 servings of fresh vegetables and fruits daily. These foods are rich in mineral and vitamins.
*Include a variety of foods from the 5 different food groups. The 5 food groups are: cereals, rice, pasta, breads /fruit/ vegetables /meat, poultry, fish, eggs / dairy and fats, sweets and oils
*Choose wholegrain and foods that are high in fibre like brown rice, wholegrain bread and popcorn
*Oily fish such as salmon and sardines are essential for brain development. They also contain omega 3 fatty acids which is important for brain functioning
*Portion size of food other than vegetables and salads should be kept small
*Diet should include saturated fats rather than saturated fats
*Starchy foods such as rice and potato should be the basis of most meals
*Eat peas, beans, lentils and soya as they contain protein which is essential for muscle development
*Skinless chicken, fish, milk, and lean meat should be consumed daily
*Consume a daily intake of 6-8 glasses of water
*Limit snacking. Allowing your child to consume a small snack before mid- day prevents her sugar level from dropping. This stops the cravings of sweets limiting your child’s intake of junk food
*Minimise the portion size of desserts
*Make sure what is on the child’s plate is part of a balanced diet. Half of the meal plate should consist of vegetables the other 2 halves should have protein and rich foods like carbohydrates
*Balance your child’s calorie intake and physical activity to achieve a healthy body weight

Foods to avoid:
*Food containing excessive amounts of fatty foods but don’t omit fat altogether as it is essential for your child’s brain functioning and development
*Use salt sparingly as a high intake of salt can lead to high blood pressure in adulthood
*Don’t drink cool drinks with meals rather opt for a glass of water
*Sweets and sugars must be consumed in moderation or omitted if possible

Benefits of following a healthy diet:
*Food plays an important role of our daily lives so choose foods to eat well as foods help in the development of our bodies
*Food provides nourishment and energy
*A healthy diet allows for the optimal functioning of the body
*Food helps to stabilise and regulate the levels of glucose, hormone and cholesterol

Tags:
No Comments »

The role of stress in children

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
September 1st, 2009 by Editor

The role of stress in children
A moderate amount of stress may not be bad as it increases concentration and alertness. It also creates additional energy your child needs to move forward. Too much stress can be overwhelming for the body to handle creating an obstacle in your child’s everyday life. When your child goes into stress mode the body prepares itself as it perceives danger causing the body react.

What happens to your childs body when it is under stress?
A gland in the brain called the hypothalamus activates physical sensations when your child response to something emotional. Under stress, your child’s body starts to exert itself with the widening of the pupils in the eye to accommodate more light. An increase in alertness is experienced as hormones are pumped into the blood stream. This causes your child’s heart to beat faster resulting in the blood pressure rising and muscles tensing. Digestion starts to slow down as sweat production increase. These physical reactions help the body to cope under times of stress.

How does stress affect your child?
*Blood pressure is elevated which can lead to hypertension in adulthood
*The releases of the chemical called fibrin, causes the clotting of blood.
*With the thickening of the blood, less blood flows to the skin and organs.
*The immune system becomes weak leaving your child’s body susceptible to illnesses and diseases such as colds and flu to cancer and heart diseases

How can I help my child to de-stress?
-Exercise: This is one of the active and fun ways to help your child de-stress allowing you and your child quality time to spend with together. A brisk walk or a ride on the bicycle is good cardiovascular activities. 30 minute exercise regime done on most days helps to curb the effects of stress.
-Relaxation: A word that is hard to be programmed into your child as all he or she knows is the hustle and bustle of coping with the activities of everyday life. Deep breathing exercises combined with yoga will help to induce the body in a state of relaxation. A massage, hot bath or listening to music may help your child to de-stress.
-Healthy eating: Your child’s diet should include foods that are rich in vitamins C and B and potassium. The B vitamins help to prevent illnesses and diseases such as cancer or heart disease. Vitamin B can be found in foods such as whole grains, green vegetables, oranges, pulses and beans. The C vitamin is an anti-stress vitamin that aids the body in the time of stress. It also helps the body fight against infections by boosting the body’s immune system. Vitamin C is present in oranges, sweet potato, kiwi and citrus fruits, tomatoes and cabbage. Potassium can be found in bananas, oranges and leafy green vegetables. Try not to include processed and fatty foods in your child’s diet. Minimise the intake of refined and sugary foods.
-Talking: Talking to your child will help alleviate the problem that is causing the stress. Professional sessions with a psychologist can help councell your child especially in times of trauma.

Stress is also linked to conditions such as:
*Insomnia
*Depression
*Sweaty and shaky hands
*Anxiety
*Loss of appetite
*Colds and Infections
*diarrhoea
*Teeth grinding
*Exacerbation of asthma
*Indigestion
*Itchy skin
*Rashes

Tags:
No Comments »

Benefits of breast milk and breastfeeding

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
August 29th, 2009 by Editor

The benefits of breastfeeding
*During breast feeding your baby feels close to you as she or he can hear your heart beating and feel your body warmth
*Breastfeeding provides frequent eye and voice contact between you and your baby. Baby sees best at a distance between your breast and face.
*Breast fed baby’s know their mothers as the sense of taste and smell are stimulated through breastfeeding

The importance of breast milk
*Breast milk is rich in nutrients
*Breast milk is easy for baby to digest
*Breastfeeding is the most beneficial and natural way of feeding your baby with the perfect food
*Human milk contains sufficient amounts of nutrients to sustain your growing baby
*Breast milk contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates that are important for baby’s development
*There is no milk formula that can duplicate the nutritional benefits of breast milk

Baby grows healthier as breast milk contains antibodies
*Antibodies protects the baby from diseases and infections
*Breast fed baby’s suffer from fewer allergy’s, colds and flu, rashes and ear infections
*Symptoms of allergies are more prominent in formula fed babies
*Breast milk neutralises bacteria and viruses that may infect the baby

Breastfeeding helps the uterus to shrink
*During each feed your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract and decrease in size.
*This allows the uterus to return to its normal size

Cost and convience of breastfeeding
*Milk is naturally produced by the mother making breast feeding cost effective and convenient
*There are no expenses incurred as you do not need to purchase bottles, milk formula or sterilising kits
*Breast milk is convenient as it does not require any heating or preparation
*The milk is always freshly produced requiring no refrigeration unless you are expressing the milk

Breast feeding encourages good mouth development
*Baby has good jaw development and alignment
*The muscles on baby’s face are strengthen

THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAST FEEDING

THE BENEFITS OF BREAST FEEDING

*During breast feeding your baby feels close to you as she can hear your heart beating and feel your body warmth

*Breast feeding provides frequent eye and voice contact between you and your baby. Baby sees best at a distance between your breast and face.

*Breast fed baby’s know their mothers as the sense of taste and smell are stimulated through breast feeding

BREAST MILK IS RICH IN NUTRIENTS

*Breast milk is easy for baby to digest

*Breast feeding is the most beneficial and natural way of feeding your baby with the perfect food

*Human milk contains sufficient amounts of nutrients to sustain your growing baby

*Breast milk contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates that are important for baby’s development

*There is no milk formula that can duplicate the nutritional benefits of breast milk

BABY GROWS HEALHIER AS BREAST MILK CONTAINS ANTIBODIES

*Antibodies protects the baby from diseases and infections

*Breast fed baby’s suffer from fewer allergy’s, colds and flu, rashes and ear infections

*Symptoms of allergies are more prominent in formula fed babies

*Breast milk neutralises bacteria and viruses that may infect the baby

BREAST FEEDING HELPS THE UTERUS TO SHRINK

*During each feed your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract and decrease in size.

*This allows the uterus to return to its normal size

COST AND CONVIENCE OF BREAST FEEDING

*Milk is naturally produced by the mother making breast feeding cost effective and convenient

*There are no expenses incurred as you do not need to purchase bottles, milk formula or sterilising kits

*Breast milk is convenient as it does not require any heating or preparation

*The milk is always freshly produced requiring no refrigeration unless you are expressing the milk

BREAST FEEDING ENCOURAGES GOOD MOUTH DEVELOPMENT

*Baby has good jaw development and alignment

*The muscles on baby’s face are strength hen

THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAST FEEDING

THE BENEFITS OF BREAST FEEDING

*During breast feeding your baby feels close to you as she can hear your heart beating and feel your body warmth

*Breast feeding provides frequent eye and voice contact between you and your baby. Baby sees best at a distance between your breast and face.

*Breast fed baby’s know their mothers as the sense of taste and smell are stimulated through breast feeding

BREAST MILK IS RICH IN NUTRIENTS

*Breast milk is easy for baby to digest

*Breast feeding is the most beneficial and natural way of feeding your baby with the perfect food

*Human milk contains sufficient amounts of nutrients to sustain your growing baby

*Breast milk contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates that are important for baby’s development

*There is no milk formula that can duplicate the nutritional benefits of breast milk

BABY GROWS HEALHIER AS BREAST MILK CONTAINS ANTIBODIES

*Antibodies protects the baby from diseases and infections

*Breast fed baby’s suffer from fewer allergy’s, colds and flu, rashes and ear infections

*Symptoms of allergies are more prominent in formula fed babies

*Breast milk neutralises bacteria and viruses that may infect the baby

BREAST FEEDING HELPS THE UTERUS TO SHRINK

*During each feed your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract and decrease in size.

*This allows the uterus to return to its normal size

COST AND CONVIENCE OF BREAST FEEDING

*Milk is naturally produced by the mother making breast feeding cost effective and convenient

*There are no expenses incurred as you do not need to purchase bottles, milk formula or sterilising kits

*Breast milk is convenient as it does not require any heating or preparation

*The milk is always freshly produced requiring no refrigeration unless you are expressing the milk

BREAST FEEDING ENCOURAGES GOOD MOUTH DEVELOPMENT

*Baby has good jaw development and alignment

*The muscles on baby’s face are strength hen

THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAST FEEDING

THE BENEFITS OF BREAST FEEDING

*During breast feeding your baby feels close to you as she can hear your heart beating and feel your body warmth

*Breast feeding provides frequent eye and voice contact between you and your baby. Baby sees best at a distance between your breast and face.

*Breast fed baby’s know their mothers as the sense of taste and smell are stimulated through breast feeding

BREAST MILK IS RICH IN NUTRIENTS

*Breast milk is easy for baby to digest

*Breast feeding is the most beneficial and natural way of feeding your baby with the perfect food

*Human milk contains sufficient amounts of nutrients to sustain your growing baby

*Breast milk contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates that are important for baby’s development

*There is no milk formula that can duplicate the nutritional benefits of breast milk

BABY GROWS HEALHIER AS BREAST MILK CONTAINS ANTIBODIES

*Antibodies protects the baby from diseases and infections

*Breast fed baby’s suffer from fewer allergy’s, colds and flu, rashes and ear infections

*Symptoms of allergies are more prominent in formula fed babies

*Breast milk neutralises bacteria and viruses that may infect the baby

BREAST FEEDING HELPS THE UTERUS TO SHRINK

*During each feed your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract and decrease in size.

*This allows the uterus to return to its normal size

COST AND CONVIENCE OF BREAST FEEDING

*Milk is naturally produced by the mother making breast feeding cost effective and convenient

*There are no expenses incurred as you do not need to purchase bottles, milk formula or sterilising kits

*Breast milk is convenient as it does not require any heating or preparation

*The milk is always freshly produced requiring no refrigeration unless you are expressing the milk

BREAST FEEDING ENCOURAGES GOOD MOUTH DEVELOPMENT

*Baby has good jaw development and alignment

*The muscles on baby’s face are strength hen

THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAST FEEDING

THE BENEFITS OF BREAST FEEDING

*During breast feeding your baby feels close to you as she can hear your heart beating and feel your body warmth

*Breast feeding provides frequent eye and voice contact between you and your baby. Baby sees best at a distance between your breast and face.

*Breast fed baby’s know their mothers as the sense of taste and smell are stimulated through breast feeding

BREAST MILK IS RICH IN NUTRIENTS

*Breast milk is easy for baby to digest

*Breast feeding is the most beneficial and natural way of feeding your baby with the perfect food

*Human milk contains sufficient amounts of nutrients to sustain your growing baby

*Breast milk contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates that are important for baby’s development

*There is no milk formula that can duplicate the nutritional benefits of breast milk

BABY GROWS HEALHIER AS BREAST MILK CONTAINS ANTIBODIES

*Antibodies protects the baby from diseases and infections

*Breast fed baby’s suffer from fewer allergy’s, colds and flu, rashes and ear infections

*Symptoms of allergies are more prominent in formula fed babies

*Breast milk neutralises bacteria and viruses that may infect the baby

BREAST FEEDING HELPS THE UTERUS TO SHRINK

*During each feed your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract and decrease in size.

*This allows the uterus to return to its normal size

COST AND CONVIENCE OF BREAST FEEDING

*Milk is naturally produced by the mother making breast feeding cost effective and convenient

*There are no expenses incurred as you do not need to purchase bottles, milk formula or sterilising kits

*Breast milk is convenient as it does not require any heating or preparation

*The milk is always freshly produced requiring no refrigeration unless you are expressing the milk

BREAST FEEDING ENCOURAGES GOOD MOUTH DEVELOPMENT

*Baby has good jaw development and alignment

*The muscles on baby’s face are strength hen

THE IMPORTANCE OF BREAST FEEDING

THE BENEFITS OF BREAST FEEDING

*During breast feeding your baby feels close to you as she can hear your heart beating and feel your body warmth

*Breast feeding provides frequent eye and voice contact between you and your baby. Baby sees best at a distance between your breast and face.

*Breast fed baby’s know their mothers as the sense of taste and smell are stimulated through breast feeding

BREAST MILK IS RICH IN NUTRIENTS

*Breast milk is easy for baby to digest

*Breast feeding is the most beneficial and natural way of feeding your baby with the perfect food

*Human milk contains sufficient amounts of nutrients to sustain your growing baby

*Breast milk contains proteins, fats and carbohydrates that are important for baby’s development

*There is no milk formula that can duplicate the nutritional benefits of breast milk

BABY GROWS HEALHIER AS BREAST MILK CONTAINS ANTIBODIES

*Antibodies protects the baby from diseases and infections

*Breast fed baby’s suffer from fewer allergy’s, colds and flu, rashes and ear infections

*Symptoms of allergies are more prominent in formula fed babies

*Breast milk neutralises bacteria and viruses that may infect the baby

BREAST FEEDING HELPS THE UTERUS TO SHRINK

*During each feed your body releases a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract and decrease in size.

*This allows the uterus to return to its normal size

COST AND CONVIENCE OF BREAST FEEDING

*Milk is naturally produced by the mother making breast feeding cost effective and convenient

*There are no expenses incurred as you do not need to purchase bottles, milk formula or sterilising kits

*Breast milk is convenient as it does not require any heating or preparation

*The milk is always freshly produced requiring no refrigeration unless you are expressing the milk

BREAST FEEDING ENCOURAGES GOOD MOUTH DEVELOPMENT

*Baby has good jaw development and alignment

*The muscles on baby’s face are strength hen

THE IMPORTANCE OF A NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED DIET

The knowledge of realising the healthy foods from the unhealthy foods is often learned from an early age. Children learn from those around them so to encourage good eating habits parents need to follow a balanced and healthy diet. The option of food chosen by children is often high in fats and low in unrefined carbohydrates. Children need to follow a balanced diet as it is the basis for a healthy future.

WHAT IS A HEALTHY AND BALANCED DIET?

*A diet that includes 5 servings of fresh vegetables and fruits daily. These foods are rich in mineral and vitamins.

*Include a variety of foods from the 5 different food groups. The 5 food groups are: cereals, rice, pasta, breads /fruit/ vegetables /meat, poultry, fish, eggs / dairy and fats, sweets and oils

*Choose wholegrain and foods that are high in fibre like brown rice, wholegrain bread and popcorn

*Oily fish such as salmon and sardines are essential for brain development. They also contain omega 3 fatty acids which is important for brain functioning

*Portion size of food other than vegetables and salads should be kept small

*Diet should include saturated fats rather than saturated fats

*Starchy foods such as rice and potato should be the basis of most meals

*Eat peas, beans, lentils and soya as they contain protein which is essential for muscle development

*Skinless chicken, fish, milk, and lean meat should be consumed daily

*Consume a daily intake of 6-8 glasses of water

*Limit snacking. Allowing your child to consume a small snack before mid- day prevents her sugar level from dropping. This stops the cravings of sweets limiting your child’s intake of junk food

*Minimise the portion size of desserts

*Make sure what is on the child’s plate is part of a balanced diet. Half of the meal plate should consist of vegetables the other 2 halves should have protein and rich foods like carbohydrates

*Balance your child’s calorie intake and physical activity to achieve a healthy body weight

FOODS TO AVOID:

*Food containing excessive amounts of fatty foods but don’t omit fat altogether as it is essential for your child’s brain functioning and development

*Use salt sparingly as a high intake of salt can lead to high blood pressure in adulthood

*Don’t drink cool drinks with meals rather opt for a glass of water

*Sweets and sugars must be consumed in moderation or omitted if possible

BENEFITS OF FOLLOWING A HEALHY DIET:

*Food plays an important role of our daily lives so choose foods to eat well as foods help in the development of our bodies

*Food provides nourishment and energy

*A healthy diet allows for the optimal functioning of the body

*Food helps to stabilise and regulate the levels of glucose, hormone and cholesterol

Tags:
No Comments »

Balanced diet for toddlers

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
August 29th, 2009 by Editor

The importance of a nutritional and balanced diet
The knowledge of realising the healthy foods from the unhealthy foods is often learned from an early age. Children learn from those around them so to encourage good eating habits parents need to follow a balanced and healthy diet. The option of food chosen by children is often high in fats and low in unrefined carbohydrates. Children need to follow a balanced diet as it is the basis for a healthy future

What is a healthy and balanced diet?
*A diet that includes 5 servings of fresh vegetables and fruits daily. These foods are rich in mineral and vitamins content.
*Include a variety of foods from the 5 different food groups. The 5 food groups are:cereals, rice, pasta, breads /fruit/ vegetables /meat, poultry, fish, eggs / dairy and fats, sweets and oils
*Choose wholegrain and foods that are high in fibre like brown rice, wholegrain bread and popcorn as they allow for regular bowel movement
*Oily fish such as salmon and sardines are essential for brain development. They also contain omega 3 fatty acids which is important for brain functioning
*Portion sizes of food other than vegetables and salads should be kept small. These foods include meat,fish and chicken
*Diet should include saturated fats rather than saturated fats
*Starchy foods such as rice and potato should be the basis of most meals as they provide energy
*Eat peas, beans, lentils and soya as they contain protein which is essential for muscle development
*Skinless chicken, fish, milk, and lean meat should be consumed daily
*Consume a daily intake of 6-8 glasses of water
*Limit snacking. Allowing your child to consume a small snack before mid- day prevents her sugar level from dropping. This stops the cravings of sweets limiting your child’s intake of junk food
*Minimise the portion size of dessert
*Make sure what is on the child’s plate is part of a balanced diet. Half of the meal plate should consist of vegetables the other 2 halves should have protein and rich foods like carbohydrates
*Balance your child’s calorie intake and physical activity to achieve a healthy body weight

Foods to avoid:
*Food containing excessive amounts of fat should be avoided but don’t omit fat altogether as it is essential for your child’s brain functioning and development
*Use salt sparingly as a high intake of salt can lead to high blood pressure in adulthood
*Don’t drink cool drinks with meals rather opt for a glass of water
*Sweets and sugars must be consumed in moderation or omitted if possible
*Try to avoided processed foods as they may contain preservatives and colourants which are unhealhy

Benefits of following a healthy diet:
*Food plays an important role of our daily lives so choose foods to eat well as foods help in the development of our bodies
*Food provides nourishment and energy
*A healthy diet allows for the optimal functioning of the body
*Food helps to stabilise and regulate the levels of glucose, hormone and cholesterol

Tags:
No Comments »

The importance of vitamins in your childs diet

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Feeding & Eating Parent Tips
August 26th, 2009 by Editor

Children are notoriously fussy eaters making it difficult for them to follow a balanced diet that contains nutrients for their body’s to function. Phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and amino acids are important for energy, growth, digestion, immune functioning and mental vitality. A balanced nutritional supplement would provide the daily required allowance of vitamins and minerals. This helps to assist your child to function at her full capacity.

Supplementation in a vegatarian diet:
*If your child is a vegetarian, you will need to look at other food sources to ensure that she is getting enough protein and iron in her diet.
*If eggs and dairy products are omitted from her diet it is advised to add a vitamin supplement in your child’s diet to ensure a healthy development
*Vitamin B12 and D, iron and calcium are the essential vitamin and minerals necessary for your child to function adequately

Function of vitamin in your child diet
*Improves concentration and mental focus
*The nutrients contained in the vitamin supplements are essential for optimal development in children as it helps to prevent or delay illnesses and diseases
*Vitamin supplements function as an enzyme to aid metabolic processes
*Brain power is increased by increasing your child’s concentration span. This allows your child to focus and enjoy learning

Why should supplements be included in your childs diet
*Kids are fussy eaters causing them to lose their weight. This results in the immune system slowing down leaving your child prone to infections and disease. Vitamin supplement will boost your child’s immunity aiding her body to fight illnesses.
*Vitamin supplements are required in small amounts by the body as they can not be manufactured in the body.
*B complex vitamins help to convert carbohydrates, fats and protein in foods into a form which the body can utilise as energy
*Parents with children that suffer with food intolerance will find that using vitamin supplements will complete their healthy diet as vitamins are a substitute that contains nutrients
*Children require additional nutrients to counteract the exposure to passive smoking and toxins that we encounter in our everyday life

Vitamin found in foods and supplements have an equally beneficial effect on the body as the body can not distinguish a synthetic vitamin supplement to the natural vitamins found in foods. A variety of nutrients are contained in the vitamins that nourish the brain helping it to improve focus and concentration. It is important to remember that supplements are not intended to replace the healthy food in your child’s diet. It simply acts as a back-up to ensure that your child is receiving the required amount of nutrients. They are available in different colours, shapes, flavours and in a chewable form leaving your child with no more excuses in taking her vitamins

Tags:
No Comments »

Toddler toilet training (during bedtime and outings)

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Nappy & Diapers Parent Tips
August 25th, 2009 by Editor

18 to 36 months are the ages your toddler would be ready to come out of nappies completely. Although she has completed her potty training successfully it is common for the occasional accident to occur. If you have already introduced the idea of potty training and she has watched you using the toilet, your child will be used to the idea of what to expect during toilet training.

Toilet training should be easier for both you and your child after the experiences of potty training. Some parents may skip potty training altogether and go straight to toilet training which may be easier and less stressful for your child. It may be a good idea to start with potty training to allow her to adapt easier to using the toilet.

How to train your child:
*Once your toddler is content with potty training she may be eager to use the toilet.
*To make the toilet accessible and easy she will need a firm stool placed next to the toilet to allow her to step onto and a trainer seat placed onto the toilet.
*Your child may feel comfortable with you holding her while she is using the toilet.
*Remember to teach your toddler how to flush the toilet and wash her hands with water and soap after using the toilet. This encourages good hygiene.
*Your toddler may be independent by been able to pull her pants up or down but she may still need to be guided wiping herself. For a girl it means teaching her to wipe from front to back especially after a poo to prevent the faeces from entering the vagina and causing a urinary tract or vaginal infection.
*Toilet training is a new skill for your toddler to learn, it is important to be patient and calm and expect accidents to happen.
*Always praise her for making an effort even if she did not do anything while on the toilet.
*The praise of a parent is all a child needs to become confident and willing to take on the world. Reassure your toddler when accidents happen, it is ok we will try again tomorrow.
*If many accidents occur it may be a sign that she is not ready to use the toilet. Leave the training for a week or more before trying again. It will take many tries before getting it right.

During outings:
*Minimise the chance of accidents by putting your toddler on the toilet before going out.
*Your child can use training pants as it absorbs accidents if any occurs.
*Dress your toddler in clothes that are easy for her to manage in like an elasticated pants or a dress.

Bed time training:
*Your child may not need to use a nappy during the day as she becomes comfortable with the idea of using the toilet.
*It is a good idea to put a nappy on for your child at daytime naps and at bedtime.
*Encourage her to use the toilet before going to bed.
*When your chid wakes up regularly with a dry nappy, it is safe to leave her without a nappy at night. There may still be accidents so put on a water prove covering on the matress

Tags:
No Comments »

Toddler’s dreams, nightmares and sleep terrors

Posted in Babies & Toddlers Hygiene & Personal Care Parent Tips
August 24th, 2009 by Editor

Toddlers are unable to communicate with those around them as their speech has not fully developed. Due to the barrier of communication we are obviously not aware of what they see or feel during sleep. As your toddler grows his or her speech begins to develop with adventurous encounters of their dreams.

What is REM?
REM is a brain wave pattern with rapid eye movement that occurs during the sleep process. There are four stages of sleep that your child enters. During REM the brain is active whilst the body is paralysed. 20% of sleep is spent in the REM stage. Babies and toddlers dream in this stage of sleep. During the first 6 months, babies spend more time in REM than adults.

Why is sleep important for your toddler?
Sleep is important for brain development in the early phase of your toddler’s life. Mental health is improved with a good rested sleep allowing the body to work efficiently. Your toddler’s verbal abilities begin to develop and your child is able to distinguish reality from fantasy.

Is dreaming important for my toddler?
Dreaming is important for the development of the brain and proper functioning of the body. Distinguishing the difference from dreams and reality occurs around 2 to 3 years. During these years dreams are more accessed. If your toddler is deprived of opportunities to dreams he or she can become severely stressed. Dreaming helps your child to metabolise the happenings of the day allowing him or her to prepare for what lies ahead.

What are the difference between nightmares and sleep terrors?
Nightmares contain frightening content creating anxiety and fear. This causes your child distress as she or he is able to recollect the content of the nightmare.
The common content of nightmares are:
*Embarrassment
*occurrence of bad things
*Being in danger
*A feeling of no control
*Injury
*Being attacked
These dreams may prevent your toddler returning to sleep

Sleep terrors differ from nightmares as your child is unable to recollect the content. Your toddler will often awake after the experience of the sleep terror with screaming or crying. Sleep terrors occur when your child gets stuck between the two stages of REM and NON-REM sleep. Your child may talk or scream in his or her sleep but are not fully awake or dreaming.

What can you do to comfort your child during bad dreams?
*Wake your child fully when a nightmare is experienced as this will allow your child to realise that she or he was having a bad dream
*Allow your child to feel safe ensuring her or him that the nightmare experienced is not real. Your presence as a parent will help to reinforce the feeling of safety
*Reading a book containing stories of nightmares and bad dreams or talking about the bad dream will help your child to deal with his or her fears and anxiety.
*A good routine is important for your child to follow ensures that your child has sufficient amount of sleep.
*A big hug and a kiss is always a sure way of returning security to your child.

Tags:
No Comments »