by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
The Health Benefits of Breastfeeding (for Mommy and Baby)
The way you choose to nourish your newborn is a personal preference. But, if you’ve chosen to breastfeed your baby, you have made a great decision. There are numerous health benefits for not only babies, but moms as well. Read on to learn all about how you can get off to a smart start from the very moment you bring your baby into the world!
Health Benefits for Baby
Most pediatricians recommend nursing your baby for about a full year. But, even if that’s not on your agenda, they feel that breastfeeding for even a short amount of time can be beneficial. How? The health benefits for your baby include:
Long Term Protection from Illness-A baby who is breastfed tends to be healthier overall. This is because your breastmilk is designed primarily for them, and it’s filled with everything your baby can possibly need. The milk’s enzymes and proteins help protect babies from respiratory infections, ear infections, and other illnesses a baby can develop later in life like Type 1 Diabetes, Celiac’s Disease, and even Crohn’s Disease.
Higher IQ-A controversial topic; many studies actually do show that babies who were breastfed have a higher intelligence level compared to babies who were formula fed. Studies also have shown that breastfed babies are more verbally proficient.
Promotes a Healthy Weight-Breastfed babies tend to be of a healthier weight, and are less likely to become obese throughout their life, but especially during toddlerhood and childhood.
SIDS Prevention-Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is a concern of all parents. But, breastfeeding protects against RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). This virus has been known to cause the lungs to inflame and contribute to SIDS, especially during the first few months of your baby’s life. Nursing combats this concern.
Helps Nourish Preemies-Since your breastmilk is specifically made and designed for your child, it can aid a premature baby in areas that they need to get stronger or more stable in. The milk adapts to your baby’s needs, making it richer and higher in necessary nutrients. Formula cannot do this!
Health Benefits for Moms
Moms can reap benefits from breastfeeding too! Among the most vital and valuable are:
Post-Partum Relief-When you breastfeed, your body releases special hormones (Oxytocin) that are known to aid in the process of shrinking the uterus. The uterus shrinks much quicker than a mom who formula feeds. In addition, moms who nurse also experience significantly less post-partum bleeding.
Rapid Weight Loss-Breastfeeding burns up a lot of calories. While your body is constantly working so hard to produce milk, nursing tends to speed up your metabolism; helping you get back to a healthy, pre-pregnancy weight. Contrary to popular belief, you are more likely to lose weight quicker, despite the fact that you are consuming extra calories to nurse.
Combats Cancer-In the long run, moms that choose to breastfeed are less likely to get pre-menopausal ovarian cancer, or even breast cancer. While you may not be thinking that far down the road, it is never too late to start!
Stronger Bones-Also relating to later in life; some studies report that women who nursed have a lower risk of post-menopausal osteoporosis. Nursing helps your bones absorb calcium more effectively, thus making them much denser.
Mentally Satisfying-Post-partum depression is real, and it affects many moms. Nursing helps combat the baby blues, thanks to all of the hormones your body releases. Some of them make your body feel euphoric, giving off a natural high. Breastfeeding makes you feel confident, powerful, and happier overall.
You have to make many choices as a parent. But, one choice you should consider is breastfeeding. It has a wide variety of health benefits for both you and your baby, and it is a true, bonding experience.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
When you first find out you are carrying an itty-bitty baby inside of you, you become very protective. One way to really make sure you nourish your fetus is by feeding it the healthiest foods that contain the proper vitamins and nutrients it needs in order to flourish! If you’ve just gotten a positive pregnancy test, read on to learn the best foods for both of you to eat during each trimester.First TrimesterThe first trimester is week 1 through week 12 of your pregnancy (or approximately the first three months). You should be loading your plate up with leafy greens like kale, broccoli, and spinach, which contain a huge amount of nutrients. Not only will you have more energy, but your baby will be getting lots of folic acid, which is great for brain and spinal cord development. Can’t stomach chewing any greens right now? Blend them into a smoothie and drink them instead. Also, be sure to consume at least 3 servings of fruit (strawberries, blueberries, oranges, bananas) and 3 servings of dairy products each day. Most doctors suggest consuming at least 400 mg of Vitamin D, at least 100 mg of Vitamin C, and 200 mg or so of Calcium. Your prenatal vitamin will help cover areas you are deficient in, but any doctor will tell you that they prefer to eat your vitamins rather than rely on a supplement!Second TrimesterWhen it comes to eating, just remember that slow and steady wins the race. You may be completely starving, but you only realistically need to consume an extra 300 calories a day (think 2 glasses of milk or a bowl of oatmeal). Chips, chocolate, and French fries certainly are tempting (especially if you’ve regained your appetite from morning sickness), but you have to make health conscious choices. In the second trimester, consider focusing on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help your baby’s brain development. You can munch of avocado, carrots, green beans, and peanut butter; to name a few. It is also important at this stage in the game to have a lot of variety on your plate at meal time. So, if you are having eggs for breakfast, consider mixing in spinach and some pasteurized cheese with a handful of cherry tomatoes. Skip the friend potatoes and opt for a slice of whole wheat bread with some almond butter. Meal planning should be a big part of your day, and you should also be drinking at least 10 glasses of water or more!Third TrimesterYou’re finally in the homestretch! Continue taking those supplements, drinking lots of water, and balancing out your plate with all colors of the rainbow. In the third trimester, you may be getting your taste for meat back. Add some chicken to your salads, indulge in a well-cooked steak (from time to time), and even enjoy a slice of salmon. Your body needs iron and lots of protein to stay strong and give you enough energy for the birthing process. You may even notice you are starting to crave some spicy flavors, which is fine; as long as it doesn’t cause heartburn (and even in some cases, spicy foods tend to jump-start labor toward the very end!). You may also be getting sick of the same healthy foods you’ve been preparing for every meal, so it’s time to get creative so you aren’t bored at mealtime and will be more likely to follow through on your healthy eating routing after your baby is born. Experiment with spaghetti squash recipes, oatmeal bowls, and even veggie-filled soups.Foods to AvoidMany doctors recommend avoiding some foods during any stage in your pregnancy. They include:Sushi (or other raw fish)Hot DogsProcessed Lunch MeatUnpasteurized cheese (Brie, Feta)Fish High in Mercury (Swordfish, Mackerel)These foods are more susceptible to harness harmful bacteria or high mercury levels, which can be a real threat to your fetus.Be sure to nourish your bump and feed your baby and your body only the best, from one trimester to the next. After all, you’re now eating for two!
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
Your second pregnancy may start out being similar to your previous one – the excitement of finding out the joyous news, the early nausea, that familiar fullness in your womb. But as your pregnancy progresses, you may be surprised at just how much has changed this time around. Here are 6 ways your second pregnancy is different from your first.
Your body is different this time
During your first pregnancy, your body changed in a myriad of ways, some permanent like lingering stretch marks or widened hips, and some not so permanent like a heightened sense of smell or extra body hair (thankfully). Your body remembers that it has been through this before, so you may find that you notice certain pregnancy markers earlier. As first-timers, most women start showing in the fifth month or so; in subsequent pregnancies women generally start showing much earlier, being unable to fit into their pants pretty much as soon as the stick turns blue. You are also more in tune with your body this time, so you may feel the flutters and baby kicks earlier and can easily distinguish between movement and Braxton Hicks contractions. Morning sickness may not be the same – you may feel less nauseous or even sicker than before. Aches and pains may be worse since this baby rests lower in your abdomen, and your body releases a hormone to relax your joints earlier this time. Each pregnancy changes your body in different ways, so your next one could be nothing like the first two.
Less fanfare
When you were pregnant the first time, everyone fawned over you, asked how you were feeling, held doors open for you and showered you with gifts and attention. Everyone was so excited for you and your upcoming bundle – you were treated like a princess! Cue the second pregnancy, and the reactions are much more muted. There isn’t as much interest in your condition and how you’re feeling. No one offers to carry anything heavy for you now that you’re hard-core into mommyhood, toting a toddler on your hip and a bursting diaper bag on your shoulder. You having a baby is old news. While you may be slightly disappointed that Baby #2 isn’t as celebrated as the first, it might be a relief to have a quieter pregnancy without strangers touching your belly all the time.
Tired…so tired
You thought you were tired during your first pregnancy. Ha! This version of you, the experienced one, the one who has been through sleep deprivation hell with a newborn and chasing a toddler around all day, laughs at how naïve you once were. When you were tired or had aches and pains during your first pregnancy, you could sleep in on the weekends, go out to dinner, or stay in bed and watch movies all day if you needed a time out. Fast forward to Pregnancy #2 – you are way too busy raising your first child to take much time to rest. You are constantly on the go, shuttling your eldest to activities, making snacks, potty training or helping with homework – taking a break is rarely an option. Exhaustion reaches a new level.
Less research and less planning
During your first pregnancy you researched everything. The best stroller, safest car seat, the most educational toys for your little one. You created an iron-clad birth plan that you insisted had to be followed down to the last detail and were packed for the hospital weeks in advance. This time, you’re not up on the latest dos and don’ts and baby must-haves – if it was good enough last time, then why change it? Your birth plan, if you have one, is much shorter because you now know childbirth never goes according to plan. In parenthood, flexibility is a necessity; you’ve realized you can’t plan everything and have learned the ability to go with the flow and take life as it comes.
You might be scared – but for different reasons
When you were expecting your first baby, you had a lot of fears about becoming a mom, about what childbirth was going to be like – there were a lot of unknown variables. Now, as a second-time mother you have been through this before, and although you know what to expect, you may have different fears of your own. You may be worried that you have forgotten what to do with a newborn or how you’re going to handle the sleep deprivation this time around. You may worry about how to handle two children instead of one and how your older one is going to adjust. You may be afraid that you’re going to develop post-partum depression again. And if your first childbirth experience was traumatic, you might be afraid of a repeat this time. These are all common and legitimate fears – but fortunately you can do something to help alleviate them. Speak to your doctor, midwife, or doula about your concerns so they will be able to address them and find solutions. Arrange help for the first few weeks as you recover and adjust to your new bigger family – people will be happy to pitch in and help out.
You actually forget you’re pregnant sometimes
First pregnancy: You know how far along you are to the day and practically to the minute. You know what fruit you can compare your baby’s size to every week and what organ is developing at each stage. Second pregnancy: At your appointment, the nurse asks how far along you are and you have to rack your brain to remember. Your growing baby is safe and sound in your belly, so your focus is on the well-being of your first child. Since you’re so busy taking care of someone else’s needs, you just don’t spend a lot of time thinking about it until – ouch – something hurts.
Being a mommy-to-be for the second time is a lot different than it was the first go-round, in many ways for the better! This time you have experience under your belt and the knowledge that you are a tough mama who can get through anything. You can have faith and confidence that you can handle any changes that come your way, and enjoy this exciting new chapter as you focus on bringing another new little life into the world.
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
Fall is a great time to be pregnant or deliver a baby. It’s the perfect temperature, it is host to a variety of outdoor activities, and it is simply a breathtaking time of year. One way you can embrace the season is by boasting some pregnancy trends. Read on to learn about the maternity items that are totally of the moment, as well as some great baby related items that your little bundle of joy will look absolutely adorable in or utilizing!
1. Bold Blazers
Fall boasts that in-between weather. Some days it’s warm, some days it’s cool (when you’re pregnant, your body temperature always fluctuates). In order to give your go-to denim jacket a rest, many expecting moms slip on a bold blazer. These blazers are highly structured and contoured (and not meant to be buttoned), serving as the perfect layering piece. Shop for a blazer that is featured in a rich eggplant hue; or hot pink tone in order to liven up any casual or dressy ensemble.
2. Floral and Suede
Many pregnant women are showcasing their fashion sense by pairing a floral printed, knee length dress with suede riding boots. Shop for a dress with an A-line silhouette; or look for one that has an empire waist to get a flattering but comfortable fit. Plus, the subtle texture on the boots complements the floral print beautifully, giving the overall look an androgynous feel.
3. Infinity Scarves
The ultimate fall accessory; infinity scarves are still going strong. Pregnant women are adding an infinity to their week day or week end wear to draw the eye upward and take attention away from a bulging belly and their bottom half. Many are wearing an infinity scarf with a comfortable knit tee and quilted vest. An added bonus of this fall item? You can use it as a cover up when you’re nursing your baby. Talk about function and fashion!
4. Baby Moccasins
Moms and Moms-to-be aren’t the only ones who can show off their keen fashion sense! Babies can also get into the fall spirit by sliding on a pair of moccasins. These soft and trendy booties are highly cute and highly comfortable. Be sure to pair them with skinny fit baby jeans or jogger style pants!
5. Adventure Themes
Many of the top baby retailers are turning to an adventure theme when designing their fall baby line. Keep your eyes peeled for unisex items that include bow and arrow prints (in a variety of colors), sassy sayings (like, “Rebel” or the general term, “Adventure”), and also Where the Wild Things Are inspired crown prints and shapes from the beloved children’s book.
So many trends, so little time! These five fashion items are a must for both mom and baby this season. Whether you are expecting or have just delivered, you can embrace the season of fall by dressing the part and enjoying the sights all around you!
by Tanvir | Jun 8, 2025 | Uncategorized
The holiday season gives us all an opportunity to connect with gratitude. I can’t think of there anything to be more thankful more than being pregnant during the holiday season Think about it: You’re having a baby. Right now, a little one is growing and developing inside of you. S/he is tucked snugly underneath your heart and waiting to meet everyone who loves them and is waiting for them on this side of the Earth. Of course, here’s more to the holiday than being grateful for the bun in your oven. As we count our blessings, let’s also think of ways to stay comfortable while pregnant during the holidays.
Autumn and Thanksgiving
Who doesn’t love autumn? If you’re lucky enough to watch the leaves change color, begin to fall and crunch underneath your feet count your blessings. As the air cools, many people start to think of football and turkey legs. Of course, not everyone loves football, but the season brings us a new kind of cozy nesting time, so similar to pregnancy for many women.
In my house, Thanksgiving brings the season together. I love the scent of pumpkin pie in the oven. I find extra whipped cream to be a necessity when you’re pregnant. Around here, we think that the perfect pie crust can only be formed with copious amounts of love and butter? Personally, I think pumpkin pie should be eaten year-round, but the appeal of it and the scent that is evokes as it wafts through your family’s house as soon as you walk through the front door on Thanksgiving is hard to beat. It screams “Hey, autumn and football and turkey legs are here!”
Pie aside, Thanksgiving dinner is a thing dreams are made of. It’s sumptuous. It invites everyone to congregate, laugh and revel in the splendor that is heaping piles of mashed potatoes, perfectly browned turkey skin and gravy covering it all. Don’t forget the stuffing. In some sects, it may be better-recognized as dressing. Whatever one calls it, there’s never a better excuse to eat a bunch of gravy-soaked bread than Thanksgiving time.
When you are pregnant, thanksgiving dinner brings some great opportunities and a few challenges. Here are things to love and ways to stay comfortable at your thanksgiving feast:
Stretch Pants
Loosened belt buckles and unbuttoned pants are among the hallmarks of thanksgiving. Those people have it rough. They might be able to loosen the grip their jeans have on them long enough to squeeze in one more slice of turkey or helping of green bean casserole, but that’s all.
The pregnant woman gets to bring her best pair of maternity leggings to the dinner table and enjoy as many helpings as she wants. Seriously, this is the only time it’s going to be acceptable by your entire family that you want seconds and thirds. Go for it. No one will say a word. Best of all, your pants won’t cut off your circulation.
Word to the wise, if heartburn and indigestion plague you, eat slowly. Graze all day if you must — as much as one can graze on mounds of fluffy whipped potatoes. Eating a few papaya enzymes before you indulge can be helpful, too. But mostly, it’s the stretch pants.
Nap Time
You know that folktale about Thanksgiving being the perfect day for the men to stuff their faces and fall asleep watching football?, It’s no folktale. Turkey contains high levels of tryptophan, which makes us sleepy. You get to be one of the boys this year. After all the protein and pie
your little heart and big belly desires, feel free to slip away and lie down for a bit. Mommas-to-be need their rest! You have the perfect excuse.
One of the Boys
For better or worse, in traditional American family, most of the women end up in the kitchen on Thanksgiving Day removing gizzards and preparing a feast fit for all the kings waiting in the family room watching the big game. This year, take a load off. It’s not great for your circulation or baby to be on your feet all day like that. Take a breather and catch up with Dad and your favorite uncle. If you do find yourself in the kitchen, make sure your focus is on taste-testing for the other ladies in your family more so than it is peeling potatoes and basting meats.
If horseshoes and turkey frying are part of the equation, take that belly outside and enjoy the crisp air that immediately puts the kibosh on your estrogen-fueled hot flashes. Alright, maybe steer clear of the turkey fryer, but lend a hand when it’s time to test the skin for the perfect crispness. Take to Pinterest and find yourself a mocktail recipe that will make you fit right in with your beer guzzling relatives.
The Experienced Mom
If this isn’t your first pregnancy, delight in the fact that you are big and pregnant and it’s hot in this house. Step outside and take a walk. Leave the little ones with Dad and grab a break for yourself. Let them enjoy playing with cousins and grandparents, aunts and uncles. In other words, let everyone else keep an eye on your kids. That’s part of what this holiday is about. If your supermom cousin just had her first, make sure to pass on the tradition and let her know.
If this is your last pregnancy, dig in! Dig into the food, sink into the comfy sofa, and fall in love with autumn and football and Thanksgiving. Baby will be here soon and you’ll be longing for a day when you got to eat your food hot. Next year will be a completely different story!
Written by Danielle Bosley; edited by Donna Harel Kirschner
