Posts
Well, another year has passed by...how quickly time flies when your busy and having fun! Our little family certainly has had it's challenges this year, but as always, you learn and grow from life's experiences. I feel that this year, more then ever, we "made alot of lemonade, when life threw us those lemons!". However, we are so blessed on so many levels - we have a smart, healthy, adorable baby boy; a loving and supportive family; and many wonderful and exciting career opportunities. And, we are so thankful that we have eachother; a strong and loving marriage keeps us positive during times of discouragement.
Our family's resolutions include buying our dehydrator and starting to make our our crackers, chips, granola, cookies and more! This is a great way to know EXACTLY what is in your food and keep it healthy. The other is to add more running and biking to our routine, now that it is cooler out. Nolan will be starting preschool 2-3 mornings a week, Avery will be starting his new job and I will work on continuing to grow my business and continue my education. Good things are happening!
Tonight will be a quite one, as our family spends some much needed quality time alone. We will reflect back on 2010, say good-bye to this year of our lives...and welcome 2011 with open arms!
12.27.2010
Family Yoga @ the Civic Center
Family Yoga at the PSL Civic Center on Saturday, December 11, 2010. Awesome day with some great families. We are looking to do this class more regular, possibly once a month or more! This class is for all ages, approx. 5 years old and up! Moms, dads, teens, grandparents...anyone can partcipate. Come ready to laugh and have fun! Here are some pics...
12.20.2010
Beat the Flu - Naturally!
This is a great article! I have added my own comments to it (in red). Our family has been following these recommendations along with others for several years now. Although both my husband and I work with the public all day everyday, we never get the flu! And, if we feel the onset of a cold coming on, we beat it - naturally - within a few days. No missed work or doctor visits (two expenses that most people can not afford!) Nolan has also never been sick, even though he is also around people everyday and in a daycare often. Staying healthy is not because of "luck" or "good genes". It is because you take an active role in your health and make proper lifestyle choices. Educate and empower.
The following message was written by Dr. Vinay Goyal is an MBBS,DRM,DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist), having clinical experience of over 20 years. He has worked in institutions like Hinduja Hospital , Bombay Hospital , Saifee Hospital , Tata Memorial, etc. Presently, he is heading our Nuclear Medicine Department and Thyroid clinic at Riddhivinayak Cardiac and Critical Centre, Malad (W):
The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible not coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is. While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu): 1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications). Remember regular soap and warm water for 60 sec is all it takes. Don't over do it with the "antibacterial" soaps or wipes/hand sanitizers. They dry out your skin, causing microscopic cracks in the skin for bacteria to enter the body. They also kill the "good" bacteria on your skin that we need to stay well. 2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap). 3. *Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). *H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method. You can also gargle with warm water and a drop of Tea Tree oil - a natural anti-bacterial product. 4. Similar to 3 above, *clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. *Not everybody may be good at using a Neti pot, but *blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton swabs dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.* A Neti Pot costs about $10.00 - well worth it and easy to use! 5. *Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C. *If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption. On a side note, you should always be eating nutrient-dense food to keep immune system healthy. Avoid sugars, or anything with a lot of sugar in it. It will suppress your immune system even more! Especially when you are getting sick, load up of fresh, raw greens, beets, carrots, berries. 6. *Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can - sans sugar! *Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm. Hot water with a bit of lemon will ward off bacteria and soothe the throat. Six simple steps to stay healthy!
On top of that - get plenty of sleep, de-stress (yoga does wonders!), eat well ( a green smoothie a day will keep the flu away!), exercise everyday and get regular chiropractic adjustments, especially if you feel a cold coming on. Remember, the nervous system controls everything in the body; every cell, muscle, tissue and organ, including the immune system. Chiropractors are expects of the nervous system, which is housed in the spine...eat well, move well, think well...
Our family does not get the flu shot. We have not done that for the past 15+ years. I personally think it is a waste of time, money and actually does more harm then good. I'm sure the CDC does their best, but there are over 600 strains of the flu and they can only put what they suspect will be the top few strains for that year in the vaccine. Are vaccines really safe? Is the exposure to mercury, aluminum and other harmful chemicals really worth not getting the flu (which you probably will get anyway, even if you DO get the vaccine, but DON'T follow the above advice!) It is OK to get sick - you actually build up your immune system that way.
The following message was written by Dr. Vinay Goyal is an MBBS,DRM,DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist), having clinical experience of over 20 years. He has worked in institutions like Hinduja Hospital , Bombay Hospital , Saifee Hospital , Tata Memorial, etc. Presently, he is heading our Nuclear Medicine Department and Thyroid clinic at Riddhivinayak Cardiac and Critical Centre, Malad (W):
The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible not coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is. While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu): 1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications). Remember regular soap and warm water for 60 sec is all it takes. Don't over do it with the "antibacterial" soaps or wipes/hand sanitizers. They dry out your skin, causing microscopic cracks in the skin for bacteria to enter the body. They also kill the "good" bacteria on your skin that we need to stay well. 2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap). 3. *Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). *H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method. You can also gargle with warm water and a drop of Tea Tree oil - a natural anti-bacterial product. 4. Similar to 3 above, *clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. *Not everybody may be good at using a Neti pot, but *blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton swabs dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.* A Neti Pot costs about $10.00 - well worth it and easy to use! 5. *Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C. *If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption. On a side note, you should always be eating nutrient-dense food to keep immune system healthy. Avoid sugars, or anything with a lot of sugar in it. It will suppress your immune system even more! Especially when you are getting sick, load up of fresh, raw greens, beets, carrots, berries. 6. *Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can - sans sugar! *Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm. Hot water with a bit of lemon will ward off bacteria and soothe the throat. Six simple steps to stay healthy!
On top of that - get plenty of sleep, de-stress (yoga does wonders!), eat well ( a green smoothie a day will keep the flu away!), exercise everyday and get regular chiropractic adjustments, especially if you feel a cold coming on. Remember, the nervous system controls everything in the body; every cell, muscle, tissue and organ, including the immune system. Chiropractors are expects of the nervous system, which is housed in the spine...eat well, move well, think well...
Our family does not get the flu shot. We have not done that for the past 15+ years. I personally think it is a waste of time, money and actually does more harm then good. I'm sure the CDC does their best, but there are over 600 strains of the flu and they can only put what they suspect will be the top few strains for that year in the vaccine. Are vaccines really safe? Is the exposure to mercury, aluminum and other harmful chemicals really worth not getting the flu (which you probably will get anyway, even if you DO get the vaccine, but DON'T follow the above advice!) It is OK to get sick - you actually build up your immune system that way.
12.17.2010
Holiday Pumpkin Pie
I love when I can bake something completely homemade. I love that is usually does not look "perfect", as some of the store bought items so, as it is a work of art. I love that I know exactly what is in it and I can substitute ingredients as needed for my family. And, I love that I am eating REAL food! My goal this year to eat more raw, and with my Christmas gift a dehydrator, I am excited to meet that goal head-on!
I just made this Pumpkin Pie! It is so good, and so easy. Do not use that Libby stuff, or a premade pie crust. Use the real thing - your body will thank you!
Vegan Pumpkin Pie
20 min prep / 1 hour cooking + pumpkin cooking time (45min) + pie crust cook time (10 min)
1 medium Pumpkin (1 ¾ C cooked)
¾ C Almond butter
¼ C Almond/rice milk
¼ C Maple syrup
¼ C Sucanat or organic sugar
2 Tbl Arrowroot powder
½ tsp Vanilla extract
¼ tsp Cardamom ground
¼ tsp Cinnamon ground
¼ tsp Nutmeg ground
1. Preheat oven to 350°. Cut pumpkin in half and remove the seeds. Place face down on a well oiled or parchment paper lined baking pan. Bake until a knife easily goes through the skin and the flesh of the pumpkin, approximately 45 minutes.
2. While Pumpkin is cooking, make pie crust.
2 C Spent Flour
1/4 C Sucanat or Organic Sugar
1 Tbl Arrowroot powder
1 tsp Baking Powder
1/4 tsp Cardamom ground
1/4 tsp Sea Salt, or to taste
1/3 C Oil (coconut or olive)
2 Tbl Maple Syrup
2 Tbl Apple Juice
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Mix dry ingredients together in large bowl. Mix wet ingredients in separate bowl. Add wet to dry, mixing well with hands, making sure all ingredients are well blended. Press into the bottom of 9"pie tin. Bake for 10 min.
2. When pumpkin is done, scoop out approx. 1 ¾ C pumpkin, place in food processor or blender with remaining ingredients and process or blend until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into pie crust and bake until top is firm to touch, approximately 1 hour. Filling may puff up and rise above crust line as it bakes. It will fall back down as it cools.
ENJOY!!
Vegan Fusion World Cuisine: Extraordinary Recipes & Timeless Wisdom from the Celebrated Blossoming Lotus Restaurants
I just made this Pumpkin Pie! It is so good, and so easy. Do not use that Libby stuff, or a premade pie crust. Use the real thing - your body will thank you!
Vegan Pumpkin Pie
20 min prep / 1 hour cooking + pumpkin cooking time (45min) + pie crust cook time (10 min)
1 medium Pumpkin (1 ¾ C cooked)
¾ C Almond butter
¼ C Almond/rice milk
¼ C Maple syrup
¼ C Sucanat or organic sugar
2 Tbl Arrowroot powder
½ tsp Vanilla extract
¼ tsp Cardamom ground
¼ tsp Cinnamon ground
¼ tsp Nutmeg ground
1. Preheat oven to 350°. Cut pumpkin in half and remove the seeds. Place face down on a well oiled or parchment paper lined baking pan. Bake until a knife easily goes through the skin and the flesh of the pumpkin, approximately 45 minutes.
2. While Pumpkin is cooking, make pie crust.
2 C Spent Flour
1/4 C Sucanat or Organic Sugar
1 Tbl Arrowroot powder
1 tsp Baking Powder
1/4 tsp Cardamom ground
1/4 tsp Sea Salt, or to taste
1/3 C Oil (coconut or olive)
2 Tbl Maple Syrup
2 Tbl Apple Juice
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Mix dry ingredients together in large bowl. Mix wet ingredients in separate bowl. Add wet to dry, mixing well with hands, making sure all ingredients are well blended. Press into the bottom of 9"pie tin. Bake for 10 min.
2. When pumpkin is done, scoop out approx. 1 ¾ C pumpkin, place in food processor or blender with remaining ingredients and process or blend until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into pie crust and bake until top is firm to touch, approximately 1 hour. Filling may puff up and rise above crust line as it bakes. It will fall back down as it cools.
ENJOY!!
Vegan Fusion World Cuisine: Extraordinary Recipes & Timeless Wisdom from the Celebrated Blossoming Lotus Restaurants
12.14.2010
Healthy, Delicious Comfort Food
Here is another tummy-warming dish we made last night. Super easy, and super healthy. You can increase/decrease the quantities depending on how much you want to make.
(1) Cup dry Quinoa or Rice
(1) Whole Yam
(1-2) Chicken Breasts
Onions/Scallions
Can or Dried Cannolli Bean (or any other beans you like)
Cook the Quinoa. Dice and boil the Yam until medium soft (not mushy). In large frying pan or wok, add coconut oil and start to cook chicken. When the chicken is about half cooked, add in onions/scallions, any other veggies you like (broccoli is great!), quinoa/rice and yams. Add in about 2 tbs. Lemon Juice (or more if needed), Curry Powder, Cinnamon and Cayenne Powder to taste. (We like it spicy!!) Stir well, cover and let cook. More spices can be added as it cooks. When chicken is completely done, remove from heat and ENJOY!!!
The Quinoa, Beans and Chicken are a great source of protein. Since protein breaks down more slowly in the body, it generates energy (and HEAT!) for a longer time. All the spices are ANTI-CANCER, and the Yam has tons of fiber, Vitamin A and C. Nolan loved this....and hubby and I enjoyed it with a beer!
(1) Cup dry Quinoa or Rice
(1) Whole Yam
(1-2) Chicken Breasts
Onions/Scallions
Can or Dried Cannolli Bean (or any other beans you like)
Cook the Quinoa. Dice and boil the Yam until medium soft (not mushy). In large frying pan or wok, add coconut oil and start to cook chicken. When the chicken is about half cooked, add in onions/scallions, any other veggies you like (broccoli is great!), quinoa/rice and yams. Add in about 2 tbs. Lemon Juice (or more if needed), Curry Powder, Cinnamon and Cayenne Powder to taste. (We like it spicy!!) Stir well, cover and let cook. More spices can be added as it cooks. When chicken is completely done, remove from heat and ENJOY!!!
The Quinoa, Beans and Chicken are a great source of protein. Since protein breaks down more slowly in the body, it generates energy (and HEAT!) for a longer time. All the spices are ANTI-CANCER, and the Yam has tons of fiber, Vitamin A and C. Nolan loved this....and hubby and I enjoyed it with a beer!
11.30.2010
My Birth Story - Part 4
OK....about 6 weeks to go and this baby is head up! We got an ultrasound to confirm. The tech casually says, "Don't worry, you still have 6 weeks, plenty of time for it to flip". Yeah right, I'm thinking. There is barely room in there for the baby, let along room for it to move much. And it's growing by the day! All the beautiful, romantic thoughts of my perfect birth start to melt away. All I can now see in my mind is a big, red, ugly word: "C-Section".
Michelle re-assures us that there is still time, but we need to act quickly with our interventions. She gave us a list of things to try to turn a breech baby. Our shot-gun approach included: Chiropractic adjustments, Acupuncture, moxabustion, herbs, hypnosis, visualization, pelvis tilts, sifting, hanging up-side down, flips in the pool - even cold potatoes and flash lights! (theory is to put something cold by the baby's head and it will move away from it, and towards the light). Amazingly, when we did several of these techniques, especially the chiropractic, acupuncture and hypnosis, the baby DID move! It started to shift head down about half way around, but then stopped, and moved back to where it was. We later learned there could have been a number of factors preventing it from turning all the way, such as placenta or cord location.
(moxabustion)
(sifting)
(chiropractic)
My new mission was to get this baby turned! It was on my mind all the time. And, unfortunately, that stressed me out. We continued all of our interventions, hoping that something would work. I was so discouraged when people told me they had a breech baby, did one pelvic tilt and the baby turned. Or a medical professional who said they had a 90% success rate, but no, not successful for me! I was glad we exhausted all our options, though. I would not be at peace knowing we did not try everything!
The last several weeks of my pregnancy were filled with worry. After discussing our situation with many professionals, and alot of thinking and praying, Avery and I decided to go for an elective C-Section if the baby did not turn. If a baby is breech, especially a Frank breech as our was (both legs up straight), there are chances for complications or even serious injury to the baby. Hip and shoulder dislocations, or even a broken collarbone. I would rather have a c-section, and have the baby breastfeeding immediately and get out of the hospital, then the baby stay in the hospital with an injury and miss out on bonding.
I know, I know, you all are thinking "Here she is promoting natural childbirth, saying that all women can do it, and she elects to have a c-section!" First, I always say "educate and empower". So, I educated myself on the pros and cons and all facets of a natural breech birth and a c-section. Secondly, I always tell mothers to trust their instincts, follow their heart and do what they feel is best for their family. I believe that if we were living 100 years ago, our baby might have be born fine, but he could also have been born with broken bones or serious injury, such as a breech baby's chin getting stuck on the pelvic ring as it descends. This can cause the baby serious neck and spinal cord compression, and suffocation and even death. I could have had many complications, including hemorrhaging, and even death. These events do not always happen, but they could. We are fortunate to have emergency care for when we need it. Not for normal, healthy births - which makes up 90% of births! But for that small 10% that need it. We choose to have 5 minutes of "emergency care" that would result in a lifetime of perfect health.
If you have a breech baby, or have another complication, and choose an elective c-section, you can still have a "natural" c-section, which I will explain below and in future blogs.
We insisted on waiting to go into labor before heading to the hospital. Why? When a women knows she has to, or chooses to, have an elective c-section, the OB will schedule it about 2 weeks BEFORE her due date. That way he can be sure that she will not be in labor. A contracting uterus makes his job a bit harder. However, due dates are estimates only. And the lungs are the last thing that develop, finally complete right before birth. So, if your due date is off by a week or two, and you go in 2 weeks early, your baby could be born 3-4 weeks early! Way too early, and not ready to face the world yet! That is why we insisted on waiting to go into labor. That way we would know baby was ready to come out. Also, many times, babies will turn with the contractions. It would be our last hope.
We met with the OB that Michele uses. Dr. Boulting was amazing! He understood our desire for a natural birth, and reassured us that if the baby turned while we were at the hospital, he would send us right back to the birth center. He knew our birth plan and would follow it as much as he could. That made both Avery and I feel much better. I never gave up on the thought that this baby would turn, but I finally started to come to terms with the reality of a c-section.
(my henna belly tattoo)
Michelle re-assures us that there is still time, but we need to act quickly with our interventions. She gave us a list of things to try to turn a breech baby. Our shot-gun approach included: Chiropractic adjustments, Acupuncture, moxabustion, herbs, hypnosis, visualization, pelvis tilts, sifting, hanging up-side down, flips in the pool - even cold potatoes and flash lights! (theory is to put something cold by the baby's head and it will move away from it, and towards the light). Amazingly, when we did several of these techniques, especially the chiropractic, acupuncture and hypnosis, the baby DID move! It started to shift head down about half way around, but then stopped, and moved back to where it was. We later learned there could have been a number of factors preventing it from turning all the way, such as placenta or cord location.
(sifting) (chiropractic)
My new mission was to get this baby turned! It was on my mind all the time. And, unfortunately, that stressed me out. We continued all of our interventions, hoping that something would work. I was so discouraged when people told me they had a breech baby, did one pelvic tilt and the baby turned. Or a medical professional who said they had a 90% success rate, but no, not successful for me! I was glad we exhausted all our options, though. I would not be at peace knowing we did not try everything!The last several weeks of my pregnancy were filled with worry. After discussing our situation with many professionals, and alot of thinking and praying, Avery and I decided to go for an elective C-Section if the baby did not turn. If a baby is breech, especially a Frank breech as our was (both legs up straight), there are chances for complications or even serious injury to the baby. Hip and shoulder dislocations, or even a broken collarbone. I would rather have a c-section, and have the baby breastfeeding immediately and get out of the hospital, then the baby stay in the hospital with an injury and miss out on bonding.
I know, I know, you all are thinking "Here she is promoting natural childbirth, saying that all women can do it, and she elects to have a c-section!" First, I always say "educate and empower". So, I educated myself on the pros and cons and all facets of a natural breech birth and a c-section. Secondly, I always tell mothers to trust their instincts, follow their heart and do what they feel is best for their family. I believe that if we were living 100 years ago, our baby might have be born fine, but he could also have been born with broken bones or serious injury, such as a breech baby's chin getting stuck on the pelvic ring as it descends. This can cause the baby serious neck and spinal cord compression, and suffocation and even death. I could have had many complications, including hemorrhaging, and even death. These events do not always happen, but they could. We are fortunate to have emergency care for when we need it. Not for normal, healthy births - which makes up 90% of births! But for that small 10% that need it. We choose to have 5 minutes of "emergency care" that would result in a lifetime of perfect health.
If you have a breech baby, or have another complication, and choose an elective c-section, you can still have a "natural" c-section, which I will explain below and in future blogs.
We insisted on waiting to go into labor before heading to the hospital. Why? When a women knows she has to, or chooses to, have an elective c-section, the OB will schedule it about 2 weeks BEFORE her due date. That way he can be sure that she will not be in labor. A contracting uterus makes his job a bit harder. However, due dates are estimates only. And the lungs are the last thing that develop, finally complete right before birth. So, if your due date is off by a week or two, and you go in 2 weeks early, your baby could be born 3-4 weeks early! Way too early, and not ready to face the world yet! That is why we insisted on waiting to go into labor. That way we would know baby was ready to come out. Also, many times, babies will turn with the contractions. It would be our last hope.
We met with the OB that Michele uses. Dr. Boulting was amazing! He understood our desire for a natural birth, and reassured us that if the baby turned while we were at the hospital, he would send us right back to the birth center. He knew our birth plan and would follow it as much as he could. That made both Avery and I feel much better. I never gave up on the thought that this baby would turn, but I finally started to come to terms with the reality of a c-section.
(my henna belly tattoo)
11.29.2010
Breastfeeding Psychology
What's that?
"Breastfeeding psychology" is something I have discovered in my mothering experience. It is discussed very little, if at all, in all my reading. If more mothers were in-tune to their own "breastfeeding psychology", there might be less difficult and/or failed breastfeeding experiences.
The mind is a very powerful tool, sometimes more powerful then we think it is! It controls the entire body. Have you ever noticed that you start to let-down when thinking about your baby, seeing your baby, smelling their clothes or even hearing a baby's cry? That is your mind being so powerful that it controls the body's response without you even having to think about it.
Mothers that use "Attached Parenting" (see Attached Parenting) are very in-tune to their babies. They hold them constantly, especially as an infant, in a sling or baby carrier. They co-sleep (see Co-Sleeping, Our Experience) with their baby. They bathe together. Mom's and Baby's bodies work in synergy.
Mothers that are having breastfeeding problems, especially in milk production, milk quantity, let-down and latch, might need to get in-tune with their "breastfeeding psychology". Here are some tips...
1. You have to want to breastfeed. Not because you think your supposed to, but because you want to.
2. Relax! If your body is tense, baby will notice. He might not want to latch or get a poor latch.
3. Quite your mind...and only think of baby! If you are stressed out and thinking of other things then your baby, milk production can slow down, and latch can be difficult too. When you are breastfeeding, lay down, relax, and day-dream about you and your child. Turn off the phone and TV if you must.
4. If you are a working mom and are pumping, breastfeed as much as possible. No matter how good a pump you have, nothing compares to your baby. Besides, a pump won't gazes into your eyes and rub your back like your baby will! When you are pumping at work, try to eliminate all distractions, and think of baby. Bring a piece of clothing or blanket to smell, listen to soothing music, or look at a picture of baby. Our senses are so powerful!
5. If these tips don't work, contact a lactation consultant immediately.
My story...
Nolan and I have an excellent breastfeeding relationship (going on 18 months now!) We have not had any problems with latch or milk production, except for one time, which is when I discovered my "breastfeeding psychology". Nolan was about 3 months old. We had house guests and alot going on. There was a night that I had to work, and Avery was going to take Nolan to a dinner and I would meet them there. This does not seem like a big deal, but this was my first time away from him for such an extended time. I had to give Avery a pumped bottle - too much time would pass that Nolan would need a feeding. And as much as we loved our friends staying with us, it was out of our routine. I had to keep up with cooking, cleaning and social outings, as well as working. I fell into problem #3 - my mind was stressed! That morning, I started to pump and only got half a bottle. Nolan had sucked them dry during the night, and I still needed to feed him throughout the morning. All day I kept thinking about this "problem" and worrying that I would not have enough milk for him. Sure enough, my "problem" become my reality. Later that afternoon, I tried to pump again and only got a 1/4 more. Even more anxious, I just breastfed Nolan as much as I could until I had to leave. Of course, he was fine. He had enough milk in the bottle, but certainly wanted me when I arrived at the dinner!
The lesson learned, "breastfeeding psychology" is real. When you are pregnant, read as much as you can about breastfeeding, and watch other mothers nurse their children. Attend LLL meeting, get to know a lactation consultant before you have any issues, so if one does arise, you know who to call. And just RELAX! Enjoy every moment with your baby. Before you know it, they grow up!
Another common anxiety issue mothers have is breastfeeding in public. When baby wants to be fed, baby must be fed! Sometimes there is no subduing them. Many new mothers feel embarrassed, or awkward. Let me tell you, most people don't even know you are nursing. There have been several times that I was nursing Nolan in public, and people would come right up to me and start talking and not even know that he was under the blanket or in his sling! They would actually ask me where he was! When I told them, then they would figure it out and they would get embarrassed. I always just laughed and said "no worries, he's just having lunch!" Have a sling, and know how to use it. Always have an extra blanket ready. Sit somewhere comfortable. And don't ever let me hear that you fed your baby in the bathroom! No one else eats their meal in the bathroom - your baby shouldn't either!!
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (La Leche League International Book)
"Breastfeeding psychology" is something I have discovered in my mothering experience. It is discussed very little, if at all, in all my reading. If more mothers were in-tune to their own "breastfeeding psychology", there might be less difficult and/or failed breastfeeding experiences.
The mind is a very powerful tool, sometimes more powerful then we think it is! It controls the entire body. Have you ever noticed that you start to let-down when thinking about your baby, seeing your baby, smelling their clothes or even hearing a baby's cry? That is your mind being so powerful that it controls the body's response without you even having to think about it.
Mothers that use "Attached Parenting" (see Attached Parenting) are very in-tune to their babies. They hold them constantly, especially as an infant, in a sling or baby carrier. They co-sleep (see Co-Sleeping, Our Experience) with their baby. They bathe together. Mom's and Baby's bodies work in synergy.
Mothers that are having breastfeeding problems, especially in milk production, milk quantity, let-down and latch, might need to get in-tune with their "breastfeeding psychology". Here are some tips...
1. You have to want to breastfeed. Not because you think your supposed to, but because you want to.
2. Relax! If your body is tense, baby will notice. He might not want to latch or get a poor latch.
3. Quite your mind...and only think of baby! If you are stressed out and thinking of other things then your baby, milk production can slow down, and latch can be difficult too. When you are breastfeeding, lay down, relax, and day-dream about you and your child. Turn off the phone and TV if you must.
4. If you are a working mom and are pumping, breastfeed as much as possible. No matter how good a pump you have, nothing compares to your baby. Besides, a pump won't gazes into your eyes and rub your back like your baby will! When you are pumping at work, try to eliminate all distractions, and think of baby. Bring a piece of clothing or blanket to smell, listen to soothing music, or look at a picture of baby. Our senses are so powerful!
5. If these tips don't work, contact a lactation consultant immediately.
My story...
Nolan and I have an excellent breastfeeding relationship (going on 18 months now!) We have not had any problems with latch or milk production, except for one time, which is when I discovered my "breastfeeding psychology". Nolan was about 3 months old. We had house guests and alot going on. There was a night that I had to work, and Avery was going to take Nolan to a dinner and I would meet them there. This does not seem like a big deal, but this was my first time away from him for such an extended time. I had to give Avery a pumped bottle - too much time would pass that Nolan would need a feeding. And as much as we loved our friends staying with us, it was out of our routine. I had to keep up with cooking, cleaning and social outings, as well as working. I fell into problem #3 - my mind was stressed! That morning, I started to pump and only got half a bottle. Nolan had sucked them dry during the night, and I still needed to feed him throughout the morning. All day I kept thinking about this "problem" and worrying that I would not have enough milk for him. Sure enough, my "problem" become my reality. Later that afternoon, I tried to pump again and only got a 1/4 more. Even more anxious, I just breastfed Nolan as much as I could until I had to leave. Of course, he was fine. He had enough milk in the bottle, but certainly wanted me when I arrived at the dinner!
The lesson learned, "breastfeeding psychology" is real. When you are pregnant, read as much as you can about breastfeeding, and watch other mothers nurse their children. Attend LLL meeting, get to know a lactation consultant before you have any issues, so if one does arise, you know who to call. And just RELAX! Enjoy every moment with your baby. Before you know it, they grow up!
Another common anxiety issue mothers have is breastfeeding in public. When baby wants to be fed, baby must be fed! Sometimes there is no subduing them. Many new mothers feel embarrassed, or awkward. Let me tell you, most people don't even know you are nursing. There have been several times that I was nursing Nolan in public, and people would come right up to me and start talking and not even know that he was under the blanket or in his sling! They would actually ask me where he was! When I told them, then they would figure it out and they would get embarrassed. I always just laughed and said "no worries, he's just having lunch!" Have a sling, and know how to use it. Always have an extra blanket ready. Sit somewhere comfortable. And don't ever let me hear that you fed your baby in the bathroom! No one else eats their meal in the bathroom - your baby shouldn't either!!
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (La Leche League International Book)
11.05.2010
Family Yoga at the Library
Family Yoga is a great way to get out of the house, exercise and have fun...together as a family! I feel that too many times moms and dads leave their kids with a babysitter while they go to the gym and then watch their kids' baseball games from the bleachers. While parents need time to "escape" and do their own activity, as well as kids, it is not only fun but essential to the family unit to do things together. Family Yoga is for everyone in the family to get creative and move their body! Inspired by classic yoga poses, we sometimes change the name and/or style of the pose to build kids' imagination. An easy-to-follow flow of moves keeps you moving while we stretch and strength all the muscles in the body. This is a great start to the day or to release some energy after school.
Please contact me directly for more information on Family Yoga. 561-309-4543 or jenncohen79@yahoo.com
Please contact me directly for more information on Family Yoga. 561-309-4543 or jenncohen79@yahoo.com
Mama&Baby Yoga at the Library
I recently taught "Mama&Baby Yoga" at the library. I originally designed this class when Nolan was just a few months old. Although it works best when Baby is old enough to hold their head up but young enough not to crawl away (approx 3-8 months), there are lots of alternatives for older babies. Now that Nolan is almost 17 months, it was quite interesting! The main focus of the class is for Mama and Baby to bond and have fun. Mama uses Baby as her yoga partner and "weight" by holding and lifting baby. We use a variety of yoga stretches, Pilates-base core moves and full-body exercises, which helps Mama postpartum. Baby loves the attention from Mama and moving around. We stretch and massage Baby, and use strengthening exercises to encourage head holding, crawling and eventually walking. As we sing songs and say Baby's name, this stimulates their auditory as well as visual and physical skills. As for the social aspect, babies love to look at other children and moms get to meet other mothers.
Please contact me directly for more information on when Mama&Baby Yoga classes will be held. 561-309-4543 or jenncohen79@yahoo.com.
10.23.2010
Exercising while pregnant - Time Magazine article
Here is a copy of a wonderful article in Time Magazine, which discusses the benefit to mother and baby of exercising while pregnant. I will be discussing in more detail exact exercises in a future blog.
For most pregnant women, exercise is the last thing on their minds. After all, keeping slim while you're expecting isn't exactly the top priority — rather, it's making sure your baby gets enough nutrients to grow. But in a small new study, researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand report that a mother's regular aerobic exercise may be good for a growing fetus' health — and may even help a baby get a healthier start in life.
The finding is a bit surprising, because exercise is known to lower the risk of insulin resistance — the precursor condition to diabetes. Although insulin resistance is a detriment in healthy adults, it turns out to be helpful for proper fetal development. Insulin-resistant individuals gradually lose their ability to respond to changing glucose levels in the blood; in pregnant women, the condition, which occurs when hormones produced by the placenta interfere with the proper function of insulin in the body, means nutrients get shunted to the growing baby. (If the condition gets severe, however, it can result in a temporary condition called gestational diabetes in the mother, which is associated with heavier babies and a higher risk of obesity in childhood.)
The question is, Could a mother's exercise put her developing baby's food supply at risk? Past studies looking at the effect of exercise on birth weight have been inconclusive, and none have really investigated the influence of exercise on the mother's sensitivity to insulin. So the University of Auckland's Dr. Paul Hofman and his team decided to study 84 first-time mothers, who were of normal weight on average, and track any effects aerobic exercise might have on their insulin sensitivity and, ultimately, on their babies' birth weight.
Researchers asked some women to exercise on a stationary bicycle for at least 40 minutes per session, up to five times each week, starting in the 20th week of pregnancy; the other women were not specifically asked to exercise. When the two groups and their babies were compared, the team found that women who bicycled regularly gave birth to babies who were on average 150 g (about 5 oz.) lighter than those born to the nonexercising mothers. In both groups, however, the babies were of healthy weight, and there was no difference in the mothers' weights.
Generally speaking, babies on the lower end of the normal weight range are considered healthier and less prone to developing diabetes and obesity than heavier ones, so this was an encouraging result.
Even more reassuring was that regular exercise did not seem to affect the flow of nutrients to the growing babies in the womb. Over the course of the 15-week regimen, there was no additional exercise-related impact on mothers' insulin-sensitivity measures. Both exercising and nonexercising moms showed the same, expected increase in insulin resistance that accompanies pregnancy. "This suggests that the hormonal regulation of insulin resistance is incredibly strong and occurs irrespective of other environmental factors such as exercise," says Hofman. "I speculate that it's an important survival mechanism to make sure that moms maintain insulin resistance so the baby receives enough food."
Hofman's theory is supported by previous studies that have documented normal-weight babies born to mothers experiencing famine, says Dr. Raul Artal, chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at St. Louis University. "The fetus is actually quite protected, and there may be a preferential diversion of nutrients to the fetus regardless of how much the mother gains during pregnancy," he says.
He was encouraged by the new study's findings, which support the importance of exercise for expectant moms, in particular those who are overweight or obese. Indeed, pregnant women should not be afraid of exercising and should be careful not to gain too much weight, especially if they are already overweight or obese, says Artal. "We've published a study on the benefits of lifestyle interventions such as exercise for obese women and found that they deliver normal-size babies, with fewer complications, and often don't require a C-section," he says.
Artal and several of his colleagues are concerned about current guidelines that they believe allow too much weight gain during pregnancy. The latest recommendations from the Institute of Medicine (IOM), released last September, allow normal-weight women to gain up to 25 lb. (7.3 kg) while they are expecting, which Artal feels is too much. The women in the New Zealand study gained an average of 16 lb. and gave birth to babies within a healthy weight range. "I am excited by these findings, because here you have normal-size women who engaged in daily exercise and did not gain weight as per the IOM recommendations, and their babies were of normal weight," he says. "That strengthens the argument that the current recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy are too lax."
It's an even more important message for overweight and obese mothers-to-be, who tend to deliver heavier babies (anything over about 8 lb. 12 oz., or 4 kg, is considered a high birth weight), who are then at higher risk of diabetes and obesity later in life. Those heavier children are then more likely to become overweight adults and in turn give birth to bigger babies. The goal, says Hofman, is to break the cycle of ever bigger generations of babies. According to his latest findings, exercise during pregnancy may be a safe and reliable first step; the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends 30 minutes a day for pregnant women, for as long as they are physically able.
Read more: http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1978193,00.html#ixzz0yWqt08i1
For most pregnant women, exercise is the last thing on their minds. After all, keeping slim while you're expecting isn't exactly the top priority — rather, it's making sure your baby gets enough nutrients to grow. But in a small new study, researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand report that a mother's regular aerobic exercise may be good for a growing fetus' health — and may even help a baby get a healthier start in life.
The finding is a bit surprising, because exercise is known to lower the risk of insulin resistance — the precursor condition to diabetes. Although insulin resistance is a detriment in healthy adults, it turns out to be helpful for proper fetal development. Insulin-resistant individuals gradually lose their ability to respond to changing glucose levels in the blood; in pregnant women, the condition, which occurs when hormones produced by the placenta interfere with the proper function of insulin in the body, means nutrients get shunted to the growing baby. (If the condition gets severe, however, it can result in a temporary condition called gestational diabetes in the mother, which is associated with heavier babies and a higher risk of obesity in childhood.)
The question is, Could a mother's exercise put her developing baby's food supply at risk? Past studies looking at the effect of exercise on birth weight have been inconclusive, and none have really investigated the influence of exercise on the mother's sensitivity to insulin. So the University of Auckland's Dr. Paul Hofman and his team decided to study 84 first-time mothers, who were of normal weight on average, and track any effects aerobic exercise might have on their insulin sensitivity and, ultimately, on their babies' birth weight.
Researchers asked some women to exercise on a stationary bicycle for at least 40 minutes per session, up to five times each week, starting in the 20th week of pregnancy; the other women were not specifically asked to exercise. When the two groups and their babies were compared, the team found that women who bicycled regularly gave birth to babies who were on average 150 g (about 5 oz.) lighter than those born to the nonexercising mothers. In both groups, however, the babies were of healthy weight, and there was no difference in the mothers' weights.
Generally speaking, babies on the lower end of the normal weight range are considered healthier and less prone to developing diabetes and obesity than heavier ones, so this was an encouraging result.
Even more reassuring was that regular exercise did not seem to affect the flow of nutrients to the growing babies in the womb. Over the course of the 15-week regimen, there was no additional exercise-related impact on mothers' insulin-sensitivity measures. Both exercising and nonexercising moms showed the same, expected increase in insulin resistance that accompanies pregnancy. "This suggests that the hormonal regulation of insulin resistance is incredibly strong and occurs irrespective of other environmental factors such as exercise," says Hofman. "I speculate that it's an important survival mechanism to make sure that moms maintain insulin resistance so the baby receives enough food."
Hofman's theory is supported by previous studies that have documented normal-weight babies born to mothers experiencing famine, says Dr. Raul Artal, chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at St. Louis University. "The fetus is actually quite protected, and there may be a preferential diversion of nutrients to the fetus regardless of how much the mother gains during pregnancy," he says.
He was encouraged by the new study's findings, which support the importance of exercise for expectant moms, in particular those who are overweight or obese. Indeed, pregnant women should not be afraid of exercising and should be careful not to gain too much weight, especially if they are already overweight or obese, says Artal. "We've published a study on the benefits of lifestyle interventions such as exercise for obese women and found that they deliver normal-size babies, with fewer complications, and often don't require a C-section," he says.
Artal and several of his colleagues are concerned about current guidelines that they believe allow too much weight gain during pregnancy. The latest recommendations from the Institute of Medicine (IOM), released last September, allow normal-weight women to gain up to 25 lb. (7.3 kg) while they are expecting, which Artal feels is too much. The women in the New Zealand study gained an average of 16 lb. and gave birth to babies within a healthy weight range. "I am excited by these findings, because here you have normal-size women who engaged in daily exercise and did not gain weight as per the IOM recommendations, and their babies were of normal weight," he says. "That strengthens the argument that the current recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy are too lax."
It's an even more important message for overweight and obese mothers-to-be, who tend to deliver heavier babies (anything over about 8 lb. 12 oz., or 4 kg, is considered a high birth weight), who are then at higher risk of diabetes and obesity later in life. Those heavier children are then more likely to become overweight adults and in turn give birth to bigger babies. The goal, says Hofman, is to break the cycle of ever bigger generations of babies. According to his latest findings, exercise during pregnancy may be a safe and reliable first step; the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends 30 minutes a day for pregnant women, for as long as they are physically able.
Read more: http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1978193,00.html#ixzz0yWqt08i1
10.19.2010
Indian Roasted Pumpkin Soup - Recipe
We are finally approaching the Holidays...the weather has started to cool off, the smell of pumpkin and cinnamon is in the air (in my house at least!) and I am craving warm comfort food!
Here is a yummy fall recipe - you gotta try it! This is very easy to make and the whole family will love it!
Indian Roasted Pumpkin Soup:
2 Cups Chopped Pumpkin
4 Shallots
2 Carrots, chopped
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and sliced
1 med. Onion, chopped
4 Garlic cloves
2 Tbsp. EVOO
1/2 tsp each of ground coriander, cumin and turmeric
2 cups Vegetable broth
1/2 cup Coconut Milk
Preheat oven to 425. Combine all ingredients except veggie broth and coconut milk in roasting pan and cook for 30 minutes until tender. Transfer everything to blender, adding broth and milk. Blend until smooth. Stir in s&p to taste.
Not only is this soup homemade with all-natural ingredients, the coriander, cumin, turmeric, garlic and onion are anti-cancer ingredients, and the pumpkin and apple have tons of vitamins, such as A and C. I personally doubled the amount of the spices from 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp. Nolan loved it!
Another thing I just tried and loved is Acorn Squash. Cut in half, scoop out seeds and strings. Place cut-side down on oiled cookie sheet, bake until tender. I put it in a bowl, filled the cavity with raisins and cinnamon (also anti-cancer!) and ate it right out of the skin! And, we roasted the seeds so nothing went to waste. Another Nolan favorite!
Nolan has eaten Indian food before and has not had a problem. If you suspect your child might have a problem with the spices or you are just not sure, omit the spices while roasting. Blend and then separate baby's food to the side. Add spices to your portion and blend. Baby will love the acorn squash!
Making a butternut squash soup tomorrow...
Vegan World Fusion Cuisine: The Cookbook and Wisdom Work from the Chefs of the Blossoming Lotus Restaurant With a Special Foreword by Dr. Jane Goodall
Here is a yummy fall recipe - you gotta try it! This is very easy to make and the whole family will love it!
Indian Roasted Pumpkin Soup:
2 Cups Chopped Pumpkin
4 Shallots
2 Carrots, chopped
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and sliced
1 med. Onion, chopped
4 Garlic cloves
2 Tbsp. EVOO
1/2 tsp each of ground coriander, cumin and turmeric
2 cups Vegetable broth
1/2 cup Coconut Milk
Preheat oven to 425. Combine all ingredients except veggie broth and coconut milk in roasting pan and cook for 30 minutes until tender. Transfer everything to blender, adding broth and milk. Blend until smooth. Stir in s&p to taste.
Not only is this soup homemade with all-natural ingredients, the coriander, cumin, turmeric, garlic and onion are anti-cancer ingredients, and the pumpkin and apple have tons of vitamins, such as A and C. I personally doubled the amount of the spices from 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp. Nolan loved it!
Another thing I just tried and loved is Acorn Squash. Cut in half, scoop out seeds and strings. Place cut-side down on oiled cookie sheet, bake until tender. I put it in a bowl, filled the cavity with raisins and cinnamon (also anti-cancer!) and ate it right out of the skin! And, we roasted the seeds so nothing went to waste. Another Nolan favorite!
Nolan has eaten Indian food before and has not had a problem. If you suspect your child might have a problem with the spices or you are just not sure, omit the spices while roasting. Blend and then separate baby's food to the side. Add spices to your portion and blend. Baby will love the acorn squash!
Making a butternut squash soup tomorrow...
Vegan World Fusion Cuisine: The Cookbook and Wisdom Work from the Chefs of the Blossoming Lotus Restaurant With a Special Foreword by Dr. Jane Goodall
10.18.2010
My new favorite book!
Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
http://www.llli.org/
by La Leche League International
An LLLI classic, this definitive guide to breastfeeding reflects current research while maintaining its trademark style of mother-to-mother sharing. Filled with research along with personal stories from mothers, the seventh revised edition of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding includes new explanations of how the breast makes milk, details about effective positioning and latch-on, suggestions for using herbs and medications to increase milk supply, and more. Updated information provides mothers with the tools needed to make informed decisions about birth, breastfeeding, and parenting.
This book is amazing! I recently started reading it and it has been a great source of reassurance for our family. Sometimes, even though you know your doing the right thing, it helps to read the story of another mother's success. It's like a little pat on the back, saying "your doing good!". Not just about breastfeeding, the book goes into birthing, parenting, discipline, nutrition and more! I highly recommend this book for all mothers and mothers-to-be!
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (La Leche League International Book)
http://www.llli.org/
by La Leche League International
An LLLI classic, this definitive guide to breastfeeding reflects current research while maintaining its trademark style of mother-to-mother sharing. Filled with research along with personal stories from mothers, the seventh revised edition of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding includes new explanations of how the breast makes milk, details about effective positioning and latch-on, suggestions for using herbs and medications to increase milk supply, and more. Updated information provides mothers with the tools needed to make informed decisions about birth, breastfeeding, and parenting.This book is amazing! I recently started reading it and it has been a great source of reassurance for our family. Sometimes, even though you know your doing the right thing, it helps to read the story of another mother's success. It's like a little pat on the back, saying "your doing good!". Not just about breastfeeding, the book goes into birthing, parenting, discipline, nutrition and more! I highly recommend this book for all mothers and mothers-to-be!
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (La Leche League International Book)
My Birth Plan....why so many "demands"?
Now, I know your thinking after looking over my birth plan, "Wow! She has alot of "demands"! Why so many requests for so many specific things? Don't they (the doctors) tell you what to do when you get to the hospital?"
Yes, that is right. The doctors will tell you exactly what to do, when to do it and for how long to do it. They will take away your ability to trust your instincts by stepping in and conforming your birth according to their plans. They want you in and out. It doesn't matter to them that you have your "dream" birth - that you labor how you want, birth the way your want and take care of your baby immediately - the way your want! Like I said before, they do NOT want and "educated mama" messing up their precious schedule. Watch The Business of Being Born
and then we'll talk "demands".
I'll admit that the birth plan does sound like alot of requests. And honestly, most of them would never even be an issue or even brought up if you are birthing with a midwife. Most of the requests are completely normal and routine with a midwife. However, it is always a good idea to review your plan with the midwife prior to birth, just to make sure you are all on the same page. Even more importantly if you are birthing at a Birth Center within a hospital. Although they are run by midwives, they are still overseen by doctors and in special circumstances a midwife will have to report to the doctor.
My requests were simply to let labor and birthing take it's natural course and let my body do what it was designed to do. If there were to be any interventions, a natural approach should be taken first. My midwife would offer gentle guidance but mostly hands-off. She was just there to make sure all is going smoothly. I visualized a waterbirth in the warm tub, my loving husband sitting behind me massaging my neck and back, whispering encouraging words in my ear. The soft music would be playing and the candles would be flickering all around. I would be in tune with my body, moving around as needed, my breath in control. As my baby emerged, I would reach down and pick him up, bringing him to my breast. Holding him close to my heart would help his heartbeat and his breathing rate match mine, keeping it in control. The warm water and soft lighting would be comforting, not a shock to him. We would move slowly, never in a rush. This would be a special time to savor every second. Wrapping him up warmly, we would all crawl in bed together and rest. This was my dream.
I was also aware of the possibility of complications. As much as you can try to prevent them, it can happen - at any point of the pregnancy and birthing process. If the baby came early, if it had problems, or if I was transferred during labor, I wanted as many of my requests to be considered. My biggest one was to let me or Avery handle the baby as much as possible. No drops, no vaccines. Breastfeeding and rooming-in only. Those are the most important to me since they affect the long-term well-being of the baby.
Only you can stand up for and protect yourself and your family. If you feel strongly about something, say it. If your doctor/midwife does not agree with you, discuss it, don't dismiss it. Educate yourself and seek alternative advise. Don't do something you don't feel comfortable with, even if it is something everyone is doing (or not doing).
Educate and Empower...yourself!
Your Best Birth: Know All Your Options, Discover the Natural Choices, and Take Back the Birth Experience
Yes, that is right. The doctors will tell you exactly what to do, when to do it and for how long to do it. They will take away your ability to trust your instincts by stepping in and conforming your birth according to their plans. They want you in and out. It doesn't matter to them that you have your "dream" birth - that you labor how you want, birth the way your want and take care of your baby immediately - the way your want! Like I said before, they do NOT want and "educated mama" messing up their precious schedule. Watch The Business of Being Born
and then we'll talk "demands". I'll admit that the birth plan does sound like alot of requests. And honestly, most of them would never even be an issue or even brought up if you are birthing with a midwife. Most of the requests are completely normal and routine with a midwife. However, it is always a good idea to review your plan with the midwife prior to birth, just to make sure you are all on the same page. Even more importantly if you are birthing at a Birth Center within a hospital. Although they are run by midwives, they are still overseen by doctors and in special circumstances a midwife will have to report to the doctor.
My requests were simply to let labor and birthing take it's natural course and let my body do what it was designed to do. If there were to be any interventions, a natural approach should be taken first. My midwife would offer gentle guidance but mostly hands-off. She was just there to make sure all is going smoothly. I visualized a waterbirth in the warm tub, my loving husband sitting behind me massaging my neck and back, whispering encouraging words in my ear. The soft music would be playing and the candles would be flickering all around. I would be in tune with my body, moving around as needed, my breath in control. As my baby emerged, I would reach down and pick him up, bringing him to my breast. Holding him close to my heart would help his heartbeat and his breathing rate match mine, keeping it in control. The warm water and soft lighting would be comforting, not a shock to him. We would move slowly, never in a rush. This would be a special time to savor every second. Wrapping him up warmly, we would all crawl in bed together and rest. This was my dream.
I was also aware of the possibility of complications. As much as you can try to prevent them, it can happen - at any point of the pregnancy and birthing process. If the baby came early, if it had problems, or if I was transferred during labor, I wanted as many of my requests to be considered. My biggest one was to let me or Avery handle the baby as much as possible. No drops, no vaccines. Breastfeeding and rooming-in only. Those are the most important to me since they affect the long-term well-being of the baby.
Only you can stand up for and protect yourself and your family. If you feel strongly about something, say it. If your doctor/midwife does not agree with you, discuss it, don't dismiss it. Educate yourself and seek alternative advise. Don't do something you don't feel comfortable with, even if it is something everyone is doing (or not doing).
Educate and Empower...yourself!
Your Best Birth: Know All Your Options, Discover the Natural Choices, and Take Back the Birth Experience
10.04.2010
Is my kid unusual?
I'm at the library the other day for storytime, which is designated for 1 and 2-year olds. Nolan and a couple other children are quietly listening to the teacher read stories and sing songs, while standing or sitting close to mom. About 5 or 6 other children are running around, screaming, while mom does nothing but absently call out, "come over here, so-and-so", and then continues chatting with another mom whose kid is doing the exact same thing. One child runs to the door and starts banging on it. Another has a melt-down in mom's lap and cries hysterically. One boy pushes a kid down, and later pokes a little girl in the face. Another spills his mother's cup of coffee, she yells at him, and then drags him out of the room by his arm while the rest of us try not to stare. Nolan is unfazed by the commotion. He calmly picked out a scarf from the teacher's basket, dances to a song, puts it back when asked and then runs to me with a big "I'm so proud of myself" smile on his face. He shares a toy with a little girl and waves "bye" to everyone when we are done. Part of the class he stays close to me and other times he ventures up to the teacher, dancing and singing with her. As we leave class, almost every child is given a juicebox and cookie by their parent. This is typical for storytime - the usual group and usual behavior. I think to myself, "Nolan has never had a temper-tantrum in class. He has never had a melt-down, hit anyone or displayed unacceptable behavior. He certainly has his moments, usually when he is over-tired or teething. While all these other children are out of control every week, Nolan displays excitement and joy for being there while still being calm. Is my kid unusual?"
Yes, he is unusual. He is unusually advanced for his age, something my husband and I contribute to the foods he eats. He has never had a boxed or canned food. Nothing processed. Always 100% natural, real food.
My conclusion: "What did these kids have for breakfast?" Probably a sugar-coated cereal with milk or a syrup-saturated waffle with apple juice. Or a doughnut, chocolate milk, maybe even candy! And now another sugary snack that their parent was told "it's OK to have a cookie sometimes" and "apple juice is made from fruit, so it's good for them". Sugar, sugar and more sugar! For the most part, kids that are bouncing off the walls are on a sugar high. Then they crash & burn, have a melt-down and require more sugar to balance their insulin levels. This causes kids to literally become addicted to sugar and crave only the taste of sugar. You hear parents say all the time, "My kids won't eat anything but..." and name a high-sugar, sweet food. You can stop this vicious cycle. It will take time and patience. Your kids will not be happy at first. But they will learn, they will adapt and they will love REAL food. Food with a variety flavors. Food that will not cause headaches, dehydration, shaking, stomachaches, constipation, insomnia and fatigue. And these are the immediate benefits! The long-term effects in reducing sugar intake are a decrease or prevention of diabetes, heart-disease, GI problems, yeast infections, skin problems, cavities and cancer.
Our breakfasts usually consist of a high-protein meal such as quinoa and egg, avocado, coconut water and/or a green smoothie (a variety of greens, almond milk or coconut water and half a banana). This type of meal gives you lots of energy, which is burned off slowly (so you are not hungry again within an hour, as you are with a high-sugar meal). It is low-calorie, and highly nutritious, with all the essential vitamins and minerals.
Below are some great books on adding green smoothies to yours and your child's diet. Enjoy!
Green Smoothies Diet: The Natural Program for Extraordinary Health
12 Steps to Whole Foods Complete Course (The complete 12 Steps to Whole Foods with Audio & Videos)
Green for Life
Green Smoothie Revolution: The Radical Leap Towards Natural Health
Yes, he is unusual. He is unusually advanced for his age, something my husband and I contribute to the foods he eats. He has never had a boxed or canned food. Nothing processed. Always 100% natural, real food.
My conclusion: "What did these kids have for breakfast?" Probably a sugar-coated cereal with milk or a syrup-saturated waffle with apple juice. Or a doughnut, chocolate milk, maybe even candy! And now another sugary snack that their parent was told "it's OK to have a cookie sometimes" and "apple juice is made from fruit, so it's good for them". Sugar, sugar and more sugar! For the most part, kids that are bouncing off the walls are on a sugar high. Then they crash & burn, have a melt-down and require more sugar to balance their insulin levels. This causes kids to literally become addicted to sugar and crave only the taste of sugar. You hear parents say all the time, "My kids won't eat anything but..." and name a high-sugar, sweet food. You can stop this vicious cycle. It will take time and patience. Your kids will not be happy at first. But they will learn, they will adapt and they will love REAL food. Food with a variety flavors. Food that will not cause headaches, dehydration, shaking, stomachaches, constipation, insomnia and fatigue. And these are the immediate benefits! The long-term effects in reducing sugar intake are a decrease or prevention of diabetes, heart-disease, GI problems, yeast infections, skin problems, cavities and cancer.
Our breakfasts usually consist of a high-protein meal such as quinoa and egg, avocado, coconut water and/or a green smoothie (a variety of greens, almond milk or coconut water and half a banana). This type of meal gives you lots of energy, which is burned off slowly (so you are not hungry again within an hour, as you are with a high-sugar meal). It is low-calorie, and highly nutritious, with all the essential vitamins and minerals.
Below are some great books on adding green smoothies to yours and your child's diet. Enjoy!
Green Smoothies Diet: The Natural Program for Extraordinary Health
12 Steps to Whole Foods Complete Course (The complete 12 Steps to Whole Foods with Audio & Videos)
Green for Life
Green Smoothie Revolution: The Radical Leap Towards Natural Health
My Birth Plan
Below is my birth plan, from www.earthmamaangelbaby.com
Although we had a planned birth at the birth center, we had to consider the possibility of an emergency c-section, and we wanted our wishes to be carried out in the event of being transferred to the hospital. Many of these "requests" are routine and normal for a birth with a midwife, such as laboring as long as necessary without intervention, natural inductions and natural pain management. That is just part of their philosophy. But I feel it is better to have it written out just incase there are complications, and you are transferred. In fact, I had two friends that had normal, beautiful births at the birth center, but then the placenta did not separate, so they had to be transferred to the hospital anyways for a DNC. What about baby, breastfeeding and bonding during the surgery and recovery? You must think about these things!
To my Health Care Providers: Thank you for taking the time to work with us and our birth plan. These are our preferences; however we are open and flexible to any medical intervention that may become necessary in the case of a medical emergency.
My Name: Jennifer Cohen
My Due Date: June 1, 2009
My Doctor: Michelle Gawne (midwife)
My Partner: Avery Cohen
Other considerations :
As long as the baby and I are healthy, I prefer to have no time limits on pushing.
I would like to be encouraged to try the following different positions for labor: Squatting, Classic semi-recline, Hands and knees, On the toilet, Standing upright, Side Lying or Whatever feels right at the time
I will ask for an enema if I feel that I need one.
I prefer to have no episiotomy and risk tearing (unless I'm having a medical emergency).
To help prevent tearing, please apply: Hot compresses, Oil, Perineal massage, Encourage me to breathe properly for slower crowning.
Other labor considerations:
Please allow my partner to cut the umbilical cord.
Placenta: I would prefer for the placenta to be born spontaneously without the use of pitocin, and/or controlled traction on the umbilical cord and I would like the option of taking home the placenta.
If the baby has any problems, I would like my partner to be present with the baby at all times, if possible.
Other hospital preferences:
Although we had a planned birth at the birth center, we had to consider the possibility of an emergency c-section, and we wanted our wishes to be carried out in the event of being transferred to the hospital. Many of these "requests" are routine and normal for a birth with a midwife, such as laboring as long as necessary without intervention, natural inductions and natural pain management. That is just part of their philosophy. But I feel it is better to have it written out just incase there are complications, and you are transferred. In fact, I had two friends that had normal, beautiful births at the birth center, but then the placenta did not separate, so they had to be transferred to the hospital anyways for a DNC. What about baby, breastfeeding and bonding during the surgery and recovery? You must think about these things!
To my Health Care Providers: Thank you for taking the time to work with us and our birth plan. These are our preferences; however we are open and flexible to any medical intervention that may become necessary in the case of a medical emergency.
My Name: Jennifer Cohen
My Due Date: June 1, 2009
My Doctor: Michelle Gawne (midwife)
My Partner: Avery Cohen
- As long as the baby and I are healthy, I would like to have no time restrictions on the length of my pregnancy.
- I would like to discuss laboring at home as long as possible.
- I trust that my practitioner will seek out my opinion concerning all of the issues directly affecting my birth before deviating from my plan.
- If I go past my due date and the baby and I are fine, I prefer to go into labor naturally rather than be induced.
- Please obtain my permission before stripping my membranes during a vaginal exam.
- I prefer to have no vaginal exams until I go into labor.
- During a vaginal exam, I prefer at no time to have my membranes broken unless there is an emergency situation.
- I would like no internal vaginal exams, within reason, during my labor until I have an urge to push.
- If my water breaks before I go into labor, I would like to have no time limits and talk about alternative treatment such as antibiotics.
- Upon arrival at the hospital, I prefer to have my partner with me at all times.
- Please, no residents or students attending my birth.
- I request the following people to be present during my labor and/or 2nd stage labor: My Partner: Avery Cohen, My Siblings: Sarah Broxton.
- I prefer to give birth in a birthing room.
- I prefer to give birth in room with a shower and/or bath.
- If birth equipment is available, I would like to use: A birthing bed, A birthing ball, A bean bag chair, A birthing tub/pool/shower, A birthing stool, A squatting bar.
- I would like to have dimmed lights.
- I would like for people entering the room to speak softly.
- I would like to play music.
- I would like no one to speak during the actual delivery.
- I would like to wear my own clothes during labor and delivery.
Other considerations :
- Ultimately, I want to be able to walk around and move as I wish while in labor.
- Ultimately, I would like to feel unrestricted in accessing any sounds of chanting, grunting, or moaning during labor.
- Please keep my door always closed during labor.
As long as the baby and I are healthy, I prefer to have no time limits on pushing.
I would like to be encouraged to try the following different positions for labor: Squatting, Classic semi-recline, Hands and knees, On the toilet, Standing upright, Side Lying or Whatever feels right at the time
I will ask for an enema if I feel that I need one.
I prefer to have no episiotomy and risk tearing (unless I'm having a medical emergency).
To help prevent tearing, please apply: Hot compresses, Oil, Perineal massage, Encourage me to breathe properly for slower crowning.
Other labor considerations:
- If possible, please allow the shoulders and body of my baby to be born spontaneously, on their own.
- I would like to view the birth using a mirror.
- I would like to touch my baby's head as it crowns.
- I would like to catch my baby and pull it onto my abdomen as it is born
- I would like my partner to catch my baby
- I would like for our baby to hear our voices first.
- I prefer to have the lights dimmed for delivery or, if it is daylight, to access only natural light
- It's important to me to push instinctively. I do not want to be told how or when to push.
- As long as my baby is healthy, I would like my baby placed immediately skin-to-skin on my abdomen with a warm blanket over it
- Please do not separate me and my baby until after my baby has successfully breastfed on both breasts.
- Please delay all essential routine procedures on my baby until after the bonding and breastfeeding period (i.e., bathing).
- My partner(s) is(are) to be present at all times during the c-section.
- Ideally, I would like to remain conscious during the procedure.
- I would like the baby to be shown to me immediately after it's born.
- I would like to have contact with the baby as soon as it is possible in the delivery room.
- I prefer to have a hand free to touch the baby.
- We would like to photograph or film the operation as the baby comes out.
- We would like to film or photograph only the baby after delivery.
- If possible, please discuss anesthesia options with me (including morphine options).
- I prefer a low transverse incision on my abdomen and uterus.
- If my baby is healthy, I would like to hold my baby and nurse it immediately in recovery.
- I would like to sign any waivers necessary to permit me to be with my baby in recovery.
- As long as my baby is healthy, I would like my partner to be the baby's constant source of attention until I am free to bond with it (i.e., holding, skin-to-skin contact, etc.).
- I would like to have my catheter and IV removed ASAP after my recovery period.
- Please discuss with me what I can expect to feel immediately following the procedure.
- Please discuss my post-operative pain medication options with me before or immediately following the procedure.
Please allow my partner to cut the umbilical cord.
Placenta: I would prefer for the placenta to be born spontaneously without the use of pitocin, and/or controlled traction on the umbilical cord and I would like the option of taking home the placenta.
If the baby has any problems, I would like my partner to be present with the baby at all times, if possible.
- I would like to have routine newborn procedures delayed until bonding and breastfeeding have occurred.
- I would like all newborn routine procedures to be performed in my presence.
- Administration of Eyedrops: Please do not administer eye drops to my baby, I am willing to sign a formal waiver if need be.
- Vitamin K: Please do not administer vitamin K to my baby, I am willing to sign a formal waiver if need be.
- Immunizations: I prefer any immunizations be postponed to a later time.
- Bathing Baby: Please do not bathe my baby at all. We would like to give our baby his/her first bath using our own non-toxic baby products.
- Circumcision: Please do not circumcise him.
- My baby is to be exclusively breastfed.
- I would like to see a lactation consultant as soon as possible for further recommendations and guidance.
- Do not offer my baby the following without my consent: Formula, Pacifiers, Any artificial nipples, Sugar water.
- To be transported with my baby if possible.
- My partner to go with the baby.
- To breastfeed or express my milk for my baby.
- To have as much bodily contact with my baby as possible.
- To be offered a room at the hospital for the duration of my baby's stay (within reason).
Other hospital preferences:
- I prefer a private room.
- I prefer to have my partner stay with me for the duration of my hospital stay.
- I want privacy during my stay and for my guests to limit the time they are visiting me.
9.25.2010
Writing a Birth Plan...do you really need one?
I feel that writing out a birth plan, even if it is short and simple, is very important. It gives the couple an opportunity to discuss certain things that you may not even think about during pregnancy, birth and afterwards. The last thing you want is to be arguing with your partner, family members or your doctor/midwife during such a special and beautiful time. Many women don't even know they have choices in certain procedures. The doctors and nurses make it sound routine, or even required. They do not want an educated mama messing up their schedule! For the most part, a midwife's philosophy is to educated their patients on options and allow for nature to take it's course. They tend to have a "hands off" policy, which is why I wanted a midwife in the first place!
This is a great website to visit: www.earthmamaangelbaby.com. They have lots of great products, and also an area for you to customize your birthplan. You can print it out and give it to all parties involved. They bring up so many points, things that never even entered my mind! After looking over the options, researching and discussing it all with Avery and Michelle, I felt we had an easy-to-follow plan that everyone was on board with.
If you are having your birth in a hospital with an OB, you will want to discuss your plan with them. Unfortunately, some things may not be possible, such a yourself or the father catching the baby, birthing in a tub, etc. However, stand firm on certain things, such as immediate breastfeeding and bonding, eliminating eyedrops, rooming in, and no supplements (sugar water or formula).
Many times, it is a good idea to hire a doula or a support friend/family member to make sure your wishes are carried out. Sometimes in the midst of the excitement or anxiety (or even in the case of an emergency), mom might get stressed out and dad might feel helpless. A doula or friend that is not directly involved will be able to remind mom of her plans and keep dad calm.
This is a great website to visit: www.earthmamaangelbaby.com. They have lots of great products, and also an area for you to customize your birthplan. You can print it out and give it to all parties involved. They bring up so many points, things that never even entered my mind! After looking over the options, researching and discussing it all with Avery and Michelle, I felt we had an easy-to-follow plan that everyone was on board with.
If you are having your birth in a hospital with an OB, you will want to discuss your plan with them. Unfortunately, some things may not be possible, such a yourself or the father catching the baby, birthing in a tub, etc. However, stand firm on certain things, such as immediate breastfeeding and bonding, eliminating eyedrops, rooming in, and no supplements (sugar water or formula).
Many times, it is a good idea to hire a doula or a support friend/family member to make sure your wishes are carried out. Sometimes in the midst of the excitement or anxiety (or even in the case of an emergency), mom might get stressed out and dad might feel helpless. A doula or friend that is not directly involved will be able to remind mom of her plans and keep dad calm.
My Birth Story - Part 3
Pregnancy was fairly easy for me. You hear so many stories from other women about their experiences, you expect certain things to happen to you. I had no weird cravings or mood swings...really! - you can ask my husband! I kept busy at work, and did plenty of reading on my down-time. I felt really prepared for this birth. We signed up for Hypnobirthing, which is a form of self-hypnosis and guided meditation for birth. Avery and I practiced often. We started our baby registry, and realized that all the stuff the stores tell you that you "need", you really don't need (another blog on that one!)
Normal mid-wife visits. One thing to think about is if your OB or midwife asks if you want genetic testing for abnormalities. They do this by taking out some of the amniotic fluid. Two problems I have with this: (1) there is a chance of a miscarriage, and (2) many times the testing is a false-positive. I did not want these test done. I would love our baby no matter what. Ultrasounds are also usually routine. You can opt out of them. There are some researchers now that theorize the ultrasound waves can affect the baby. We decided to do one quick one around 20 weeks. At that stage, all the vital organs and limbs are formed. Our midwife suggested to get a quick one just to make sure everything was where it should be - and everything was! How amazing to see that little person growing in there. And it was even doing some "kickboxing", just like mama! Looking back now, Nolan really did look like his ultrasound pictures.
As the baby grew bigger, our midwife could now feel out all the "parts" as she pressed on my tummy. She showed Avery how to feel the head versus the butt. There were even different beats for the heart, placenta and cord. This was all so fascinating! I was learning so much about pregnancy & birth and wondered would you ever get this kind of attention and information from an OB?
One of the great things about my job as an aerobics instructor is I get to wear "stretchy" clothes and sneakers - probably the most comfortable clothes for a pregnant woman. Yoga pants, bike shorts and big tee-shirts! I really did not have to buy alot of clothes; a pair of jeans, shorts, a swim suit and some larger tees. I borrowed some clothes from friends, which worked out well. I did not want to spend alot of money on something I would be out of in a few months.
Another thing we indulged in was pregnancy photos with a professional photographer (many of which are on this blog). Julia did an awesome job! I highly recommend every pregnant woman to get these photos done. It is such a beautiful time in a couple's life to capture on film. I will always remember exactly how I felt when I look at these photos.
Then, around 32 weeks (about 6 weeks from our due-date) our midwife felt the baby's head back up. It had been head-down for quite some time now...when did it flip???
As the baby grew bigger, our midwife could now feel out all the "parts" as she pressed on my tummy. She showed Avery how to feel the head versus the butt. There were even different beats for the heart, placenta and cord. This was all so fascinating! I was learning so much about pregnancy & birth and wondered would you ever get this kind of attention and information from an OB?
One of the great things about my job as an aerobics instructor is I get to wear "stretchy" clothes and sneakers - probably the most comfortable clothes for a pregnant woman. Yoga pants, bike shorts and big tee-shirts! I really did not have to buy alot of clothes; a pair of jeans, shorts, a swim suit and some larger tees. I borrowed some clothes from friends, which worked out well. I did not want to spend alot of money on something I would be out of in a few months.
Then, around 32 weeks (about 6 weeks from our due-date) our midwife felt the baby's head back up. It had been head-down for quite some time now...when did it flip???
8.23.2010
Food for toddlers
As Nolan gets more and more teeth (and wants to eat our food!), I have to become a little more creative in what I give him. I always follow the protocol "natural, healthy and mostly raw" when it comes to selecting his food. He likes to feed himself and although he only has about 7 teeth - all in the front - he does pretty good with gumming in the back. He will eat a whole apple, pear or peach all by himself. He just holds it and chomps away at it! When I open the refrigerator door, he comes running! Peas, blueberries, raspberries and peeled grapes are great for toddlers. They feel a sense of independence that they can pick up the food and actually feed themselves. Other veggies to try are asparagus stalks, zucchini and squash cubes, broccoli tops and bell pepper slivers. I also just a made a great dessert - quinoa pudding instead of rice pudding. Just boil in a pot with almond or coconut milk, adding cinnamon as needed. Really good and no need for sugar!
8.15.2010
Starting solid foods...how
I have already mentioned the “when” and “what” on baby food, so here is the “how”. When you first start feeding baby, it will be an experiment on what they like, how often they like to eat and if there are any allergies. Once you know that they like the food and there are no problems, you can start making the food in bulk. I started out with apples, peaches, pears, carrots, sweet potatoes, and green beans. You can combine the foods or make them separate. I suggest investing in a high-quality blender. We have a BlendTec - and love it!! - and the Vitamix is just as good. These commercial-grade blenders will last a lifetime and are perfect for making baby food, smoothies, sorbet, almond butter, marinades, salsas, etc. You can literally use them for everything! Although they are expensive, I feel that the benefits outweigh the cost and you will be saving a fortune on making your own food. As an example, I will start with apples. With the commercial blenders, you can put the whole apple in there – skin, seeds and all. Most of the nutrients are contained in the seeds, and this blender will pulverize them, so baby is getting the most out of the apple. You can add water to change the consistency. (NOTE: If you decide to use a food processor or regular blender, remember to read the instruction and remove seeds, pits, stems if necessary. These machines do not always break down the hard parts like the commercial blenders do. You might also need to add more water or steam food for a bit to get the consistency you desire since they do not blend as smoothly.)
Now depending on how much apple you make will depend on how you decide to store it. If you did not make that much you can keep it in the refrigerator, and it will last for a few days. Or you can put it in little jars and freeze it, pulling it out as you need and letting them defrost in the refrig. (This takes about a day to defrost). Or, what I do most the time is use a silicone mini-muffin trey as an icecube trey, pour the apple “smoothie” into the trey and freeze it. Then I have little “ice-cubes” that I store in jars in the freezer and pull out and defrost individual ice-cubes as needed. I have a jar for apple, one for pear, one for carrot, etc. Then I have a variety of food that will last a week or so and just remake as needed.
Another option for babies to get a great variety of food in one meal is to make smoothes. Just make sure that the baby is not allergic or sensitive to any ingredients. Add to your blender a handful of greens (spinach, kale, etc.), some fruit like bananas, apples, pears, pineapple, etc., water, almond milk or coconut milk for consistency and blend. Pour in a cup to drink for now and freeze some for later.
I know some parents are concerned about time. The jarred baby food seems so convenient. This way is also very convenient, but you do have to plan ahead. I usually make my food on the weekends. I start with a few individual pureed fruits and veggies and then make some mixed ones. Then I pour them into the icecube treys or small jars and freeze them. In a few hours, the icecubes are frozen, so I pop them out, and put them in their own containers. I make the quinoa ahead of time and keep it in a container in the refrigerator. It lasts about 3-4 days. You can also make hard-boiled eggs ahead of time and boiled chicken (after its cooked, puree in blender or food processor, adding water as needed). They will last in the refrig for about 5 days. Now we are ready for any meal, any time!! Just add your blended fruits and veggies to chicken, quinoa, eggs, potatoes, bananas, etc. and you have a quick and easy meal.
Remember…when you are heating up food, never microwave in a plastic container! When the plastic is heated, it begins to break down and release poisonous gasses into the food. Microwaving is not good to do anyways, but if you have to, please do it with glass containers only!
Recipes: Apple and pear go great together. Banana added to spinach and kale makes it sweeter. Some veggies can be bitter when raw, like carrots, so I add apples in. If they are not allergic to strawberries, a berry-blend smoothie is a great breakfast. Squash, zucchini and green beans. Beets, apples and carrots. However, I do steam white and sweet potatoes and then blend. Adding water, almond milk or coconut milk to any bowl can change the consistency. Sprinkling cinnamon, pepper, curry powder and other spices will start to introduce baby to different flavors. Fresh basil, cilantro and mint are great too. As baby gets older, they can eat chunkier food and will probably start to eat right off your plate! Just take your cues from baby – if they don’t like something, don’t force it - try again another day.
Raw is the best way for baby (and EVERYONE for that matter) to eat and get the most nutrients out of their food. In commercial baby food, the fruits and veggies are cooked for so long that they are depleted of their vital nutrients. Then they are diluted with water, and preservatives are added. Not a very nutritious meal for a growing baby. Eating fresh, raw fruits and veggies keeps us all healthier – therefore, less sick days, and less cost on medications and doctor visits…
As a side note, if you ever have tried commercial jarred baby food, it is disgusting! I feel so bad for babies that eat it! I tried a chicken and sweet potato one once and almost threw-up! Home-made baby food tastes great – just like we adults eat, but blended up. I try Nolan’s food all the time, so I know it is yummy!
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