It’s that time of the school year when the summer break is just a few weeks away from getting over, and soon the little ones will be getting back to school. For my kids, it’s a matter of another three weeks before they head back to school, which means it’s time to bring on some […] The post This Mother’s Week, Celeb Mommy Genelia and I pledged to Fight Flu! appeared first on...

It’s that time of the school year when the summer break is just a few weeks away from getting over, and soon the little ones will be getting back to school. For my kids, it’s a matter of another three weeks before they head back to school, which means it’s time to bring on some mommy powers and get into the #MomVsFlu gear!

While I’m generally one of those paranoid and careful mommies, I do encourage both my kids to play around and go out there as much as they can. And it’s no surprise that each year, they spend a considerable amount of time being sick with two of the most common and most dreaded kiddie illnesses that I think all us mommies face – the cough and the cold.

Not to mention these risks increase way more around this time of the year when the heat and the humidity levels are at their peak. So, I’m even more worried because the monsoon is round the corner, and these pre-monsoon weeks are the biggest culprits when the scare of influenza is also at its peak.

What is influenza, or flu?

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It’s a very common infection with more than 10 million cases per year in India. Other illnesses that resemble flu can be caused by many different viruses. Influenza A/H1N1 (earlier called ‘Swine Flu’) is a type of seasonal flu virus that now occurs around the world. By the way, did you know that humidity can also lead to a rise in the cases of influenza and makes the condition spread more?

Building baby and mommy’s immunity

When I was a first-time mom, I thought this is something that happens to the really smaller babies and will get better soon, that the immunity will build up and my child will not face cold and cough after maybe the first or second year.

But that perception changed by the time I had my second one. I knew there was no escaping the cold and cough. As long as there were kids around, as long as they would go out and play, go to school, and basically interact with other children and grown-ups even, they would continue to come back home with cold and cough.

Basic medicines were something I was putting them on a lot, but once I too got really sick with cold and cough, my doctor advised it was time we all get ahead and get the flu shots – for the entire family and not only for the kids.

“How will you keep your kids safe and away from the germs when you become a carrier yourself?” he asked me simply, which is when it hit me – the flu vaccine isn’t something just the kids need, we the parents need it, too.

That’s why I was really keen to be at the influenza mommy bloggers meet, to understand more about the health aspects and see how we could keep our children safe from it.

Genelia Deshmukh and Dr Uday Pai in an interactive session with Mom Bloggers

This Mother’s Week, I took the pledge

Yes, I know that from the day you hold your little one in your arms for the first time, every day is Mother’s Day. But why not dedicate a week to this special bond and actually do something that can protect me and my kids, and the entire family?

As a mother and someone who has seen her kids fall sick, I took the pledge this Mother’s week to protect them, which is why I have made the decision to have the influenza shot. I am all ready to speak to my doctor and take the necessary precautions and the shot, which I know will keep my babies safe, and help me prepare them for their school reopening without worrying about bugs and the flu.

And it’s not just me, but celebrity mommy Genelia Deshmukh, who was also part of the event, is also taking the pledge to fight against influenza. Her message that mommies should turn from ‘worrier to warrior’ makes the perfect tagline for mother’s week, as well as for all those moments we spend worrying about our little ones.

At the bloggers meet, here are some things I picked up and felt I must share with my fellow mommies to help you stay alert and take charge of your baby’s health…

Flu is contagious and spreads in the following ways:

1. Through coughing and sneezing. People with flu can spread it to others up to about six feet away. Flu viruses spread mainly through tiny droplets made when people with a flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or be inhaled into the lungs.

2. Touching infected surfaces and objects: People can also be exposed to flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their mouth, eyes, or nose. Studies have shown that human flu viruses generally can survive on surfaces.

Common symptoms

#1. Fever or feeling feverish/chills

#2. A cough

#3. A sore throat

#4. Runny or stuffy nose

#5. Muscles or body aches

#6. Headaches

#7. Tiredness

Who is at the highest risk?

•  Children less than 5 years of age.
•  Children with chronic health problems like asthma, diabetes and disorders of the brain or nervous system
•  Pregnant women

Common cold Vs Flu

According to Dr. Mukesh Gupta, Gynecologist/ Obstetrician,”Common cold is not the same as flu. Influenza is very different and we should not confuse them with each other.”

Dr. Uday Pai, Pediatrician (MD, DCH Distinction), seemed to answer directly to me when he made it very clear that, “We assume we are healthy and that we won’t catch a cold or influenza, but this is not true. Everyone is susceptible and our body is exposed to many risks on a daily basis.”

I am definitely guilty of doing this a lot, and in fact, I was pleasantly surprised to hear actress Genelia Deshmukh echo the same when she said that she was also in the habit of treating influenza as general cold, but soon realised that the two were very different.

“If you are planning to try and have a baby, you can take a flu vaccine, even before you get pregnant, “ advises to Dr. Gupta who added that only a healthy body can bring a healthy baby, and hence a preconception vaccine is important. “Also, if you are pregnant, you can take influenza vaccine at any time during your pregnancy. It is absolutely safe,” assures Dr. Gupta.

Prevention is better than cure!

•  Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
•  Wash your hands often with soap and water
•  Get vaccinations when required and speak to your doctor about it

Vaccines may take 4 to 6 weeks to develop complete immunity in your body, so you must take it before any epidemic like swine flu breaks out, cautioned Dr. Pai, who says that April, May, June are the best months to take the influenza vaccination for children and for the whole family, to get complete prevention against flu.

To brush up on my understanding, I went on the Mothers Against Influenza (MAI) website. Ideally, vaccinating your baby between the ages of 6 and 9 months will provide the best protection and avoid discomfort to your little one. In fact, your paediatrician is the best person to talk to and understand when is the earliest age at which you can safely give the flu vaccine to your baby.

About the Flu vaccination

Influenza vaccines, also known as flu shots or flu jabs, are vaccines that protect against infection by Influenza viruses. A new version of the vaccine is developed twice a year, as the Influenza virus rapidly change. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends yearly vaccination for nearly all people over the age of six months, especially those at high risk. These groups include pregnant women, the elderly, children between six months and five years of age, those with other health problems, and those who work in healthcare.

We can easily fight all our worries related to our babies suffering from Flu by becoming more aware of flu and of the vaccination, and whether you are planning to have a baby, are pregnant, or already have little ones at home, it’s really important to take a strong action and get our babies and our children, and of course ourselves, vaccinated.

If you’re not sure whether or not your family physician has the vaccine, you can get a list of the nearest doctors here who can guide you better on this.

Disclaimer: I attended a discussion on influenza awareness facilitated by Abbott India Limited. Any opinion expressed in this blog is my personal opinion and not the opinion of Abbott India Limited. Abbott India Limited does not assume any liability for the content of the blog. The blog post is not meant to be a replacement for a doctor consultation, nor is it a medical recommendation or prescription of treatment for babies having Influenza. Any reader of this blog or their family members suffering from Influenza should specifically consult his/her doctor for the same and follow the suggested course of treatment.

About the Author –

Debolina started jotting down her parenting journey online when her first daughter was born, and it’s been a never-ending and fun experience in the world of blogging. Today, with two daughters and a home full of books, she continues writing about parenting, health, wellness, beauty, books and also pens her poetry and thoughts. When not churning stories for her work role, she prefers to run away from the city with her girls.

The post This Mother’s Week, Celeb Mommy Genelia and I pledged to Fight Flu! appeared first on Babygogo.

Did you know that your child’s brain development begins at conception? This is because fulfilling the child’s requirement of nutrition for brain development is heavily dependent on the nutrition provided by the mother. If the mother makes sure that she is eating a diet rich in nutrition, it will add to her child’s brain development. […] The post The Opportunity For Developing A Child’s IQ In Early Infancy appeared first on...

Did you know that your child’s brain development begins at conception?

This is because fulfilling the child’s requirement of nutrition for brain development is heavily dependent on the nutrition provided by the mother. If the mother makes sure that she is eating a diet rich in nutrition, it will add to her child’s brain development. Other than nutrition, factors such as genetics and environment (stimulation) affect the child’s brain growth and development. While the genetics cannot be altered, you can definitely provide the requisite nutrition and stimulation for your child’s brain development. Although brain development is a lifelong process, most of the growth and development takes place early on, in the first two years of a baby’s life.

Understanding nutrition as an important part of child brain development:

Right nutrition during pregnancy leads to improved health of the baby at birth. 90% of the child’s brain development happens by the age of 2 years.

DHA is an important nutrient that helps the development of brain cells and brain connections. However, your baby’s DHA is prone to oxidation, or in other words, it can get damaged and hence needs protection. Natural Vitamin E is a powerful anti-oxidant that prevents DHA from any oxidative damage and keeps it intact. This intact DHA or protected DHA helps in the child’s brain development. All of this nutrition helps develop the baby’s cognition, thereby creating a fertile ground for better IQ. So, giving the appropriate nutrition means feeding IQ to the baby!

What do we mean by Feed IQ?

Feed IQ literally means that a mother feeds ‘IQ’ to her baby through breastfeeding and stimulation i.e. infant brain exercises!

Nutrition for brain development for infants is of great importance. Find out about the benefits of Vitamin E for infants

1. Natural Vitamin E protects DHA from oxidation:

DHA is a building block that is important in enhancing brain development but it is also vulnerable to oxidative damage. Natural Vitamin E acts as a sentry guard protecting DHA from being oxidized with Lutein.

2. Natural Vitamin E is potent:

The synthetic Vitamin E found in dietary supplements and foods that are fortified, is only half as potent and active as Natural Vitamin E.

3. Natural Vitamin E in the babies’ brain:

Research showed that Natural Vitamin E accumulates in parts of the brain associated with visual memory and language development.

The nutritional requirements of a baby are fully dependant on a mother in the early stages of life. However, did you know that stimulation or infant brain exercises also play a vital role in shaping a baby’s cognitive development! Let us understand how stimulation or infant brain exercises actually help the child’s brain development.

Understanding the role of brain exercise as an important part of child brain development:

It is vital to know that the amount of cumulative vocabulary by 2 years of age is enormously predictive of later brain development or your child’s IQ. Hence, it is important that parents talk to the child from an early age to build their vocabulary and engage with their child in a meaningful manner.

Fetuses hear voices antenatally. Research has shown that a baby can identify its mother’s voice but it can’t differentiate between the father’s and a stranger’s voice.

Parents need to know that early life build up of social and cognitive skills comes with the advantage of time, which means in time these children will be more likely to be better at communicating. For example, at home you can reward your child for giving appropriate responses and even during the assessment, make sure to give them time to perform tasks. Let them do so at a pace comfortable to them.

Regardless of chronological age, the development clock begins at 40 weeks. Make sure you chose simpler activities, keeping in mind the infant’s capacity, before increasing the complexity of an activity.

The post The Opportunity For Developing A Child’s IQ In Early Infancy appeared first on Babygogo.

Hi dear parents, Thanks for being part of Babygogo. You are the reason we exist. We are proud to announce that Babygogo has now become part of SHEROES. Like Babygogo is a partner for all moms on their parenting journey, SHEROES is a place for women to share their varied interests and needs. Whatever you are looking for, […] The post Babygogo Is Now Part Of Sheroes appeared first on...

Hi dear parents,

Thanks for being part of Babygogo. You are the reason we exist. We are proud to announce that Babygogo has now become part of SHEROES. Like Babygogo is a partner for all moms on their parenting journey, SHEROES is a place for women to share their varied interests and needs.

Whatever you are looking for, be it personal development, career guidance, relationship advice, a healthy lifestyle or contribute to the society, SHEROES helps you achieve that.

SHEROES is a space where you can be yourself, have fun, and can learn and grow. It helps you write your own growth story and also be a part of other women’s stories by sharing your experiences, knowledge, and wisdom.

Click here to know more about SHEROES

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Ovarian cancer is the cancer of the ovary, two small almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus. It happens when cells divide and multiply in an abnormal and unregulated manner. Most ovarian cancers start in the outer lining of the ovary. Ovarian cancer is the 5th most common form of cancer in women all […] The post Everything You Should Know About Ovarian Cancer appeared first on...

Ovarian cancer is the cancer of the ovary, two small almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus.

It happens when cells divide and multiply in an abnormal and unregulated manner. Most ovarian cancers start in the outer lining of the ovary.

Ovarian cancer is the 5th most common form of cancer in women all around the globe.

What are the early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?

In early stages, it can be hard to determine the symptoms of ovarian cancer as they resemble the symptoms of other conditions such as premenstrual syndrome, urinary tract infection, irritable bowel syndrome or any other temporary bladder related problem.

However, unlike other diseases, ovarian cancer symptoms worsen gradually. If you are noticing any of these symptoms, which are persistent and worsening, meet your Gynaecologist or the nearest Health Care Provider immediately.

• Pain in the lower abdominal region.
• Pain in the pelvic region.
• Back pain.
• Swollen tummy.
• More frequent urination.
• Bloating.
• Constipation.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Vaginal bleeding, particularly after menopause.
• Unintentional and sudden weight loss.

Keep in mind, that if the early symptoms last for more than three weeks, meet your healthcare provider immediately.

Can missed period be a sign of ovarian cancer?

Missed periods are usually not a cause for concern. They usually indicate towards pregnancy, improper lifestyle, stress or hormonal imbalance.

A period is considered missed when an entire 28-day cycle is skipped. Keep in mind that the length of this cycle may vary in some woman. Irregular or missed periods are not the most common sign of ovarian cancer but they can increase your risk of having ovarian cancer.

Contact your doctor if you are struggling with or have a history of irregular or missed periods.

Who is at high risk for ovarian cancer?

All women are at risk for ovarian cancer, with a possibility of 1 in 75 women developing this disease in their lifetime.

However, the likelihood of developing the disease becomes higher if –

• You’ve crossed the age of 40- Ovarian cancer is rarely found in women who are under the age of 40.
• You’ve had your menopause- Most ovarian cancers are observed to develop after menopause.
• You have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer- If you have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, you are at a higher risk of developing the disease. Cancer mutations can be inherited and passed on to generations.
• You have been diagnosed with breast cancer before- Having a personal history of breast cancer also puts you at a high risk of developing ovarian cancer.
• If you are overweight and have a BMI of 30 or over- Obese women are at a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer.

How long do you have to live with stage 4 ovarian cancer?

The earlier the disease is detected, the better the chances of survival. If diagnosed at stage 1, chances of survival are as high as 90%. If detected in the later stages, this rate can drop down to 46 – 50%.

The type of ovarian cancer will shape a person’s treatment, symptoms, and likelihood of survival. If cancer spreads outside the ovary, the chances of survival become as low as 17%.

Can you prevent Ovarian cancer?

You can’t prevent it, but there are several ways you can reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer. Some of them are –

• Living a healthy lifestyle.
• Avoiding smoking and drinking.
• Maintaining weight within normal BMI.

Some researchers also suggest that women who take birth control pills are at a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer.

However, it should be noted that consumption of birth control pills should only be done for valid medical reasons under the supervision of your healthcare provider.

Can you be fully cured of ovarian cancer?

If diagnosed at an early stage, ovarian cancer can be cured completely. During the early stages, surgery is the only treatment needed and survival rates are high.

However, women diagnosed at a more advanced or terminal stage have comparatively lower chance of being cured completely. A combination of surgery and chemotherapy is used in more advanced stages.

What are the Stages of an Ovarian Cancer?

The stages of ovarian cancer indicate towards the overall cancer spread. The 4 stages of ovarian cancer are –

#1 Stage one-

In this stage, cancer cells only affect one or both ovaries. Chances of survival are highest at this stage.

#2 Stage two-

The cancer is now starting to spread beyond ovaries. Other organs within the pelvis, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, bladder, or rectum are at risk.

#3 Stage three-

Cancer now affects the lining of the abdomen or lymph nodes in the back of the abdomen.

#4 Stage four-

Cancer spreads even more now. Areas that may now be affected include the liver, spleen, and the fluid around the lungs.

How bad is stage 4 ovarian cancer?

Stage 4 is the terminal stage of ovarian cancer. Most women diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer are found to have a 5-year survival rate.

Treatment for Stage 4 ovarian cancer consists of surgery in which tumor is removed as much as possible. Chemotherapy is given simultaneously to ensure that the spread of the cancer cells is halted and some of the cancerous cells are destroyed.

How to get Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?

Meeting your doctor is very important if you are experiencing the signs and symptoms which indicate towards ovarian cancer.

Your doctor will ask questions about the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

He /she will take your family history, and perform a pelvic examination to detect any palpable abnormalities in the uterus or ovaries.

Other than this, Following tests can be done to identify ovarian cancer –

• Blood test
• Abdominal fluid aspiration
• Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan or MRI
• Cancer markers like CA – 125
• Laparoscopy
• Colonoscopy
• Biopsy

Final diagnosis will be made by your doctor after taking a look at your tests results. If cancer is detected, your treatment will take shape according to the stage of your cancer.

What Treatments are available for Ovarian Cancer?

Available treatments for ovarian cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

Duration and type of treatment may vary with the type of ovarian cancer.Often more than one treatment is used to treat cancer. The course and the kind of treatment depend on many factors. Stage and grade, as well as the general health of the patient, are taken into consideration.

Conclusion

Successful treatment of ovarian cancer is possible. However, it highly depends on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed. It’s important to observe your health status and the severity of the symptom to make sure that diagnosis is done as early as possible.

Be open regarding your condition to the doctor and ask questions about your treatment. Maintain a record of your medication and make sure you are following everything that the doctor advice. Keep in touch with your gynecologist and get an examination done time to time so that ovarian cancer if present is detected early.

Thanks for reading this Article.

We encourage you to share your similar experiences and viewpoint on this topic, below in the comments section.

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Mom, where did I come from? How did the baby go inside your belly? What is death? Why is my body different from my sister’s body? These are the questions that intrigue the minds of children very often. As parents, our job is to protect, provide, care, and, cuddle. But things may become challenging once […] The post How to Answer Curious Questions of Your Kid? appeared first on...

Mom, where did I come from?

How did the baby go inside your belly?

What is death?

Why is my body different from my sister’s body?

These are the questions that intrigue the minds of children very often.

As parents, our job is to protect, provide, care, and, cuddle. But things may become challenging once your children start growing up. The more they grow, the more curious they get. The moment they learn to speak, frame sentences and ask questions, you must upgrade to version 2.0, i.e the next level of parenting.

You need to be a philosopher, a teacher, and a learner at times.

Some months back, you were never short of words, but now your own children leave you speechless with an awkward expression.

Kids are inquisitive, they ask questions so frequently as they process whatever they see and hear. This is a good quality though.

At times, you’ll exclaim,

Oh! My child is such a curious observer.

But, at times,

Oh Shit! How am I supposed to answer this?

We understand your situation. Here’s a list of important factors to consider while answering those sorts of questions.

Follow these tips to answer the awkward or intricate questions of your tiny tots –

#1 Don’t Ignore, Answer

Most of you often make this mistake. Avoid using phrases like, will talk later or I have some work for now or it’s not your concern, ignore!

The act of ignoring won’t let the child’s mind skip the query. They might reach out to other people which may not be safe. If you will ignore, they will go to someone else. Don’t ignore, give them the right answer.

#2 Be Patient while Listening

Making a conversation more of a lecture won’t be fruitful. Just for the sake of answering, you cannot hush them for speaking before they ask another question.

Let them know you’re all ears to them. Hear them out.

Try to get on their nerves and understand their state of mind.
After listening, first ask about their opinion, their reasons, judgments.

In this way, you will get a gist of how much they know, what’s their stance on the matter and how you need to form your answer.
Make it a two-way conversation, rather than a one-way lecture.

#3 Encourage and Appreciate their Curiosity

There would be instances when you feel that the topic is not to be discussed with children; it might be too offensive or negative.

In that case, don’t be furious with them for having questions.

Instead, compose your thoughts and explain why they need not worry about such things for now, why it’s not relevant right now.

Ensure them that you will get back to them on that thing when it’s the “right time”.
Don’t forget to tap their back for being so observant of the things around.

#4 Give the Age-Appropriate Answers

Questions won’t ever stop coming in their head. Eventually, they will come to you to clarify the doubts. It’s your job now to gauge the amount of detail you should pour in the children’s mind.

Suppose your 3 years old asks you about where the babies come from.

Don’t hesitate or panic. Just say they grow in mommy’s belly. But hey, if it’s a five or six years old, they will ask how they come out. Awkward.

No problem, add some more detail. Tell them that babies travel through the birth canal and come out of the vagina (It can be difficult but consider this).

If it’s your 10 years old asking the question, make it clear with the “birds and bees game”.
This way, your answers can be age-appropriate and composed.

#5 Be Honest, Don’t Lie to Let Go

Your children believe in you. It’s your responsibility to stay true to the belief they hold in you.

Be it any question, maybe related to sex, death, science, anatomy, or racism, just be honest and speak the truth.

If you lie, they might feel betrayed and refrain asking you questions anymore. Children find out the right reason anyway. They might discuss those things with their friends in their get-togethers.

If you can’t answer the question at the moment, or cannot fabricate the answer, ask politely for some time. But don’t lie to let it go.

#6 Stay Calm and Composed with your Reactions

Generally, when we hear questions related to anatomy or the body structures, we get bemused and may react inappropriately. Instead, stay calm and composed with your thoughts, and answer smartly.

Don’t let them feel you’re uncomfortable with the question.

To Be in Your Children’s Memories Tomorrow, You Have to Be in Their Lives Today

So let these tips help you.

Children are the flowers of our society, we need to nourish them. You are the one they look up to for everything. Let this faith sustain. Answering difficult questions of your children isn’t that difficult.

Be tactful. Keep the little things in mind.

We encourage you to share your similar experiences you had with your kid to other parents here in the comments section below.

Happy Parenting.

The post How to Answer Curious Questions of Your Kid? appeared first on Babygogo.

Pregnancy is a crucial step in a woman’s life and it is undoubtedly the most wonderful experience as well. A Pregnant woman’s body demands good nutrition, attention, and care. A woman’s health should be on the top of her priority list if she is planning to bring a new life into the world. Improving diet […] The post Sources of Healthy Food Before, During & After Pregnancy appeared first on...

Pregnancy is a crucial step in a woman’s life and it is undoubtedly the most wonderful experience as well. A Pregnant woman’s body demands good nutrition, attention, and care.

A woman’s health should be on the top of her priority list if she is planning to bring a new life into the world. Improving diet is one of the best ways in which a woman can prepare her body for the pregnancy.

It is highly advised to eat a diet that is rich in Folic acid and Calcium. Women should also consume food that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and potassium during pregnancy.

All these nutrients are important for the mother’s health and the baby’s healthy development.

Essential Nutrients Before Pregnancy

If you are planning to bring a new life into this world. Here are some important nutrients that should be included in your diet.

#1 Folic Acid

Gynaecologists and Pediatricians stress upon consuming a diet that has an adequate amount of folic acid.

Folic acid reduces the chances of neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe you folic acid supplements as they are very important for a pregnant woman.

Food Rich in Folic Acid:

• Whole grains
• Citrus fruits
• Fortified cereals

#2 Protein

Protein is righteously called as the building block of life. Consuming a diet that is rich in protein can help in fetus development. It helps to build up the baby’s soft tissue and placenta.

Food Rich in Proteins:

• Beans
• Legumes
• Nuts
• Chicken
• Beef
• Fish

#3 Calcium

It is a very important nutrient when it comes to the overall development of the baby. It makes the heart and the blood vessels of the fetus stronger and it also strengthens the mother’s bones.

Food Rich in Calcium:

• Yogurt
• Cereals
• Milk
• Soy
• Green vegetables

Essential Nutrients During Pregnancy

It’s important for a pregnant woman to keep a track of what she eats during her pregnancy. The baby feeds what the mother consumes.

#1 Fiber

Adequate consumption of fiber can improve the digestive system and reduce the chances of constipation.

Food Rich in Fiber:

• Avocados
• Coconut
• Berries
• Okras
• Nuts

#2 Vitamin A

Vitamin A improves the development of the baby’s teeth, bones, and vision. It also reduces the chances of birth defects like malformation of eyes and bones.

Food Rich in Vitamin A:

• Carrots
• Squash
• Spinach
• Pumpkin

#3 Vitamin C

There are studies which indicate that Vitamin C can help improve the mental development of the baby. Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in collagen formation. Collagen forms the connective tissue in the body like the skin and bones.

Food Rich in Vitamin C:

• All Citrus fruits
• Oranges
• Kiwis
• Strawberries
• Grapefruit
• Tomato

#4 Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have positive effects on the pregnancy itself. It helps in the visual and cognitive development of the baby and reduces the risks of allergies.

Food Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

• Salmon
• Mackerel
• Tuna
• Flaxseed oil
• Canola oil
• Soybean oil

Essential Nutrients After Pregnancy

Your body has been through tremendous changes during the pregnancy. You’ve spent a lot of energy and your body is almost depleted of many essential nutrients.

Neglecting your diet after pregnancy can cause adverse effects on your body.

#1 Iron

Iron deficiency is a very common thing to happen after the delivery of your little one.

Iron deficiency can lead to hypertension and postpartum anemia. Most importantly, your baby will expect to receive his share of Iron from your breast milk.

Therefore, It’s very important to eat a diet that is rich in Iron.

Food Rich in Iron:

• Green vegetables.
• Pomegranate.
• Fenugreek
• Sesame seeds
• Lean beef

#2 Calcium

Pregnancy puts a lot of stress on a woman’s body. It affects her posture and weakens her bones.

Calcium helps in the healthy formation of bones, reducing the risk of fractures, making them strong. This, in turn, improves the posture as well.

Food Rich in Calcium:

• Milk
• Milk products like cheese, curd, yogurt etc.
• Oats
• Almonds

#3 Folic Acid

Food Rich in Folic Acid:

• Avocado
• Citrus fruits
• Lentils

Foods a Pregnant Woman Should Avoid

Not everything you eat it good for you and your baby. Keeping a watch over what you consume during your pregnancy plays an important role in the development of your fetus. Incorrect diet and consumption of certain foods can bring complications in a healthy pregnancy.

#1 Processed Food –

Canned food is packed with large amounts of sodium. They might seem easy to consume and delicious but they can increase the risk of hypertension in mother and can even lead to kidney failure.

#2 Junk Food –

It has no nutritional benefits, these are empty calories that are high in MSG content. Junk food can cause a spike in the normal levels of blood sugar. Say no to all fizzy soft drinks and soda as they are bad for you.

#3 Fishes Found in the Ocean –

Fishes such as sharks, swordfish, and king mackerel contain high mercury levels that bring threats to the immune and nervous systems of the baby.

#4 Raw eggs –

Contain salmonella that can leave the pregnant women dehydrated and weak. There are also instances when infections can be passed on to the baby, rendering the baby weak after pregnancy.

#5 Coffee –

These contain caffeine that prevents fetal growth, thus affecting the weight of the baby at delivery. Caffeine can also enter the breast milk and cause irritation to the baby while sleeping.

Here are some foods, a mother should avoid during Breastfeeding –

Conclusion

It is important to know the healthy foods for women, especially during pregnancy. If a pregnant woman neglects a proper diet, it can bring long-term effects for both the mother and the baby.

It is best to practice healthy living even after pregnancy, this will ensure that the mother will remain healthy and able to carry another successful pregnancy.

The post Sources of Healthy Food Before, During & After Pregnancy appeared first on Babygogo.