Most of us have had experience of pink eye or conjunctivits and know how highly contagious it can be. It is alarming for parents the first time they see this condition on a young child because it may make the eyes extremely red and even spread rapidly. The good news is that it usually causes no long term damage either to the vision or the eyes themselves.

Some types of pink eye go away on their own while other require treatment.

The symptoms of pink eye are:

-   Redness or swelling of the white of the eye or inside the eyelid

-  Increased amount of tears

-  White, yellow or green eye discharge

-  Itchy eyes

-  Burning eyes

-  Increased sensitivity to light

-  Gritty feeling in the eye

-  Crusting of eyelids or lashes

Pink eye can be caused by:

-  The bacteria and viruses that are responsible for colds and other infections such as ear, sinus or throat infections.

-  The same bacteria that can lead to sexually transmitted diseases – known as chlamydia and gonorrhea.

-  Allergies – although this is more likely when a child has other allergic reactions such as hay fever.

-  Irritants in the environment such as chemicals in chlorine or soaps or air pollutants such as smoke or fumes.

Chlorine in higher concentrations such as in public swimming kpools can be the culprit if your child experiences frequent bouts of conjunctivitis. The chlorine can break down the protective layers of lubrication that cover the eyes so that they become more vulnerable to getting infected if they are rubbed. Triggers of this type of allergic conjunctivitis include grass, ragweed pollen, animal dander and dust mites.

Fortunately, most cases of conjunctivitis resolve on their own within a week or so but when the pink eye produces a green or yellow discharge, using an over-the-counter antibiotic eye drop can be very helpful. Even if the pink eye appears in just one eye, it is safer to put one drop in each eye because it is so easy for the conjunctivitis to spread. Continue the treatment daily for at least two days after all signs of the redness have gone.

With add-ons, the nursery cot just keeps on growing and giving.

Stokke AS is a Norwegian company owned by the Stokke family and founded in 1932 in Ålesund, in the northwestern part of Norway, but provides worldwide distribution through selected retailers represented in around fifty countries. They believe in creating unique, functional and long‐lasting products, attractively designed with a wide variety of accessories to provide, support, and promote wellbeing for both parent and child. The Stokke Sleepi bed was first launched in 1999.

The Stokke SleepI is made of solid attractive beech wood and grows in length so that one bed can be adapted as your child grows. There is a choice of color finishes – white, natural, walnut brown, grey and whitewash.

Here are the different stages:

1. For the newborn, the Stokke Sleepi Mini provides the perfect first bed as it creates a nest like environmment that is comfortable and secure. Smooth action lockable wheels can be used to rock your baby gently to sleep as well as making the crib easy to move from room to room while the width of 67 cm means it will easily fit through a standard doorway. Depending on your baby, this first size will fit up to 6 months.

2. The second stage of development is Stokke Sleepi Bed where the mini easily converts into a cot bed so that your baby has his or her similar and familiar environment but is safe and secure whether sleeping or awake. The height positions can be adjusted and the bed extension is an add-on to the Mini. Ideal up to the age of 18 months.

3. The same Stokke Sleepi Bed accommodates your todler’s changing development so that when he or she reaches the curious climbing stage, you can remove one side of the bed for easy access and to boost feelings of freedom and independence. This will be perfect for your young child up to the age of 3 years.

4. With the Junior Extension available as an add-on, the Stokke Sleepi Bed becomes the perfect sleeping place for your child up to the age of 10 years.

5. And there is even a 5th stage because once your child is 10 years old and ready to move into an adult bed, the Stokki Sleepi makes a practical mini sofa for any room in the home or it can be used as two chairs.

The Stokki keeps on going until your child has his or her own children and you need to start accommodating grandchildren!

Too much heat and sweat can make the skin even more irritated and itchy.  When the body sweats, valuable water and moisture is lost from the skin. Keeping the skin moisturized is key to controlling this affliction. It is vital to establish a skin care routine.

A daily bath helps to moisturize the skin, using moisturizing aqueous cream rather than ordinary soaps for cleaning. The temperature should be just warm and it is helpful to soak for 15 to 20 minutes so that the skin’s outer layer can absorb moisture. Avoid any excessive scrubbing. For an additional soothing treat, add colloidal oatmeal like Aveeno to the bath, and even use oatmeal as a soap substitute. For the bath, pour 2 cups of colloidal oatmeal into the lukewarm water. This oatmeal is a fine powder that will remain suspended in water. For use as a soap substitute, wrap colloidal oatmeal in a handkerchief, place a rubber band around the top, wet it, wring it out and use as you would a normal washcloth. After the bath, the skin should be partly dried by gently patting with a towel to remove excess water while still leaving the skin damp.

Use an emollient cream for adding moisture to the clean but still damp skin. The best moisturizer is a basic fragrance-free one that is more greasy than creamy such as Vaseline. Unfortunately, Vaseline is a petroleum byproduct but I have a recipe for a natural jelly to use instead. An emollient cream is even more important to use if your child is in an air conditioned or heated environment. Use the cream twice a day and even more often on the hands if they are affected.

Recipe for natural petroleum jelly:

Place 1 oz. of beeswax in the top of a double boiler and heat slowly until it melts. Don’t put beeswax in the microwave or in a standard saucepan, as it is flammable when exposed to direct heat.

Remove the melted wax from heat and squeeze the oil from six x 400 IU vitamin E capsules into the wax. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties which nourish and protect your skin while acting as a natural preservative to prolong the shelf life of your petroleum jelly.

Stir in 1/2 cup of extra virgin or cold pressed sweet almond oil. Stir the ingredients constantly as the mixture cools and thickens. While still slightly warm, scoop the jelly mixture into a dark glass jar and leave unsealed to cool completely.

Keep in a cool, dark place, or in your refrigerator. Use it as you would use commercial petroleum jelly.

Of course a child with eczema is going to be very tempted to scratch those areas that itch. Keep their nails cut very short and covered with cotton mittens at night and more often if your child is young enough not to pull them off. The big problem with scratching eczema is that it triggers eczematous rashes. If you can stop the scratching, some eczematous rashes will actually disappear on their own.

There are a host of home remedies that you can also try. You may find that one or more of these are perfect for your child:

-  Apply coconut oil to the affected area to keep the skin smooth and soft.

-  Make a paste of 1 teaspoon sandalwood and 1 teaspoon camphor and apply to the eczema.

-  Another paste can be made of 1 tablespoon each of turmeric powder and bitter neem leaves.

-  Try just using water. Apply cold compresses or cold water. Cold, wet dressings can help soothe and relieve the itching associated with eczema. You can even use cold milk instead of water as this may be a lot more soothing. Put milk into a glass with ice cubes and let it sit for a few minutes. Then pour the milk onto a gauze pad or thin piece of cotton and apply it to the irritated skin for 2 or 3 minutes. Re-soak the cloth and reapply, continuing the process for about 10 minutes several times per day.

-  Calamine lotion is good for many types of rashes that ooze and need to be dried out.

-  Another suggested remedy for eczema is to dab some witch hazel on the affected area with a cotton ball.

-  Some regular sunlight (in moderation) can be helpful as it tops up your child’s Vitamin D and kills harmful bacteria at the same time.

-  Eczema is aggravated by dehumidified air, especially during winter months when forced-air heat circulates in the home. As this heat is more drying than other types, a good humidifier is an excellent home remedy for eczema. Make sure your humidifier is covering a sufficient area of the home (to be beneficial) and have one next to your child’s bed bed when he or she is sleeping.

-  Cotton clothing worn next to the skin is kinder than other material. Bed linens and towels should be pure cotton too. Avoid all synthetic or itchy fabrics as well as tight or ill fitting clothing. Even labels on clothing can be a source of irritation.

-  Eliminate any foods that can aggravate the eczema. Traditionally eggs, orange juice and milk have been suggested as eczema aggravators in children but it may well be something different such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, salty food, refined fats, white sugar, coffee, red meat or raw garlic. Allergy tests will ascertain if a particular food or diet is contributing to the eczema.

-  Reducing the effect of house dust mite can be an important step to take as many children are affected by the allergens in the droppings of these mite that thrive in warm and moist environments, living in bedding, mattresses, curtains and carpets. Effective and regular vacuuming as well as damp dusting and the washing or airing of bedding will help with this. If you can change from carpeting to another form of flooring, even better.

-  Essential oils have been used down the centuries as a successful home remedy for eczema and other skin conditions. Now H-Eczema from Healing Natural Oils is specially formulated from pure essential oils to provide the perfect healing eczema treatment that is gentle, safe and successful to use.

It can take some time and effort to find the perfect combination of treatments to suit your child but well worth it to manage this eczema condition.
.

Stress making you reach for the bottle?

Many behaviors that increase in times of stress are actually very negative. These could be taking drugs, sleeping pills or pain medication; turning to alcohol; taking up or increasing a smoking habit; overeating or just as harmful under eating; withdrawing from friends, family and activities; sleeping too much or sleeping badly (insomnia); taking out your stress on others; procrastinating; or escaping by lying on the couch for hours watching TV. These habits are not going to help but will actually make the stress worse.

Stuck in traffic?

Commuters who regularly get stuck in traffic jams when driving can experience as much as a 64% hike in their general stress levels. One way to cope is to keep repeating a calming mantra to yourself – perhaps a bit like saying a prayer or reciting the rosary. Adapt what you say to your own particular spiritual or religious beliefs. Try to view stressful situations from a more positive perspective. Rather than fuming about a traffic jam, look at it as an opportunity to pause and regroup, listen to your favorite radio station or enjoy some alone time.

Feeling particularly miserable?

Laughter is a great way to cure the blues. If you cannot get together with friends who you know will make you laugh, then watch a comedy movie or a stand up comic that you enjoy to get the laughter going and to release a whole host of hormones and chemicals that can only have a positive effect on your misery. Your stress will be reduced, your blood pressure will drop, your immune system will be boosted and most of all your depression will be lifted. You also need to learn to laugh at yourself for additional benefits.

Are you pregnant and stressed?

All the more reason to find a solution for that stress because babies who are born to stressed mothers can arrive earlier than they should and could be underweight.

And once your baby is born?

Babies however young can be very perceptive to emotional displays by their mothers and could be emotionally affected for years to come. Be aware of this and try to keep the environment stress-free for both you and your baby. Perfectionism is a major source of avoidable stress especially when you are a new mom. Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. Set reasonable standards for yourself at this, and other times, and learn to be okay with “good enough.”

How to ease the stress?

-  Not all stress can be avoided, and it’s not healthy to avoid a situation that needs to be addressed. You may be surprised, however, by the number of stressors in your life that you can eliminate. For example, learn how to say “no” by knowing your limits and stick to them; avoid people who stress you out; take control of your environment; avoid controversial topics such as religion or politics if you get upset over them; pare down your to-do list by distinguishing between the “shoulds” and the “musts.”

-  Copy the British and enjoy a soothing cup of tea whenever the need arises. Even better is to follow the South African habit of brewing a cup of Rooibos tea which is widely used to enhance a feeling of well being while supporting the immune system and combating stress.

-  Another stress reliever is to take up a repetitive task at such times – go out into the garden and start digging over the flower beds; pull up all those weeds; take the time to sit quietly and do some knitting; or say over and over again “I want to feel calm”.

-  If you have the opportunity of getting into some warm water (a pool or a jacuzi or even the ocean) do this and just float in the water. This ignites the body’s relaxation responses while helping to lower the stress hormone levels. If you are warm, relaxed and floating, you will soon feel better.

-  You can control your stress levels with relaxation techniques that evoke the body’s relaxation response, a state of restfulness that is the opposite of the stress response. Exercising regularly is another key way to reduce and prevent the effects of stress. Make time for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times per week.

-  In addition, eat a healthy diet as a well nourished body is better prepared to cope with stress.  At the same time, reduce caffeine and sugar.

Finally, get enough sleep because good, regular sleep fuels your mind, as well as your body. Feeling tired will increase your stress because it may cause you to think irrationally.

A big part of course is healthy eating habits and avoiding all fruity, sugary drinks. Your child only needs two beverages to drink – water and milk (preferably breast milk or raw dairy milk).

As soon as the first baby tooth appears, you can start to use a small soft toothbrush to keep the tooth, gums and tongue clean twice a day. It does not matter how thorough you are at the start – it is more a matter of getting your child used to the routine. Be very gentle and patient and avoid commercial toothpastes which are actually poisonous to children – rather use a natural toothpaste with safe ingredients. Be especially wary of fluoride in toothpastes and do your own research online regarding this harmful additive. You will find plenty of choice for natural toothpastes in health stores or online.

The best method is to sit your child on your lap, have a cuddle and then tilt the head up gently while cleaning each tooth in a circular motion. You can make a game of rinsing and spitting out the toothpaste afterwards. If your child doesn’t want to brush, let him brush your teeth first. By the age of three, you can start to encourage them to start using the toothbrush themselves but under your watchful eye until school going age. When your child is older, an electric toothbrush is an excellent choice. Setting a timer to 2 minutes is another useful aid when children are cleaning their teeth. Caring for milk teeth teaches children how to care for their permanent teeth.

Never ignore broken or damaged milk teeth as they play an extremely important role in your child’s development as follows:

- They determine facial appearance and speech development.
- They determine the growth pattern of permanent teeth.
- They help children to advance to eating solid food.

I read about such a good idea that one parent uses. She enlist’s the help of the “tooth fairy” by telling a story of how the tooth fairy checks their teeth every night when they are asleep to make sure that they are beautiful because she wants to collect the very best teeth when they fall out. You can add the extra bit about how there will be a surprise from the tooth fairy when that day comes if they can give her strong, healthy teeth.

Parents should take their child to the dentist as soon as the very first tooth appears or after their first birthday. Prepare them for the dentist by encouraging your child to explore his or her own mouth several times before the appointment. Do a ‘cave search’ using a torch and a mirror. Book with a child-friendly dentist who will look out for early problems and ensure the experience is a positive one for your child.

Cavities are the number one problem in children’s dental health. Here are 10 excellent suggested steps to follow from a very early age for preventing cavities in your children.  All the tips come from this website: http://www.eves-best.com/cavities-in-baby-teeth.htm

1. As soon as your baby has teeth, wipe them clean after each meal. While breast milk actually contains natural cavity fighters, formula does not.

2. Do not allow your formula fed baby to go to sleep with a bottle, unless you plan on cleaning his teeth with a wipe and tooth gel after he is asleep.

3. If your baby uses a pacifier, brush it daily. Do not put her pacifier in your mouth and then into hers. Bacteria from your mouth will grow in her mouth. This is especially a no-no if you have cavity/gum problems yourself.

4. As soon as your child’s teeth are close together, begin flossing daily. Both of my children had cavities in the middle of their front two teeth. A little flossing would have saved these teeth.

5. Do not use fluoride toothpaste or a fluoride rinse. You can make your own rinse with water and xylitol.

6. Do use a toothpaste/gel which contains xylitol. You can begin using a baby gel as soon as the teeth come in when you use Spry Infant Tooth Gel. You can learn more about xylitol and the many benefits it provides, especially when you use it to replace the sugar in your foods. Xylitol helps kill the cavity causing bacteria in your child’s mouth, and when replacing the sugar with xylitol, you are helping double-fold.

7. Cut back on processed foods, chips, white bread, candy, and soda (you get the idea). Do not allow your child to walk around with a bottle or sippy cup, unless you put water in it. Constantly bathing your child’s teeth in sugary juice is a BIG no-no. A great candy alternative is a healthy xylitol product called Sparx. You can get it in Berry, Fruit, and Citrus. Once your child can chew gum, you can also add another xylitol product like Spry Fresh Fruit Gum. Do not use other “sugar-free” gums that contain artificial sweeteners in addition to xylitol. Artificial sweeteners should be avoided for other health reasons.

8. Allow your toddler to brush his teeth, and then brush them yourself afterwards. Children need help until the age of 7 or 8. Twice a day is adequate, three times a day is even better. For toddlers, a battery powered toothbrush with an oscillating head works great since they can simply hold the toothbrush on different teeth and get a lot done that way.

9. Examine your child’s teeth daily, looking for dark spots, holes, and chipped teeth. If anything looks “off,” call your dentist and make an appointment. It’s better to be safe than sorry! A small cavity is much easier (and cheaper) to handle than a large one that has been neglected.

10. Good oral health starts from the inside. To keep teeth (and the rest of the body!) at their healthiest, feed your child healthy foods and don’t forget a daily multivitamin. ALL children need a daily vitamin/mineral supplement. Increase Vitamin D intake during fall/winter when sunshine exposure goes down. RDA levels are way lower than what children should be taking. Given along with a raw dairy diet, my kids finally got an “all good” dentist visit after supplementing with Vitamin D during fall/winter. (I gave them each 5,000 IU about 3-4 times per week.)

Help your children to cherish and look after their teeth for a lifetime of activity.

Image via Wikipedia

If and when your children get sick, here is how to go the natural way with some good old fashioned home remedies:

1. Think BRAT for DIARRHEA. – that is a choice of bananas, rice, apple sauce and toast

2. Black licorice will cure children’s CONSTIPATION nine times out of ten.

3. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar creates a cooling effect that will soothe your child’s MINOR BURNS. Just pour equal amounts of the ingredients into a bowl to bathe your child’s hand or other affected place till the burning stops.

4. For an EARACHE, use a hot pack big enough so they can lay their head down to relieve the “ache”. Another good home remedy is to keep a nasal spray pump filled with “food grade” 35% peroxide that has been diluted to 3% with “ionic silver” water (and available from companies providing peroxide water treatment equipment). A few drops of hydrogen peroxide in your child’s ears is safe, very effective and inexpensive. Just make sure you use a peroxide without the stabilizer. You can dilute the peroxide with purified water as an alternative to the iconic silver water.

5. For a HEADACHE give them a big drink of water and rub their head/neck making sure to work out the knots. There is a pressure point between your thumb and pointer finger. If all else fails, H-Headaches from Healing Natural Oils can be safely used on children of all ages for all headache pain.

6. For TEETHING take a wash cloth, wet the center with a little water, spread on a tablespoon of apple sauce, roll it up, then freeze it. Babies love this because it is is sweet, it is chewy and it is cold so it numbs their gums.

7. For COLDS and CONGESTION IN THE NOSE, a nasal wash using a few grains of crystal salt in 1/4 cup of warm water may help. You can use in a Netti Pot as well, but remember to use good quality sea salt and not the normal refined processed table salt.

8. A simple and quick remedy for a SORE THROAT is to place some natural sea salt on an apple slice for your child to eat. This is much easier than getting him or her to gargle salt water and works well.

9. For a really SORE THROAT, make your children “Granny’s lemon and honey drink”. Add one tablespoon of lemon juice and one and a half tablespoons of honey to one cup of warm water. Mix and drink frequent sips. It must be RAW honey and do not give honey to any child under the age of 1 year as they are at risk for botulism from honey.

10. Children who get a dose of honey COUGH less and sleep better than those who get cough medicine. A recipe for coughs:
- Put a pint of raw honey in a pan on the stove on very low heat (Do not boil honey as this changes its medicinal properties).
- Take a whole lemon and boil in some water in a separate pan for 2-3 minutes to both soften the lemon and kill any bacteria that may be on the lemon skin.
- Let the lemon cool enough to handle then cut it in slices and add it to the pint of honey on the stove.
- Let mixture cook on warm heat for about an hour.
- Then strain the lemon from the honey, making sure all lemon seeds are removed.
- Let cool, then bottle in a jar with a lid and store in the refrigerator. This syrup will keep for 2 months in the refrigerator.
- To soothe a cough, take 1/2 teaspoon for a 25 lb. child and 1 teaspoon for a 50 lb. child, about 4 times a day or as often as needed. Adults can take 1 tablespoon doses.

Help to keep your child germ free and able to fight off any virus by ensuring a STRONG IMMUNE SYSTEM by eating healthy whole foods, by regular exercise and by getting sufficient sleep.

Never underestimate the simple advice to WASH YOUR HANDS and those of your children frequently to ward off colds and other infections. Washing hands helps decrease the likelihood of spreading a virus to the nose and mouth as well as others around you but don’t use antibacterial soap for this. They are unnecessary, causing far more harm than good.

Breakfast is literally “breaking the fast” from the night before and it really does have many benefits.

- Breakfast increases your metabolic rate – that is how fast you burn calories. Eating breakfast will prevent your metabolism from going into the hunger-mode. Several hours after you have eaten, your metabolism shuts down and acts as if it needs to store food. It stores food for emergencies like if a famine were to break out leaving you without food for days.

- Breakfast kick starts your body into gear so that it knows what to expect for the rest of the day. It enables your body to process the next meal as quickly rather than trying to hold onto nutrients which is what would happen if you did not have breakfast in the first place.

- It makes you less likely to snack on high calorie food during the morning.

- Breakfast helps children to perform better on cognitive tests and in school.

- Breakfast helps adults to be more productive and alert. Another important reason to eat breakfast is to help your brain to function at its best. Your brain needs fuel in the form of glucose which comes from the food that you eat, helping you to work, talk and perform all other important activities. Studies have shown that eating breakfast helps to improve concentration, increases the ability to solve problems and boosts your mood.

- Breakfast will actually help those who wish to lose weight to achieve this goal as people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.

- Those who eat breakfast are more likely to make good dietary choices the rest of the day.

So now that you know how important it is to have breakfast, here are some suggested food combinations, remembering to avoid those foods that are high in sugar, sodium, saturated fats and calories – and that includes all processed foods. Breakfast should include protein, good fats and plenty of fiber to help satisfy your hunger and keep you full and on the go for several hours. Free range eggs, dairy products and raw nuts provide protein; fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains such as oats provide the fiber while good fats include butter, olive oil, avocado oil and coconut oil.

- A good standby is a lightly boiled free range egg followed by wholegrain toast, butter and raw honey spread with some cinnamon.

- A plate of scrambled eggs with added parsley or a lightly poached egg on wholegrain toast. Eggs are really back in favor again and cannot be bettered for a wholesome food full of so many health benefitis.

- Make a bowl of oatmeal and add ground flaxseed, frozen blueberries, sliced almonds together with a little cinnamon and honey for a breakfast that has 4 power foods, fiber, nutrients, potein and good fats and tastes good too.

- Fill a bowl with organic yogurt, fresh berries or other fruits and add a healthy version of granola or muesli.

- Half a grapefruit prepared ready to eat in a bowl with a plate of whole-wheat toast spread with almond butter.

- A bowl of fresh fruit salad containing cut up apples, melons, berries, oranges, pears, bananas, grapes or other favorite fruits plus a little bit of lime or lemon juice.

- Protein shake using whey powder blended with milk, some frozen blueberries and almond butter or oatmeal. You can add a little ground flax seed in too.

- Cottage cheese with fruit such as apples, citrus or berries.

- Another fruit and cheese breakfast is to cut off some cheddar cheese and eat with slices of apple and protein rich walnuts.

- Toast a whole-grain or bran waffle and spread with 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Top with raisins, sesame seeds, or extra peanuts for even more fiber.

As a last resort, and if you really cannot eat a proper breakfast, split the whole process into 2 smaller meals by eating something less at home and follow it up an hour or two later with a healthy snack such as fruit and a handful of raw nuts.

Remember that a healthy breakfast does not have to be difficult to prepare – keep it simple and the important thing is to actually eat something. You will benefit in so many ways.

Yoga is an ancient Indian form of exercise with an holistic approach, concentrating on both mind and body while its roots can be traced back at least five thousand years. The name yoga means to join or to unite. The different yoga poses are called asanas and should be held steady while your breathing is controlled. The different breathing techniques are called pranayamas.

The many benefits of yoga in pregnancy include:

1. Leading moms-to-be into a calmer, safer place. For example the asana practice helps to open muscles of the pelvis, reduces pressure on ligaments and eases lower back pain while promoting flexibility, strength and stamina. Yoga focuses the entire body on releasing and relaxing.

2. yoga classes help to boost circulation while reducing fluid retention. The stretching exercises relieve aches and pains.

3. Throughout the different stages of pregnancy, yoga helps to alleviate that stress felt in the joints and muscles. As the uterus grows, the anterior tilt of the pelvis places extra strain on the lumbar spine, applies weight to the abdominals and externally rotates the femurs in the hip sockets leading to discomfort and fatigue. The practice of yoga can keep such problems from becoming chronic.

4. During pregnancy, the breasts become fuller and heavier causing tension in the upper back and shoulders and even temporay scoliosis if the baby favors one side of the uterus. The yoga pose known as the cat pose can bring relief by stretching the lumbar spine while releasing the neck and shoulders.

5. Yoga helps to prepare for the birth as it encourages breath and body awareness, reduces worry and teaches women to adapt to new situations.

6. During early labor, the practice of simple and relaxing poses can help remove the fear and anxiety at that time by decreasing adrenaline (caused by fear and anxiety) and increasing endorphins (natural painkillers).

7. Later stages of labor can be assisted by yoga positions such as squatting or “child’s pose” as the baby makes it way through the birth canal. At the same time, yoga has the advantage of adjusting the energy level of the  mother-to-be to help her shift into a more positive state of mind and body.

8. Yoga continues to be very beneficial after pregnancy, too. Postnatal yoga, which can be started about six weeks after the birth, strengthens abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor, helping women to get back to their pre-pregnancy shape faster.

9. Many pregnancy yoga group members go on to support each other after the birth of their babies socially by becoming friends or by forming small play groups or even babysitting pools.

10. Babies too can benefit from yoga as they receive increased oxygen and endorphins. During yoga, they are gently massaged and relaxed which has proven to be beneficial long after the birth itself.

If you are pregnant, or planning on becoming so, yoga could help to keep your pregnancy hassle-free. Yoga can help women sail through their pregnancy with minimal discomfort while also assisting in the birth and post delivery stages.

Just remember if you are not used to regular exercise: that you should start slowly; that the yoga room should be well ventilated; that you should be well hydrated; and that it is a good idea to have a light snack before commencing the yoga class. The classes should at all times be gentle and safe.

Currently, there is a lot of concern about the use of wi-fi technology and its health effects on us, including young children.

Electro-smog is the name given to the electromagnetic radiation that is created, and persists in the area, where electronic gadgets like TVs, microwaves, cordless phones, mobile phones, digital baby monitors and more are operating. Studies conducted over the years have shown that continuous exposure to electro-smog over a period of time affects the body’s nervous system resulting in symptoms like chronic fatigue, disruptive sleep patterns, headaches and abnormal patterns of behavior in young children. Therefore it is important for parents to learn about the effects of a digital baby monitor on their babies.

Baby monitors that are popular with parents are those with DECT technology (that is digitally enhanced cordless telecommunications) and this ensures that the audio signals between both receiver and transmitter are secure. But such wireless baby monitors emit microwave radiation. The base station of the baby monitor is kept near the crib or cot while the parent takes the receiver and either wears it on his or herself or places it nearby in order to be able to respond to the baby’s crying.

Although, ideally a baby monitor base station should be voice-activated, meaning that it transmits “sound only” when it senses a sound from the baby as this would go some way to reduce the microwave exposure of both infant and parent, , not all voice-activated baby monitors are alike. Some cut the radiation while others just cut the unwanted noise and those monitors sold in the US and Canada constantly emit microwave radiation, exposing the baby or young child to constant microwave radiation.

According to Dr. Martin Blank, PhD, who is one of the most experienced researchers of the cellular and molecular effects of electromagnetic fields in the US, the impact of electromagnetic fields on cells and DNA is both considerable and indisputable. He says that your DNA, due to its inherent ‘coil of coils’ structure, is particularly vulnerable to electromagnetic fields of all kinds.

Therefore, if you are using such a baby monitor, you should reduce your child’s exposure to emissions as far as possible by:

• Placing the baby monitor at least a metre away from the cot.

• Avoiding a system that transmits continuously – some experts are calling for those that emit microwave radiation continuously to be banned. See the web site http://www.magdahavas.com/2010/11/07/dect-baby-monitors-dangerous/

• Setting the unit to voice activation mode only.

• If the baby monitor is mains operated, ensuring that the adaptor is plugged in at least 50 cm away from the cot.
Avoiding placing all other appliances such as computers, television sets, cordless phones etc in your baby’s room. At the very least, any should be completely switched off when the baby is in the room sleeping.

It is difficult to completely avoid digital baby monitors as they have proven to be more efficient and have better reception than their older analogue versions but proper precautions are necessary and essential.

The Government officials are asking that parents should reduce the amount of time children spend being sedentary while watching television or being strapped in a stroller or pushchair.

Chubby children are also a big concern in the United States where the Institute of Medicine last month issued diet and activity recommendations for youngsters. In these recommendations, they suggested that preschool-aged children should get at least 15 minutes of exercise for every hour they spend in child care and recommended the US government create dietary guidelines for babies from the time they are born and up until they are 2 years old. 3 hours of activity for children under 5 should be spread throughout the day. While the children’s daily dose of exercise is likely to be met simply through playing, additional activities could include walking to school.

With at least one third of American adults being obese, I wonder how many parents are going to follow such guidelines when many are unhealthily overweight themselves. Close to 25% of British adults are obese, and experts estimate that by 2050, at the present rate of increase, about 90% of adults will be heavy.

At present, only about 5% of Britons meet the government’s minimum physical activity advice – namely about 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise every week, including some every day.

We can only hope that if parents and child carers are encouraged to provide exercise opportunities for young children, some of that will rub off on the adults too.

Here are the suggestions for babies who are not yet walking:

- Both British and American child experts say parents should limit the amount of time babies spend in swings, bouncy seats or other equipment while they’re awake.

- For babies who can’t walk yet, physical activity should be encouraged from birth, including infants playing on their stomachs or having swimming sessions with their parents.

- Floor-based play encourages infants to use their muscles and helps bone development.

In Britain, it is recommended that older children from the age of 5 and up to 18 should have at least one hour of exercise and that this should include intensive activities to strengthen muscles and bones.

In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise that the same age groups should be getting at least one hour of physical activity every day.

I fear that in many cases, children and teenagers are receiving a lot less exercise than that recommended.

This method is certainly not new because I used to resort to this with my youngest child in the 1970s and she is now a mother herself with a similar problem.

Never one to miss a business opportunity, companies are always inventing gadgets to put and keep your baby asleep. They know that tired and working parents will pay a high price for a good night’s sleep.

Now Fisher-Price have had a brainwave and come up with an imitation car trip – a seat that simulates a car journey. This brand new product rocks babies to sleep at home by imitating the swaying of a moving car AND the noise of the engine. “The Fisher-Price Cruisin’ Motion Soother sees your baby strapped into a snug bucket seat, where they feel the uneven motions of a car ride. There are also sounds that mimic engine hum and other noises.” And they did they homework as a survey revealed that 40% of new mothers drive their babies around to get them to doze off. It is a surprisingly common practise.

I think this new soother is a great idea – just think of the saving of gas, and time, and wear and tear on your vehicle (not to mention the environment) and the cost is approximately $34.99.

Of course such a gadget is not going to fit your baby or young child indefinitely so you will in time need to decide on a strategy for your baby’s sleeping habits. Everyone has different ideas about where a baby should or should not sleep but don’t always bow to pressure and wherever all family members sleep the best, is the right way for you and your baby. Each baby is of course unique and while some will sleep the best in their own cot and in their own room, others sleep more happily in a cot next to their parents’ bed or even snuggled right in bed next to their mother.

Such sleeping arrangements can change from time to time during the baby’s first two years of life for a variety of reasons. But do try to aim for having your child sleeping in his or her own bed (and if possible own room) by the time they are 2 years old. Eventually, you and your baby will work out the best sleeping arrangement for you both particularly as your child grows older.

In the early days, you just need to remember that the way your baby goes to sleep at night is the way they will want to go back to sleep if they happen to wake up during the night. So it might be better if you can vary the methods used to put your baby to sleep unless of course you are lucky enough to have a child who goes off to sleep quite happily every night with no fuss and no special treatment – a self soothing method. Unfortunately, such babies seem to be few and far between. Some need to be rocked or nursed to sleep either by breast feeding or bottle feeding while others like to be sung to sleep – these are the babies who need the parent soothing method which can of course be tiring and time consuming for the parent.

Whatever method you use to put your baby to sleep at night (and even during the day), it should be a happy experience for both of you. The Cruisin’ Motion Soother could be just what you have been waiting for!

There is a newcomer to the milk production industry and according to studies in Italy, it is proving to be a good alternative milk choice for those babies and children who suffer from cows milk allergies. This new kid on the block is the humble donkey.

According to the head pediatrician at the allergy unit at St. Anna Hospital in Turin, Italy, studies have been carried out on the effects of donkey milk for the past 7 years. And the donkeys (700 in total) at a farm in Northern Italy from where some fifty per cent of production is being sold to such pediatric units in the area.

Dr Giovanna Monti says: “We use this milk mostly for children who are allergic to certain proteins in cows’ milk. These proteins are often also present in formulated milk too.” She adds that the donkey milk is very similar to human milk and has many benefits.

Donkey milk has several health benefits in its favor:

1. It has a low saturated fat content plus high levels of omega three and six (putting it on a par with oily fish) so it can help lower cholesterol.

2. It has high levels of calcium, making it especially suitable for young and growing children.

3. It contains the enzyme Lysozeme, which is anti-bacterial and can protect against intestinal infections.

4. It can be made into a baby formula basis with added calories, making it suitable to feed a newborn baby.

5. It can be used in place of soya milk which has been getting a bad press lately and is now considered to be an unsuitable and even dangerous food for babies and children who are lactose intolerant. All allergies are unfortunately on the rise.

6. The use of goat and sheep’s milk is not always a suitable alternative because in most cases these milks will also lead to allergies.

I know that I said that donkey milk is the new kid on the block but actually donkey milk has been in use for centuries with Hippocrates promoting the milk for a whole range of conditions back in 460 BC with many other civilizations following in his footsteps.

Interestingly, the United Kingdom used donkey milk as an alternative to breast milk in times of need up until the nineteenth century.

However, donkeys have not evolved like cows to be milk machines, their milk production is limited and donkeys only have 2 teats instead of 4. For these reasons, donkey milk is hardly likely to become a big player in the milk production industry.

But as a safer alternative for those babies and children in need, this could be the future.

You might be interested to know that donkey cheese from the Balkans is the world’s most expensive cheese!  Called Pule cheese, this costs $1 350 per kilo and takes 25 liters of milk to make the one kilogram.

The average liter of breast milk contains insufficient vitamin D and so mothers need to boost this. Sunlight is the ideal way to go with half an hour’s exposure especially between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm on a daily basis. Sunlight (UV-B) is a primary and effective way to fulfill the requirement of Vitamin D. This is why many experts recommend getting an exposure of sunlight for at least 15-20 minutes daily but remember the darker your skin, the longer you need. Using soap if showering or bathing a few hours before or after this sun exposure and/or putting on sunscreen will negate the benefit of the vitamin D.

If sunlight exposure is impossible, especially in winter, then a vitamin D3 supplement is necessary.

According to Professior Bruce Hollis (a former director of the Vitamin D Council) the optimum blood level of vitamin D in pregnant and nursing mothers is 40 to 50 ng/ml. He came to this important conclusion when he was testing the levels of vitamin D in babies and found that when the nursing mothers had those levels, their breast milk in turn had enough vitamin D to support their babies. He further found that at levels below 40, the vitamin D content of breast milk became unpredictable.

For obvious reasons, this provides a good bench mark for the rest of us and if pregnant women can reach that level, there is no need to provide additional vitamin D supplements to babies all the time they are being breast fed. It is therefore so important both for moms-to-be and their babies to receive plenty and sufficient vitamin D.

Why is vitamin D so important to both moms and babies?

• The most common problem caused by a deficiency of Vitamin D is rickets. At first it was thought that calcium was the only component that affected the bones. Now it is known that vitamin D regulates the absorption of calcium from the blood stream.
• A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to asthma and even lung infections.
• Studies have revealed that low vitamin D in new born babies can double the risk of schizophrenia and other brain related disorders in later years.

So mothers-to-be can ensure they have adequate levels of vitamin D when they start breastfeeding by either getting enough sun exposure or taking enough vitamin D (usually 4,000–6,000 IU per day) to produce breast milk that is rich in vitamin D.

Additional vitamin D also occurs in foods like fortified milk, egg yolk, cheese, cereals and oily fish. are rich in Vitamin D.

As babies grow older, they also need to be exposed to gradual and regular sunlight. Children over the age of 1 year should take 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 supplements per every 25 pounds of body weight each day but if they spend the summer months outside they do not need to take any until the winter months come round again.

1. Bread was used for centuries but more recently the bagel has come into its own. You can freeze the bagel and even when it defrosts, it is the right consistency and an easy shape for a young child to hold and try to bite into.

2. The old sugary teething biscuits have been replaced with modern sugar-free versions but be wary of artificial sweeteners being used instead.  These are a definite no-no.

3. Vegetables such as carrots and cucumbers are ideal for teething after cooling in the refrigerator first. Older babies will be able to hold them too.

4. Other cold remedies include the freezing of apple slices so that the cold and the enzymes relieve the teething pain.

5. Another cold method is to place frozen peas or organic corn into a damp baby sock, securely tie it and then hand to baby to chew on.

6. Yet another is to freeze a fully ripe banana, secure it in a small nut milk bag and voila!

7. I found a really old and cold method from many years back from a Grandma who used to put an ice cube into the center of a clean wash cloth, place a rubber band around it to keep the ice cube in place. The wash cloth then soaked up the water from the ice cube as it melted.

8. Hylands Teething Gel comes highly recommended by lots of moms and an all-natural teething gel with no benzocaine, no sugar, no artificial flavoring, no dyes or coloring agents and no parbens. For more information on this 100% natural, effective treatment, go to http://www.hylands.com/products/teethinggel.php

9. Another helpful hint for teething is to push down very hard to help cut the teeth and give instant relief.

10. A very popular method is to order and use an amber teething necklace. They help teething babies to sleep through the night, stay happy and relaxed and they even stop the drooling! Here is the web site so you can check them out – www.amberartisans.com/amberbracelets.html

11. Homeopathic Chamomilla is the the remedy of choice for many moms to ease teething discomfort. It is very effective and safe.

There is plenty to choose from this list so you find the perfect natural remedy for your teething baby or toddler to make him or her feel so much better again.

Image via Wikipedia

There are two sides to the biotic coin – there are antibiotics and then there are probiotics and if you have to take an antibiotic for any reason, then you need a probiotic to counteract the effects of the antibiotic. We all need probiotics or the “friendly bacteria” which when ingested acts to maintain a healthy intestinal tract and to help fight illness and disease so that we are less likely to need anti-biotics in the future!

“Probiotic” means “for life”.

A healthy lower intestine should contain at least 85% friendly bacteria to prevent the over colonization of disease-causing micro-organisms like E. coli and salmonella. So that means a ratio of 85% friendly bacteria to 15% unfriendly bacteria for optimum good health.

Unfortunately, many people have this percentage reversed.

Fortunately, probiotics are available in the form of dietary supplements and foods.

The benefits of taking probiotics in your food or as supplements are to:

- Treat diarrhea, especially following treatment with certain antibiotics

- Prevent and treat vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections

- Treat candida overgrowth

- Treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

- Reduce bladder cancer recurrence and decrease the risk of certain other cancers

- Speed up treatment of certain intestinal infections

- Prevent and treat eczema and other allergies in children

- Prevent or reduce the severity of colds and flu

- Prevent or reduce the incidence of rhinitis and/or hayfever

- Decrease dental-carries-causing microbes in the mouth

- Keep healthy people staying healthy

Many probiotic foods have been used for centuries in different cultures in the form of fermented foods and cultured milk products but recently American interest in probiotics has been growing with the country’s spending, on probiotoc supplements, tripling in just 10 years. This could be as a reaction to the obsession with anti bacterial cleaning products and hand sanitizers as well as food safety regulations where food is sterilized and pasturized. In the quest to get rid of bad bacteria, the good can disappear too. Everything may be a lot cleaner and less disease ridden but not necessarily a lot healthier.

When shopping for food, look out for those labeled as ‘health-promoting’ that contain good bacteria. These include yogurt, some cheeses and sauerkraut. But for a complete list of the best probiotic foods to add to your diet, here are 10 from an article from Dr Edward Group.

http://www.healthiertalk.com/top-10-probiotic-foods-add-your-diet-3424

1. One of the best probiotic foods is live-cultured yogurt, especially when handmade from goat’s milk. Goat’s milk and cheese are particularly high in probiotics like thermophillus, bifudus, bulgaricus and acidophilus. Be aware that not all yogurts are made equally as many popular brands are filled with HFCS (high fructose corn syrup), artificial sweeteners and flavors.

2. Similar to yogurt, kefir is a fermented dairy product with a unique combination of goat milk and fermented grains. High in lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria, kefir is also rich in antioxidants and available from your local health food shop but check the ingredients as the quality can vary. You can even make your own kefir.

3. Made from fermented cabbage (as well as other vegetables), sauerkraut is not only extremely rich in healthy live cultures, vitamins B, A, E and C, but also assists in reducing allergy symptoms.

4. Delicious, high-quality dark chocolate has 4 times the amount of probiotics as many forms of dairy. If eaten in moderation, chocolate has many other health benefits too.

5. There are super-food ocean-based plants such as spirulina, chorella, and blue-green algae, collectively known as microalgae, that have been shown to increase the levels of both lactobacillus and bifidobacteria in the digestive tract, as well as offering the most amount of energetic return, per ounce, for the human system.

6. Miso is one the mainstays of Japanese traditional medicine, and is commonly used in macrobiotic cooking as a digestive regulator. Made from fermented rye, beans, rice or barley, adding a tablespoon of miso to hot water will make an excellent, quick, probiotic-rich soup. Beyond its important live cultures, miso is extremely nutrient-dense and is believed to help neutralize the effects of environmental pollution while alkalinizing the body and stopping the effects of carcinogens in the system.

7. lacto-fermented pickles such as the common green pickle.

8. As a great substitute for meat or tofu, tempeh is a fermented, probiotic-rich grain made from soybeans. A great source of vitamin B12, this vegetarian food can be sautéed, baked or eaten crumbled on salads. If prepared correctly, tempeh is also very low in salt, which makes it an ideal choice for those on a low-sodium diet.

9. This Asian form of pickled sauerkraut, known as kimchi, is an extremely spicy and sour fermented cabbage, served with most meals in Korea. In addition to its beneficial bacteria, Kimchi is also a great source of beta-carotene, calcium, iron and vitamins A, C, B1 & B2.

10. Kombucha Tea is a form of fermented tea high in healthy gut bacteria that has been used as a probiotic drink for centuries. The benefits include helping to increase your energy, enhancing your wellbeing and even leading to weight loss. It is not suitable for those with a candida overgrowth.

Remember to buy organic or raw, unpasturized probiotics whenever you can.

The numbers of skin problems, allergies, eczema, mood disorders, hyperactivity and attention deficit disorders have been increasing in an alarming way over recent times while a lowered immunity is also becoming a problem. The reasons for this could be household chemicals, preservatives, toxins, pollutants and of course the controversial vaccines.

So how about following these 10 natural ways to grow an earth child:

1. Traces of chemical toxins from body products are found in the newly birthed umbilical chord which means that products used by you could be absorbed and passed onto the unborn baby. Such products include nail polish, hair color, skin cream, deodorants and shampoos. Look for organic and natural alternatives as your first step to growing a natural baby when you discover you are pregnant.

2. Right from the beginning of your pregnancy, make it known that you are planning a natural baby so you can ensure that any baby gifts given to you by kind family and friends will be gifts you can use. They may need to be more inventive but nothing wrong with that! There are plenty of natural baby products on the market today including those made with pure essential oils. There are web sites devoted to toys and clothing that are eco and baby friendly.

3. Top of the list can be natural fiber, biodegradable or re-usable nappies.

4. Find pure cotton linen, clothing and mattress covers for the nursery.

5. Use sheepskin, wool or cotton to cover synthetic car seats.

6. Decorate your baby’s nursery (and preferably the whole of your house too) with low or zero VOC paints and use eco friendly furniture, curtains and flooring as well.

7. Once your baby has been born, breastfeeding strengthens a baby’s immunity and is the best environmentally friendly feeding option. The big plus for moms is that breast feeding helps to prevent breast cancer.

8. Once your baby is on to solids, encourage a taste for natural and organic. Choose natural sweeteners like stevia or maple syrup. Honey can be used once they are older. Children who are exposed to synthetic flavors like MSG tend to develop cravings and seek out junk food. Enlist the aid of your whole family in changing to a more healthy way of living for your child’s sake and your own good health. Be aware of food sensitivities like wheat and dairy which do not agree with some children. If so try alternatives like rye or rice or oat milk. Go for organic whenever you can – without pesticides, preservatives and additives you minimize the chances of toxic build up. Keep your child away from as many processed, refined and sugary foods as possible.

9. Vitamin D is vital for us all including a natural baby – if there is sunshine available, take your baby out in it for a short period every day. Sunlight is the very best way to boost vitamin D levels. If the weather is cloudy and wintry, give vitamin D drops.

10. As your baby grows, teach him or her about recycling, composting and planting. Foster a love for being outdoors and enjoying nature. Nature makes us feel good and it will make your children feel good too. Young children are little sponges and will soak up everything you give them. Don’t always resort to TV for entertainment. Use sensory stimulation such as music as a replacement some of the time.

Your baby depends on you to keep him or her safe and healthy – growing a natural baby gives the best possible start.

In her Natural Moms Blog - http://www.naturalmomsblog.com/baby-laundry-detergent-whats-safe-for-baby.html – the writer, Lexi, says that even many of the special baby laundry detergents sold in stores contain heavy perfumes and dyes that can cause allergy or irritate baby’s delicate skin.

She writes: “I have recently discovered soap nuts, an all-natural and allergen-free laundry detergent that comes from a plant. It’s scent-free and strips baby cloth diapers of residue. Plus, you can use soap nuts up to 4 times, for significant savings. Many mothers swear by Charlie’s Soap particularly for cloth diapers. It is made of completely natural ingredients and does not contain any ingredients that could cause allergies or build up in baby’s clothes and diapers.

It’s also important to wash new baby clothing thoroughly (preferably in hot water, twice) to remove any formaldehyde and other chemicals that manufacturers add to keep the clothing looking pressed and “new” while in the store.

The objective in doing your laundry is no doubt to get your clothes clean and smelling fresh. The supermarket aisles are filled with hundreds of products that claim to do the best job in helping you accomplish that. Not only are they supposed to clean your clothes, they also claim to make your laundry smell like spring flowers, fresh picked berries or even refreshing rain.

It is ironic then that many conventional laundry detergents unintentionally, and many times even intentionally, leave residues on your clothing. These residues are the byproducts of the numerous chemicals that these detergents contain and these chemical residues are anything but healthy for your laundry. They are not particularly healthy for your family either.

For example many of the chemicals in dryer sheets designed to keep your clothes wrinkle and static free have been linked to cancer. Use a vinegar rinse while clothes are in the wash instead or use a small sachet of dried lavender in the dryer.”

Lexi mentions vinegar in her blog and though you might not think of it as a laundry product, you could be surprised at the benefits of keeping a bottle of vinegar in your laundry room.

Here are some helpful tips:

-  If you add 1/2 to one cup of white vinegar to the final rinse water, this reduces the detergent remaining in clothes, making them softer and fresher.

-  Vinegar is inexpensive making it a viable fabric softener substitute to reduce static electricity.

-  Vinegar is famous for its odor reducing properties so adding it to the rinse water of a stinky load of laundry (and we all have such a load from time to time) will work well.

-  Vinegar is also touted as a great stain remover for certain stains, such as fruit stains, wine, coffee and tea – just soak any stained item in full strength vinegar for about an hour before washing as usual.

Getting back to commercial laundry products and the chemical and toxic residues they leave behind, there are fortunately plenty of natural or eco-friendly laundry detergent options now available so it should not be too difficult to find one that works for you.

My own family uses Seventh Generation laundry products This company has been around for about 20 years and were one of the first self-declared “socially responsible” companies. They manufacture many eco-friendly products and offer a good variety of choices for eco-friendly households. Their laundry products include: chlorine free bleach, delicate care laundry detergent, natural concentrated baby laundry liquid, natural concentrated laundry liquid, natural fabric softener, natural powdered laundry and natural fabric softener sheets. Their slogan says: Natural Laundry Care – Tough on Stains, Gentle on your Clothes and on the Environment. If you need supplies, you can go on to their web site, it will list a local store near to you plus online suppliers as well as their own online store. http://www.seventhgenerationstore.com/

When looking at your laundry products, here are some points to bear in mind:

-  Commercial laundry products are full of synthetic fragrances so try not to use these but change to natural products that use essential oils as a natural fragrance.

-  Another problem area is detergents with fabric softeners which also leave residues. Think of changing to a natural fabric softener instead or using dryer balls.

-  Avoid detergents with optical brighteners as these are specially designed to leave a residue on the surface of your laundry. You only have to look at your clean laundry under a black light after using such a detergent and you will see that your clothing glows. This optical brightener is added to detergents to give the appearance of cleaner and brighter laundry but the residue from the chemicals used can cause skin irritations and allergic reactions.

-  Remember that all commercial detergents are made with petrochemical ingredients whereas a soap based cleaner can be made with natural oils and minerals. As with food products, you need to check out ingredients to ensure the safety of your family.

-  For brightening clothes, you can use a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 8 parts cold water before washing or a half cup of lemon juice and baking soda will give the same result.

-  Instead of harsh commercial stain removers, use a baking soda paste to scrub and pre-treat stains.

In closing, a University of Washington study of top-selling commercial laundry products and air fresheners found the products emitted dozens of different chemicals with all 6 products tested giving off at least one chemcial regulated as toxic or hazardous under federal laws.  And yet none of those chemicals was listed on the product labels. This makes a mockery of consumers being able to check a list of ingredients.

Leading the study was Anne Steinemann, a UW professor of civil and environmental engineering and of public affairs.  She said “I was surprised by both the number and the potential toxicity of the chemicals that were found.”

The chemicals included acetone (the active ingredient in paint thinner and nail-polish remover); limonene (a molecule with a citrus scent); and acetaldehyde, chloromethane and 1,4-dioxane.

Professor Steinemann went on to say: “Nearly 100 volatile organic compounds were emitted from these six products, and none were listed on any product label. Plus, five of the six products emitted one or more carcinogenic ‘hazardous air pollutants,’ which are considered by the Environmental Protection Agency to have no safe exposure level.”

The full article can be read at http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080723134438.htm

Definitely it is time to take the cancer out of your laundry.

The study appears in http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/fetchArticle.action?articleURI=info:doi/10.1289/ehp.1002727

The Health Ranger in his NaturalNewsletter has written even more about the various chemicals found in this study. Never one to mince his words, Mike Adams goes on to describe all the different “poisons” that were mentioned in the study and how we live in a toxic stew of synthetic chemicals.

http://www.naturalnews.com/031033_toxic_chemicals_pregnant_women.html#ixzz1BIQBPAz4

Below, please find The Health Ranger’s extremely helpful guideline (which I am repeating for you) on: Ten powerful ways to protect yourself from toxic chemicals

#1) Don’t put anything on your skin you wouldn’t eat! Avoid all mainstream consumer skin care, cosmetics and personal care products, period! Need soap? Try natural, organic brands like Dr Bronner’s, AnnMarie Gianni or Pangea Organics.

#2) Don’t eat foods made with chemicals you can’t pronounce. Read the ingredients labels. If the list of ingredients is too long and complex to figure out, it’s probably made more with chemicals than actual food.

#3) Don’t poison your body with over-the-counter drugs or prescription pharmaceuticals. If you do need to use medication for short-term emergency use, be sure to detoxify your liver afterwards.

#4) Detox your liver, kidneys and colon at least once a year. You can do this with a juice fast combined with detox supplements such as those offered by www.GlobalHealingCenter.com or www.BaselineNutritionals.com – (get professional guidance from a naturopath before fasting).

#5) Drink more water. Most people simply don’t consume enough water to effectively remove toxins from their bodies. If you don’t like water by itself, drink fresh vegetable juices such as celery or cucumber juice (which are actually structured water).

#6) Cleanse your body with parsley, alfalfa, red clover, chlorella or chlorophyll. All these substances can help cleanse your body and eliminate toxic substances that may be detrimental to your health.

#7) Don’t fill your home or apartment with products that off-gas toxic chemicals: Air fresheners, perfumed candles, particle board furniture, carpets, glues, etc.

#8) Don’t cook on non-stick cookware. These are the worst! Invest in quality copper-clad stainless steel pans and use those. They’ll last a lifetime and they don’t contaminate your body with chemicals. Don’t eat at restaurants that use non-stickcookware. (That’s just about every restaurant in the world, it seems…)

#9) Buy certified organic products. In the USA, the USDA Organic Seal is a trusted seal that genuinely indicates organic quality (both in foods and personal care products). Don’t be fooled by brand names that use the word “organics” in their name but aren’t really organic. For example, “Bob’s Organics” may or may not actually be organic. The Organic Consumers Association (www.OrganicConsumers.org) can keep you posted on what’s what.

#10) Get the cancer out of your laundry! Stop washing your clothes in toxic brand-name laundry detergents, and stop using brand-name fabric softeners or dryer sheets. Do you have any idea what chemicals are used in those products? The truth would astonish you.

With regard to #3, don’t forget there are Healing Natural Oils products available for many different conditions. Safe, gentle and completely natural.

I am sure you will learn something new from this list, as I did. It gives us the information we may need to take those further necessary steps to protect ourselves and our families – including those pregnant moms-to-be and their unborn babies.

Soy is a plant that is a member of the pea family and has been used in Asia (particularly China) for thousands of years for food, such as tofu, tempeh and edamame beans, as well as for medicinal purposes. It is now popular in the USA as a food or food additive such as soy milk and soy protein but people also use soy products to prevent or treat a variety of health conditions.

As a food or food additive, soy may be cooked and eaten or used to make tofu, soy milk and other foods. Soy is also used as an additive in various processed foods such as baked goods, cheese and pasta.

According to various health organizations, soy health benefits can be gained from using soy as follows:

-  To treat the symptoms associated with menopause as some studies suggest that soy isoflavone supplements may reduce hot flushes in women after menopause

-  To control cholesterol as again some research suggests that soy isoflavone supplements may slightly lower levels of LDL (the bad cholesterol)

-  To prevent bone loss (osteoporosis). Studies are ongoing to find out the effect of soy on women’s arteries and bones after menopause.

Stomach disorders or diarrhea may be a side effect that is noticed when taking a soy supplement while caution is advised for diabetics, alcoholics or those with liver disease.

However soy beans, the high protein seeds of the soy plant, contain isoflavones which are compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen. This, together with other facts, is the cause of great concern to many people.

On one hand, health and nutrition magazines and organizations promote the soy health benefits as a treatment for menopause, cancer prevention, heart disease, weight lost, and even thyroid disease.  And added to this chorus, is a multi billion dollar industry making huge profits from soy as well as many nutritionists and doctors who are all for soy.

But on the other hand, the opponents of soy believe that it is a toxin. Soy beans, as provided by nature, are not suitable for human consumption. Only after fermentation for some time, or extensive processing, including chemical extractions and high temperatures are the beans, or the soy protein isolate, suitable for digestion when eaten.

In addition soy beans contain a much higher level of phytic acid (an anti nutrient) than other legumes which may block the absorption of certain minerals including magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc.

Some babies (with milk intolerance) are given soy formula. But it is the isoflavones in this infant formula that give additional cause for concern. Some 25% of bottle fed children in the US receive soy based formula. It is estimated that an infant fed exclusively soy formula receives the estrogen equivalent (based on body weight) of at least 5 birth control pills per day.

Yes at least 5 birth control pills per day!

The Health Ranger at Natural News has this to say;

“Processed soy, like lots of processed things, is quite bad for your health. But natural soy, grown organically (and locally, where possible), can actually be quite good for you. Natural soy milk, made right at home, has been part of the healthy traditional Chinese diet for thousands of years. Some of its plant-based nutrients have very powerful anti-cancer elements that can help prevent both prostate and breast cancers. Natural, non-GMO soy has some very positive properties and can play an important role in a healthy disease-preventing diet.”

For more on his article go to http://www.naturalnews.com/027880_soy_products_milk.html

So soy may well not be the health food that it is marketed as. Further research is needed now that some new studies have raised questions over whether the ingredients in soy might increase the risk of breast cancer in some women, affect brain function in men and lead to hidden development abnormalities in infants.

It would seem the important but very basic fact to find out before consuming soy is whether it is processed or whether it is natural.

While having a baby can be one of the most exciting, exhilarating and frightening experiences parents (and moms in particular) can face, the arrival of a new baby affects the whole family.

Whether or not the new baby is the first in the family, the anticipation surrounding this new arrival can affect everyone. The existing family’s life is about to change both permanently and dramatically causing a lot of emotions for everyone. The dad is on edge, any older children are confused or excited and even the family cat or dog senses something is not quite right.

For the new mom herself, after nine months of physical and emotional changes, she has a brand new life in her arms with so much running through her head. Having a whole host of of emotions is perfectly natural when you have a new baby, and it remains that way whether it is your first, second or fifth! Her hormone changes can result in an emotional roller coaster. Pregnancy brings major shifts in hormones anyway and these only reach a peak with labor and delivery. But once you are home and responsible for a tiny human being, it can be a daunting proposition.

Sadly, many moms can be overwhelmed with worry, doubt and even feelings of depression during what should be one of the most joyful moments of their lives. And increasingly, society is becoming aware that new dads too can be affected by these same feelings of depression.

So families, just try to take a deep breath. This is all perfectly normal, you are by no means the only ones feeling this way (there are loads of other new parents out there too) and you can weather the storm. If you have other young children in the family, expect them to play up at this time – it is a big adjustment for them and they may well test you. They will soon get used to having a new baby in the house, realize that he or she is not going away again, and with a bit of luck will get on with their lives in the same way as they did before.

And new moms, all those hormones that were jostled around during the 9 months of preganancy, well these now have to settle back into place and this will take a bit of time. You will need to be patient and so don’t be too hard on yourself. If anyone offers a helping hand, grab it quickly!

Everyone suffers a little bit from the baby blues but if you feel that in your case, things are really not right nor getting any better, then this could be a sign of postpartum depression and you should chat to your doctor for his help, guidance and some treatment if necessary.

If you are convinced that it is just exhaustion and not depression, then you know you should take that advice that has probably been given to you many times – sleep when your baby does. Also try not to worry too much about the chores and the home in those early days and make sure you have some time to yourself. Looking after yourself means you are better able to look after your new baby.

Include the rest of your family in the enriching experience of taking care of the new baby.

I am fortunate in that I have been able to come and spend some time with my daughter and her young family in these early weeks since the birth of the new baby to help out where needed. As I normally live on the other side of the world, this time is proving to be extra special.