Newborn nutrition is a major focus of new parents, whether they're breastfeeding or formula-feeding the baby. A sudden decrease in a newborn's appetite often raises concerns, but eating less isn't always a sign of a problem. Ev...
If your baby develops a rash when you introduce cow’s milk, she may have a milk allergy or intolerance. Some babies are sensitive to dietary changes, but other factors may cause a rash as well. Talk to your pediatrician t...
Establishing a routine for your baby's life has benefits for both you and her. A routine isn't exactly the same as a schedule; babies are too unpredictable and constantly changing to establish a rigid schedule and expect it to ...
Vomiting due to a virus -- also known as gastroenteritis -- can be a common yet upsetting condition in children. When your child experiences a vomiting episode, your chief priority is to keep him hydrated while the virus runs i...
A school of thought holds that letting your baby "cry it out" teaches him to fall asleep without comfort. Some sleep and parenting experts swear by the value of letting your baby soothe himself, while others believe y...
Starting between 6 and 8 months of age, you can begin transitioning your baby onto solid foods, including vegetables. By using frozen vegetables to make your own baby food, you can control the ingredients in your child's diet, ...
Vegetables, although healthy foods, don't generally soothe a baby's stomach any more than any other food. The fiber in vegetables might help if your baby has constipation. However, if your baby has gas, foods high in fiber migh...
The influenza virus spreads easily and causes a variety of symptoms in babies, including a loss of appetite, fever, fatigue, cough and runny nose. Some babies experience abdominal symptoms, including vomiting or diarrhea. As th...
Most babies start to crawl at about 7 to 10 months, although some babies don’t ever crawl and simply start trying to walk by pulling themselves up on furniture. At this age, babies usually sit well without support and can...
Many parents don't have room for both a dresser and a changing table in their baby's nursery. A changing table is a convenient way to change diapers and the top of a dresser converted for this purpose allows you to have storage...
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breast-feeding until at least 6 months, when solid foods are usually introduced. People who were young parents when formula feeding and using a bottle first became common may sugges...
Sleep helps restore a toddler's energy and support her development, but 3-year-old children often fight naps. Convincing your toddler to stay in bed can be exhausting and frustrating, particularly when she resists with more vig...
Vegetables are one of the first foods to introduce to your infant when she is ready for solid foods. Both white and sweet potatoes can be cooked to a mushy texture that is easy for babies with or without teeth to swallow. Pota...
The most common injuries to children are falls, drowning, burns, suffocation, choking and poisoning, but airway obstruction is the leading cause of death in infants, according to Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters in N...
Playtime is essential to your baby's learning process, and your personal interactions with her, along with the toys you help her explore, provide her with her first lessons in making sense of her world. It's also important to r...
Your 6-month-old has started to turn into a real person rather than just a sleeping and eating machine. If you're like many new parents, this change comes with a number of questions and concerns about your baby's physical and m...
Caring for a newborn baby represents a time of great joy and lots of sleeplessness as your baby grows accustomed to a regular sleeping and feeding schedule. If you choose to breastfeed your baby, the three-week mark represents ...
That pregnancy glow and lush, thick hair -- there’s a lot that can make you beautiful during pregnancy. But your growing baby can also contribute to some not-so-beautiful effects, namely increased gassiness and nausea. Yo...
If you use cloth diapers for environmental reasons or because they cause fewer skin reactions for your baby, you may struggle with keeping them clean and fresh-smelling. Many people use baking soda, either in the diaper pail to...
If you're getting things ready for an impending arrival, you might be debating whether to buy a bassinet or a portable crib for your new baby. Bassinets make a more traditional and often prettier choice, with their lacy, long s...
If you've been breast-feeding and want to switch to bottle-feeding or just want to give an occasional bottle, you might find your baby resistant to the idea. Although it might seem like bottle and breast-feeding are similar, t...
This is because some of the ingredients may cause harmful side effects, particularly in babies. A homemade cough syrup containing corn syrup and ginger is an alternative treatment that might clear congestion. Talk to your child'
A build up of phlegm, thick mucus produced by your infant's lungs and upper airways, can cause significant distress for your infant. There are numerous causes of increased phlegm production, such as respiratory infection, irrit...
Impetigo is a contagious skin infection that is most common in infants and children, but can occur at any age. The disorder produces skin lesions that can itch and cause pain, potentially interfering with daily activities. Caye...
Bassinets are a type of miniature bed made for newborns. Despite their popularity, bassinets are often expensive and bulky, leading many parents to search for alternatives. Cribs, playpens and firm mattresses are all viable alt...
It can be terrifying when it seems your tiny, vulnerable baby isn't eating enough. Rest assured that many new parents struggle at feeding times, and feeding your infant may include a great deal of trial and error. Making adjust...
Feeding your baby can be one of the most stressful parts of your day. Ensuring he gets enough to eat, choosing age-appropriate and nutritious food and waging war with a picky eater are all challenging. Weaning your baby off of ...
A portable crib is just like a full-sized crib, but usually smaller and easily collapsed. You might choose a portable crib if you often travel or live in a small space. When comparing portable cribs, look for the same features ...
Poor circulation in your newborn can cause him to look pale or exhibit a bluish tint in his skin; it can also make his hands and feet cold. An underlying condition may be the reason for poor circulation. Treating the condition ...
Sick twins may only want their mother, according to Lisa Blau, co-author of "Heart Two Heart." This places additional stress on her, making it difficult to get through the illness of her babies without help.
Proper nutrition plays an essential role in the development of your child’s cardiovascular system. Like adults, babies require adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, along with essential vitamins and minerals to develop...
The green revolution includes a return to cloth diapers. But today's cloth diapers are not the white squares used by your grandmother. Today's cloth diapers are fitted and adjustable to a baby's increasing size through the use ...
The introduction of new food is a joyous milestone for parent and baby alike. You'll find a vast array of foods at the ready, making it challenging to know just what to feed her. Food for babies is commonly available in stages ...
Introducing your baby to solid foods exposes her to a new world of flavors and nutrition. Incorporating solid foods into her diet around 6 months of age helps supplement her caloric intake and exposes her to flavors and textur...
Not only do many adults enjoy eating oatmeal, but babies often do as well. The type of oats you should give a baby, however, varies based on the baby's age. Some infants are too young for oatmeal and even those old enough for s...
It's rare that a baby needs formal exercise and stretching. In fact, if you watch your baby's movements, you'll notice that he stretches and contracts his body naturally while sleeping and during his alert times throughout the ...
While many women find breastfeeding to be relaxing, the process can cause anxiety for new mothers who aren't sure if they're feeding their babies properly. Babies often pause in the middle of breastfeeding, causing mothers to q...
Most new parents assume they have another 12 to 13 years before acne becomes an issue, but newborn breakouts are relatively common. These early cases of acne are a result of the mother's hormones transferring to the fetus durin...
Cheesecloth is a lightweight, gauze-like fabric, commonly used for making cheese. It has additional uses around the home, such as straining liquids, separating fruit pulp from seeds and removing fat from the surface of soups an...
However, many experts, including Peg Plumbo, C.N.M., of the iVillage website, say feeding on demand is best because infants know when they are hungry or full. Others place their babies on a feeding schedule as the infants get o...
Infants whose mothers drink an excessive amount of caffeine while pregnant experience side effects and symptoms similar drug withdrawal. Although doctors prescribe small increments of caffeine for newborns with apnea, the lengt...
Your baby may not be able to speak yet, but as her parent, you are the expert on what her voice sounds like. If her cries and babbles begin to sound strained and raspy and you can hear gurgles and wetness in her chest, don't he...
Signs from your newborn that she is ready to nap enable you to better establish a regular sleep routine. The early warning signs allow you to put your baby down for a nap before she becomes overly tired and has difficulty falli...
Most babies learn to walk between 10 and 18 months, with stair climbing following shortly after, according to the Baby Center website. Teaching your child to use the stairs supports his development and encourages safety on a fl...
Pregnancy and lactation spark numerous changes in a woman's body, and some of these changes can be uncomfortable or jarring. It's common for breastfeeding women to feel a sensation of heaviness in their breasts and chest. As th...
Your baby's gums aren't her only sensitive spot. Don't forget her tummy when choosing a teething biscuit. If you have a history of food allergies in your family, consult your doctor to discuss teething biscuits, as well as othe...
Infant formula is one of the most popular modern conveniences, and most babies thrive on formula. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed for at least the first year of life, and formula-...
If you're breast-feeding, you probably prefer to avoid taking unnecessary medications that could pass through your breast milk to your baby. If you develop an earache, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if you have an ear in...
The benefits of breastfeeding have been documented in thousands of studies. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that parents exclusively breastfeed for the first 6 months of their child's life and that they continue brea...
Preemie babies have more trouble with constipation than full-term babies for several reasons. Decreased muscle tone, preemie formulas and a history of bowel infections can all contribute to problems with stools in premature bab...
Newborns usually eat between eight and 12 times per day. Because your little one needs to eat this often, you will need to feed her once, twice or sometimes three times during the night. Getting up in the night can cause you an...
Sore nipples top the list of discomforts during breastfeeding, and between 80 and 90 percent of moms experience nipple pain at some point during nursing, according to La Leche League International. Inflamed nipples can occur f...
Physicians commonly prescribe Lipitor for patients whose cholesterol levels place them at risk for heart disease. Lipitor is in a class of drugs called statins. Drugs in this class help lower the cholesterol levels in your bloo...
Diet is one of the most significant predictors of an infant's health, according to "Child Psychology." While breast milk is the safest and healthiest choice for babies, many parents choose to feed their babies formula...
Breast-feeding has numerous proven health benefits for your baby, but in some cases you can't -- or don't want to -- continue breast-feeding. You can help your baby make the transition from breast to bottle or cup, depending on...
Breastfeeding your infant is a nutritionally sound decision that will provide her with each of the nutrients she needs for healthy growth and development. Many babies experience gassiness after nursing, and in some instances, i...
Up to 60 percent of newborns have jaundice, according to the authors of "Child Care: An Art of Anxiety." This condition is usually not serious when it occurs in newborns. At the time of publication, there is no scient...
Keeping your baby safe is hard enough when she spends her days contained in a crib or your arms. Once she starts crawling and exploring things she shouldn't, she can get injured in a heartbeat. Babies typically start crawling w...
Because newborns do not have a fully developed immune system, there is a good chance that if you come down sick, your newborn will also become ill. But there are a few basic steps that you can take to reduce the likelihood that...
Breast pumps allow you to express breast milk even when you aren't with your baby. If you return to work while breastfeeding, pumping at the office is sometimes necessary. Learning to discretely use your breast pump allows you ...
Semi-solids are foods which contain small particles that can be mashed with the gums, and are typically among children's first solid foods. However, children should never be given these foods in their bottles because they pose ...
Babies who use pacifiers have different needs at different stages of development. In the early months of life, a pacifier should resemble a nipple to make breastfeeding easier. As children develop teeth, however, it's important...
Diaper Genie, marketed as a product that stores diapers while eliminating their odor, offers parents the convenience of avoiding a trip to the trash can each time they change a diaper. But the odor prevention benefits only las...
As your baby gets older, you might be surprised to see her in constant motion, even before she can roll over or crawl. Babies learn about the world around them by moving their body and interacting with their environment. Your b...
Hypertonia and spasticity are often used interchangeably to describe a condition in which the arms and legs have excessive muscle tone. The affected limbs are stiff and difficult to move. Spasticity more correctly describes a s...
Babies' developing immune systems tend to make them more susceptible than adults to rashes and infections. Both male and female babies can get yeast rashes. In some cases, probiotics may help heal or prevent the frequency of th...
Baby wipes, also referred to as wet wipes, are pre-moistened pieces of cloth or paper that can be used to clean the sensitive skin of your child or to clean household items, such as cutting mats. Wet wipes are often moistened w...
For new parents, watching their infant happily grappling with a bowl full of finger foods is a significant step. It's a first measure of independence for your baby, and it means that your child can entertain and feed herself wh...
Building up a freezer stash of breast milk ensures you have enough milk to feed your baby if you are unable to breast-feed for a short time. If you are going back to work, it's vital to have extra milk on hand, but you may also...
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant found in many plant- and animal-based foods. It's a fat-soluble vitamin, making it a natural complement to water-soluble vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant. Vitamin E has been suggested as...
Sweet potatoes or yams make a delicious and vitamin-filled mashed dish, especially when mixed with butter and spices like cinnamon. Cooking the healthier sweet potato is similar to cooking white potatoes, although the harder fl...
Baby rashes are common and usually nothing serious. Rashes may appear on the face or head due to normal conditions, such as cradle cap or milia. A red rash on the baby's buttocks is likely diaper rash. A red rash on other areas...
Breastfeeding may be natural, but it doesn't always come easily to new moms. Getting the baby to latch on properly and then to release the nipple when he's done prevents injury to the nipple. If breastfeeding causes pain, you m...
Rice and other single-grain cereals are typically the first foods a baby eats when solids are introduced. The solids progress to fruits and vegetables that are easy to digest, including the sweet potato. After introducing the c...
Most breast-feeding moms need to give supplemental feedings once in a while. If you want to breast-feed exclusively, you may not want to give your baby any bottles, even when giving supplemental formula or pumped breast milk. T...
However, infrequent bowel movements in a breastfed baby don't always mean he's constipated. The definition of constipation includes hard stools, not infrequent stools. Breastfed babies rarely become constipated and usually don'...
You should not use either product unless your doctor recommends it. Neither has any benefit for a healthy newborn and may cause harm, in some cases.
Despite this official stance of the U.S. Surgeon General and other health experts, in 2010, less than 50 percent of mothers breast fed their babies through their first six months. Breast milk is known to boost an infant's immun...
Infant cereal is often the first solid food offered to babies. Offering your baby cereal allows him to experience different textures of food and practice eating from a spoon. The type of cereal you feed your baby matters more t...
The vast array of different stages and flavors of baby food on store shelves can be overwhelming, and might leave you wondering what you should feed your baby. Many brands of baby food are sold in stages, which can help you det...
After having a baby, weight loss is often a concern for a new mother. Dieting and breastfeeding can be compatible, but you need to be careful about the diet method you choose. Using herbs to lose weight can be an effective way ...
Drinking wine after taking Flagyl, an antibiotic whose generic name is metronidazole, can cause severe reactions. This antimicrobial medication, which is used to treat infections caused by bacteria or parasites, interacts with ...
Reasons for fasting can range from religious conventions to health related fasts for weight loss. Fasting is defined by abstinence from foods and drinks for a set period. Some fasts allow small amounts of food or drinks, while ...
Long car rides can cause back pain for people who have existing problems or experience it as a result of the unaccustomed strain of holding one position for too long. Any part of the complex system of muscles, nerves and disks ...
A fever is the most common reason why parents contact their child's pediatrician, according to Senders Pediatrics. If your baby develops an elevated temperature, it's natural to want to do whatever you can to help her feel bett...
There are no recommended sodium intake levels for babies under a year old because infants should receive sufficient amounts of sodium from breast milk or formula. Once children pass their first birthday, you should limit sodium...
If you’re breastfeeding your baby, you’ve made a good choice for a healthy start. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed or given expressed human milk in preference to other sources o...
Although breastfed babies may have stools infrequently, constipation is more likely once solid foods are started. In some cases, constipation can be due to medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, or to emotional s...
If your baby has dry, hard stools, she may be constipated. Babies follow their own schedules for defecation; you cannot identify irregularity by comparing your baby's bowel movements to a typical schedule for other children. Ho...
Whether your baby is a newborn or approaching the end of her first year, there are many good reasons why she might want to eat immediately after waking up.
Advertisements, well-meaning friends and family and random strangers may all offer opinions on how and what to feed your baby. According to the most recent data available from Ross Labs, 66 percent of parents give their babies ...
A baby suffering from constipation may cry, grimace, turn red-faced or pull her legs into her stomach while she strains to have a bowel movement. For a parent, it can be difficult seeing your baby in such discomfort if you don'...
As your baby reaches the middle of her first year, you may notice her appetite - and her interest in your family's mealtime -- growing. While you may think your baby is ready to begin solids, feeding her real food too early cou...
Head circumference and chest size measurements are often taken on newborns and infants by a pediatrician to measure growth levels and development. These growth milestones reveal healthy brain growth and development. While a slo...
When you're away from home, it may be difficult to find a place for your baby to sleep. Cribs aren't very portable and take up a large amount of space. Fortunately, some portable options exist for your baby to sleep in when the...
Many new mothers rely on baby formula to some extent, either as a supplement to breast milk or a replacement. Standard baby formula products are designed to provide an approximate equivalent of human breast milk, but major manu...
Hot climates pose particular health and safety risks for the very young. Your newborn is highly susceptible to certain heat- and sun-related illnesses because her systems aren't yet up to speed. If you live in a hot climate or ...
Breastfeeding is a healthy feeding decision that supplies your infant with the nutrients and antibodies he needs for his health, and to protect him from certain illnesses. The website Women's Health, a service of the U.S. Depar...
Postpartum depression and anxiety are common issues for new mothers, with about one in eight women experiencing them, according to “Breastfeeding Management for the Clinician,” by Marsha Walker. Even when you don...
Glycerin sweetens cough syrups, makes hand lotions more effective and keeps commercial baked goods tender. When taken as a suppository, the non-toxic and water-soluble compound acts as a laxative. Like many other laxatives, gly...
Vaccines and flu shots generally are considered safe by health officials. However, like any medication, a vaccine or flu shot can cause side effects, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is possible for your...
Rotavirus and other viral infections can cause your infant to experience diarrhea. While this diarrhea typically ends after several days, taking certain supplements may reduce the length of the illness. Probiotics, or good bact...
Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, a relatively uncommon medical issue associated with birth, occurs in two to four newborns out of every 1,000, according to Georgetown University Hospital. If left untreated, this condition can c...
Breast-feeding is a natural and generally safe practice. It can help prevent infections and reduce the risk of cot death, or sudden infant death syndrome, according to the Foundation for the Study of Infant Death, FSID. Despite...
After recuperating from a surgical procedure, such as a hydrocelectomy, you may want to get back to exercising and strength training as soon as possible. One of the most important groups of muscles to keep strong is your abdome...
A high-fiber content means that both peas and squash should make healthy first foods and neither should result in constipation. That said, when starting any new solid, remember to introduce it at intervals while maintaining you...
For young parents, few things are more distressing than having a sick toddler. However, one of them is having a sick toddler at the same time as you have a newborn. Managing to care for both children, while minimizing the risk ...
Breastfeeding is an opportunity for you to bond with your baby, soothe her when she is distressed and even begin to teach her communication skills. First and foremost, though, breastfeeding is just what it sounds like -- your b...
The red-eye flight is the bane of many a traveler's life and adding a small child to the mix might seem like asking for trouble. But if you're traveling with a toddler, flying by night can be a good option because the terminal ...
Drooling occurs when saliva production is not contained in the mouth. The act of drooling is common among healthy babies and serves several physiological functions. Gastroesophageal reflux or teething may stimulate drooling wh...
If you have recently given birth, you know that bodily changes such as stretch marks and swollen feet can be part of pregnancy. You also may have noticed that your areolas, the round pigmented areas around your nipples, changed...
When you're pregnant, you might look forward to having the baby "drop" as an indication that the end of pregnancy is in sight. This process, medically termed "lightening," generally occurs two to three weeks...
Conditions that affect your breathing and lung capacity can be affected by your body position, sometimes with significant results, due to the changes in pressure on the lungs and airflow. In both infants and adults, lying in th...
Aquaphor is a topical skin cream meant for daily use. It is sold under the Eucerin skin care product line, which is recommended by many dermatologists. Aquaphor is considered safe for babies, children and adults. It is intended...
The health of a newborn is always a primary concern for parents and caregivers. Anything that goes wrong, however slight, can cause worry or panic, particularly in new parents. Although unusual, a fused coccyx is not always a c...
When you have a small nursery or need to fit a crib into a room with an older child, a mini crib is an attractive option. Grandparents often purchase mini cribs to provide a safe place for their infant grandchildren to sleep wh...
If you are tired of spending a lot of money on moisturizers, you can save money by making your own lotions at home. A simple moisturizer can be made using petroleum jelly and baby lotion, two inexpensive ingredients. Petroleum ...
Swollen temples might alarm parents when they examine their newborn baby. Birth puts significant stress on the baby's head and some swelling to the temple areas might result, but most symptoms often disappear quickly. Consult y...
Turmeric is a shrub found in Asia, India and Africa, where it is used as a fabric dye and as a flavor enhancer for cheeses, curries and mustards. Also called Indian saffron, dried tumeric root is commonly used for medicinal pur...
Burpees are an intense strength and endurance exercise that gets your heart pumping. Burpees engage your full body and require you to move quickly from a vertical position to a horizontal position on the floor, and back again. ...
The new mother's response to her newborn infant goes through phases, including the "taking in" phase and the "taking hold" phase, according to "Obstetrics and Newborn Care." The first several days ...
The National Eye Institute, a branch of the National Institutes of Health, reports that 8.2 million people have trichiasis, as of 2009. Babies can contract trichiasis from several sources, but early treatment is essential for p...
New mothers often experience numbness or tingling in their hands as a result of ulnar nerve entrapment or fluid-related carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy. In some cases, the condition may be more serious. Your doctor can ...
Caring for a baby in a full-body cast can be stressful, especially since babies can't always tell you when something is wrong. Keeping the cast dry and closely monitoring your baby's health and comfort helps her stay comfortabl...
When your baby’s too young to communicate, her stool can be one of the best indicators of what’s going on in her body. It may be disarming to find gray stool in her diaper, particularly if it’s light gray, but...
This can happen because of an allergic reaction to some foods and can also affect the intestines, resulting in constipation. This disease can make it difficult for babies to tolerate solid food so you will need to introduce new...
In an ideal world, your baby and toddler would each have his own room, but if you don’t have additional bedrooms in your home, they may be forced to share. There are some potential risks involved with two young children s...
A fistula in the milk duct causes the skin and milk duct to connect, whereas they normally do not. Fistulas in the breast can sometimes interfere with breast-feeding, or breast-feeding can trigger them to form. Because there ar...
If you recently had a baby and are breast-feeding, you have seen your body undergo many changes. Nursing your infant is a healthy way to ensure that he gets the nutrients he needs to grow and develop, but you also may be wonde...
It can be frightening to notice blood in pumped breast milk, particularly if you're not sure what caused the bleeding. Breast-feeding mothers should note that their babies already drink many of their bodily fluids, including sm...
The ban on eating food during labor has long been traditional in labor and delivery practices. This is primarily due to the possibility of needing general anesthesia, which can cause you to throw up. If you vomit while anesthet...
Breast milk contains vital nutrients for infants as well as beneficial substances that enhance a baby's immune system and provide protection from disease. Human breast milk contains the proteins casein and whey; essential fats;...
Your baby's skin is sensitive and prone to several skin conditions. Some may cause peeling on your baby's lip. These conditions usually are normal and may not require treatment. However, in some cases, peeling blisters on your ...
Breastfeeding is one of the best gifts you can give to your baby. Breastfeeding provides the perfect balance of calories, protein, fat and nutrients. It also actively promotes health in your baby by reducing the risk of several...
While the birth of a baby is generally a happy time, it also brings many changes and, often, a lot of stress. For some couples, the extra stress can lead to increased fighting. If you have a newborn, you should avoid fighting i...
An allergic reaction in a baby can be frightening, since your baby can't express how he's feeling or what's bothering him. Allergic babies tend to have allergic parents, so if you have allergies, your infant may also. Apple all...
While you were pregnant, your doctor probably stressed several dietary restrictions, including alcohol and caffeine. Some of the same cautions apply if you choose to breastfeed your baby. After all, what you eat or drink can pa...
If your baby cries excessively, he may have colic. Babies with colic typically are healthy overall, except for the crying, according to the University of Michigan Health System. As a guideline, crying in an infant 3 weeks to ...
A yam is a root vegetable with a reddish skin and an orange flesh. In the U.S., the terms yam and sweet potato are interchangeable even though, in other parts of the world, these terms refer to different vegetables. Because of ...
During his first six months, your baby will live entirely on breast milk or formula. But from 6 months on, you should start getting your baby used to a range of healthy foods, including those with fiber. This food needs to be g...
Breastfeeding for at least six months is the method of nutrition most recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, although breastfeeding during the entire first year is desirable. When you're ready to wean your baby from...
If your infant has delayed speech marked by missed developmental milestones, you have reason for concern. Speech delays can indicate various problems including a vitamin B12 deficiency, congenital disorders, or a hearing proble...
If you have type 2 diabetes, one of the medications your doctor may recommend to treat the condition is Glucophage, or metformin. When combined with a healthy lifestyle and dietary modifications, Glucophage may be the only pres...
Children under 4 years of age have the greatest risk of choking while eating, according to the book "Handbook of Pediatric Nutrition" by Patricia Queen Samour. If you allow your child to stand up while eating, this ma...
Your infant's stools can be an early indication of changes or problems in his digestive system. Although there is a wide range of normal in infant stools, changes in his stools can indicate problems. Observing his stools can en...
If your baby has heart or lung problems, he may require increased amounts of oxygen. Additionally, sometimes immediately after birth, a baby may need oxygen initially, just to get him breathing on his own. Although giving a bab...
Your baby is your pride and joy. Everything you do is easily absorbed by him, so it’s easy for him to learn many of the behaviors your showcase day to day. Your baby is observing almost everything you do around him -- how...
The most likely cause of respiratory alkalosis in newborns is illness or a congenital disorder that causes the newborn to experience respiratory difficulties resulting in rapid, shallow breathing, or hyperventilation. Some of t...
Pregnancy unleashes an arsenal of changes on your skin. Hormones, stretching, tightening, bloating and rashes can transform your once calm midsection into a ball of itchy, painful discomfort. A few lifestyle changes might be en...
The National Association of Sports and Physical Education notes that every infant needs approximately an hour of physical activity every day. Exercise not only helps your baby meet important developmental milestones, it makes ...
Protein is an essential nutrient found in a variety of different baby foods, breast milk and infant formulas. According to Medline Plus, protein is part of every living cell in the human body. Protein is essential for a baby...
Some parents may feel that it is unsafe to give infants younger than 12 months over-the-counter medications containing strong substances such as ibuprofen or Tylenol because they can occasionally cause allergic reactions in inf...
Modern wheat is the end result of thousands of years of selective breeding, creating varieties that give exceptionally high yields. Production of older wheats such as spelt declined as farmers switched to modern cultivars, but ...
Routines establish a predictable environment, which provides children with a sense of responsibility, control and security. Routines also encourage attention and warmth from childcare providers. Daily routines, such as meal tim...
While formula is typically gentle and easy for your baby's developing digestive system to process, about 2 to 3 percent of babies suffer from a formula intolerance, according to the Department of Pediatrics at the University of...
Apples contain soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which can help keep a baby’s bowel movements regular. In addition, apples have high amounts of potassium, calcium and vitamins A, C and E. According to Wholesome Baby Fo...
Migraine headaches affect many women and are sometimes related to hormonal changes. Therefore, hormonal changes in pregnancy and breast-feeding can affect migraine symptoms. In addition, a new type of headache, termed a lactati...
Breast-feeding can affect the cholesterol levels of both the infant and breast-feeding mother. These effects appear to last late into life and generally are beneficial to both parties. Recent research on cholesterol levels of a...
The life-changing decision to conceive a child comes with a variety of emotions and worries. Your prenatal health, both physical and mental, needs to be in order before you become pregnant. The preparation gives your baby the b...
When your baby is born, he has six soft spots around his skull. The anterior fontanelle is the one that you are most familiar with, as it is the most prominent and takes the longest to close. Soft spots are gaps between your ch...
It is well established that breastfeeding is the superior method of feeding an infant. Companies that make infant formula have attempted to imitate the composition of human breast milk, but no substitute exists. The American ...
The dietary reference intake -- called the DRI -- for calcium depends on an individual's age. In general, most infant formula and breast milk provides babies with as much calcium as their growing bodies need during their first ...
Lip swelling is not a normal side effect that should occur after your baby receives her vaccination shots. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports vaccinations may pose a serious problem, such as a severe allergi...
Using a pressure cooker is a good, quick and safe way to cook food for your baby. A pressure cooker allows you to control the ingredients used and makes for more creativity when it comes to combinations of foods. Most babies ar...
Gasping behavior in infants and toddlers means that they aren't getting enough air. Many times, this indicates that the airway is obstructed. Gasping can indicate a number of serious conditions. While some cases of croup and br...
Stool form, color and texture can vary from baby to baby and even from bowel movement to bowel movement. However, normal stools of breastfed babies are usually yellow in color, loose in consistency, and seedy in appearance. T...
A newborn may initially have trouble breastfeeding. Although it is a natural process and has the best nutrients for her developing body and brain, it can come with challenges. What may look like her "rejecting" breast...
Nail ridges are raised lines that typically run vertically across the fingernail or toenail. Although they usually develop in adulthood, they can appear in people of all ages, even babies. They often are not a cause for concern...
Feeding is hard work for an infant, who needs to coordinate sucking, swallowing and breathing all at the same time. Feeding fatigue can be a serious symptom in an infant, who may not be getting the nutrition he needs if he tire...
Regularly breast-feeding your baby and getting regular exercise are two excellent ways for new mothers to lose the extra pounds packed on during pregnancy. In the past, however, clinical studies have shown contraindications inv...
When your infant reaches the age of 4 to 6 months, you are likely to begin offering pureed baby foods to her. As your baby grows, baby food helps to supply her with the vitamins and minerals she needs for healthy development. A...
New mothers looking to drop baby weight might struggle to find a workout that fits in with their new lifestyle, especially if they are breastfeeding. Fortunately, many workout programs work for breastfeeding mothers, including ...
Mothers likely expect to experience some side effects related to breastfeeding themselves, from sore nipples to plugged ducts. However, babies can also face side effects as well, including blisters on their lips caused by breas...
Most parents experience a choking episode with their children at some point, and newborns are especially vulnerable to choking. For this reason, it's a good idea to take an infant CPR and first-aid class. If you notice that you...
Eating healthy dinners when breastfeeding does more than help drop your baby weight. It also ensures that you are getting enough nutrients for you and your baby. In fact, since breastfeeding uses energy, thus burning calories a...
In general, babies less than 1 year old should avoid chocolate, particularly, dark and milk chocolate. These contain caffeine-like substances. Caffeine is unsuitable for very small children because of its stimulating effect. As...
A newborn infant, even in the easiest of births, makes a rough entry from the womb into the outside world. The journey and transition from his mother's body can leave a series of marks on an infant's body. Gingival cysts of the...
Most wrestlers focus almost all of their training on the physical skills they need to win a wrestling match, but if two wrestlers with equal skills meet on the mat, the bout will be decided by the wrestler who is mentally tough...
If you're unhappy with your post-pregnancy belly, you're not alone -- many women find that even after losing the baby weight, their stomachs remain flabby, soft and puffy. That postpartum pooch is usually due to a combination o...
A nipple that is the wrong style or fit will cause your baby to drink air along with the milk. Alternatively, it may also cause your newborn to eat too quickly, which often leads to gas.
Your baby might enjoy the feel of water on his body as early as 6 weeks old. Bringing your baby to the pool or lake, however, requires you to think ahead for ways to keep your infant warm and protected. Ideal water temperatures...
Some newborns can get all the exercise they need to strengthen their developing muscles right in the crib. If you've ever put your newborn to sleep in one corner of the crib and found him on the other side of the bed an hour la...
In addition to differences in whether a baby needs to burp after every meal, babies also differ in how much they burp after a feeding, so there is no specific amount that is normal for all infants.
Your baby learns about the world around him by playing. When you play with your little one, you are teaching him important things about his environment and the people in his life. It is important to play developmentally-appropr...
Fevers in babies can lead to complications such as brain damage, seizures and dehydration. Fevers are a protective mechanism that serve to eliminate invading microorganisms. Lasting injury caused by fevers is, therefore, rare. ...
If you enjoy making homemade food for your baby, you might wonder which foods are appropriate and which you should wait a little longer to present. Carrots are a common baby food, and you can boil fresh ones to prepare a highly...
When your child has a fever, it's actually a sign that her body is fighting an infection. While fevers are often thought of in a negative light, they're typically a sign that your child's immune system is going to work. Still, ...
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Breastfeeding Report Card, which tracks state and national trends in breastfeeding, indicates that since 2007, more mothers are exclusively breastfeeding their babies for the first...
Watching your toddler enjoy new foods and look forward to eating can be rewarding. By the time your baby is 16 months old, he can eat most solid foods. Although your toddler might be a picky eater at this age, repeatedly introd...
Contrary to your dreams of what your baby will look like, a newborn is not always pretty. Skin discolorations and eruptions, including bruising, are common in newborns and most of the time, are nothing to worry about. Discuss c...
Although dietary factors often lead to constipation in older babies and adults, this condition in newborn babies can signal the presence of an underlying health condition. Even though home remedies may help older babies and you...
Women with a history of allergy are much more likely to develop allergic reactions after the delivery of a baby than those without. Exposure to allergens, such as pet dander, can increase the likelihood of postpartum allergies...
Most nursing mothers know that good nutrition is essential during breastfeeding. But there still exists plenty of confusion about a nursing woman's calorie needs, especially when she's trying to lose weight. For many women, bre...
The American Pregnancy Association advocates feeding your baby breast milk instead of formula, if possible. Your breast milk gives your baby the essential nutrients he needs and is safely digestible. Both natural breastfeeding ...
Plums are healthy fruits to serve as natural baby food, according to “Science Daily.” Peaches, apricots and stone fruits are considered major dietary sources of antioxidants and phytonutrients, with plums emerging a...
However, if family members develop an illness shortly after your baby comes home, you may have a constant fear of your newborn coming down with an illness. A minor cold can be a severe, even life-threatening illness for newbo...
Traveling with an infant requires preparation, particularly when your child is still breast-feeding. Whether you are pumping your milk for bottle feedings or feeding at the breast, you will need to make considerations for maint...
Any mother who has breastfed will tell you about a certain food that she ate that made her baby fussy or gassy. If something as innocuous as eating a green pepper has an adverse effect on your baby, you may think taking a pain ...
Whining and crying are inevitable parts of life as a parent of a young child. You can't prevent it, but you can learn ways to quickly discover the source of your baby's whining and give everyone some relief as soon as possible....
Apnea is a term for cessation of breathing. According to the National Institutes of Health, apnea of infancy occurs when an infant has stopped breathing for 20 seconds or longer, or when a shorter respiratory pause is associate...
