Blogging Parent

Most of us know that a mum’s postnatal depression causes babies to develop more slowly than other children. But a recent study shows that antenatal depression can have the same effect.

The research, reported in the BBC News article, says that antenatal depression can cause up to a third greater chance of cognitive or behavioral problems. In addition, a depressed mum-to-be is more likely to give birth prematurely.

So, for the fathers or soon-to-be fathers, do look out for signs of depression in your pregnant wives. If they do show symptoms of depression, it is critical to bring them to the doctor so that early treatment is sought.

Recently, I came across two news articles that talked about the impact on a child from what the parents eat and drink.

In the first article from News.com.au, the emphasis was on putting across the idea that the drinking habits of dads and mums have the most impact on the future alcohol consumption of a child. I guess it’s a form of parental modeling by the child. As for us, we don’t drink that often. And even we do, it’s usually in moderation. So, hopefully this is something that Matthew will pick up from us.

And the second article from BBC News talks about the implications of a poor diet of a mother while pregnant or breastfeeding on the child. Research found that the offsprings of rats fed fatty processed food, such as junk food, had high levels of fat in their bloodstream and around the major organs. Even if the child has been eating healthily. The researchers have determined that the diet of the mother is extremely critical during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it has implications on a child’s long-term health. Hmmm … I guess it’s a good sign that Matthew doesn’t particularly crave fast food. But I think we’ll still need to watch his and our diet to ensure that we eat healthily and be healthy.

The Food Intolerance Network says that a study that was reported in a recent issue of The Lancet says that food additives are causing children to suffer from asthma, rashes and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (or ADHD).

Apparently, lots of food targeted at children in Australia such as snacks, sweets, ice cream and biscuits still contain additives that have been banned in the UK.

Just last week, the UK banned a controversial additive, sodium benzoate (or E211), that is found in Diet Coke. However, the additive is still present in the soft drink in Australia. Hmmm … will need to check if it is present in the Diet Coke sold in Singapore.

The Food Intolerance Network was founded by Sue and Howard Dengate to spread the awareness of food intolerance. The website (link above) provides many fact sheets, stories, recipes as well as research reports.

I think we’ll also need to monitor what Matthew is eats and drinks and ensure that he’s not consuming too much additives and preservatives. Anyway, like I always like to say, everything should be taken in moderation.

(via AdelaideNow)

While water is essential for humans, researchers at John Hopkins Children’s Center in the States have reminded parents that babies below six months old should NEVER be given water to drink.

Research has shown that giving too much water to the babies can put them at risk of a potentially life-threatening condition known as water intoxication.

So, what is water intoxication? Basically, babies’ kidneys are not developed enough and thus giving them too much water would cause their bodies to release sodium along with excess water. And losing sodium can affect brain activity which leads to water intoxication. Early symptoms of water intoxication are irritability, drowsiness and other mental changes. Other symptoms include low body temperature (below 36.1˚C), and puffiness/swelling of the face. The more serious symptom would be seizures.

The researchers have indicated that besides water, babies should not be fed over-diluted formula milk or pediatric drinks containing electrolytes.

Even for older infants, it is not advisable to give too much water at a go. Small amounts of about 3-6ml can be given. However, it is always better to check with your child’s pediatrician before doing so.

Don’t remember if we gave Matthew any water when he was below six months old. But I know he loves drinking water now as well as all the other stuff that he’s a little too young to drink {and no … I’m not talking about alcoholic stuff :)} such as soft drinks.

(via Kids and Parenting - MSNBC.com)