Baby's First Food Choices

Recently I visited the baby food aisle looking for "just prunes" to try a new catsup recipe. It's been quite a while since I've paid much attention to this aisle. My "baby" is ten, and she never ate jarred baby food, so I haven't shopped on this aisle for quite a while.

The first thing that appalled me was that the store still stocks "Nursery Water" on this aisle. In 2007, the CDC said that baby formula should not be made with fluoridated water. So why is this water still marketed to parents of babies?

The second thing I noticed is the lack of organic baby food. Most of the food available was not organic. (And I wondered how much of it was genetically modified?)

The third thing I noticed was the lack of variety.

My two kids were born 19 months apart, but my first got jarred baby food and my second got homemade baby food. I don't think it's a coincidence that my second child has a much better diet now than my first. My first child got cereal for his first food, and now he is a carb addict. My second child got avocado for her first food, and she also loved plain yogurt. I cringe when I think about what I fed my son. But I simply didn't know any better at the time. Now I cringe to imagine how parents are still feeding their babies...nothing has changed on those shelves and that is just sad.

I've imagined putting together flyers to leave on the baby aisle so parents know there are options and why these options are better than picking up those jars. If parents realized it was as easy as mashing up some avocado and feeding it to their baby, I bet they would jump on it. Same thing with banana.

I think I'm going to do something about that water. And maybe come up with a project for my kids to work on with me on educating parents about baby food. But hey, while I'm working on that, share this page with your friends with babies and remind them there is another way!

Research on Parenting

I just came across this article at the perfect time. It's funny how things come into your life in a sense of order, like it wasn't an accident. But everything I'd learned in college or by experience about brain development, came together when I learned specifically about Grown Wounded Children, and then this article fell into my lap...er...laptop. First, the article is here. It's pretty common sense, and if you consider yourself a natural parent or practice attachment parenting, you probably already know what the article says (that you are right :)

Now, you may not have heard about Grown Wounded Children (GWC) before and maybe you are asking "whaaaat?" Watch the video below, but in a nutshell, it describes the problems one may have as an adult when he has grown up in a low nurturance environment. "Low nurturance" can range from not getting enough attention, to being abused. Peter Gerlach below discusses the symptoms of many GWC, but even more importantly, he provides information on how to recover from having a low nurturance childhood. I'm discussing this here because not only do we want to make sure to provide a nurturing environment for our babies and kids, some people may not know how because of their own wounds, or because they are unable to bond with their own kids. This might open a door for you. Here you are...

Vitamin C Treatment of Whooping Cough

This is an EXCELLENT article on how to treat whooping cough with Vitamin C, and why it's better than the typical antibiotic prescription often given by medical doctors. Also addressed are facts regarding vaccinated children getting whooping cough. Don't be misled to believe that an additional dose will help provide immunity! This is a long article, but WELL worth the read!

The Vitamin C Treatment of Whooping Cough by Suzanne Humphries, MD

Natural Mosquito Repellent for Babies AND Adults

This is just my annual reminder to get some natural mosquito repellent. Obviously, if you are concerned about using natural products for your baby, you know why this is important. But make sure you use the same thing for yourself and the rest of the family, because you know they will lick you, or rub against you at some point and get the yucky stuff on them if you use it. Not to mention, the yucky stuff can be breathed in by everyone around... Here's the good stuff...

Johnson & Johnson Shampoo a Cancer Risk

I've known for years to watch out for the typical "on the shelf" baby products and now finally something might be done to remove the harmful chemicals contained in baby shampoos. Well, when they finally run out of the chemicals anyway... This is a great reason to buy natural baby products for your baby!

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-20128253/group-johnsons-baby-shampoo-a-cancer-risk/

Is Crying it Out Dangerous for Kids?

This is a great article and shows what many moms (who practice attachment parenting) already know. I only had two babies and I can tell you that you can't treat all babies the same. My son never slept well, and my daughter slept great early on. I  didn't let them cry themselves to sleep. Check out the article to learn why it's not a great idea to let your baby cry himself to sleep!

http://shine.yahoo.com/parenting/crying-dangerous-kids-one-expert-says-222400379.html

Dr. Nancy Snyderman Calls Parents Selfish for Not Vaccinating Children

If you have done your own proper research, you will see the holes in Dr. Snyderman's comments on the Today Show. Unfortunately, the common viewer of shows like Today is usually busy doing other things, half hearing what is said, and believing the instruction that comes from someone with the title of, "Doctor." In case you missed it, below is the segment in question. After you watch it, please visit herd immunity, since you are being misled in this video about herd immunity. It is a myth. You might be left wondering, "If my unvaccinated child is putting others at risk, isn't that suggesting that the vaccines aren't working for the vaccinated children?"

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy 

Treating Baby Eczema

If your baby has developed eczema, you need a lotion developed particularly for eczema in order to keep her skin moisturized after bathing. Also, you probably need to use a different baby wash, which may be causing the eczema to begin with. An excellent line of all natural baby products was developed when a mom discovered that her baby's eczema was actually caused by the soap and lotion she was using on her baby. I'm writing about this now because I saw the lotion being put on a child to moisturize her skin and help prevent or get rid of her eczema. Not only was it laden with unpronounceable ingredients, but it also reeked of fragrance. While the scent may be pleasing to the nose, it is one of the worst things to use when it comes to eczema! For the best all natural products, visit my internet store Eve's Best. For moisturizing dry skin common to eczema, we have an unscented baby lotion as well as a body butter. We also have unscented baby wash that will clean your baby without drying her skin, or causing an eczema flare up. I do urge you to continue searching for the cause of your baby's eczema. It could be something you are eating if you breastfeed, or it could be an allergy to something in your baby's formula. Sometimes the cause is discovered on accident, but you will be more likely to discover the cause if you are actively searching for it. Good luck!

"The Greater Good" Vaccine Movie

Until November 8, 2011, you can view this movie for FREE! I watched it yesterday and it's a must watch for ALL parents...even if you think those anti-vaccine parents are wacky. I remember thinking that until I really started looking at both sides of the issue, which are perfectly portrayed in this movie. Watch it now!
The Greater Good

How to Avoid PBDEs in Breast Milk

Most people today realize that you can try everything possible, and still not prevent toxins from infiltrating your baby somehow. In the last 10 years, the buzz about fire retardants has been pretty constant, especially with the news that they have been found in breast milk. Many moms then felt that breastfeeding was not good because the fire retardants would be entering their babies' systems from their breast milk. This is not true!
Toxic PBDE chemicals (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), which are commonly used in products such as carpets, textiles, polyurethane foam furnishings, electronics, plastics, and motor vehicles, are also unfortunately used in actual baby products. (See a listing here.)
According to Dr. Mercola,
"PBDEs disrupt mechanisms that are responsible for releasing hormones in your body, as well as alter calcium signaling in your brain, which is a critical mechanism for learning and memory.
These chemicals actually resemble the molecular structure of PCBs, which have been linked to cancer, reproductive problems and impaired fetal brain development.
Higher exposures to PBDEs have been linked to decreased fertility, which could be in part because the chemicals may mimic your thyroid hormones. Previous research has suggested PBDEs can lead to decreases in TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). When present with normal T4 levels, low TSH is typically a sign that you're developing hyperthyroidism, which can have significant ramifications both for you and your unborn child if you're pregnant."
So how do you prevent as much of these toxic chemicals from reaching your baby and your breast milk?
First, before you even become pregnant, sleep on a wrapped mattress. Sleep on a wrapped mattress as long as you are nursing your baby, to help prevent as much of the PBDEs from entering your body while you sleep. Not only can the toxins affect your baby in utero, it can continue to affect him through exposure to your breast milk. Keeping your breast milk as free from PBDEs as possible is your main goal, so look around your house for other ways to decrease exposure.
Second, make sure to change where your baby spends most of his time: his mattress. Wrap this with a BabeSafe mattress cover, and you are keeping these flame retardants from him for a greater part of his day. Also, don't constantly leave your baby in swings, infant carriers, etc. where the PBDEs are used.
For more information on how to shop for future products, check out this sheet from the Environmental Working Group.

Children's Car Seat Tests Reveal Harmful Chemicals

Healthystuff.org, a project of the environmental non-profit The Ecology Center, found "chemicals of concern" in 60% of the more than 150 seats tested, including brominated flame retardants, arsenic, lead, cadmium and mercury.

Healthystuff.org tested for the chemicals of concern based on studies showing links to reproductive problems, developmental and learning disabilities, hormone imbalances and cancer.

We have spoken about such chemicals before, especially arsenic, due to its implication in crib death. For more information about which car seats are harmful and which are safer, visit HealthyStuff now.

Avoid Using a Baby Monitor

Many parents keep their newborn baby in their bedroom at night for easier feedings and diaper changes. Without realizing it, these parents are preventing exposure of an environmental toxin that many babies are exposed to every night in their own bedroom and crib. Baby monitors, usually put in the crib or right next to it, emit electromagnetic currents that can be harmful to baby's sensitive brain development. Just Google "emfs and baby monitors" and you can learn more about baby monitor use and changes you might want to make. If I had to do it all over, I would again keep my newborn in my bedroom where a baby monitor would not be necessary. And if at some point my baby was moved to his or her own room to sleep, any baby monitor used would be placed across the room and not so close to the crib. You can learn more about other electronic products and how to improve your entire house environment by googling "emf dangers" or "electrosmog."

Dangers of Early Exposure to Common Chemicals

I started this blog many years ago to help warn unsuspecting parents of the dangers in everyday products. As I've met people over the years, I've realized how few parents have this information. Which is odd, because the research is out there, and almost everyone has the internet to rely on for information!
I've just read an article from Silent Spring Institute that discusses how early exposure to common chemicals may affect breast health. Simply put, we need to pay more attention to what we are doing now, especially with our children. What we do now can affect their chances of future breast cancers. (And if you think your sons are immune, they are not... early exposures can lead to enlarged breasts in men and boys.)
Here is the article.
Here is a link from the article on steps you can take to reduce your child's exposure.

Natural Mosquito/ Bug Repellent

Just got in a new batch of the best mosquito repellent in the world! Perfect for the whole family, including your natural baby, I was reminded how awesome (and necessary!) this product is when I was around a DEET containing product and it made me cough. Also made my throat itch. Not good. Our mosquito repellent does not have to be washed off. It has a pleasant smell, and most importanly, IT WORKS! Check it out here:

http://www.eves-best.com/natural-mosquito-repellent.htm

Disturbing Data About Vaccinated Children

This is a must read article of new parents, and even veteran parents!

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/03/24/disturbing-data-about-vaccinated-children.aspx

Vitamin C for Babies

It's winter and everywhere I turn, there are colds, flu, and babies with incessant runny noses and ear infections. The day before Christmas break, my own son came down with the flu. That is strange for us, because we regularly take Vitamin D to help prevent colds and flu. But after forgetting our D for a week, it happened. Immediately I gave him his liquid D, as well as Vitamin C throughout the day. He was sick for only three days. Lucky? No. Vitamins!

My son is 9, so you might be thinking, like most parents, that Vitamin C is not appropriate for babies. Not so. As a matter of fact, there have been studies done showing that Vitamin C has shown promise in SIDS prevention. The reality is that Vitamin C is useful for treating or preventing a number of health problems in babies, children, and adults.

The question, however, is how much C should a baby take? Well, it depends, mainly on whether your baby is healthy or not. A sick baby needs more. A healthy baby needs less. And don't think you can get help from a doctor because that's probably not going to happen in this lifetime. But it's good to know that Vitamin C is not toxic. The worst that can happen is diarrhea, which is actually a good sign that you have reached the amount necessary to saturate the blood with C. Here is a guideline for typical amounts depending on the illness.

Why would you want to give a baby Vitamin C? I think the better question is, why would you want to give your baby dose after dose of antibiotics when they aren't working? Most parents don't realize how unhealthy antibiotics are, or that taking an antibiotic actually weakens your immune system. My son had one ear infection when he was a baby, and got strep throat while ON the antibiotic for the ear infection. That's crazy! But if the doctor had known about Vitamin C, my son would have been taking Vitamin C, along with the antibiotic to kick out the ear infection while boosting his immunity. (These days, I'd use higher doses of C to prevent the doctor visit in the first place!)

So babies get a lot of colds and ear infections (those not on Vitamin C that is!) First, you should give your baby Vitamin C on a regular basis. If someone is sick in the family, give more. If your baby shows signs of respiratory distress or runny nose, kick up the dose. Give Vitamin C all day long, not in one big dose. What they don't need will be elminated with urine, so it's important that it keeps going into the body. Increase the dose until your baby shows signs of intestinal distress, such as gas or loose stools. Then, keep giving the C, but at smaller doses. Do not be afraid of giving too much, as VITAMIN C IS NOT TOXIC. Many parents are afraid to put anything into their baby without the doctor telling them how much. You are just going to have to get over that. It amazes me that we don't question doctors who want to put DRUGS into our babies but when it comes to a vitamin, we get all nervous! I guess the problem is that we think if vitamins actually worked, the doctor would have already tried it. Nope! Doesn't work that way! Read about the politics of the RDA and Vitamin C.

The sooner you accept that the health of your baby is truly in YOUR hands, and that doctors don't know everything, the better off your baby will be. Just use your head!

Do NOT Give Your Baby or Toddler "Nursery Water"

I can't even believe that this stuff is still on the market after all the warnings that have been published on the dangers of fluoride. I've just read a new article from Dr. Mercola that prompted me to check for Nursery Water online. It's still there. The article from Dr. Mercola is cited through the link above if you are interested in seeing it. If you don't know what it is, Nursery Water is distilled water that has fluoride added in. Which is ironic, because the whole reason I GOT a home water distiller initially was to get the fluoride OUT of the water! If you are having or already have a baby, now is the time to invest in a water distiller. If you are breastfeeding (and I hope you do!) you will need lots of pure, fresh water to drink. If you are relying on formula, even just as a back up, you need pure, fresh water available regularly. Once your baby starts drinking other fluids, you will need pure, fresh water for him or her (I mixed juice with water early on). Now that my kids are older, they drink water 95% of the time around the house. Whatever you do, just DON'T GET NURSERY WATER!!!

The FDA Shuts Down Common Infant Vaccine After Startling Discovery

This information is important, especially for parents who have already chosen to vaccinate. Make sure you listen to the entire video which also discusses giving vaccines for diseases which are not life threatening. Read article.

Lack of Vitamin D in U.S. Kids “Shocking”

I remember when my daughter was born, that her pediatrician told me that I should supplement her diet with Vitamin D. She was born in November, when of course, MY Vitamin D levels were sure to be low. But I was a huge fan of breastfeeding and was told by other natural moms that doctors were crazy and that they are just trying to make breastfeeding seem like it's not enough.

That was almost seven years ago, and I have to hand it to that doctor...he was right! Researchers are now saying that we aren't getting enough Vitamin D, even when following the US Recommended Daily Allowance. Thankfully, it is easy to add Vitamin D to your diet, as well as your baby's or children's. We depend on the sun for our Vitamin D during spring and summer, but for fall and winter, add these drops to your milk or give to your baby after nursing:

To Vaccinate...Or Not?

Most parents are like I used to be: completely trusting of doctors, unquestioning of "tried and true" medical procedures, and...completely ignorant. I call these people the "mainstream." If I had to put them all in a box, they would: formula feed, vaccinate on schedule, give their baby medicine every time she sniffles, use disposable diapers, and clean their houses with bleach. Oh, and then the baby would get baby food from a jar, get vaccinated to attend school, and sustain himself on preservatives and artificial coloring for the next 12 years.
We'll forget about all the rest for a second and focus on vaccines, also known as immunizations. I do not call them "immunizations" since they have not been proven to provide immunity against disease. I've got lots of information about childhood vaccines . This topic has come up again for me due to the recent mumps outbreak. This article states that the ones who GOT the mumps had even had both doses necessary to provide immunity. The answer? To add a THIRD dose! Then what? When will they stop?

This completely baffles me. It just does. I just spent a few minutes at the CDC website and I can see why people are confused. First, they are putting their trust in the CDC. But their information is well written and very easy to fall for. There's just something about it. But the more you learn about the CDC, the more you want to run away screaming.

I fully vaccinated my son through 24 months. He was 2 and my daughter was 6 months when I woke up to the insanity that we were living. The vaccinations stopped there. That is also when the "well baby" visits ended since my "well" babies would end up sick a few days after their visits. Imagine that!

Please do some serious research about vaccinations and don't just trust your doctor. Keep in mind that there are many doctors who don't vaccinate their own kids! You might get the cold shoulder from your pediatrician, but if you don't DO the well baby visits, they won't be able to give you a hard time. Take your baby to the doctor when she is sick, and they will treat her. My daughter was only seen when she was sick, and the topic of vaccines never even came up. (They can't vaccinate a sick child, either.) For what it's worth, moms know their babies better than a doctor that spends 10 minutes with a baby. If your baby is acting different or you just have that gut feeling that something is wrong, bring him in.

By the way, I'm pretty sure I didn't dream this, but one of the respected medical establishments (CDC? AMA? AAP? APA? XYZ? ;o) finally released a statement that the link between vaccines and autism is possible and they need to do more research. If you are more on the ball than I am, please send me any information pertaining to this. I'm sure I didn't dream it...my dreams are MUCH hotter than that!