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Irritable babies

As a mothercraft nurse I visit many homes with unsettled babies.  Parents pacing the floor, pulling their hair out having tired every remedy and potions family and friends have suggested with little or no improvement.  The nightmare some families go through with their babies often results in shattered confidence, mental and physical exhaustion which can lead to postnatal depression, family feuds and marital breakdowns.

So why are these babies so unsettled?  

There may be several reasons why a baby is unsettled one of which may be what is commonly called 'colic'.  So what is 'colic' any way?  Good question.  The pharmacies shelves have been filled with remedies for colic, special bottles and teats and liquids.  So is it colic or something else that is causing so many babies to be unsettled?  And if it is colic why aren't these remedies working as well as they should?  Someone said it may be reflux but my baby doesn't vomit. 

What is the difference between colic and reflux?

'Colic' is an unsettled baby with lots of wind.  Reflux babies also have a lot of abdominal wind.  If you look at the symptoms of colic they are similar if not the same as those of a baby with reflux.  So what is the difference between reflux and 'colic'?   I, and many health professionals will agree with me, believe that colic as it was commonly known is today known as 'silent reflux'. 

A word from a Paediatric Gastroenterologist

Dr Bryan Vartabedian in his book Colic Solved says”..colic has evolved into one of our culture’s greatest urban legends – a mythical explanation meant to explain the seemingly unexplainable.”  He goes on to say “I’m always amazed at the number of paediatricians who approach me after my presentation and comment, ‘I didn’t know that some of these symptoms pointed to reflux. For years we’ve been calling this colic.’...They’re well-trained practitioners who were never taught that inconsolable screaming, arcing, and pulling from the nipple where symptoms of anything other than colic.  Like the babies suffering with this condition and the parents who try to console them, they’re victims as much as anyone else, trying to catch up with the advances in medicine that are now giving us explanations and answers.”

In otherwords Colic is now known to be Reflux.

What is reflux?

Reflux occurs when the acid content of the stomach rises into the oesophagus causing discomfort and burning. This understandably causes a baby to be very irritable.  Babies may be seen to raise their legs, back arch and/or to cry inconsolably.  Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) is common in babies but often goes undiagnosed as many think it is colic.  If untreated reflux can cause complications such as increased risk of SIDS, ear and respiratory infections, ulcerated oesophagus.

There are two types of reflux -

1. Frank reflux  - where a baby will regurgitate frequently sometimes in large amounts.
2. Silent reflux - when a baby rarely regurgitates but is very unsettled. This type of reflux is rarely picked up and often goes undiagnosed.  It may start from birth or it may develop later from three weeks or three months. 

What to look for:

When visiting a family I look for things to determine whether a baby has a sleeping, feeding or a physical problem. 

1. Does your baby snack or cliuster feed? (often falling asleep at a feed or have frequent short feeds, feeding under 3 hrs)
2. Is your baby hungry due to your low supply? Do you need to incurease your supply or tip baby up after a feed?
3. Is your baby difficult to settle or has an unsettled period during the day or night?
4. Is your baby able to self settle after the initial 30-45 mins cat nap?
5. Are you over handling your baby?
6. How long is your baby awake and how long do they sleep is it according to their age appropriate needs? (See our FAQ Questions relating to Sleep)
7. Does your baby have an infection - urinary, ear or chest infection?

Depending on your answers you may have a baby who suffers from reflux, hunger or one who just need to be taught how to sleep and how to self settle.  Many babies have a degree of reflux.  Not all babies suffer from acid reflux, some vomit frequently but are not bothered by it other babies don't vomit at all but are in terrible pain. 

An irritable, unsettled baby if encouraged to sleep well between feeds and not cat nap may quickly become a more settled baby but if their irritable periods continue and they refuse to sleep they may be suffering from acid reflux.  If you suspect your baby has reflux take a look at questions listed below. 

How does one detect reflux

1. Firstly look at your family tree.  Ask your parents on both sides if you or any of your siblings has 'colic' or were very unsettled or vomity babies. These are typical signs of reflux.  If the answer is yes or maybe it is more likely that your child may also have reflux.
2. Is your baby very unsettled at a certain time of the day more than any other? Often in the 'witching' or 'arsenic' hour between 2 pm and 9 pm. Take into consideration whether they are over tired, over handled or possibly just hungry. 
3. Is your baby often unsettled from one feed to the next? Dozing between bouts of uncontrollable crying? 
4. Does you baby prefer sleeping in a rocker, over your shoulder,in a pouch or in an upright position?
5. When asleep are their periods where he/she wakes suddenly and cries out seemingly in distress? or is grunting in squirming in their sleep?
6. Does you baby back arch, pull their legs up, fight their wrap and generally look uncomfortable?
7. Do you use a dummy to help pacify your baby during these unsettled periods?

If you have a family history of unsettled babies and you answered yes to most of the above then read on to see if your baby has any other symptoms of reflux.

Some symptoms that can indicate reflux including silent reflux are:

• irritability and pain
• poor sleep habits typically with frequent waking
• grunting, squirming and wriggling during sleep
• arching their necks and back during or after eating or at sleep time
• gulping, coughing or re swallowing hours after a feed
• teary eyes when gulping
• mouth filling with saliva, spit, frothing, excessive drooling
• frequent hiccups
• sinus congestion
• rattle wheezy chest
• reoccurring unexplained croup
• food/oral aversions
• constantly needing to suck
• swallowing problems, gagging, choking, coughing
• gagging themselves with their fingers or fist (sign of oesophagus)
• bad or acid breath
• flatulence
• running or blocked nose
• sneezing
• hoarseness
• frequent red, sore throat without infection present
• neck arching (Sandifer's Syndrome)
• vomiting or projectile vomiting (seldom in silent reflux)
• irregular, infrequent, watery or firm stool
• pulling legs up as if in pain

If reflux is untreated it may lead to:

• refusing food or accepting only small amounts despite being hungry or the exact opposite requiring constant small meals or liquid
• poor weight gain, weight loss, failure to thrive
• respiratory problems—pneumonia, bronchitis, wheezing, asthma, night-time cough, aspiration
• anaemia
• frequent ear infection
• chronic hoarse voice
• erosion of dental enamel
• sinus infections
• ulcerated esophagus

Tips: Reflux babies are often happier when held upright and therefore sleep well on your shoulder or in a pouch this is not encouraged as long term sleeping problems usually follow. 

Remember:  Many reflux babies are unsettled only at certain time ‘the arsenic hours’ and sleep well after this time but if left untreated they may become unsettled all day which may eventually become all night as well.  

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy coaches are trained to recognise signs of reflux and have many tips that will help you through this difficult time.  Give us a call now to book a visit so that we can assist you with all your concerns.  

Cradle 2 Kindy 1300 786 101

Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?

More Articles on Health

Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright any the use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

In today’s society our children face many of life’s obstacles very early, even while at the breast.  Some children react to breast milk.  This of course is very rare and is usually attributed to what their mother is eating.  There may be a lactose intolerance or a reaction to a certain type of food which their mother is eating which passes through the breast milk to the child.  Some of these children may grow out of their reaction other may be found intolerant or allergic to these foods.  Food intolerances can also occur with bottle fed babies such as a cows milk intolerance.   Some allergies and food intolerances are only picked up when a child starts solids and is introduced to these foods.   Not all children develop food allergies or intolerances but it is good to be aware of other who are. 

Difference between food allergies and intolerances.

What is the difference between food allergies and intolerances?  An allergy will give an immediate response as it is the immune system reaction to food proteins.  An intolerance doesn’t involve the immune system but is triggered by food chemicals which irritates the nerve endings.  These chemicals are found in groups of foods which accumulate in the body and eventually cause a reaction.  

Food Allergies

Food allergies are often inherited and are associated with eczema, asthma and hay fever.  Food allergies can range from mild to severe causing vomiting, cramps and diarrhoea, hives, swelling on the face, mouth, eyes.  The most sever is a life threatening anaphylaxis attack which cause breathing difficulties due to the throat and tongue swelling or asthma.  Common children’s allergies are soy and cows milk, egg, sesame, wheat, seafood, peanut and other nuts.  Many children grow out of their food allergies by five but peanut and seafood may continue through adulthood.   Allergies but not intolerances can be diagnosed through a skin prick test.

Food Intolerances

Many foods have additives including colourings and preservatives but others have natural chemicals those low in chemicals are almost never a problem.   Natural chemicals in foods help to enhance their flavour.  Levels may either be high in unripe fruits and decrease with ripening or visa versa.  MSG for example is found naturally in tomato, mushroom, silverbeet, prune, plum and grape.  Organically grown foods may have higher levels of natural preservatives and pesticides in their skin.

Foods moderate in natural chemicals

• Pear, apple (golden, red delicious), mango, banana, papaya, rhubarb.
• Choko, potato, sweet potato, swede, leeks, celery, carrot, beetroot, marrow, pumpkin, parsnip, turnip, peas, snow peas, Chinese veg, asparagus.
• Chicken, eggs, fresh fish, veal, rabbit, lamb, beef.  Dairy foods other than mild and tasty cheeses. 
• Rice, arrowroot, barley, rolled oats, sago, wheat, rye, buckwheat.

Foods high in chemicals

• Avocado, date, kiwi fruit, orange, pineapple, grape, plum prune, sultana.
• Cauliflower, eggplant, broccoli, mushroom, silverbeet, tomato, broad bean.
• Tuna, salami, sausages, seasoned meat and chicken, tasty cheese. 
• Honey, jams, fruit or chocolate flavoured drinks, stocks and sauces.

Food intolerances are rarely serious.  If you suspect your child has a food intolerance or allergy contact your family doctor of Paediatrician.

The good news is children often grow out of food intolerances and allergies.

The Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Allergy Unit, NSW has put out a recipe book called “Friendly Food’.  It is a guide to avoiding allergies, additives and problem chemicals in foods and  can be purchased through the allergy clinic or your local book store. 

Tips: Don’t rush to start your baby on solids.  Four month is the age that is now recommended.  See our article "Thinking about starting your baby on solids?"

Remember:  Always intorduce children to a new food slowly. Give at leaset 5 days between intoducing each new food. It is recommended to offer one small serve at the beginning of the day just incase there is a reaction to the food giving you time to seek medical assistance.  

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy provide professional parenting coaches to assist you in the task of introducing your child to solids and ideas for a balanced diet. 

Call now and book your personal Cradle 2 Kindy coach on 1300 786 101

Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?

More Articles on Food and Nutrition

Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

This article is for those who are needing to increase mothers, baby's or their toddlers diet due to a need to reduce dairy and dairy products.

Daily Requirements of Calcium

Calcium needs vary during your life the following is a list of daily requirements:

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

If you are continuing to have problems with a fussy eater or food refusal please call your personal Cradle 2 Kindy coach for advice.

Also see: Food intolerances' and Allergies in Children

Table manners where do they begin?

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Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

You have probably heard about Antioxidants. You can find them in the health section of your local supermarket and they are frequently advertised in the media. Most of the Antioxidant supplements that are available in your local supermarket or health food store contain a mixture of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and usually also some minerals such as zinc and/or selenium; some may also include herbs such as ginkgo grape seed, and milk thistle.

These substances have all been scientifically documented to have significant antioxidant actions. However, for the reasons discussed below, these products generally fall far short of supplying what the body really needs in order to be truly effective.

Free Radicals

In order to understand what Antioxidants can do for us we need to understand what ‘free radicals’ are, how they are produced in the body, and what sort of damage they can cause.

Put simply, free radicals are a group of  chemical substances that are produced in quite small quantities in the body all of the time. Certain circumstances such as  exposure to environmental pollutants, ‘bad’  dietary fats, physical over exertion, emotional stress, and cigarette smoke cause an increase in free radicals.

There are many different types of free radicals. However the one thing that they all have in common is an unstable oxygen atom, which, much like a strong acid, causes them to literally ‘eat a hole’ in the delicate structures of the body’s basic unit of life: the cell.

If it were not for the natural antioxidant defense systems that are produced by the body, we would all  keel over and die after taking our first few breaths! However, our own natural defenses, plus the antioxidants in fruits and vegetables, have kept humanity alive and well over the long course of our development.

Since the late 1950’s, scientists have come to recognize the fact that the damage caused by free radicals is the leading cause behind the increased prevalence of such degenerative diseases as cancer, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, arthritis and diabetes.

Alarming facts

The alarming fact that has only recently come to light is that the damage leading up to these diseases BEGINS IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE.

Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, over a century ago, our bodies have been subject to an ever increasing number of stresses that have dramatically increased the levels of free radicals that are formed in our bodies. The introduction of thousands of man-made chemicals into the environment, many of which end up in our food and water and air; the processing of foods; and the increasing levels of stress—to name a few.

At the same time, modern agricultural and food storage practices have resulted in reduced levels of essential vitamins and minerals in our foods. Therefore  we are less able to prevent and repair the damage to cells that is caused by free radicals.

Facts to consider

Before you race down to the health section of your local supermarket to buy the latest antioxidant supplement, there are a few things that you will need to look out for:

1. The requirements of adults and children are very different, so be sure that the formulation is specific for the age of the person.

2. Because free radicals come in many different varieties, you will need an antioxidant mixture with as wide a variety as possible of different antioxidant ingredients. There is a danger in using one antioxidant alone, or even a formula with 2, 3 or 4 different ones: they can actually cause an increase in free radical activity.

3. The formula should also contain a balanced mixture of essential vitamins and minerals to support the action of the specific antioxidants.

We now know that the increased incidence of degenerative diseases such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis and diabetes, is due to the cumulative damage caused by free radicals, and that this damage begins in childhood and adolescence.

Supplements

In order to gain adequate protection from free radicals in our increasingly polluted environment we need to take daily supplements that include:

1. A wide variety of specific antioxidants to deal with the various different types of free radicals.

2. The necessary vitamins, minerals and other co-factors to support the action of  the antioxidant supplements.

3. A complete and balanced mixture of essential vitamins and minerals to promote optimal body function and repair.

You should bear in mind that a mixture of many different antioxidants should be taken because the neutralisation of free radicals involves several steps.

Caution

At each step the antioxidant is converted into a free radical which is then neutralised by another antioxidant, and so on until the end step which produces harmless carbon dioxide and water. Unless there are enough different antioxidants to fill all of the steps, you may end up with more free radicals being produced. So simply increasing the intake of one or two antioxidants may lead to more harm than good. You need to take a balanced mixture of them.

The important antioxidants include:

1. Vitamin & mineral antioxidants: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A (or Beta Carotene which is converted to Vitamin A in the body), Zinc, Iron, Selenium, Copper, Manganese.

2. Substances that are both produced by the body as well as obtained from food: Coenzyme Q10, alpha lipoic acid.

3. Flavonoids: Citrus (bioflavinoids), grape seed (procyanidins), green tea (catechins), ginkgo leaf, tomato (lycopene), lutein, bilberry (anthocyanins), milk thistle (sylimarin), soy (isoflavones).  (Article written by Tony Reid. DTCM, DAc, CCP, MAACMA)

Tips:   Childrens food supplements are available and are recommended by may diatitians and natropaths.

Remember:  Our food is depleated of many nutriants due to intence farming methods and poor soil quality.  

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy can help you with advice on solids and dietary ideas for all ages.   We can also help with suggested recommended food supplements for children and adults.

To make a booking call Cradle 2 Kindy on 1300 786 101

Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?

More Articles on Food and Nutrition

Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

Childhood and adolescence is a period of rapid growth and development, especially for the brain and nervous system, the digestive system and the immune system.

During this time, it is vital that a child receives high quality raw materials in the form of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Furthermore, it is essential that the complete spectrum of nutrients are supplied in the right amounts in order to ensure normal growth and repair. 

After the age of two, a child’s nutritional needs are much the same as those of an adult, and a balanced diet should be carefully chosen according to the ‘Revised Food Pyramid’ (RFP) recommendations (details covered in the next issue).

Food Group Servings

Each day, the number of servings for each food group should be approximately:

Vegetables: 5-7; Fruits: 2-3; Whole grain (cereal, bread, pasta) 3-5; Proteins (fish, chicken, lean meat, legumes) 2-3; Good oils and oil rich foods(nuts, seeds, olive oil, flax oil) 4; Dairy (low fat) 1-2. 

Junk foods, including refined carbohydrates, deep fried foods and those foods containing hydrogenated oils should be avoided.  Like many things in life, this is an ideal to strive towards, though not  always easily achieved.

Food Supplements

A simple and effective way to ensure that your child’s daily nutritional needs are met is with a high quality nutritional supplement, containing a balanced blend of the required vitamins, minerals and antioxidants necessary for optimal health.

Most of us are familiar with the concept of the ‘Basic Four Food Groups’ and the ‘Eating Right Food Pyramid’.  However we may not be aware that the scientific research over the past thirty years has shown that these concepts are out of date and may even have been contributing to the enormous increase in diabetes and heart disease.

These degenerative diseases are now occurring much more frequently in children and adolescents (particularly diabetes), as is also attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder  (ADHD). Nutritionists the world over agree that diet plays a major part in the development of these conditions.

How are we to nourish our children, as well as ourselves, correctly so as to reduce the risk of these diseases, and promote good health?  The answer lies in the newly developed ‘Optimal Health Food Pyramid’, recently devised by Dr Michael Murray and Dr Michael Lyon. It is  based on the scientific research from the last thirty years, also taking into account our ancestry, the quality of foods currently available, modern environmental conditions and our current lifestyle.

Optimal Health Food Pyramid

The ‘Optimal Health Food Pyramid’, also provides additional recommendations for basic supplement and lifestyle components.

The bottom, largest, section of the pyramid, contains vegetables, 5-7 servings. and 4 servings of oil rich foods (nuts, seeds, and salad oils such as olive, flax, macadamia and canola). On the next level are whole grains, 3-5 servings, and legumes (i.e. beans and peanuts), 2-3 servings (or 4-5 for vegetarians). Closer to the top we have fruits, 2-3 servings and high quality protein (lean chicken or turkey, fish, eggs), 2-3 servings. At the top are dairy foods (low fat), 1-2 servings, which may be substituted by a calcium supplement. Below the Pyramid are the basic lifestyle and supplement recommendations: daily exercise (stretching, strengthening and aerobics), pure water (8-12 glasses), and basic nutritional supplements (high potency multivitamin and multimineral, fish oils and a greens drink). (Article written by Tony Reid. DTCM, DAc, CCP, MAACMA)

Tips:  Introduce fruit and vegetables as snack foods for morning and afternoon tea. 

Remember:  Good eating habits start young.

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop. 

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy can assist you with professional advice on nutrition for your whole family and provide you with suggestions or your child's diet.  We can also help with suggested recommended food supplements for children and adults.   

Call Cradle 2 Kindy and make a booking for your personal coach to visit and talk about your child’s needs on 1300 786 101 

Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?

More Articles on Food and Nutrition

Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

The Importance of Pharmaceutical-Grade Fish Oils

The omega-3 essential dietary fats have been receiving a lot of publicity recently. Every health-food shop and most chemists are displaying large bottles containing up to 200 clear capsules of fish oil -rich in omega-3 ‘essential fatty acids’. With free information brochures outlining their many benefits.

How important are these oils?....Do we really need to include a supplement in our diet? …. Do children need them too?

Essential ‘fatty acids’ 

(or ‘fats’) are just that: they are essential ingredients of our daily diet. Your body cannot make them for itself. They are required every day to perform many different functions in your and your child’s body. There are two types of essential fats: omega-3 and omega-6. The ideal ratio in your diet should be 2-3 to 1 omega-3 to omega-6 fats.

Unfortunately, most of us are getting way too much omega-6 fats in our diet. These are found in vegetable oils, cooking oils, meats, margarine, etc.  Whereas rich sources of omega-3 fats are limited to cold-water fish, flax  and pumpkin seeds. This imbalance has two results. First, there are usually not enough of the omega-3 fats to perform their important functions, and, secondly, the excessive amounts of omega-6 actually reverses the beneficial effects of the omega-3.

What exactly are these beneficial effects?

First and foremost, your brain is made up of mostly DHA, the omega-3 fat that is found in fish oil. A shortage of DHA causes inevitable brain degeneration, which may lead to Alzheimer's disease in adults and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children.

Omega-3 fats also act in the body to produce chemical messengers called ‘prostaglandins’, which protect us from developing breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer.

The benefits continue with prevention of cardiovascular disease, adult-onset diabetes, some skin diseases and rheumatoid arthritis.

It is vital that you and your child include omega-3 fats in your diet every day. This will ensure normal, healthy growth and development, as well as protection against degenerative diseases later in life.

Dietary supplements

As dietary sources of omega-3 fats are limited, a good policy is to take a daily supplement. Fish oils are the best choice. These oils are extracted from large cold-water fish (such as salmon, mackerel, herring or halibut), which are high up on the food chain. This means that they are bound to be contaminated with heavy metals (e.g. mercury), pesticides and other environmental contaminants.

The only way to deal with this is for the oil to be purified by a process called ‘molecular distillation’. This will remove all of the contaminants, including mercury, to produce a PHARMACEUTICAL GRADE fish oil supplement.

This process, while necessary, also adds to the cost. Therefore you should look for a supplement that states on the label that it is pharmaceutical grade, guaranteed pure, without any contamination.  (Article writen by Tony Reid. DTCM, DAc, CCP, MAACMA)

Tips:  Omega-3 has been noted for its ability to assist with unruly behaviour in children.

Remember:  It is advisable to take a regular dose of Omega-3 throughout our lives to inhance our health and the health of our children.  

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Our professional parenting coaches will provide you with assistance and advice on children’s diet and supplementary needs. 

Call Cradle 2 Kindy to book your personal coach on 1300 786 101

Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?

More Articles on Food and Nutrition

Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

Constipation can occur at any stage of a child’s life from formula feeds to starting solids.  Babies who are exclusively breastfed are rarely constipated.  Newborns will usually have a soiled nappy at every change.  Some breastfed babies have been known to go 10 days without a bowel movement this may cause discomfort.  Breastfed babies often become constipated when they begin solids. 

All babies should have their bowels open at least once a day.  What goes in must come out!

How do I know my child is constipated?

A normal bowl motion can range from being loose (not watery), crudely, pasty or softy formed the consistency of tooth paste. 

If baby strains when trying to pass a stool even though it may look soft, if it is of the consistency of plasticine or modeling clay, your baby is constipated.  Extreme constipation is when the stool is hard, dry or looks like rabbit droppings.  This should be avoided at all costs.

Constipation often occurs after very hot days, when a foreign substance is included into a child’s diet or when they are needing more fluids.  Some milk formula is more prone to constipate babies than others.  These are often the ‘Gold’ formulas.   Some babies will become constipated due to an intolerance to dairy or soy protine.  This is very common with reflux babies.  In this case it is suggested that a non dairy or soy formula should be offered or if breastfeeding the mother can remove all traces of soy and dairy from her diet to see if this helps.  If this is the case a calcium supplement should be taken.

How can I help my child’s constipation?

Introducing Cooled Boiled water to Babies diet:

Firstly introduce 20-30 mls of cooled boiled water after a feed or just before bed.  Never add extra water to the formula as this dilutes the calories and essential vitamins needed in baby's diet.

Gently massage baby’s tummy clockwise before a feed and raise his legs up pressing them gently into his tummy then using similar pressure with alternative legs as in bicycle riding.  

Nappy free tummy time

If this doesn't help after a few days and your baby is formula fed you may like to try a different formula while keeping up the extra fluids and exercises.   If constipation persists see your doctor. 

If baby is over two months old try diluted prune juice between feeds.

Babies on solids:

You may find that introducing cereal has constipated your baby.  Eliminate cereal till bowels return to normal and include roughage such as fruit, fibrous vegetables, prune pulp.  Increase his water intake.  If baby doesn’t like water try diluted fruit juice 1/3 juice 2/3 water.

Toddlers with constipation:

Increase roughage and fluid intake and decrease carbohydrates and milk. 

Tips:  High fiber fruit and vegetables as between meal snack foods as well as water between feeds will help the body retain water and therefore reduce problems with constipation.  (cooled boiled water for babies under one year old)

Remember: If constipation persist speak to your doctor.  (also take a look at our Shopping Guide suggestions)

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy can help you with all your newborn to five year old concerns.  See how we can help you.    

Cradle 2 Kindy 1300 786 101

Also see: What happens at a Coaching session?

More Articles on Health

Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.

Parents have on occasions brought up the subject of circumcision and asked for my professional opinion. I read the article in the Sydney Morning Herald, Tuesday 5th of November titled “Cruelest cut may be kind after all”  It was a very well written article written by July Skatssoon of AAP and Geesche Jacobsen, highlighting the positive side of circumcision.  Their article stated that “recent studies showed circumcision protected men against HIV and lowered the risk of cervical cancer in their partners.” “...research showed uncircumcised boys were significantly more likely to suffer urinary tract infections.” 

Study finds circumcision protects against HIV 

Wednesday, Oct. 26 2005 (Health Day News) — “Circumcision reduced the rate of HIV infection among heterosexual men in South Africa by 60 percent, according to a study that provides the first published data about the effects of male circumcision on HIV infection.”  Bertran Auvert of the French health institute INSERM studied 3,274 young, sexually active men divided into two groups.   Circumcised and uncircumcised.  “After 18 months, the researchers detected 20 HIV infections in the circumcised group and 49 in the control group. The researchers concluded that because circumcision was so effective at preventing HIV infection, it would be unethical to continue the study for the planned 21 months. They halted the trial and offered circumcision to all the men in the control group.” -- Robert Preidt, Health Day News.

To be or not to be? 

Circumcision is a hotly debated topic but invariably the choice to circumcise or not is up to parents.  I suggest you make an informed decision not based on other peoples opinions but on possible health benefits and risks, as well as religious, and ethnic traditions.

Pros and cons of circumcision. 

I also suggest reading  “In favour of circumcision” by Dr Brian Morris, purchased through UNSW Press. Dr Morris is a Professor in the Department of Physiology at the University of Sydney.  

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Women commonly suffer depression during the childbearing years - it’s well known that depression occurs postnatally in many women. But depression can also occur at any time before or during pregnancy.  As depression is potentially life threatening it should NEVER go untreated.

Treatment for depression often involves counselling or talk therapy, but sometimes antidepressants are also needed.  This poses a problem for women who have been depressed and wish to fall pregnant and for women who develop depression during pregnancy.  Should they suffer untreated depression in order to avoid taking medications during pregnancy?  Or should medication be continued throughout pregnancy thus causing potential problems to the baby?

Let’s look at some options when talking therapy is not enough and antidepressants are needed:

1. Postponing pregnancy until depression is resolved and medication no longer needed.

This seems the “safest” option for the baby, but there are problems with this approach.  Pregnancy may need to be postponed for up to two years as it can take six months to stabilise on the antidepressant, 6-12 months of maintenance medication, and another six months to withdraw fully.  But by this time women can find it harder to get pregnant because their fertility has fallen, especially if they are over 35.

2. Withdrawing antidepressants before pregnancy.

This also seems safe for the baby. Unfortunately, however, there is a high risk of relapse during the pregnancy and then it can be very difficult getting the depression under control again.  Many women end up suffering unnecessarily for the rest of the pregnancy.

3. Continuing or starting antidepressants during pregnancy.

This is best from the depression point of view.  However, sometimes newborns whose mothers took antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (eg Prozac, Zoloft, Aropax) can have withdrawal symptoms like agitation, poor feeding and sleepiness for a few days.  Reducing the dose at the end of the pregnancy may avoid this. To date, there are no reports of antidepressant related birth defects and research suggests children whose mothers took fluoxetine (Prozac) during pregnancy have no added risk of behavioural, neurological, or developmental problems by age five.  St John’s Wort is not recommended during pregnancy.

4. Leaving depression and/or anxiety untreated during pregnancy.

There are many risks with leaving depression untreated, not least of which is suicide.  The babies are at risk of being undernourished in the womb, they risk delayed development at eight months, and they risk more behavioural and emotional problems at four years than other children.

So in conclusion, to date evidence suggests there is more risk to the mother and child from untreated depression than there is from taking antidepressants.  However while taking antidepressants in pregnancy seems safe, they should only be rescribed when absolutely necessary.  The final decision needs to be made by the woman herself in consultation with her doctor (GP, psychiatrist, obstetrician, or all three).  If you think you may be depressed, don’t hesitate to discuss this with your doctor.

Please note: this article does not replace medical advice.

For further information on antidepressants in pregnancy see http://www.bcrmh.com/index.htm and http://www.motherisk.org or contact Mothersafe at the Royal Hospital for Women in Randwick on 02 9382 6539 or 1800 647 848 

References:

Australian Adverse Drug Reactions Bulletin Volume 22, Number 4, August 2003

The American Journal of Psychiatry 2002;159:1889-95

The Safety of Herbal Medicinal Products UK Medicines Control Agency www.mca.gov.uk

The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry 2003;44:1025-36

The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry 2003;44:810-18

If you would like more information on similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

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Summertime is a time of great peril for young children as we are often unaware of how much body fluid they have lost through sweating.  Dehydration happens quickly.  If may occur due to hot weather and or over dressing your child.  Babies are unable to regulate their body temperatures which means they are more effected by extreme heat than older children. 

Preventing dehydration while inside:

Dress baby in a nappy and singlet and sleep her in a nappy and light wrap.  Sleep and play in a cool room.  Sometimes keeping the windows closed will keep out the searing heat but if there is a cool breeze open windows for a cross-current where possible.  Offer extra fluids - cool boiled water in a cup or bottle.  Check that baby has frequent wet nappies.  If the urine is thick or smelly increase baby’s fluid intake.  Outside: Keep baby out of direct sun and protect from reflective heat or glare off the sand, water or concrete. Avoid going out between 10 am and 4 pm.  Wear a hat,  long sleeves cotton top and trousers and stay in 100% shade where ever possible. With older children - Slip, Slop and Slap .

Signs of dehydration:

children becomes limp and lythargic.  Fontanell in babies becomes sunken. Urine becomes dark, thick and smelly. Skin if pinched and raised remains raised. 

Tips:  When traveling with young children always carry with you a bottle of  water (cooled boiled water for babies).

Remember:  Dehydration is extremely dangerous for small children if baby don’t respond or refuse to take fluids seek medical help emediately.  

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

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Cradle 2 Kindy specialises in care and advice for children from birth to five years old covering topics such as health and safety, breast and bottle feeding to weaning and starting solids.

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Disclaimer: Article on our website are for education purposes only.  Please consult with your doctor to make sure this information is right for your child.

All articles on this website have a copyright. The use of any material must have permission from Cradle 2 Kindy Parenting Solutions.