M.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA
Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children. Then she worked as a nutrition faculty and clinical nutrition coach in different organizations.
Her interest in scientific writing and research made her join MomJunction as a Nutritionist writer. She writes research-backed health, wellness, and nutrition-related articles for infants, toddlers, kids, teens, pregnant and lactating women. Using her experiential learning and meticulous research skills, she creates authentic and scientifically validated articles for her readers.
Swati did her Master’s in Food Nutrition from GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology and has qualified UGC-NET. She has completed MBA in Healthcare Services Management from Sikkim Manipal University of Health, Medical and Technological Sciences and holds a certificate in Translational Nutrigenetics. Furthermore, she holds special merit certificates in Childhood and Human Development, Development in Adolescence and Adulthood, and Media Systems.
Her articles have been cited and featured in notable journals and websites, including the International Journal of Applied Research (IJAR), and World Today News.
Playing with her zealous toddler, nature-walking, reading novels, and experimenting with recipes are some of her hobbies.
MomJunction has a strong editorial policy in place, and the team abides by its guidelines. We work toward providing the most reliable information to the reader and help them with a solution that is reliable. Our posts are authentic, and are not biased or influenced. Know more about our editorial policy.
Paneer or cottage cheese is a popular soft cheese made by curdling heated milk with lemon juice, vinegar, or curd. It’s one of the most common ingredients in dishes that you may crave when pregnant (1). But can you eat paneer during pregnancy? Knowing this is essential as milk products made with unpasteurized milk can […]
In This Article Is It Safe To Eat Grapes During Pregnancy?Nutritional Value In Grapes10 Health Benefits Of Grapes During PregnancyHow Can Grapes Be Bad For You?When To Avoid Grapes During Pregnancy?How To Consume Grapes When Pregnant?Easy Recipes With GrapesFrequently Asked QuestionsInfographic: Health Benefits Of Grapes During PregnancyKey Pointers Is It Safe To Eat Grapes During […]
C-section is one of the most common surgical procedures; however, it is a major procedure and warrants special care (1). Hence, paying attention to your diet after C-section delivery is pertinent to hasten recovery and support optimum milk production. You should consult a certified dietician or nutritionist to plan a well-balanced diet containing various foods […]
Guava (Psidium guajava) is a tropical fruit people consume worldwide for its medicinal properties. The health benefits of guava for babies are numerous, and it contains several nutrients and bioactive compounds that promote long-term health. Different parts of the guava plant possess antimicrobial and possibly anticancer properties (1). However, knowing the right age and age-appropriate ways […]
Lemon water is a refreshing drink that is rich in vitamin C and helps prevent and cure the common cold. It is also popularly used as a therapeutic agent in folk medicine. However, the consumption of lemon water when breastfeeding should be regulated since lemon can aggravate acidity in sensitive individuals. Read on to learn […]
Hunger pangs during pregnancy are common. Many expecting moms feel hungry at odd hours or just a couple of hours after meals, primarily due to hormonal changes. However, they could also experience hunger pangs due to increased energy needs to support the growth and fetal development. If you are experiencing hunger pangs when pregnant, knowing […]
Garlic is that pungent! But it is also high on medicinal values. It is so good for health that you cannot deprive yourself or your family of its benefits. Therefore, the medieval Western healthy life style program Salerno Regimen of Health says: “Since garlic then hath powers to save from death, bear with it though it makes unsavory breath.”
Maintaining the body’s optimum hydration levels is vital for regulating the physiological functions that promote health and well-being. Since lactating women usually produce more than 750ml of milk every day, their daily water requirement is higher (1). Thus, experts recommend that nursing mothers drink enough water when breastfeeding. Scroll down to learn more about how much […]
The benefits of fruits and vegetables for kids are numerous as they provide vital nutrients to support their growth and development. Additionally, sufficient intake reduces the risk of major chronic diseases, such as and hypertension. However, feeding children adequate amounts of fruits and veggies is a challenge since children tend to be picky eaters. But […]
Ayurveda is an ancient healthcare system from India that aims to improve physical and mental health using a natural and holistic health approach (1). It is why several parents opt for Ayurvedic medicine for kids to treat and manage ailments such as constipation, cold, cough, and flu. The Bala Chikitsa, also known as Kaumarbhritya, is […]
Energy drinks are caffeinated beverages marketed as wonder products that increase stamina, boost concentration, and combat muscle fatigue (1). Since these claims are enticing, you may be tempted to consume energy drinks when breastfeeding to fight lethargy. However, you should understand the ingredients of these drinks before making a choice. Since drinks aren’t healthy, regular […]
Strep throat or streptococcal pharyngitis is a painful throat infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria (1). It causes inflammation and swelling of the lymph nodes and tonsils and can pass to others. Hence, if you contract strep throat when breastfeeding, you may want to know if the infection can pass on to your lactating […]
Oregano oil is a fragrant essential oil drawn from the shoots and leaves of the oregano plant from the family. It is popularly used as a herbal medicine in several cultures. However, some wonder whether it is safe to use the oil of oregano when pregnant. Research reveals that oregano oil possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and […]
Oatmeal for babies is an excellent food choice that can provide them with essential nutrients, such as fiber, protein, and vitamins, to enable healthy growth and development. Further, most babies can eat oatmeal once they have been introduced to solids. The difference between oats and oatmeal should first be understood. Oats refer to whole oats, […]
Some women may have food cravings for hot dogs during pregnancy but may be concerned about whether it is safe to consume them. Since the food you consume during pregnancy can directly impact fetal health, informed decisions should be made. A hot dog, also known as a frankfurter or wiener, is a popular barbecued food […]
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a common kitchen ingredient known worldwide for its peculiar aroma and pungent taste. Besides adding flavor to food, it possesses certain medicinal properties that benefit health. Several mothers consume garlic when breastfeeding to reap its effects. But is garlic safe for lactating mothers? Does its ingestion help increase breast milk supply […]
Pomegranate is a sweet-tangy, nutritious fruit that most people love. Some enjoy eating pomegranate seeds, while others enjoy its juice. If you crave pomegranate during pregnancy, knowing how much you can safely consume daily is essential to avert the complications that its excess intake can cause. Read on as we give you an insight into […]
Can babies eat bacon? Let’s explore. Bacon is a processed meat product made of salt-cured cuts of pork ribs, belly, shoulder, cheeks, and loin. When consumed in limited quantities, it’s a source of several micronutrients and high-quality lean protein. But can babies eat bacon to enjoy these nutritional benefits? What are the right age and […]
Chamomile tea is a popular beverage prepared by steeping dried chamomile flowers in boiling water. It is widely popular for its calming effects and distinctive therapeutic properties. You may consider taking chamomile tea when breastfeeding for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, anti-depression, and effects. However, most of these effects aren’t well researched. Hence, the effect of chamomile […]
If you are looking for some easy-to-make zucchini recipes for toddlers that are simple yet delectable, you have clicked on the right post. Zucchini or courgette is a nutritious vegetable that’s botanically a fruit. You can add this fiber-rich food to your toddler’s diet along with other healthy snacks for a complete nutritious meal. Your […]
Most mothers enjoy drinking cranberry juice when breastfeeding. Cranberry juice is a delicious, tart-sweet drink often used to make mixed drinks. It has several nutrients and health-promoting compounds. However, it has no specific lactation-related uses. If you too love drinking cranberry juice, knowing about its safety for nursing mothers and their babies is vital to […]
Pomegranate is a popular semi-tropical fruit native to Iraq. This old fruit is famous for its nutritional profile and antioxidant properties that can promote health which is why it is also considered a superfood. But while pomegranate for babies seems a good choice, feeding it in age-appropriate ways is necessary to avert feeding issues such […]
Fiber is an essential nutrient that adds bulk to the stools and facilitates their smooth passage. Besides, it acts as a natural that promotes good bacteria (probiotics) growth and supports gut health. Therefore, selecting age-appropriate high-fiber foods for babies is essential. Perhaps it is the reason that the American Dietetic Association (ADA) recommends people across […]
Decaf coffee is a popular alternative to regular coffee that contains less caffeine but has the same aroma and flavor. As experts advise nursing mothers to limit their caffeine intake, you would want to know if drinking decaf coffee while breastfeeding is a safe option. Knowing this is essential as regardless of the content in […]
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), also known as lucerne, is a plant of the Fabaceae family (1). Its leaves and roots are used to prepare herbal supplements in traditional medicine, whereas its seeds are used as food. Several mothers use alfalfa postpartum during breastfeeding as the plant possesses galactagogue effects (2). But is alfalfa safe for nursing […]
Ginger is a common kitchen herb popular for its flavor and medicinal properties. Its use is prevalent to treat and manage ailments, such as cough, nausea, and gastric issues in adults. However, using ginger for babies needs caution as it can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as heartburn and gas in sensitive babies. Thus, knowing the […]
Ginger is a common condiment known for its distinctive flavor and fragrance. Naturopathy uses it to treat and manage ailments, such as , nausea, colds, and constipation (1). You may consider using ginger when breastfeeding for its purported effects. However, the research studies show mixed results. Several ginger-based dietary and herbal supplements are available over-the-counter […]
For centuries, people have been using aloe vera for beauty, health, skincare, and medicinal purposes (1). However, the growing popularity of the plant has made parents curious to know about the benefits of aloe vera for babies. Recent research also shows that aloe vera has healing properties and therapeutic effects on peptic , burns, , , […]
Ghee refers to clarified butter obtained from cow, buffalo, or mixed milk. The milk product is well known for its culinary and medicinal uses, but further research is required to ascertain the benefits of ghee for babies. Ghee mainly contains milk fats, healthy fats, low amounts of fat-soluble vitamins, and a few minerals (1). Keep reading […]
Coconut oil is commonly used for cooking, skin moisturization, and hair oiling in tropical regions. Even research shows that consuming coconut oil is beneficial for children (1). If you want to try coconut oil for kids, use it in small amounts if they have not had it earlier. But before feeding coconut oil to your […]
Sausage is a ubiquitous food popular for its spicy taste and crumbly texture. But though people like it, it’s also a highly processed food high in saturated fat, sodium, and .So, can you eat sausage when pregnant? Learning this is essential as eating highly processed foods can expose you and your unborn baby to several […]
Garlic is a common culinary ingredient that adds flavor to food. Besides, it offers nutritional and medicinal benefits to promote health over time. But then garlic causes gastric issues in sensitive people, raising a pertinent question – Is garlic during pregnancy safe? It’s critical to understand this to ensure garlic is not harming either your […]
Crabs are one of the most nutritious foods rich in protein and omega-3 polyunsaturated fats. Besides being tasty and versatile, they are much lower in saturated fats. But while eating them seems a healthy choice, can you eat crab during pregnancy? The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers crab healthy for pregnant women (1). […]
If your baby has started eating solids, you can consider trying pumpkin for them. Pumpkin for babies is a nutritious vegetable rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamin A (beta carotene) and minerals that help develop the baby. You can add it to different seasonal vegetables and fruits to make healthy homemade baby foods. However, […]
Eggplant, also known as solanum melongena, aubergine, berenjena, or brinjal, is a nutritious food that comes in several varieties. This round and slender egg-shaped food with purple-black peel is mostly used as a vegetable. You can use eggplant for babies to make various delicacies. Including this bright and colorful food in your infant’s weaning diet […]
Cheesecake is a cheesy Greek dessert made by mixing soft and cream cheeses like Ricotta and mascarpone with eggs and sugar. If you love sweets, you might crave cheesecake during pregnancy often. But before taking a piece of that white delight on your plate, ascertaining its safety is vital. Cheesecakes have several varieties, some of […]
Pepperoni is an Italian-American variation of and is prepared with cured beef and pork seasoned with different spices. While relishing its spicy flavor isn’t a cause for concern in general, knowing about the safety of eating pepperoni during pregnancy is vital if you are pregnant. Pepperoni can increase your risk of foodborne illness if consumed […]
Turmeric is a common spice derived from the Curcuma longa plant native to South Asia (1). It is used in traditional medicine to promote postpartum recovery and boost milk production. However, you might want to know if it is safe to consume turmeric during breastfeeding. Turmeric is rich in , especially curcumin, which possess therapeutic […]
Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that possess various medicinal and therapeutic properties. Perhaps that is why several parents consider trying coconut oil for babies for different purposes. Generally, this nutrient-rich oil is used as a healthy fats source in diets made for critically ill and premature infants (1). However, its use for […]
Chamomile tea is a refreshing herbal tea people consume to relax their bodies and mind. Besides being caffeine-free, it has certain bioactive compounds that can boost health over time, which is why you might want to consume chamomile tea during pregnancy. But is chamomile tea safe for pregnant women and their babies? Knowing this is […]
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a spice belonging to the ginger family. Although the use of turmeric for babies isn’t well-researched, it is commonly used for its dietary and medicinal purposes in Asia. For instance, many cultures use turmeric as an antibiotic to heal wounds. If you wish to include this wonder spice in your baby’s […]
Losing extra weight after delivery is important for a nursing mother’s health. Hence, several mothers try losing their pregnancy weight with a healthy diet, exercise, and sometimes, herbal supplements, such as Garcinia. However, you might want to know if it is safe to take Garcinia cambogia during breastfeeding. The use of herbal supplements for weight […]
Jaggery is a healthy alternative to refined or white sugar as it contains trace minerals and certain that may benefit health in the long run. However, as it is a natural sweetener, you might want to know about the safety of jaggery for babies. Offering jaggery to your baby at the right age and in […]
Prunes are nutritious fruits rich in natural sugars. As they possess laxative properties, eating prunes can smoothen the stool and help in its comfortable passage. You might want to know if it is safe to try prune juice for baby’s constipation or digestive health. Read on as we give you the answer in this post. […]
Litchi is a tropical fruit with a fleshy pulp and distinctive flavor and fragrance. In addition, it has a pleasantly sweet taste that may make several pregnant women crave litchi during pregnancy. However, litchi is rich in fructose (a natural sugar in fruits), which can add extra calories to your total calorie intake. Moreover, it […]
Elderberry or elders are dark purple berries indigenous to Europe. Various parts of the Elderberry plant are used in traditional and folk medicine to treat cold, flu, and constipation (1). Although you can take Elderberry when pregnant, you should also exercise caution as consuming raw elderberries can adversely affect your health and that of your […]
Mayonnaise or mayo is a creamy sauce often used in sandwiches or burgers as a spread, and as salad dressing. It is prepared by mixing egg yolks with an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice. You might relish it before pregnancy, but eating mayonnaise when pregnant warrants caution. The eggs used in mayo preparation […]
Chrysanthemum tea is prepared by steeping dried chrysanthemum flowers in hot water. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a natural remedy for treating several health conditions. But if you are pregnant, you might want to know if it is safe to drink Chrysanthemum tea during pregnancy. Research studies have shown mixed results about […]
When you are pregnant, you might be apprehensive about several dietary choices. One such choice is the consumption of coconut water in pregnancy. Coconut water is a sweet and nutrient-rich drink that can hydrate your body and provide vital nutrients. People like consuming this clear, vegan, isotonic drink to re-energize and nourish themselves. But since […]
Eating bananas during breastfeeding can provide you with essential nutrients, such as calcium, potassium, and fiber. Besides, bananas contain several phytochemicals that can support overall health in the long run. But since bananas are also high in carbohydrates, some new moms might consider avoiding them to cut down on calories and lose weight. Is this […]
Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) is a bright red-colored exotic tropical fruit indigenous to Southeast Asia. Its sweet taste and nutrient-rich profile make it a healthy choice. However, if you are a pregnant woman, you might want to know if it is safe to consume Rambutan during pregnancy. Read on as we give you the answer in […]
Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable rich in potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin C. It has a sweet-bitter taste and crunchy texture that several people like. However, since it is known to cause gastric discomfort, you may want to know if eating cabbage during pregnancy is a safe choice. Cabbage is also considered a goitrogenic food that […]
Jamun, also known as Java plum, Indian blackberry, or black plum, is a soft-fleshed, nutritious summer fruit with a sweet and tangy taste (1). If you like eating fruits with tropical flavors, you may consider consuming Jamun during pregnancy. However, since Jamun is known to lower blood sugar levels, is this fruit the right choice […]
Dragon fruit or pitaya is a colorful tropical fruit native to South and Central America. It contains several nutrients, such as protein and fiber, and tastes refreshing and sweet. You may consume dragon fruit in pregnancy. However, before adding it to your diet, consult your doctor since isolated cases of dragon fruit allergy have been […]
Essential oils (EOs) are volatile oils extracted from aromatic plants or herbs. These fragrant, rejuvenating oils are used in aromatherapy and traditional medicine for therapeutic, relaxation, and cosmetic purposes. Some also consider it as an alternative medicine to conventional ones. However, though they are generally considered safe, some mothers may wonder, “Is it safe to […]
What is puberty? When do boys hit puberty? What is precocious and delayed puberty? What bodily changes occur during puberty? What are the stages of puberty in boys? How can you help your son through puberty? There will be a time in the pre-teen years when your boy will start to grow to be a […]
Self-soothing refers to a baby’s ability to fall asleep without needing a parent/caregiver to rock, cuddle, pat, or carry them. A few babies can self-soothe naturally, while others need to be taught. There are different ways you can teach a baby to self-soothe. However, starting at the right age is crucial. Self-soothing teaches your baby […]
Several women consider using herbs while breastfeeding to boost their milk production and supply. According to studies, herbs such as fenugreek, fennel, blessed thistle, and goat’s rue have galactagogue properties that may help maintain, promote, or induce milk production (1). However, their safety and efficacy for nursing mothers and their babies is inadequately researched. Thus, […]
Puberty in girls is a period that prepares them and their bodies for the transition from childhood to adulthood. It’s an important milestone that reflects they are growing and developing well. But since several physical, physiological, and emotional changes happen simultaneously during this period, it is common for young girls to feel confused and anxious. […]
“There is nothing better than a friend unless it is a friend with chocolate.” – Charles Dickens If you ask children what they like to eat, many will say chocolate. Chocolate for kids is a delicious treat that they happily gobble down. Be it chocolate candy bars, icecreams, lollipops, brownies, muffins, slushies, gummies, doughnuts, puddings, […]
Protein is an essential and forms the building blocks of life. A group of researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of the Global Burden of Disease, revealing a staggering increase in protein-energy malnutrition cases worldwide, reaching 14,767,275 instances in 2019. Including high-protein snacks for kids in their daily meals can help them meet their daily protein […]
The additional weight gained during pregnancy could be a concern to some. However, a few natural home remedies for weight loss after delivery could relieve it. Women retain about 6.6lb weight a year after delivery. Sometimes, this weight may get carried forward to the next pregnancy. Also, a report by the American College of Obstetricians […]
Protein powders are used for muscle development and weight gain by adults. However, doctors may recommend protein powders for kids only to fill nutritional gaps. These powders are derived from plant and animal sources. Apart from amino acids, these also contain other substances such as artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, multi-vitamins, minerals, preservatives, and thickeners (1). […]
Apple cider vinegar (or ACV) is an apple juice product made through fermentation and is employed as a nutraceutical for its various health benefits. ACV is found to have the therapeutic properties of acetic acid, micronutrients, enzymes, and bioactive substances, making it a medically significant product (1). However, you might be wondering if you can […]
Ensure is usually marketed as a product for adults. It is the brand name for a dietary supplement powder manufactured by the healthcare company Abbott (1). In this post, we tell you whether or not you may use Ensure for kids and suggest some alternative food supplements available. This is not a promotional post for […]
Tea is believed to have several health benefits. However, it may not be safe for you to consider tea for kids. The tea we usually make contains caffeine and refined sugar, which are not recommended in excess amounts, especially for children. Plunge into this post as we tell you whether or not tea is safe […]
A child’s healthy, all-round development depends largely on their balanced nutrition, dietary needs, and healthy eating habits. So, besides food, pediatricians may suggest adding the nutritional supplement, PediaSure for kids. Parents are usually concerned about providing the best nutritious food for their children. In addition, they worry about developmental delays, poor growth, and other health […]
A teenage growth spurt is a phase characterized by a sudden increase in the teen’s height, appetite, and fussiness. This phase is marked by rapid changes in the bodies of children. During this period, your teen’s height may grow rapidly for a few months and then slow down for the next few months. This cycle […]
Fair, wheatish, dark, or dusky, babies are a blessing irrespective of their skin color. A parent’s priority includes overseeing the baby’s growth, development, and overall well-being. However, sometimes, you might become anxious about your child’s complexion due to societal pressure and ponder how to make your baby’s skin fair. You might have come across several […]
A concussion in babies is a head injury that may affect their brain functioning. Before a baby arrives, most parents take all the necessary precautions to ensure their little one’s safety, such as baby-proofing their homes. However, despite all their efforts, their babies may suffer minor injuries. Though minor injuries cause short-term pains and often […]
Chia seeds are a derivative of the Chia plant (scientifically known as Salvia hispanica), which belongs to the mint family. While nursing, most moms are concerned about the possible interactions between Chia seeds and breastfeeding such as effects on breast milk production and the safety aspects of consuming them. However, chia seeds have high nutritional […]
Chia seeds are nutritious, edible, black, brown, or white-colored seeds that belong to the plant of the same name (Chia). Many parents consider serving chia seeds for children owing to their alleged medicinal and health benefits. In addition, they are rich sources of fiber, possess several micronutrients, and can be included in various dishes that […]
Cheese can make any dish more intriguing, delicious, and enticing. However, it is often debatable whether or not you can eat cheese during pregnancy. It is recommended that you eat a range of foods, including cheese, when pregnant. Read this post to know about the safety of eating cheese during pregnancy, what kind of cheese […]
A breastfeeding mother should consume healthy food as the nutrients pass on to the baby required for growth and development. If you are not sure about including beans when breastfeeding, we are here to help you. Beans belong to the Fabaceae family and are a rich source of fiber, proteins, , and important micronutrients. Therefore, […]
Probiotics have gained attention and popularity in recent decades due to scientific evidence indicating their positive effects on human health (1). They have been found to be useful for adults in maintaining gut health, which has encouraged some parents to use probiotics for kids too. But are they of any use to children? In this […]
Echinacea is the name of a species of flowering plant belonging to the daisy group and is known to have medicinal value (1). If you plan to use Echinacea while breastfeeding, read the post for more information. The leaves and roots of the Echinacea plants are used for medicinal purposes as plant-based remedies. It is […]
A baby nursing at a mother’s breast is an undeniable affirmation of our rootedness in nature.” – David Suzuki. Lactation is a phase that can be challenging for new mothers. Frequent feeding and caring for a newborn often result in sleep deprivation, lethargy/fatigue, and stress, tempting mothers to use herbs such as ginseng while breastfeeding. […]
Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from tea tree leaves. It possesses antimicrobial, antiseptic, antibacterial, , and effects(1). and is often used for aromatherapy. You can safely use tea tree oil for kids under the guidance of experts who can tell the proper dosage and the right mode of administration (topical application or […]
Apricot, also known as “khuabni” in the Indian subcontinent, is a sweet-smelling fruit that has a sweet and tart flavor. In addition, it has a juicy, fibrous texture and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and . Generally, apricot for babies seems a good choice, but feeding it at the right age and in age-appropriate ways […]
Licorice is a herbal plant whose root (licorice root) is a purported . However, since research suggests otherwise, you would want to know if using licorice when breastfeeding is safe. Knowing the answer to this question is necessary to prevent any adverse effects that licorice may have on the nursing mother and her baby. You […]
Cocktails are alcoholic beverages made by mixing alcoholic beverages, such as vodka or whiskey, with a mixer, such as fruit or vegetable juice or soda (1). These drinks aren’t suitable for children and teens and may encourage underage drinking. As per the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a significant portion of […]
Chia seeds are tiny edible seeds that contain several vital nutrients, such as soluble fiber, high-quality protein, , and antioxidants. Since these nutrients promote overall health, consuming chia seeds during pregnancy can benefit you and your baby. Many expecting mothers wonder how much chia seeds should be consumed daily. Knowing this is essential as excessive […]
Lotus seeds are a low-calorie food commonly used for medicinal purposes in Asia. Since they are rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, their intake is highly recommended for nursing moms. However, you may wonder if it is safe to eat lotus seeds during pregnancy. Read on as we give you the answer in this […]
Cluster feeding is a typical behavior in newborns where the baby wants to have frequent, brief feeding sessions (1). Your infant may require multiple nursing sessions in a short period, leaving you exhausted and tired. Cluster feeding usually occurs in infants because their stomachs are not big enough to store a lot of milk. Hence, […]
Tingling in breasts is one of the changes your body goes through during pregnancy to accommodate the baby. Even before you give birth, your body prepares your breasts for breastfeeding. Breast milk will be your baby’s sole source of nutrition during the first six months of their life. Therefore, breast milk is produced around the […]
It is common to see chapped lips in babies, especially during winters. It may be more prevalent in places with low humidity. Babies who naturally tend to lick their lips may also experience chapped lips. While adults commonly use lip balms to manage their dry lips, are they safe for babies as well? Read this […]
Cinnamon is a popular spice known for its delectable flavor and a pleasant aroma. The spice is also known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-diabetic properties (1). Many women may consider having cinnamon during pregnancy. But is the spice safe to consume in pregnancy? Read on as we tell you about the safety, side […]
You may reconsider the safety of consuming several fruits during pregnancy, including watermelon during pregnancy. The juicy pulp of the fruit can provide for excellent hydration during summer. Watermelon also contains several nutrients that can be good for your body. Read this post to learn more about the safety, benefits, and possible side effects of […]
Grunting in babies is characterized by short, guttural baby noises that indicate strain, especially when they are trying to pass stool. Babies may grunt to relieve tension, express their irritation or frustration, or gain their parents’ attention. Babies may also grunt when they try to adjust to changes in feeding. However, in most cases, grunting […]
Home remedies for abortion are unsafe methods of abortion, and it is not recommended or scientifically backed by any medical authority. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines unsafe abortion as terminating a pregnancy with a non-recommended method or by an untrained person or both (1). Nearly 47,000 women die due to unsafe practices for abortion […]
Cod liver oil for kids is a nutritional or dietary supplement derived from the liver of the codfish. It contains essential nutrients, such as vitamin D and omega-3 fats, which help in the healthy growth and development of children. But since most healthy children can get all the nutrients from a well-balanced diet, feeding them […]
Honey for kids can be a healthy choice since it contains considerable amounts of phytochemicals and flavonoids that can impart several health benefits over time (1). The natural sweetener has moderate nutritional value and offers the same calories as refined sugar. However, honey may still be a better alternative to refined sugar since it also […]
Most of the commonly eaten fish are safe during pregnancy. They are nutritious, too, as they have omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, the problem is with the fish that have high levels of mercury. Therefore, you need to know about the types of fish you can eat and the types you cannot […]
Prebiotics for babies may help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. At the 6th Meeting of the International Scientific Association of Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) in 2008, dietary prebiotics was defined as “a selectively fermented ingredient that results in specific changes in the composition and/or activity of the gastrointestinal microbiota, thus conferring benefit(s) upon […]
Pineapple is a versatile fruit that can be incorporated into savory dishes and delectable desserts. If their babies already eat solids and other fruits, parents may consider incorporating this fruit in their diet, considering the benefits of pineapple for babies. But is pineapple safe for infants? Can it cause allergic reactions? Is there a right […]
Cinnamon is a versatile medicinal plant that has various health benefits. Though it is beneficial for adults, the safety and benefits of cinnamon for babies should be considered before including it in their diet. The bark of the cinnamon tree is the most commonly used part and is infused into many sweet and savory dishes […]
Tuna is among the most consumed fish in the world. The United Nations even celebrates “World Tuna Day” on the second of May to mark the economic and nutritional importance of the fish (1). However, you may be doubtful about the safety of tuna for babies as it is quite likely to contain mercury, which […]
Mushrooms for babies can make a healthy addition to the solid baby food diet. The edible fungi come in various varieties, but only a few are edible. Some species of mushrooms, such as Amanita phalloides (Death cap), are poisonous, while Amanita muscaria (Fly Agaric) may cause stomach cramps and vomiting if eaten raw. You must […]
The placenta provides all the nourishment to the fetus in the womb. Once born, the baby’s digestive system becomes responsible for this process. The infant’s digestive system develops gradually while receiving nourishment from breast milk, the baby’s first food. Once the baby is older than six months, their digestive system is mature enough to process […]
Sugar water for babies is often used for pain relief. It is prepared by dissolving regular sugar (or glucose) in water. The solution is commonly used in some cultures as a supplement with breast milk. However, it is not recommended to serve sugar water to babies, especially those younger than six months (1). Read on […]