Teething

Teething is a process by which an infant's first teeth ( usually in pairs) appear through the gums. Teething may start as early as six months or as late as ten months. Generally, the first ten teeth appear between six to nine months.

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The first teeth tend to appear in pairs. The general pattern is as follows :
Lower central incisors (2) at approx. 6 months
Upper central incisors (2) at approx.  8 months
Upper lateral incisors  (2) at approx.  10 months
Lower lateral incisors  (2) at approx.  10 months
First molars                  (4) at approx.  14 months
Canines                         (4) at approx.  18 months
Second molars.              (4) at approx.  2-3 years

Some common symptoms during teething are drooling, irritability, swollen gums and mild fever. The symptoms appear a few days before the eruption of a tooth and disappear soon after. Before treating a baby for teething, it is always advisable to know the cause of discomfort. Rubbing a finger along the gum ridges, is one way to be sure. If unsure, it is advisable to see a pediatrician.

Teether or teething toys could be given to the infant to ease discomfort and facilitate teething. Teethers are designed with textures that aid in breaking up of gum tissue, resulting in eruption of the tooth.

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Also, cold foods and drink provides relief so serve chilled yogurt and blended fruit. In case chewing, sucking chilled food and rubbing doesn't help, see your doctor.

This is a challenging time for your baby, try comforting him with some more love, hugs and kisses. 

Weaning - When And How

Weaning is the process of introducing an infant to food and withdrawing the supply of mother's milk. How and when to wean an infant is often a matter of debate. Most Medical Institutions and authorities recommend exclusive breast feeding a baby for the first six months of its life.

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However in today's time and age, when most women are working breast feeding is a challenge. A baby is considered to be weaned, when he stops nursing and gets all his nutrition from sources other than breasts.

Generally, weaning is a long process and you are the best judge to decide when you want to wean your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers breast feeds for at least a year and even encourages to breastfeed longer if you want to.

 In my case, I breastfeeded both my kids till they were 2.5 years of age. When I tell this, most mothers look in amusement and their mother-in-laws in admiration. Has this ever happened to you?

Well, start slowly regardless of your child's age as abruptly withholding could be traumatic for your baby and you too causing infection or fever. Try simple methods -

- Skip a feed : As the baby starts taking solids, reduce feeding over a period of time. This will give your child time to adjust. Your milk supply also diminishes gradually, without leaving your breast vulnerable to infections.

- Distract : Try postponing feeding to a couple of times in a day. This method works well with older kids as you can assure him/ her. Also distract the baby with different activities.

- Spend time with your baby : Weaning or trying to wean doesn't mean, you have to end the intimate bond created between you and your child during nursing. Try story telling or playing with him.

At times, the child may feel uncomfortable, find other ways to make him feel better.

Despite what relatives and friends say, you are the best judge to decide when it's time to wean.

Breast feeding

Breast  milk provides the ideal nutrition for babies. It has a perfect mix of protein, fat and vitamin and is a complete food in itself. Medical authorities strongly recommend exclusive breast feeding for first six months for a baby.

Breast feeding has immense benefits for the baby and the mother. It contains antibodies that help develop immunity and fights various bacteria and viruses. Breast feeding lowers your babies risk of having allergies, respiratory diseases, asthma and diarrhea.

        Breast feeding has also been linked to higher IQ at later age, though it may or may not be true. But, breast feeding helps in forming a bond between the mother and the baby. It helps your baby feel secure and  works as touch therapy. Breast feeding also reduces 'Sudden infant death syndrome' and also lowers risks of fatal diseases like cancer as well.

Breast feeding has numerous positives for the mother as well. It releases the hormone Oxytocin, which helps your uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy state. It also reduces uterine bleeding after birth. A women who breast feeds has less chances of having Breast and Ovarian cancer, compared to the women who chooses otherwise. It is always advisable to breast feed for a short time than no time at all.

A baby may feed upto 12- 15 times a day, that is every two to three hours. Watch signs of hunger and feed the baby "on demand". Generally, infants nurse around 12- 15 minutes each time.

There are certain conditions which forbids breast feeding the baby, incase you are HIV positive or having TB as the infection could be passed to the baby via breast milk.Consult your doctor if you have any such conditions.

Making a decision to breast feed is a matter of personal choice. WHO strongly recommends breast feeding. Make this time a 'special' you and your baby and form a strong bond of love.

Food And Nutrition - We Are What We Eat

Food and nutrition go hand in hand. Simply defined, food is anything we eat and drink, which provides energy and help our body grow.

Nutrition is the process in which you consume food, digest and absorb them for growth and health.
Most food contain a mix of nutrient types and a healthy diet should include these.

 There are seven major types of nutrients :

 1. Carbohydrates - our main sources of energy, like Whole grains, fruits, honey.

 2.  Fats - our source of energy as well as important in relation to fat soluble vitamins. Some example  of healthy fats are avocados, olives, nuts, seeds, monosaturated oils like olive oil and canola oil.
  
 3.  Proteins - essential for growth and repair, like eggs, fish, meat.

 4. Minerals - necessary for normal functions, though required in traces, for example potassium,       sodium, iodine etc. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources.

 5. Vitamins - play an important role in the chemical processes in the body. Fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins.

 6.  Fiber - helps in digestion. Fiber is found in abundance in whole grains, veggies and fruits.

7.  Water - essential for normal body function as 70% of body is water.

Those who follow a healthy diet reduces their risk of diseases like diabetes and cancer. A poor diet may have adverse effect on your health, causing diseases like anaemia, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis.

 Aim to consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Drink atleast 10-12 glasses of water.

Pregnancy diet - what to eat

During pregnancy, the baby's nourishment comes from the food the mother eats. So, it is recommended that the mom-to-be chooses a variety of foods to provide the important nutrients a baby needs for growth and development.

A pregnant women needs more nutrients than others so as to fulfill requirements of a growing baby. Though, eating for two is a myth....you are required to eat just a little more than your usual, not double. The pregnancy diet should include these -

Folic Acid

Folic acid or Folate prevents any birth defects in the baby's spine and brain. It is difficult to get the recommended amount from diet alone, so supplements are needed. The required amount of Folic acid during pregnancy is about 600 mg/day. The main natural source of folate are leafy green vegetables.

Calcium

Calcium is the required to build bones and teeth of a baby. A pregnant women needs about 1000 mg of calcium a day. The main source of calcium are milk, yogurt, cheese, fish.

Iron

Deficiency of this mineral causes anaemia, resulting in fatigue and infections. The daily iron requirement for a pregnant woman is 27 mg/ day.  The major sources of iron are meat, fish, poultry, fortified cereals and beans. For better absorption of iron, vitamin C should be included in the diet.

Proteins

Proteins are the building blocks of a baby's body. The body requires more protein to build important organs like brain and heart. Eggs, meat, fish, nuts are abundant sources of protein.

What To Eat 

During pregnancy special attention should be paid to a women's diet. It should include the five food groups :

Whole Grains

whole grains are not just important source energy in the diet but are also abundant in fiber, iron and vitamins. Examples of whole grains are wheat atta, brown rice, oatmeal, millet, barley etc.

Lean Proteins

A pregnant women should include good source of protein like eggs, fish, milk, cheese etc, to support baby's growth.

Fruits And Vegetables

Fruits and Vegetables are store houses of vitamins and minerals. A pregnant women must have atleast 2-3 serving of each in a day. Try to include different coloured fruits and veggies for optimum effect.

Dairy Products 

Dairy products are abundant in protein, calcium and vitamin D. Aim to have atleast 3-4 serving of dairy such as milk, curd, cheese, paneer etc each day.
Water -  As a mom-to-be, it is essential to drink enough water. Water can help prevent constipation, UTI and hemorrhoids. Aim to drink 12-14 glasses of water every day.

What Not To Eat

Raw Eggs

As they may be contaminated with salmonella, a bacteria causing fever,vomiting and diarrhea.

Sushi

It is not considered safe as it includes uncooked fish, which may contain illness inducing parasites.

Unpasteurized Juices

 Stay away from juice sold at stands as it may not have undergone pasteurization, making it unsafe because of contamination.

Caffiene

 Limit your coffee intake to 2 cups a day.

Alcohol

Alcohol should be avoided.

Along with these diet guidelines, try to include 30 min. of light exercise. Stay calm, meditate and enjoy.

Fashionistas And Faux Pas

Isn't the title of the post too vague?? What is she trying to convey? Why is she behaving like a dumb bimbo?
         Was this your first reaction? ........... Yes ! Then you are in the queue, coz you are not alone. Truly, How can a fashionista ever commit a Faux-pas? And, if she has, then she isn't one. 

                   You are absolutely right with your logic. But you need to know one thing, that no one is born stylish. Style is an ever evolving phenomenon. As we grow, we learn so many new things about ourself and in general. In this process of self discovery, your very own personal style evolves, slowly. Isn't it!  Yes! I can imagine you nodding in affirmation ..........haahaa.

1. What was I thinking ??? -  Does this thought ever cross your mind, when you are surfing through your old pictures ( some may be just a couple of years old ).  I always took great pride in being a style icon for my family and friends. Every one asked for my advice when there was a special occasion, on what to wear, how to style your hair, what kind of shoes would go with a particular outfit and so on....  Sometimes, i too feel "what the hell was I thinking " , when I come across some weird old pics (though rarely! Thank god). Our celebs are no different. Don't believe, have a look :

Sonam kapoor looked like a "Chicken"in this Attire

2. Wearing too much - Overdressing ! Most "Dilliwallahs" could be held guilty of this charge. Just head over to any plush Cafe mid morning, you could find array of women dressed as if they are ready to go clubbing.

3. Wearing too little - is as much a fashion faux pas as overdressing. You should alway dress for the occasion. At almost every party, you find a couple of women wearing halter/off shoulder even during the "Dilli ki sardi". Remember ! Comfort is the key.

Kangana's dress reveals a little too much

4. The wrong shoe -  Either to small or too big for your feet. Julianne Moore was seen wearing a shoe a bit to small , her little toes were literally hanging out.

Julianna Moore has her little toes peeping out

5. To tight/ loose a dress - Reality TV star Kim Kardashian is most often seen in dresses, a size too small. Ofcourse ! A tight fitted dress enhances her curves, but it appears as if it could rip apart any moment.

Our very own Style Icon Sonam Kapoor was seen holding her trousers and adjusting it during the promotions of Aisha.

Sonam holding and adjusting her trouser

6. Transparent - Many Bollywood / Hollywood actresses have been caught on camera wearing a little transparent dress. Have a dekkho :

Priyanka Chopra in transparent dress

Kim Kardashian wearing a transparent skirt, a size too small

7. Too much makeup - Too much makeup not just looks bad, it adds years to your face. Makeup should look  as " natural"  as possible.

Angelina Jolie 's highlighting gone wrong

Aishwarya Rai with over done makeup 

Pics- google
Sonam Aisha pic- pinkvilla

Home Pregnancy Test

Did you ever imagine, the power of two coloured parallel lines..........how it opens a world of hope and happiness, excitement and ecstasy.  Yes! Two pink/purple lines have magical Potency, the ability to make you joyous and blithe. Hey! Don't get confused ! I am referring to the lines appearing on pregnancy test strip, if the test is positive.

A home pregnancy test  is based on the presence of HCG (Human chorionic gonadotrophin) in the urine. It can be detected in the urine after 6 - 14 days of fertilization. Generally, the levels of HCG rise rapidly after implantation. Most home pregnancy test are sensitive to the presence of HCG in urine, even on the first day of missed periods. However, testing early may not give the most accurate result.

At times, the test may be negative. If your periods are irregular, wait for a few more days before conducting a second pregnancy test. Sometimes, the amounts of HCG may not have yet reached the level, where it could be detected. Also, take the first urine of the day as the levels of HCG gets concentrated overnight.

Home pregnancy test kits are easily available over the counter (OTC) and are simple to perform. Read the instruction manual carefully and follow it. Technique may differ from brand to brand. These tests usually take 3 - 5 minutes. If two distinct pink/purple bands appear within 5 minutes, the test is positive whereas the presence of a single band indicate a negative result. Sometimes, it may give invalid  or false  negative/positive. In such cases, it is advisable to visit your gynecologist for further guidance.

How to look slim during your pregnancy

Pregnancy is the most wonderful time in a life of a women. You glow as a result of your inner happiness. You are excited, to be carrying your "little bundle of joy" inside you. It is sheer bliss and joy.....

        But a lot of women are anxious about their growing bellies. Yes, you get bigger by day and gain a considerable amount of weight. A lot of women complain, they "have nothing to wear" or they "look like a sac".

Remember ! Pregnancy is not a disease and it will last for only nine months. You can look as stylish and gorgeous, as you are by Keeping these simple tips in mind -

 1. Don't wear oversized clothes : wearing big clothes to hide your pregnant belly is passé, flaunt your new curves. Oversized clothes makes you look bigger than you are.

 2. Monotones : Wearing contrasting colours as top and bottom, visually cuts your body into two, making you look shorter than you are. Instead, opt for monotones, that is the  top and the bottom are of the same shade. It brings out the uniformity of the silhouette, giving you a leaner look.

 3. V- neck : visually streamlines your torso and elongates your neck, giving you a slimmer appearance.

 4. Boot cut : Rather than going for the usual skinny jeans, opt for a little flared one. It balances your frame and forms a beautiful curve.

 5. Vertical Stripes : The vertical stripes adds length to your body and gives it a svelte look. They look stunning in monochrome.

 6. Long Slit Tops : are the latest craze. It is a top which almost touches your ankles, making you look taller and thinner. It can be worn with denims, tights, shorts, skirts.....almost anything.

 7. Empire waist : It should be your "pick-me-up" dress for a party. It is a high- waist silhouette, cinching below the bust at the smallest part of the waist. The flowy skirt adds "oomph" to your appeal.

 8. Accessories : wearing a long neck piece draws attention away from your chubby face and bust. Otherwise add a scarf or a head gear to instantly perk-up your visage.

 9. Statement shoes : comfort is the key! So, wear statement flats or quirky shoes to add dimension to your personality. If you have to wear heels, make sure your opt for wedges over stilletoes as they add a few inches without compromising on comfort.

 10. Wear your confidence : Be confident and carry yourself  with elan. Nobody is judging you. Go out there and have fun.

 Be happy and enjoy every moment as life will never be the same once your baby arrives.


This post is written for FINDYAHAN.
Images - google and pinterest

Just a Click Away

Parenting is a the most challenging job that I have recruited myself for. Sounds funny......it isn't. Being a mother is like running a government, where challenges are thrown at you every second and by the very people you love the most in the world, your little big hunny bunnies.

                       Sometime back, my dear darling daughter wanted to go on a 5 days adventure trip to Corbett. The school had made it mandatory for every student of 5th grade to attend it. And my little girl was way too excited to go on an excursion with school friends and that too for 5 long days. I tried my best to dissuade her, to the extent of bribing her, but in vain. I felt as if a volcano has erupted in my brain, a volcano of thousand questions. She had never gone alone anywhere, not even for a single day! How is she going to manage all that ? Who will take care of her ? What if something happens? ...... I knew I had to let her go, for her own good. She needs to learn to take care of herself and others, be independent and strong and come on her own. This exposure will do her a world of good, built confidence and team spirit. But, the mother in me almost took over...... I thought of not sending her to the trip, come what may. I conveyed it to her and she started sobbing, almost howling...........

                                                    Just then, Hubby Shri walks in, with a small packet, handing it to me. "What's this now," I complained. " Open it" he replied. Ohho! " Can't you see what's happening here" I retorted back. " There's a surprise for you," he said, calming our little munchkin. "What is he upto" I thought to myself, taking the packet. And a big smile came on my face, when I saw #4G written on it in big bold letters. Yes, he got her the latest smartphone with 4G technology. "Let her go, she'll be safe" he said, holding my hand. And then he quoted the great poet and philosopher Khalil Gibran " you are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth". Which meant that parents are like bows and children are like arrows, if the bow will not release the arrow, how do you expect it to reach its aim..... I had learnt my lesson.

My daughter went for the trip super excited and came back as a confident and responsible girl.We had downloaded a safety app as well as Delhi police helpline app, which sends SOS message to four registered number stating the location.

Yes! Technology opens the gateways of knowledge and wisdom with just a click. You want to know the best restaurant in town or send money to the other corner of the world, it is lightening fast. Weather, sports, politics, entertainment, everything is just at the tip of your finger. With the invent of  #4G and Octa core processor, it's super quick. Being a blogger, I travel frequently, so GPS is almost like a lifeline, no need to stop and ask direction from every single person on the road. Even the school bus has a GPS where you can know the exact location at any given time.

I am not a #TEchnocrat, but handling an android phone is easy. The best thing about a smartphone is the camera. Taking Selfie is a everyone's favourite past time these days. With the social media platforms, one can be connected to people across the world and share your pics with just two clicks.

 I can vouch for the fact that my phone is a extension of me. It's my favourite accessory, something I feel incomplete without. Morning through night, it's my "companion of sorts". I love to dress it up in so many beautiful covers available.

Frankly, I feel blessed to be born in these times, where technology has reached in the remotest corner of the country.






                                                                       

Black Swan

Remember, the 2010 blockbuster movie by the name Black swan, where Natalie Portman played a ballerina. Natalie Portman swept all the major awards including the prestigious Academy Award for the best actress that year. I loved that movie and was mesmerized by Portman, I must confess..... But, why am I talking about the movie, you guys must be wondering!!!
 Hmmmmm........today, the post that I am doing takes an inspiration from there..... No, I didn't do it on purpose, but the moment I donned that beautiful black long slit top, I felt like a Diva. Sometimes, a simple piece of clothing can have that impact on you. As far as this top is considered, I got this from THE PRETTY GIRLZ KORNER, the start up retailing through some top notch e-com sites, bringing stylish stuff for affordable pricing.
 Black has this beautiful quality to create a slimming silhouette. The long slits in the middle and sides adds sophistication while the zipper in gold lends it a royale charm. And it fitted like a glove.....all in all, it is a true winner. My double thumbs up....

I am all ears to know what you think of this look ....till then 

bye bye

love 

Ruchi

The joy of gifting with Threadcasa

Diwali shopping may not always be easy, but the look on a loved one’s face when you give them a gift that’s just right makes it all worth it. Imagine a gift that could let you bring that kind of joy for someone you love. 

Every year, I am in a dilemma, as to what gift shall I give to my best friends on Diwali. You go gifts- hunting to the swankiest malls and all they have is the usuals - chocolates, cookies, silver, decorative items, glassware n stuff like that. I am super tired of receiving these myself, so it was not even an option now. I started brainstorming and after much deliberation, I got an "idea". 

                                               Ever since, I did a blogpost on my #Threadcasa bag, my friends went ga-ga over it. So what better than a gorgeous Threadcasa piece. Threadcasa is a #Makeinindia startup, dealing in bags - totes, slings, clutches.pouch....which are awesome and affordable. Available in vibrant hues, these go well with ethnic, fusion and even western wear. The best part about Threadcasa bag is that it is made up of fabric, which makes it skin friendly as well as Eco friendly. 

                         This  Diwali, give your loved one a piece of art, a bag from Threadcasa.
                                                                  Happy Diwali 
                                                                   Lots of love
                                                                         Ruchi