Natural Parenting

Click here for details on upcoming Workshop:

 "Homeopathy For Mother and Child"  March 8, 2008

Articles

by Gaela Nelson, (previously published in the Barrhaven and Nepean This Week)

 Homeopathy for Mother and Child

   Taking Care of Mom: Preventing Pain during Breastfeeding

   Natural Relief for Ear Infections

   Colicky Baby- Survival Tips for Parents

                                   What's in Baby's Bubble Bath? Toxins to Watch Out For

                                   Whole Foods for Healthy Children

                                   Boost Your Immune System Naturally

I remember the first tender days after my daughter was born through a haze of sleep deprivation, engorgement, and sore nipples. I wondered how I could keep doing it every two hours! But with the help of my midwife and a homeopathic remedy or two we were off to a great start and soon the pain went away. I was one of the lucky ones; I talk to many women for whom breastfeeding has been fraught with challenges. Fortunately for our generation, there is much more support out there for breastfeeding now, and the medical establishment has recognized that ‘breast is best’ whenever possible.

Most first time mothers experience some discomfort in the first weeks of breastfeeding. It is very important to make sure that you have a proper latch very early on and that you seek help if you need it to master the technique. If you are having trouble breastfeeding the La Leche League volunteers can provide you with support and resources: www.lllc.ca

Don’t forget to nurture yourself while you attend to the needs of your baby. In the first few weeks, try to sleep when baby sleeps, even if it’s at 2 in the afternoon! Drinking enough water and getting your rest are very important for your milk production. Keep nursing frequently, and don’t feel bad about asking for help, as there are many wonderful services available to offer advice and encouragement, and many of them are free.

Below are a few homeopathic remedies that are commonly used for breastfeeding problems, but remember that this list doesn’t even begin to cover everything, and if you have breast pain with a fever you should always see your midwife or doctor as it may be a sign of infection such as mastitis.

Bryonia: This remedy is useful for engorgement when breasts are painfully hard, hot, pale, and hurt from any movement at all. (Cabbage leaves applied to the breast are also helpful for engorgement, as are warm compresses applied prior to breastfeeding).

Phytolacca: A good one for sore, cracked nipples where pain radiates from the nipple all over the body. It is useful for a lumpy or nodular breast that threatens to become infected.

(If you just have sore nipples try using Lanolin cream first).

Belladonna: For inflammation in the breast that is hard, very hot, red or red streaked. (Take this remedy on the way to see your dr. or midwife because these are symptoms of mastitis.)

Borax: For aching pain in the breasts that continues after nursing. Often there is pain in the breast opposite to the one baby is feeding on. The most common remedy for thrush in mom and baby.

Silica: For breasts that are painful, lumpy, with stitching pains that are sudden and sharp, often in the left breast. For cracked and bleeding nipples or inverted nipples. The back may ache while nursing.

Note: This information is provided for interest only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult your midwife, family doctor, lactation consultant or homeopath.

Natural Relief for Ear Infections

 Just about every parent knows the sleepless, ear-tugging, feverish nights of the childhood ear infection.  Increasingly, parents also worry about giving antibiotics every few months for those stubborn recurring cases. Scientists are concerned about microbial resistance and the development of ‘super bugs’. Ear infections are the most common reason that antibiotics are prescribed to children, but are they always necessary? New evidence suggests not.  A study published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that children with ear infections recover just as well when their parents wait 48 hours before filling a prescription for antibiotics.  Following new recommendations many physicians now try to avoid over- prescribing antibiotics. For mild cases of ear infection in children over two years old, physicians can give parents a prescription for antibiotics, but ask them to wait before filling it. The study shows that this practice does not lead to increased risk of complications, and most children recover on their own, with only the help of pain relief medication. (JAMA vol. 296 10/13/2006)

 Natural Remedies

There are some helpful natural remedies you can try but keep in mind these are appropriate only for mild, uncomplicated ear infections. Ask your physician if waiting 48 hours before taking antibiotics is acceptable in your case.

 Mullein-Garlic Ear Drops

Mullein oil is an herbal preparation used specifically for ear infections. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.  Place three drops in the affected ear three times daily.  Warning: do not use any ear drops if there is fluid coming out of the ear (ruptured ear drum).

 Diet/Prevention

Although most ear infections are caused by colds, it helps to avoid: exposure to cigarette smoke; using a pacifier too frequently; bottle feeding while lying down; and allergens. Try to reduce dairy products while your child is ill, they tend to increase mucous production, and can cause allergies. 

 Homeopathic Remedies

These are only a few of the many homeopathic remedies used for ear infections. It is best to consult a homeopath for individualized treatment for your child.

 Aconitum napellis is used for the sudden onset of a cold or ear pain, especially after exposure to wind or a chill. The child is anxious and fretful and the pain can be severe. A fright may have coincided with the onset of the symptoms. It is most useful in the first 24 hours.

 Pulsatilla nigricans is used for earaches in children who act weepy, clingy, and whiny while ill. They feel much better in the fresh air. They are not thirsty, and their symptoms get worse in the evenings and at night.

 Chamomilla is useful for painful earaches that often accompany teething. The child will be angry and extremely irritable with the pain. They are thirsty and hot. The child will demand things and then refuse them.

 Note: The above information is not intended to replace medical advice. Do not attempt to self -prescribe for serious conditions.

 Colicky Baby? Survival Tips for Parents

Your baby has been crying inconsolably, you’ve fed him, changed him and he’s warm enough but not too warm, you’ve driven around in the car with him but nothing will stop the crying, and you wonder: does my baby have colic?
All newborns have normal periods of fussiness and crying, but up to one in four cries more often and for longer periods, which can be very stressful for parents.
The official definition of colic: the baby has periods of crying and discomfort that last three hours a day, at least 3 times a week, not caused by any known medical condition.

You should see your family doctor if your baby has long periods of crying and you are concerned. If the diagnosis is colic, there are measures you can take to soothe the baby. Parents should remember: it’s not your fault! Most babies outgrow colic by the time they are three months old. It’s important to take a break from baby when you feel frustrated and let someone else help out (remember never to shake your baby).

Tips for soothing baby:

• Carry baby in a cloth carrier or a baby sling, swaddle younger babies.
• Infant massage can help prevent and soothe colic
• Place a warm water bottle on your baby’s stomach (not too hot).
• Motion sometimes helps; try going out with the stroller or for a car ride.
• White noise or vibration helps some babies
• Some babies are over stimulated by too much activity, light or noise
• Learn baby’s cues for feeding and sleeping, and try to establish a routine. Consult a La Leche League volunteer for help with breastfeeding.
• Some foods may cause gas. Common culprits include dairy, wheat, coffee, and broccoli. Consult your doctor before making dietary changes.

Homeopathic Remedies:

If your family doctor has ruled out any other medical condition you can consider homeopathic treatment.

Cocyntal : A homeopathic preparation that includes 3 homeopathic remedies and is meant to cover a range of symptoms. If this doesn’t work seek a remedy that has been tailored to your child’s individual symptoms.

Colocynthis: A remedy for severe colic with doubling over, legs drawn up. Baby feels better with firm pressure on the tummy.

Dioscorea: The infant arches back and screams; has wind in abdomen, feels better for being held upright. The child does not like pressure on the abdomen.

Chamomilla: This baby is extremely irritable and fickle but feels better when carried. There is abdominal bloating and there may be a green diarrhea.

Lycopodium: Indicated for gassy, constipated babies who feel relief from having their tummy rubbed and don’t like constrictive clothing around the waist. Their fussy time is 4-8 pm.

The remedies above are only a few examples; there are many others, and more details about your child are needed to make a proper selection. This article is not intended to replace medical advice, see your family doctor if your baby has persistent crying.
 

What’s in Baby’s Bubble Bath? Toxins to Watch Out For

These days we think we’ve got childproofing pretty much covered, right? We’ve got the right car seat, the stair gates are up, and we put our household chemicals safely out of reach. It’s no wonder parents are surprised to learn that many questionable chemicals are actually right in the bathwater with baby!
There is no law that requires a cosmetic company to prove that its ingredients are safe before marketing a product, and so it’s not surprising that many chemicals commonly found in baby washes, lotions, shampoos and creams have not been proven safe, and indeed there is a mounting body of evidence that certain chemicals may be harmful. What is still unknown is the combined effect of multiple exposures. Babies are lathered up with as many as 10 different products in a day – soap, shampoo, baby wipes, disposable diapers, lotion, fragrances, and diaper rash creams.
This chemical soup is particularly worrisome in baby products because infants are up to ten times more vulnerable to toxins than adults according the American Environmental Protection Agency, and children receive 50% of their lifetime cancer risks in the first two years of life. Dr.Donald Wigle, author of Child Health and the Environment, writes that exposure to toxins in infancy can cause "structural and functional abnormalities that range from subtle to obvious, immediate to delayed, and transient to permanent."

Some chemicals to watch out for include:

Pthalates: used in many products including plastic toys, fragrances and lotions, and plastic wrap. Phthalates are suspected hormone disrupters, chemicals that can mimic estrogen and interfere with systems in the body that regulate sexual development, sperm counts and fertility. A 2005 study linked high phthalate levels to feminization of boy babies.

Parabens: used as preservatives in baby wipes, shampoos, bubble baths, and diaper-rash ointment. Parabens are suspected estrogen-mimicking chemicals and studies have linked them to breast cancer and lowered sperm counts. (Moms take note- check the ingredients in your deodorant).

1-4 dioxane: used in many products including bubble baths and body washes. It is considered a probable human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and a definite animal carcinogen by the National Toxicology Program. It may be in products that contain the following ingredients or partial ingredient names: “PEG,” “polyethylene,” “polyethylene glycol,” “polyoxyethylene,” “-eth-” (such as sodium laureth sulfate), “oxynol” "ceteareth," or "oleth." An analysis by Washington’s Environmental Working Group found 57% of baby soaps may be contaminated.

The good news is that there are many alternative products on the market that do not use these ingredients. It is also wise to remember that babies don’t need to be bathed every day and soap is often unnecessary. Fragrance-free products contain fewer chemicals overall. Instead of using commercial baby wipes consider a spray bottle with soapy water and a washcloth. You might also want to consider cloth diapers, because disposable diapers contain many chemical additives. If you use disposables, consider the environmentally-friendly brands.

The organizations below offer more information and alternatives:

www.lesstoxicguide.ca
www.lilou-organics.com – an Ottawa-based company
Arbour Environmental Shoppe – an Ottawa company
www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep- to research existing products

Further information:
www.ewg.org
www.organicconsumers.org
www.cape.ca
www.safer-products.org
www.safecosmetics.org
 

Whole Foods for Healthy Children

My toddler would be happy to exist entirely on grapes right now, so I know how challenging it is to get kids to eat a healthy variety of foods, especially when there are so many convenience foods out there. But poor eating patterns contribute to chronic health problems later in life, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cancer and osteoporosis. I recommend eating as many whole foods as possible to increase the nutritional value of your meals. “Whole foods” means food in its natural state, like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts, organic meats and dairy products, beans and legumes. Here are a few simple foods you can add, and some to avoid, that can make a difference:
 

Whole Grains:
Increase your consumption of whole grains; such as whole wheat breads and pastas, and brown rice. They have a much higher nutritional value than refined grains (ie white flour). Refining means you lose the germ and bran of the grain, which are rich in fibre, protein, vitamin E, and B-complex vitamins and minerals. What’s left is mostly starch.
 

Processed Meats:
Limit consumption of processed deli meats such as hot dogs, sausages, cold cuts, and bacon, which contain nitrates. Nitrates have been linked to stomach cancer and other health problems. Many meats contain antibiotics, growth hormones, sex hormones, colorings, and pesticide residues. You can avoid these by serving certified organic meats, but these are currently expensive. Consider adding other protein foods to your diet such as beans and legumes to replace some of the meat.
 

Fruits and Vegetables:
Fruits and vegetables are wonderful whole foods that provide important vitamins, minerals and enzymes, fibre, and antioxidants. Most Canadians do not eat the recommended 5 servings a day, but studies show they are an important factor in the prevention of cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Watch the fruit juice intake though. Commercial juices have lost all the fibre and most of the nutrients. Whole fruits are much more nutritious. Watch out for fruit drinks which are mostly sugar water with little real fruit juice.
 

Yogurt:
Kids generally like yogurt, but many commercial varieties are loaded with sugars and don’t contain active bacterial cultures. The best solution is to buy plain organic yogurt containing active bacterial cultures (high fat types for babies and toddlers), and mix it with fruit purees to sweeten it naturally.
Yogurt contains protein, calcium, riboflavin and vitamin B12, and is easier to digest than cow’s milk for those with lactose intolerance. As an added benefit, the active cultures can help reduce the diarrhea and intestinal upset that can come with taking antibiotics.

If you want to learn more about whole foods, I recommend the book “Feeding the Whole Family: Whole Foods Recipes for Babies, Young Children and their Parents” by Cynthia Lair.
Note: This information is not intended as medical advice. Seek the advice of your family doctor before making significant dietary changes.
 

This cold and flu season, boost your immune system naturally

There are two sides to every story, and disease is no exception. We tend to blame it all on viruses and bacteria, and to combat them we’ve created an ever-increasing arsenal of weapons. However, studies are now showing that simple soap and water hand washing is very effective, and overuse of antibacterial products may be helping to create super bugs. It’s time to look at the other side of the story - our own susceptibility to those germs. We all have busy lives, and parents of young children especially so. When we find ourselves stressed, not eating the right foods and getting too little sleep, we need to take some steps to help boost the immune system and prevent illness. This week we look at prevention, and Part II will look at natural remedies for cold and flu bugs.

Prevention Basics:

• Wash hands thoroughly (2 minutes is recommended) and often with soap and water.

• Get more rest! The average Canadian does not get enough sleep. Nap more and skip that TV show. If you have insomnia, professional homeopathy can help.

• Remember to Breathe- it sounds simple but many of us ‘shallow breathe’ much of the time. Yoga is an excellent source of immune-restoration: stretching, circulation and breathing help to ‘unblock’ our energy and let it flow freely (disease tends to follow blocked energy).

• Stress can suppress your immune system, so remember to look after your emotional health.

• Eat as many whole, unrefined foods as possible to nourish your body. Eat slowly. Eat lots of fresh organic fruits and vegetables. The best immune boosting foods are those high in carotenes, such as carrots, beets, sweet potatoes and dark leafy greens. I recommend whole foods instead of pills and supplements. Unrefined foods are in a natural form that is much more nourishing.

• Avoid overuse of drugs and foods that suppress your immune system, such as refined sugar, coffee, and alcohol.

• Garlic has been used for thousands of years and has proven antibacterial and anti-infection properties. Cooked or raw, include it in your healthy meal planning.

• Shitake mushrooms contain immune stimulating compounds, such as lentinan, which is used in Japanese medicine to treat chronic fatigue syndrome. They are delicious cooked with garlic and in soups.

• Selenium, vitamin C and B6 stimulate immune activity- again try to get these in your foods whenever possible. Garlic and mushrooms are good sources of selenium.

• Exercise your immune system – allow yourself to fight off infection naturally whenever possible. Take the day off work. This strengthens your immune system and helps prevent prolonged or recurrent illnesses.

• Herbal tinctures such as Echinacea, Astragalus, Ginseng, Usnea and Poke root can be powerful immune boosters, but should be used with professional advice.

• Homeopathy: If you are having recurring illnesses because your immune system has gotten run down, I would recommend professional homeopathic treatment to look at your specific case and develop a regimen that is unique for your situation. This treatment will also resolve existing or chronic conditions.

Note: This information is provided for interest only and is not intended as medical advice. See your family doctor if you are concerned about recurring illness or your immune system.