Tips To Getting Pregnant Fast - Discover 3 Proven Tips To Getting Pregnant Quickly.

By Claire Churchill

I can bet you have read many tips to getting pregnantbut the 3 I will share here will greatly increases your chances of getting pregnant and may even contradict what you may have read before.

My top tips to getting pregnant are:

1. Regular intercourse Is Important: I know this might sound obvious but I have known couples who are trying for a baby and having intercourse less than 3 times a week.

It is vital that you have intercourse at least every other day if you are looking to increase your chances of conceiving that dream baby.

You may have read that you need to save the sperm until you are in your "fertile window" in the month so that there will be enough of the sperm to fertile your egg.

The truth however is that it is important to keep the supply of your partners sperm fresh.

Studies have shown that old sperm even though may be greater in quantity lose mobility, quality and viability.

So my first tip to getting pregnant is to engage in regular intercourse.

2. Improve the quality and quantity of your cervical fluid: During your most fertile time in any one month, your cervical mucus nourish the sperm and help them swim towards the egg.

So your cervical mucus performs an important function and whatever you can do to improve not only the quality but also the quantity will greatly increase your chances of conceiving that dream child.

To improve your cervical fluid, make sure you drink plenty of water and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables especially foods high in Vitamin A like baby carrots.

My third and final tip to getting pregnant is

3. Use both conventional medicine and complementary medicine together. In essence, complimentary medicine covers those therapies which as their name suggest complement conventional diagnosis or treatment.

An integrated approach involves working with both western medical practitioners and with complementary therapist and combining them in order to achieve your dream.

So what complementary medicines are beneficial for conception? They are hypnotherapy, Pilates, Traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, reflexology, massage, visualisation and many others.

Would you like to see even more tips to getting pregnant quickly? - 31371

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Heart Jewelry...The Very Beginning...

By Betsy Johnson

You have probably read of our heart jewelry articles in the past. Today we will take a step backward and write a more "generic" on the history of jewelry in general. Jewelry as an art form has been around for thousands of years, and different cultures have used it in different ways. As we examine these pieces of jewelry we will gain insight into how these ancient cultures actually worked.

The homo sapiens that lived in Africa provide us with the first sign of a culture using jewelry. They have found snail shell beads at Blombos Cave (situated in the side of a limestone cliff in South Africa) that date back to over 75,000 years ago. If we go to the other side of Africa, at Enkapune Ya Moto in Kenya, they have found beads made from ostrich egg shells that date back to over 40,000 years ago.

When we think of Egypt we think of the pyramids and the sphinx, right? What about jewelry? Well, it is here that we find the first signs of established jewelry making around 3,000 - 5,000 years ago. Egyptians made their jewelry out of the same materials that we make jewelry out of today. For example, gemstones, but they preferred to make their jewelry out of glass, which they could color to satisfy their particular tastes. This meant that for every gemstone that they could find in nature, they were able to manufacture a glass replication that could mimic it. Other cultures have used the template of Egyptian jewelry in their own jewelry making. Consider the Phoenicians for example, who copied many Egyptian designs.

Color was very important for the Ancient Egyptians. To them, different colors meant different things. If we would like to examine this matter further, we need to look no further than the Book of the Dead. It tells us that the necklace of Isis that was to be placed on the mummy's desk needed to be red. The color red would satisfy Isis's need for blood. Green jewelry on the other hand symbolized new growth in the area of fertility and crops. Egyptian jewelry was made primarily in large workshops that were attached to temples and palaces.

Jewelry development and production started to spring up in the cities of Sumer and Akkad (in Ancient Mesopotamia) around 4000 years ago. It tended to be made from metal leaf, and was often set in a large number of brightly colored stones, such as lapis, agate, carnelian, and jasper. Various shapes like leafs, grapes, cones and spirals were often utilized in their designs. Being masters of record keeping, the Ancient Mesopotamians have provided us with huge archives of detailed records detailing both the creation and trading of jewelry.

We hope this little departure from our usual heart jewelry articles has been fun and educational. It's amazing to see how jewelry making as evolved over the years. - 31371

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A Few Tips On Baby Photography

By Adriana Noton

People use photography as a way to remember all the past events of their life. The change from one grade to the next, graduating from high school or college, marrying that special someone, when you bought your first house, or just as a way to mark the everyday events of life. It doesn't matter whether the events themselves are important or life changing or not.

Here are a few tips to help you express the most important landmarks in someone's life. A new baby. Babies are some of the most popular subjects in terms of picture taking but because of their very nature, they require a great deal of patience and skill in order to do your baby photography justice. For instance, a mistake that you see a lot in baby photos is the use of the flash when a picture is taken.

Especially since natural light doesn't give the baby those dreaded red eyes that so often ruin a good picture. So try using the light coming through the window or just take the picture outdoors, either way it makes a huge difference.

Not only is the bright, glaring, artificial light unflattering, it's unnecessary and it also causes red eye in the final photograph. Natural light is best, which means that you have the choice to move closer to a window or go outside in order to take a picture then do so because it's worth it. If you can't though, most cameras have a red eye reduction function that you can use for the best baby photography possible.

If your camera doesn't have one, there is software available that will take care of the problem for you. Another thing to watch out for is blurring. Like I said earlier, most babies don't like sitting still for pictures and as a result most of them come out looking blurry. Now you can take pictures of your baby acting naturally with the help of a high iso speed camera and big aperture.

The two combined let freeze moments that may not look like much at first, but turn out to be amazing in the split second it took you to snap the picture. Also watch out for your background. Oftentimes people will allow a lot of colors and props around the baby because they think it makes the picture. The truth is that most babies are cute enough that they don't need so much going on in the photograph, and even if they aren't the background should still be kept as simple as possible.

Your main focus is your baby and they are often interesting enough on their own that if you need props or extra additions, they can be simple and few. When taking shots, unless you want the distorted effect, don't use a wide angled lens. There are other ways to make an impact on a photo other than distortion and bright colors however. The simplest things are often the most effective.

You can focus on the things that are associated with the baby instead of the baby itself, take a snapshot of your baby in a strange pose or engaging in some strange behavior or facial expression to add a bit of spice to the picture. Mirrors and blurred backgrounds are also popular in baby photography. The point is to have fun and if you keep that in mind everything else should just fall in place. - 31371

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Tips On Taking Great Baby Portraits

By Iris Parish

Parents want to capture their newborn's personalities with baby portraits now more than ever. Children's various moods as well as monumental moments can sometimes never be captured again. You do not always need a children's photographer to aid with creating the perfect baby portraits for you and your family. Here are some very easy tips in applying a strategy, which will result with very good pictures.

Some parents opt for their baby portraits to be performed in the nude. Babies have very natural, gorgeous skin. The eyes really stand out when there is not distraction of clothes on the baby. This is a very natural look to portray in the baby portrait.

You can also store the baby portraits created by your digital camera and download them later on your computer, which makes it easier to send to the grandparents. There is printing software available as well, which can aid with printing out the baby portraits from your computer.

Nine months of age, the babies will be teething as well as drooling a lot. Make sure you keep drool rags in a location, which is easy to access and quickly. Children at this age also experience anxiety when separated from their parents.

Keep the digital camera loaded and ready to shoot in seconds. Most digital cameras are so portable you can place them for storage inside the diaper bag or your purse. Unposed baby portraits of the baby sleeping or smiling make for the best portraits that even a children's photographer would be proud to display. Do not forget to snap baby portraits of your baby's toes as well as cute little hands. These baby portraits are adorable to reminisce about when they are past these precious stages within their lives.

A children's photographer would recommend that you should invest into a good pair of zoom lens in capturing those ever so sweet moments of your baby. You can zoom right into the cute expressions on their faces.

Black and white baby portraits are classic looking and should be added to your collection of baby portraits for your child. You can adjust the setting of your digital camera to the Sepia-tone setting which will give the baby portraits a touch of elegance.

Make sure you speak freely with the children's photographer before you hire them. It is very important to ensure both of you are on the same page not only personally but also legally. Ask for additional tips, which a professional children's photographer can offer in making your baby portrait memorable. - 31371

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Maternity Photography And Ideas For Them

By Adriana Noton

Whether you are the ones taking them or the ones having them taken, there are some things that one should remember when it comes to maternity photography. You want them to be a reminder of the joy it was though it was not easy to carry that bundle of joy in your womb. The time when that baby was formed and you nurtured it while it was in you is something that created a bond. Here is how to make sure you show how loved your child was when they are older.

To start out with, there are a few places that one should consider having their pictures taken once they choose a maternity photographer. One of those places is outside. Artists depict child birth as a part of nature. When you take your maternity shoot to nature you become one with nature. Now, how cool is that?

The other place that your child will become one with when they are born is the home. This is your natural surrounding and there is not anything that says I cannot wait until you are here than having your photos taken at home. These after all will be their first pictures.

When you take this picture or have it taken, dress up lady. You deserve to look great and childbirth adds to it. Be proud of who you are and what you look like. Flaunt it for the camera. This is your shoot to show that baby when he or she is born that you are darn proud to be the mom. You are doing the hard work after all.

You cannot forget to show dad in these. The greatest pictures are connecting the tummy as it is protruding in the center focal point while the couple is romantically intertwined. It says you were not a mistake, we love you each other just as much as we love you. It is love in all its beauty.

This might not be your first one. It could be your second or third one. So include the family. Sometimes it is even cute to include the animals as well. They should be a part of this joyous occasion too. This is just one other idea that is somewhat new actually.

Show different angles. Now, ladies I know you are saying that is torture. You think you are big. You think you are ugly and you wonder why anyone would want to see that. You got curves for a reason. You did not overeat. You did not just poof and gain weight. You are carrying a lovely bundle of joy and show the curves and the poundage off.

When these are being taken it should be simple. It should focus on the not yet born child and the love that surrounds it. Therefore you do not want too much scenery to show. It should be right there and in the center of it all.

These photos will be treasured as your child gets older. You do not want to forget them days. They pass by so quickly and before you know it they are on their own. Get something that can help you to remember that great feeling you had as you carried them into this world. The news is so great to hear. Now, share it with others as you allow them to see the great feelings you have as you prepare for your child. - 31371

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Acai Berry Information - Your Ultimate Guide

By Aaron Silverton

From a couple of TV stations to different talk shows, everybody converses about the acai berry information. These little fruits with purple-blue hue do not only taste fantastic but also grant essential nutrient elements to the body. Therefore, integrating them to your typical diet will keep your system fighting fit.

These berries are native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil. The palm of the acai, which is a component of the plant genus Euterpe, gives purple berries the same size and dimension as blueberries for over centuries now. Acai is also called as jussara, the local term that delineates both berries and plants.

For the reason that acai berries' components will swiftly break down after being harvested, when you attempt to purchase these fruits outside of Brazil, you'll find that they are promoted as frozen berries, juice, or in free-dried powder form. It's vital for you to note the preserved acai products will furnish you with similar hale and hearty properties as what fresh acai berries will give you, despite the indisputable fact that the fruits already traveled from the rainforest to the superstore.

The overflowing stories on television programs and even in the news have introduced acai and its health advantages to many folks all over the planet. Initial research reveals that acai supplies the body with very purposeful nutriments, though long term studies have not yet proved the wonder health benefits of acai. What's definite on the acai berry information is that consuming it is safe and advantageous to your body, but your system will only realize its potential, when you incorporate it in your diet and way of living continually.

The nice thing about acai is that it is regarded as an antioxidant powerhouse. Antioxidant reduce the effect of free radicals, the standard byproduct of metabolism that can dent and damage cell DNA and therefore lead to cancer and growths. As compared to other berries and fruits, acai consistently scores the highest when it comes to the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity ( ORAC ) price. In exact fact, a food with a higher ORAC worth has a bigger talent to mop-up free radicals. Since free radicals have an extreme contribution to cell damage, foods that counterbalance free radicals are believed to restrain cancer formation.

Another good feature of acai berries is that they can also inhibit the indications of premature aging. The vivid purple pigment, which grants the berries their distinct color, is enclosed with anthocyanins, a specific grouping of polyphenols. Anthocyanins function as sun block or sun lotion for plants, shielding against the bad effects of the UV rays. These elements are broadcast to organisms or people that consume the results of the plant. Since acai contains many anthocyanins like the grape fruits, it is favourable for promoting glowing, glowing, and good skin.

The acai berry information will let you learn about numerous benefits of this fruit. It is acknowledged as an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, protein, and fiber. When you eat an acai berry, or drink its juice or pulp, you are taking in as much Vitamin C if you consume a tiny cup of blueberries and more than one thousand IU of Vitamin A for each one hundred grams of the acai berries. - 31371

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Mothers Rings Show That You Care

By Amy Carrington

Sometimes as children grow into adults' moms feel like they have lost their place. You can show her that she is still one of the most important women in your life, by showing her how much you care. This birthday or Mother's day you can add a special touch by gifting one of a variety of mothers rings. This lets her know that no matter how grown you get, you still appreciate all of her efforts.

You can choose from a number of jewelers available on the market for this type of ring. You have a choice between white gold, yellow gold, silver or platinum to use as your base ring. This type of ring is focused on the number of kids the mom has had and representing them on the ring by each individual birthstone.

Personalizing this gift is part of the experience. You must decide on the kind of base you want. Ideally this will depend on the recipient's preference. You then move on to choosing the number of stones that will be set on the ring. This sometimes sets the design for the ring. Finally, you will choose which birthstones will be added. Many jewelers offer a special option of inscription on the ring as well.

Before purchasing your gift, it is always nice to know what kind of gold your mom appreciates. This will give you an idea on what to set the birthstones on. For instance, if mom likes white gold than choose this as the base for the ring. You than move on to choosing the style of the ring which depends on the number of birth stones that will be set on it.

Some jewelers offer birthstone, stackable bands. Each sibling gets an entire band for their birthstone. They are then stacked upon each other to form the ring.

This is a gift that extends love and care. It shows that you are still fond of her love and efforts regardless of how old you have become. It allows her to remember this each time she wears her ring. - 31371

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Learn To Make A Tutu

By Analyn Omandam Flanagan

If you've got young daughters then I am positive at some stage your very little cherub has needed to dress up as a little princess. Learning how to make a tutu for your little woman can be loads of fun for each of you and will additionally be very reasonably priced. You can also use your newly discovered skills and create heaps of Tutus for your friends children or even create some money by creating tutus as a small business.

The first factor you will need to try to to is to make your mind up how much tutu you want to make. Is this just for your daughter or are you wanting to make some money. If you're beginning out by making your very little princess a pleasant tutu then you'll simply measure her up and get the quantity of tulle that you simply need. I might recommend you run the tape measure around the furthest part of your daughters waist and take a measure from there.

When you have got worked out what length your daughters waist is double that measurement and buy your tulle accordingly. That means you'll double up the fabric and give the tutu a light however full body. You'll additionally need some elastic which is around an inch or so less than the size of your daughters waist. This will keep it nice and tight and save it from falling on the floor.

The next factor you'll would like to think about is whether or not or not you are going to stitch your tutu. You can merely tie the tulle round the elastic and tie the elastic together or fire up your sewing skills and sew everything together. If you tie the elastic then I might advocate you furthermore mght tie some tulle over the knot to hide it from view and in fact put it in the back. You'll additionally add a nice bow to utterly cloak the knot.

There are lots of accessories that you also consider when you make a tutu. Things such as fairy wings, wands, hair pieces and different things to feature a little flair and bling to your tutu. - 31371

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6 Secrets That Few People Mention About Maternity Clothes

By Jennifer Ransome

As your Maternity progresses your stomach size will increase and you will no longer fit into your normal wardrobe. It's time to shop for maternity clothes. The problem is, there are countless options available to you. Unless you have already gone through this process, choosing the right clothes to suit your lifestyle can seem overwhelming.

Below, we'll reveal six of the worst-kept "secrets" to buying clothes during your pregnancy. The suggestions you're about to read will help you preserve your budget while making sure that your wardrobe is filled with clothing that is comfortable, stylish, and affordable.

1 - Price Does Not Equal Quality

A lot of boutique maternity clothing stores charge higher prices that those you'll find online or at the big-box retailers. Avoid the trap of thinking that lofty prices automatically reflect quality. Sometimes, the quality of the attire you'll find when visiting such boutiques is actually lower. That maternity top might look irresistibly fashionable, but you'll regret your purchase if it falls apart after a few washes.

2 - Invest In Maternity Underwear

A lot of moms-to-be make the mistake of thinking their pre-pregnancy bikini briefs will suffice while their stomach expands. While this is a matter of preference, remember that your undergarments (including nursing bras) will play a key role in your level of comfort. Consider investing in pregnancy underwear that accommodates your growing figure. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll feel.

3 - Keep It Simple For The Office

If you're staying at home, you can be more flexible with your fashion sense. You'll be able to mix and match patterns with a stylish flare. On the other hand, if you're planning to spend time in the office, you'll need a more professional appearance. And that means keeping your wardrobe simple.

Avoid patterns and instead, purchase outfits that stick closely to basic colors. Also, keep in mind that darker colors have a slimming effect. If you buy bright maternity wear, it may look less flattering on your body.

4 - Avoid Stocking Up

When you're shopping for pregnancy clothing, it's easy to get excited and begin filling your closet with clothes that are fun and fashionable. Avoid getting carried away. As you make the transition from your second trimester to your third, your body will continue to change. Moreover, it's impossible to know how your tops and bottoms will fit as you near your due date.

If you see a cute top or bottom, don't immediately buy it. Instead, consider your current wardrobe needs and purchase the item if your closet is lacking.

5 - Buy Lighter Clothes You Can Layer

Your body's internal thermometer will be more sensitive than normal as your progress further through your pregnancy. You'll find yourself overheating more quickly than usual. Rather than buying heavy maternity wear, purchase lighter clothes that you can layer on top of each other. When you begin feeling too hot, simply remove a layer or two.

6 - Purchase An Outfit For Going Out

Going out on dates with your partner may not seem appealing during your pregnancy, especially if you're tired and mentally exhausted. But, it's a good opportunity to leave the house and enjoy time together, strengthening your relationship in the process. You may also be surprised by the positive influence going out together can have on your mood.

Invest a portion of your maternity wear budget in an elegant, attractive evening outfit. Not only will you look great, but you'll feel the part.

Buying pregnancy clothes that will fit your changing body doesn't have to be confusing or budget-busting. The key is to take a methodical approach that considers your comfort and needs down the road. As an added bonus, you'll already have an entire wardrobe ready when you become pregnant with your next baby. - 31371

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Maternity Clothes Help You Get Through Pregnancy

By Adriana Noton

Pregnancy is an exciting time full of hope and excitement. It can also be an overwhelmingly self-conscience time as well, as your body is pregnant does not mean you have to wear drab clothing and this is what a maternity clothes works to prevent.

You can now breathe a little easier with the knowledge that you can find clothes that fit you appropriately through changing like it never has before! Maternity clothes are available for you to help you look and feel beautiful throughout your pregnancy. You can find a number of companies who produce garments for pregnant women that are not only comfortable but fashionable as well.

You will find that clothes that cater to the pregnant body are usually created in order to grow with the belly. For instance, when you purchase a shirt that is a maternity size take notice of a free-flowing front. Maternity jeans are also made with expanding belly lines. They are created in this way so that you do not have to buy new clothes every month or two throughout your pregnancy.

While you are pregnancy you want clothing that is not only practical but modern as well. Most maternity lines are aware that pregnant women want to stay up to date with the trends. That is why you will find a variety of clothing, for any occasion that will fit your needs. Anything from tops, shirts, skirts are available in trendy fashions of pregnant women. This type of clothing allows pregnant women to feel both comfortable and pretty.

Amazed at the variety of clothing options available? If you are on the market for a new pair of maternity pants you have a number of choices. Pants that sit below the belly, atop the belly, mid-belly are just a few samples of what is available for your consideration. It all depends on your personal preference.

The process of purchasing maternity attire may be a little overwhelming. Not only do you have a number of styles to choose from, but you may not know what your size is anymore. There is help for this. Some companies have placed a same size system in affect.

During pregnancy you will most likely be thinking of the time when you give birth. Well, there is the nursing period post pregnancy that you may be thinking of as well. Nursing tops and bras are available for you to purchase. These types of shirts and undergarments help make the nursing process easier and much more efficient.

Looking ahead toward your delivery and beyond you may want to consider nursing tops as well. Regular tops may be inconvenient for a nursing mother. Especially when out in public and may need more privacy, nursing tops may be more effective as opposed to regular tops.

Maternity clothes can also be helpful for you in the first few months after delivery. Although wishing yourself back into your regular size jeans may give you hope but normal women probably need a little time to ease themselves back into their normal jeans. In the meanwhile, your maternity wear can help you through this transition process. - 31371

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That Special Gift Is Mothers Jewelry

By Amy Carrington

Mommies are very special to their families. When a special occasion comes around you will want to show your appreciation for all she does with an extra special gift. Mothers jewelry can provide that something extra that shows that you really care. These are uniquely designed and one of a kind, so this is not something to do on the spur of the moment.

A special watch concealing a family photo within, along with an engraving, is a graceful gift. Watches are can be designed for daily wear, or for some more elegant outing. It is sure to win her over, even if she is difficult to shop for.

You can present her with a locket like no other she has ever seen. It displays a family motif that encircles a cluster of family birth stones. It is amazingly beautiful. It provides the opportunity for her to wear artwork on her at all times. Pendants that display your families birthstones in a wide array of designs and motifs are also available to choose from.

Rings can be worn to symbolize the importance of the family as well. Bracelets are an easy choice. This is actually the perfect choice if your family is still growing. The design of many bracelets allow for charms to be added at a later time.

Mommy and me jewelry and gifts are especially endearing for a new mommy. These provide miniature replicas designed to fit an infant or small child. Aside from jewelry, mommy and me aprons are very popular.

Whether she is partial to sterling silver, gold, or even pewter, you will be able to find something to suit her taste. You can always have gifts personalized with an engraved message. Mothers jewelry are gifts that will bring tears to her eyes for a long time to come. - 31371

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The Importance of Breast Feeding and What You Need To Know Before Choosing a Breast Milk Storage Method

By Abby Jillson

One of the toughest decisions you will have to make: Bottle feeding or Breastfeeding? Despite all the information available on the pros and cons, the final decision is yours. What is right for someone else might not be right for you. Here is some help to make your decision. The strong case for breast feeding Most pediatricians advocate breast milk as the perfect food for a baby and indeed it is all that she needs for the first six months. It is easy to digest. It contains unique disease fighting antibodies, an exclusive blend of nutrients, hormones and enzymes that promote growth and development.

Breast milk stays at the right temperature, is available at all times and is safe and sterile too. Breastfeeding offers protection against several allergies and diseases. There is more physical contact with your baby while you breastfeed. Breastfeeding is beneficial for the mother as well.

It helps shrink your uterus to its normal size, burns calories and helps you lose weight, and is known to reduce your risk of breast, uterus and ovarian cancer. Exclusive breastfeeding until six months is an effective method of contraception too. And yes, breast milk is nature's first choice for your baby. Breast feeding: The flip side Breastfeeding requires a great deal of patience and perseverance not to mention a great deal of time. If you want to go back to work, breastfeeding might not be practical.

A breastfeeding mummy has to avoid alcohol, smoking and limit caffeine consumption. She also has to look at what she eats till she's breastfeeding. You can't go on a diet while you are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding also boundaries the diversity of clothes you can wear. This may be a little upsetting particularly if you were waiting to dump those pregnancy pounds and get into those bikinis and tube tops.

Many recommend that those suffering from certain conditions or on particular medications should not breast feed. In favour of Bottle feeding Bottle feeding or formula feeding could be a substitute for breastfeeding, particularly for mas who can't breast feed due to any reason. Commercially available child formulas are made under sterile conditions and make an attempt to reproduce human milk with complicated ingredients. Bottle feeding provides plenty of convenience and pliability. Both partners ( pa doesn't feel left out ) and carers can feed baby, giving mom her desirable time outs.

Mummies do not need to stress about what they drink or eat if they aren't breastfeeding their baby. Bottle feeding Cons Bottles and nipples must be washed and sterilised carefully in the 1st few months since they can broadcast germs to baby. The feeds need to be maintained at the right temperature. Preparing formula for a hollering baby three times in the middle of the night can be demanding. Besides, formula-fed babies do not get the natural protection that breast milk bestows.

Bottle fed infants have more gas, more tooth decay and more digestion problems and run a greater risk of being obese later in life. Exclusive formula feeding can be expensive too. Will a combo work for me? If you earnestly wish to breast feed but cannot commit enough time for it, there is no need feel guilty. Where there is a will there is a way. You can take nursing breaks from work if feasible.

Pumping breast milk and storing it for your baby is another option. This "breast in a bottle" method provides the best of both worlds. Alternatively, you can opt for combination feeding, where you nurse your baby when you are with him and he is formula fed otherwise. Whatever the method you opt for, bottle feeding or breastfeeding, feeding your baby is not just about providing nutrition. It is an opportunity for you and baby to nurture a physical and emotional bond. - 31371

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Making Healthy Food Choices: A New Parent's Guide to Nutrition

By Jayde Johannsen

There's no doubt about it: those first couple of years of parenting are a very stressful time for anyone, even those adults who have already been moms and dads before. Making sure that your child is always safe and happy isn't actually that difficult, but most good parents spend a lot of time worrying, and are constantly trying their best to make sure that things go well during those oh-so-important formative years.

Something that doesn't often come up when a child's safety is being discussed is the need for parents to make healthy food choices and get their infant started on the right track to a life of excellent nutrition. A positive start to consuming food lays the groundwork for years of health later, so parents should focus a lot of energy in doing a good job on this. Of course, most parents start out either breast feeding or going with formula. Sort of like the difference between butter and margerine, there always seems to be some sort of debate over which is actually good and which is actually bad, but ultimately they both seem to have their benefits. If you're particularly concerned about certain factors, like obesity, it bears repeating that breast feeding is supposed to significantly decrease the chances of childhood obesity.

Many people think that allergies cannot take place in very young children, but research shows that close to seven percent of infants already show their propensity for food allergies. Sometimes, this allergy includes cow's milk and formula, so for those parents who are trying to find a suitable and healthy alternative, be advised that goat's milk is an excellent choice. In fact, goat's milk is actually closer to human's milk than milk from cows, though it is important to consider whether or not iron and vitamin B12 supplements are a good idea for your infant, since there is a shortage of them in goat's milk. Many countries outside of the United States actually prefer to use goat's milk for infant formula.

While infants start eating solids anywhere between six months and one year, the optimal age to begin on solids is between four months and six months old. Signs that a child is ready to begin on solids are that he or she shows significantly more interest at feeding times, seems hungry even after bottle or breast feeding is over, and is starting to have a less pronounced reflex to immediately remove solids from his or her mouth.

When it is time for your child to switch to solids, it is important to consider how truly significant this life step is. How you begin your child on solid food will greatly influence his or her health in later years, especially if you opt for organic solids made at home versus canned or jarred baby food that is high in artificial chemicals and preservatives. Making your baby's food is actually less time consuming than you might think, and ultimately is far greater for the health of your child.

When starting your child on solids, it might take a little while to acclimate from liquids. It is very important to remember to not put solids into a bottle. You want to differentiate between eating and drinking, and an important way of doing that is to keep food as something served with a spoon and liquids as something that come out of a bottle. If at first, solids are a little bit of trouble to switch to, don't hesitate to supplement your child's diet with milk or formula. It can take a little while to make the switch.

The best foods to start out with are fruits such as apples, bananas, and pears, and vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes. Make sure if you are preparing these at home to steam them rather than boil them, as that will keep more helpful vitamins and minerals in them. After about six months of these fruits and vegetables, most parents start to add in other things like bread and pasta. At a year of consuming solids is the earliest time possible to add stronger proteins, like meat or tofu. Be sure that all proteins are cooked thoroughly, and do not add fish until the very end.

While the experience of making sure that your child is well nutritioned can be a little nerve-wracking, after a year or two, it will become significantly easier. Also, the work that you do on your child's diet early in life actually can influence his or her tastes later, so avoiding overly sugary foods and processed items is putting him or her on the right path to an overall healthy life. - 31371

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