I'm the first to admit, I've got a small obsession with organization. I also like things to look good and feel simple. So when it comes to the overwhelming and often intimidating world of baby gear, I needed a concise list of what I REALLY needed with an emphasis on ease, style, value, and eco and health-conscious products. Such a list did not seem to exist, so I made my own, have shared it with lots of like-minded expectant … [Read more...] about New Baby Checklist
Virus Hacks: Hand, Foot, And Mouth Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth Disease (HFMD/Coxsackie virus) is a highly contagious viral illness common in babies and children especially under the age of 10. HFMD often runs rampant in daycares and schools freaking out parents, caregivers, and teachers with an unsightly rash and blisters. Though not fun, pleasant, or pretty, HFMD is no more serious than a bad cold or flu, usually running its course in about a week to 10 days in … [Read more...] about Virus Hacks: Hand, Foot, And Mouth Disease
Fluoride: Natural Cavity Prevention Or Hazardous Chemical Waste?
Fluoride has equaled healthy teeth in American minds since it became an official policy of the U.S. Public Health Service in 1951 as a large scale cavity prevention measure. Today about 60% of US population gets fluoridated water on tap. If you shop in health food stores, you may see some toothpastes and mouthwashes labeled 'fluoride-free'. So, if fluoride's so important for cavity prevention and dental health, why would … [Read more...] about Fluoride: Natural Cavity Prevention Or Hazardous Chemical Waste?
Blocked Tear Duct Treatment for Babies: Natural Remedies
As a baby's tear ducts develop, it isn't uncommon to see a yellow, crusty discharge that accumulates in one or both eyes. While it isn't pretty, it's completely normal and not a cause for alarm. Most babies don't cry real tears for at least a few weeks. Tear ducts are usually fully formed between two and six months. During this process, tears begin to drain through the tiny ducts in the corners of the eyes, but become … [Read more...] about Blocked Tear Duct Treatment for Babies: Natural Remedies
Natural Remedies For Mastitis And Blocked Ducts
Mastitis is a painful breast infection that results from a blocked duct. It usually happens in breastfeeding women, especially during the first 3 months of nursing. Women who have had mastitis before and those with weakened immune systems are also more prone to getting it. In rare cases, mastitis occurs in women who have not recently given birth or are breastfeeding, and it may even happen post-menopause. Signs of … [Read more...] about Natural Remedies For Mastitis And Blocked Ducts
How To Do A Spring Cleansing Diet Wisely
In Chinese Medicine, Spring is the time of the wood element and emphasizes new growth. Just as the earth nourishes dormant seeds and springs forth new life this time of year, spring is the perfect time to take advantage of spring's activating energy by getting outside to enjoy the warmer, longer, and brighter days. Eating in harmony with the season will ensure that your body can regenerate and bloom this spring without … [Read more...] about How To Do A Spring Cleansing Diet Wisely
Salt Is Essential For Health
I've always loved salt. Back in the day, this meant white powder pouring onto fast food french fries. Now, older, a tad wiser, and possessing more refined taste buds, I've found salt that's both delicious and healthy. Did you know that salt is essential for health? What? Healthy salt? Yes, that's right. Salt (in its minimally processed, high quality form) may not deserve all the evil slashings it receives. Out in the … [Read more...] about Salt Is Essential For Health
Drinking Water – Filtering the Facts
Water, water, everywhere! But which is best to drink? My family and I have been on a quest to find the healthiest drinking water. Here's what we've learned: You may know that the human body is 70% water, making water consumption essential for survival and health. You have three basic choices when it comes to your drinking water: drink from the tap, buy bottled water, or filter your tap water. Bottled water is not the best … [Read more...] about Drinking Water – Filtering the Facts
Blood Type and Your Diet
The first time I heard about the Blood Type Diet, I had just moved from the east coast and was working as a waitress in Malibu. I impatiently waited for a customer to decide what items on the menu fit her blood type, all the while thinking, "OMG! Yet another weird diet for body-obsessed Californians!" Many years later, I have a more balanced view on blood type and its role in our well being. Determined by the ABO gene, blood … [Read more...] about Blood Type and Your Diet
Soy NOT Safe?
Soy has had a huge hey-day as a miracle food from the 90's, and the hype is still alive and well for many health-conscious people. BUT, while soy and soy products may serve as a good source protein and other nutrients for vegetarians, in reality, this bean has quite of list of reasons why to just say NO, including allergies, thyroid problems, hormonal imbalances including PMS and infertility, and more. Before you pour that … [Read more...] about Soy NOT Safe?
Understanding The World of Sweets, Sugar, And Alternatives
I recently was an accomplice in a Halloween ruse when Wonder Woman chucked George Washington's bulk-sized box of Splenda in a dumpster declaring, "I'm saving the world, one man at a time!" Feeling like I could out-run George in roller skates and a helmet, I admitted, "Well, that stuff WILL kill you." George looked at me disbelieving and asked, "Why?" Funny you should ask Mr. President" - Here's a guide to good and evil in … [Read more...] about Understanding The World of Sweets, Sugar, And Alternatives
How To Cope With Night Terrors
If you've ever tried to console a child having night terrors, you know that it's no laughing matter. Though they can seem like very traumatic experiences for the child and can be a big source of concern for parents, understanding what night terrors are (and aren't) will help the whole family cope with this common condition. Night terrors usually last from 5 to 20 minutes, and the child may sit up in bed, shout, scream, … [Read more...] about How To Cope With Night Terrors