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I’m always looking for easier ways to slip healthy habits into my life. As parenting is a constant cycle of guilt as well I’m always worried if James is getting enough nutrients and a well balanced diet. I’m self-employed and always running from one place to the next. (Violins please) I try to eat as healthy as I can but I skip meals and then eat junk in the evening because I’m so tired and want an instant fix.
There are a few changes that I have introduced which have had an enormous effect on our diet, mood and behavior. We now sit at the table each morning for breakfast instead of switching on the TV and handing James a bowl of cereal in an effort to keep him quiet while I run around like a headless chicken achieving very little other than making myself stressed and starting the day off saying “quick Mummy’s in a rush”. When your three year old says “Mummy you’re always in a rush” you know you have got to make changes.
It’s been fascinating to find out how appalling I am with time management. James is up at 6AM so what on earth was I doing with my time. Then I realize (like its news to me) that I’m on Facebook and Twitter. Yes I said it.. First thing I do is pick up my IPhone and scroll down my timeline to see what random people who I haven’t spoke to for 10 years are doing!! Now I do it when I’m in bed at night. Big difference I hear you say but I can justify anything to myself and now I am spending quality time with James in the morning and we’re both having a good breakfast. As I pat myself on the back for thinking I have figured out something unique, amazing and wonderful my friend who’s a mother of 3 announces she has always done that and couldn’t believe I used to sit James in front of the TV and give him breakfast. I won’t be telling her that I still do it at the weekends then!!
As you can see from the picture James is clutching his favourite food. It’s called Chis Bia and we have mixed it into cereal, salads, yogurts and shakes for well over a year now. If I baked I would also put it into the delicious cakes I would make. Chia Seed is great for your Heart, Mind & Body. If you’ve heard of Flax, Pumpkin and Sunflower Seeds you have to meet Chia, as Patrick Holford says it’s ‘The best all-rounder’
Dr. Wayne Coates rediscovered Chia seed, an ancient food of the Aztecs, in 1991 after it had disappeared from common knowledge over 500 years ago. In 2009, Irish company Chia Bia began bringing Chia products to the European market, and last year, Chia Bia expanded into Malaysia, Canada and the United States.
Chia originates in Mexico and South America where the Aztecs and Mayans had long known the benefits of eating Chia. It was so valued that it was offered to their gods in ceremonies, was used as currency and was also used for wounds, upset stomachs, body odour, prostate problems, sore throats and many other illnesses.
Chia is a complete food, which contains the highest plant source of omega-3 with soluble and insoluble fibre, protein and antioxidants to help get your heart, mind and body in shape. The main health benefits associated with Chia Bia include; reduced blood pressure, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and improved concentration and energy levels. Chia Bia can also help promote weight loss as the seeds can absorb 12 times their weight in water; this results in a gel forming in the stomach that slows the absorption of carbohydrates and leaves you feeling fuller for longer helping you avoid the 3pm slump!
Its also tasteless so really great for fussy kids. James calls it “Bia Bia” and loves the routine of mixing it in and feeling like a “big boy”. The levels of Omega 3 are also very high and as a sufferer of depression this is an essential part of my diet. As oily fish can have high mercury levels this is also a far safer option.
AS PRINTED IN THE DAILY MAIL:
Q: Have you any tips on taking mum time when there’s so little time to spare?
“Mum time”, the mere words make us shudder and shake with guilt. I always hear Mums talking about never having a second to spare and being completely exhausted and that is exactly what led me to having such bad post natal depression. Trying to be the perfect person simply didn’t work for me. I’m now settling for just doing my best, which is what everyone should try and do as being perfect is vastly overrated or so I’ve heard!
Long before having James I started going to meditation classes in New York. Initially, I thought everyone was bonkers and as we sat and meditated I kept cheating and peaking to see if everyone else was actually doing it. Over time though I began to understand the power of simply sitting still which is something so rare for any of us nowadays. When you have children the thought of doing anything for yourself simply goes out the window but it is vitally important.
As time is of the essence I recommend finding just ten minutes every day where you can sit still. Meditation is not about connecting with a higher being or feeling like you were transported to another place. I’ve been to a lot of weird sessions which is why people get turned off so let me simplify it for you. Unless you’re dead or an enlightened being (god, Buddha, Dali lama) it is impossible to clear your mind completely. For me meditation is about sitting still in the moment and watching those thoughts pass through. I either focus on my breathing or I listen to some music from www.omharmonics.com or www.zen12.com where you can download sample tracks. You also don’t need to be in a room with candles and sit on the floor with your legs crossed. You can meditate anywhere at anytime. I have often sat in the car when I have ten minutes when I’m early for a meeting or sometimes I set my alarm ten minutes early in the morning. Those ten minutes are there you just need to make sure you find them. You could write a book about the benefits of mediation but here are just a few.
It increases optimism; self esteem and helps with depression. It can also help you sleep better and help your mind to become clear and focused. I find it helps my patience, especially with a 4 year old. It definitely reduces my stress levels and emotional wellbeing. Try it for a week and if you like it tweet me @alicanavan #meditatewithali
4 TOP TIPS:
1. Pay attention to your breath as it’s the greatest way to focus on being in the present moment.
2. Don’t try and stop your thoughts, instead let them float by and focus on your breathing again. This will become easier with time
3. Use music specially designed for meditation. I find it gives me a far better experience. I alternate this with days of silence too for maximum benefit.
4. Enjoy the experience and as a mum enjoy this time alone
WOULD YOU OR ANY OF YOUR FRIENDS LIKE A MUMMY MAKEOVER WORTH €2,000? INCLUDING HAIR, NAILS, MAKE UP AND SHOOT AS WELL AS A €200 VOUCHER FOR ARGOS!!!
TOP NUTRITIONIST EMMA BUCKLEY WILL BE THERE!
BIKE ALSO UP FOR GRABS
JOIN US ON FEB 25TH
Win a retro 3-in-1 dessert maker with thanks to new Ariel 3-in-1 Pods
According to the recent Ariel “All the power you need” report which surveyed the household habits of 6,000 women across Europe, over a quarter of women surveyed (28%) buy multifunctioning products to save space, saying they make daily life easier and simpler (76%). Ariel 3-in-1 Pods feature an innovative multi-compartment design and unique formula that keeps the ingredients separate until they are released into the wash, unleashing a deep clean that lifts and removes stains, while helping to maintain the brightness of your clothes.
The celebrate the launch of the new Ariel 3-in-1 pods, we have a retro 3 in 1 Dessert maker to give away. This handy device contains three sets of interchangeable non-stick coated plates. They are all dishwasher safe and easy to clean and even include a list of handy recipes you can try out.
In today’s time poor world, where our lives have been enhanced by ever more compact technology, we need to be able to rely on high performance multi-functional products to tackle even the toughest cleaning challenge, new Ariel 3-in-1 Pods deliver all the convenience and performance you would expect from small and powerful technology. So take the stress out of laundry and let the load keep up with your lifestyle – rather than the other way round.
You can be in with a chance of winning this prize by answering the question below
New Ariel 3-in-1 pods clean, lift stains and brighten your clothes in one easy step.
True
False
Terms & Conditions Prize cannot be exchanged for cash or alternative. Prize cannot be sold. Competition open to Republic of Ireland residents only. One entry per person. Winners will be notified by email and published on site. An alternative winner(s) will be chosen if the winner(s) cannot be contacted or if the prize is not redeemed within 30 days. Free delivery nationwide (Republic of Ireland only). Entrants must be over 18 and a permanent resident in the Republic of Ireland. Only fully completed and valid entries with be entered into the draw. Editor’s decision in relation to selection of winner is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Standard competition terms and conditions apply. Competition closing date is 27th of OCTOBER 2013
Toddlers and questions?? Wow I honestly never expected so many. I have heard about the ‘but why?’ and ‘what’s that?’ but I really believe that James is taking it to another level. We were driving past St Patrick’s Cathedral and he asked what it was. I said it was a large church called a cathedral and he asked ‘what do people go there for?’ I said to pray and he asked ‘Why?’ I replied ‘because they’re Catholic’ and he said ‘are we an Atholic?’ ‘Yes’ I said and with a very concerning look he replied ‘well why don’t we go?’ I never expected to be caught out by a 2 year old and as any mature parent like me would do in this situation I told him to ask Nana.
But honestly I never realized I was going to have to start studying to raise a toddler. Thank god for Google and IPhones. To add to my increasing fear of not having enough knowledge general or otherwise to raise a toddler my sister very helpfully bought him a book full of Australian animals of which I knew about three names. ‘Wow’ I thought to myself and I spent a lot of time working in Australia clearly not absorbing the culture or animal names at all but then I remembered I could probably name nearly every bar and nightclub, districts they’re in and which ones were good and bad. That’s something to be proud off, right?
On average toddlers ask about 300 questions a day from the minute they wake until bedtime. It is really wonderful to see them develop and experience everything for the first time. The buds on the trees and the real beauty in the simple things that we take for granted which got me thinking that maybe we could learn a thing or two from all these questions. Most of all appreciating the simple things we’re surrounded with every day of our lives. For me I’m rediscovering my inner child and oh yeah.. finding out I’m a hippocrate.
This wooden bear is always smiling, but he’s happiest when fully dressed! Getting dressed won’t be such a puzzle once zipping, buckling, snapping, lacing and tying, and other dressing skills are mastered. Each skill is contained on a separate, wooden puzzle piece for easy practice. Develop fine motor and life skills with this great activity. €17.95 www.adamandfriends.ie
I just bought these to help make the transition from nappies to pants easier. They are made using Dribble Bubbs technology, for more information on this amazing absorbent and waterproof design www.quackquackmoo.co.uk €14.80
ASK ALISON:
Hi Alison,
I had a baby 6 months ago and have a summer wedding coming up. Can you recommend and good underwear to help me feel a bit more confident?
Thanks,Tara
Hi Tara,
Well I’m a huge fan of all shape underwear and infact I wore the Lytess Sculpt and Slim shape-wear for the VIP awards. Infused with caffeine and Shea Butter, Lytess Sculpt and Slim technology works continuously to remove fat and moisturize, leaving you slimmer and smoother. At the same time, this shapewear is invisible and comfortable under clothing. Using a stretchy knit, specially designed to take the exact shape of your body Lytess Sculpt & Slim provides great support and unique comfort while working to shift those extra inches. Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Alba, Oprah Winfrey, Rihanna and Beyoncé have long recognised that shapewear is a lifesaver for scrutinising paparazzi lens and making any gown, red carpet ready. Enjoy your wedding!
FOR MUM:
Feel confident in the Lytess Corrective Shorty. €49.90 www.Beautyfeatures.ie
THIS FORTNIGHT:
THROWING a Babyshower. If you’re pregnant or you know someone who is then there is no better way to celebrate the expected arrival than to host a baby shower. Blooming Baby Showers is a unique brand that is offering mums-to-be a charming range of beautiful stationery and party ware €3.49 – €14.99 www.babyshower.ie DOWNLOADING the ‘Postnatal Pilates by Reform Apps’. There are 3 apps with short manageable workouts that will help build self-esteem and increase energy levels. Each of the App workouts contain a series of specific exercises designed to gently build deep abdominal and lower back strength and assist with recovery from pregnancy and childbirth. Life is a Workout…especially if you are a new mum. A fit body and mind will help you adjust to being a new Mum.
SUMMER HAZARDS FOR BABIES
Like with every stage of parenting just as you get to grips with current issues another set of problems crop up. So you baby proofed the house and up till now you have been able to sit back and smile or even pat yourself on the back. Yes I do this sometimes as who else is going to do it if you don’t? Then the sun comes out and the fear sets in as your baby or toddler eats everything in sight. Pebbles are a hazard as are hot barbecues, poison berries, water and the list goes on. Your first thought is to get them back inside to safety where you have every cupboard locked tight, every corner padded and stair gates that block all escape routes to danger.
However, after a very long winter a few simple precautions will allow you to enjoy the alien yellow object that appears as if to tease us sometimes in the Irish sky. If like my son your two year old panics and screams ‘ouch, ouch mummy. My eyes hurt’ don’t panic like I did and be happy they’re finally getting Vitamin D. Feeling like I had reared a mole I reassured my son that this bright light In the sky was great and it would make everyone happy. However I can’t protect him from all the red arms, legs and faces he’s going to endure watching but instead I have decided to teach him the importance of suncream.
Keeping our kids hydrated and protected from the sun is one of the most important things to remember during summer months. I love the Hamilton range of Sun creams, as they are suitable for all the family and especially kids with sensitive skin.
The snoozeshade for your buggy is also fab for the summer months as you’re baby will be protected and won’t overheat in the buggy. Make sure they always wear a sunhat and suitable comfy breathable clothing. Be careful not to leave creams or insect repellents lying around as some liquids and oils contain liquid hydrocarbons, which can cause a serious pneumonia-like condition, irreversible lung damage, and even death if a child aspirates the substance into their lungs. This is obviously extreme but a real danger at the same time. Child resistant caps are a must throughout your house and garden.
Beware of poisonous plants. Many of the plants and their parts can be poisonous for babies. Because of their fascination for putting everything into their mouths they may eat flowers, berries, leaves or bulbs from garden plants. Make a list of all the plants and shrubs in your garden and
find out from someone knowledgeable whether they or any of their parts are poisonous. Beware of garden plants like rhododendron, deadly nightshade, azalea, rhubarb leaves, lily of the valley, hyacinth, privet, foxglove, delphinium, laburnum and yew that are known to be poisonous. Also beware of plants with thorns or spikes. These can cause a lot of pain if your baby falls face first into them. Teach your child not to pick flowers or plant parts and keep your baby away from them.
Please be careful near water as drowning is quick and silent. Young kids rarely make a big splash, thrash around, or scream for help like you see on TV. They usually fall in headfirst and sink to the bottom like a rock. A child who’s underwater will lose consciousness after two minutes and suffer irreversible brain damage within four to six minutes. Never leave your child unattended for any length of time near water.
Babies have the habit of putting everything into their mouth so watch for soil that might contain cat or dog feces that can harm your baby if ingested. They may contain harmful parasites like toxoplasmosis found in cat feces and toxocariasis in dog feces. Therefore for baby safety fence or grass over the flowerbeds or any exposed earth. The same goes for sand pits, which should be kept covered when baby is around. If your child is anything like mine he will also be quite a good escape artist so make sure you have no holes in the fence and don’t leave the gate open.
Finally babies and toddlers are drawn to barbecues that are hot and very dangerous. Even after the barbecue is gone out the coals remain hot for quite a long time. The last thing you need is little fingers getting burnt and a trip to A&E. Two things I always try to remember is to stay aware and never leave them unattended. Now all I hope is that we finally get that Summer we’ve been longing for!
Why can’t I ever do things by halves?? I was complaining to Sarah Mac Lachlann from Pilates Performance that I didn’t feel I was getting results quick enough and she informed me I actually needed to make my classes. Hmm I thought, now that makes sense!! I decided to do three classes in a row and the morning after the first class James jumped on me to say good morning. I screamed and frightened the life out of the poor child. Ouch get off Mummy please. My muscles were sore to even touch. “What’s wrong?” James said. “Mummy did Pilates” I said, to which James replied “Oh Mummy a lattes is very bad” At that very moment I really felt my two year old was speaking the truth. However I did go back and I feel great. Sometimes I really find it a huge effort to be good. By that I mean eat well, exercise and go to bed early but when you do it you unleash those hidden happy hormones and they tingle through your body and you feel a rush of happiness and a sense of achievement.
You see we’re all kids really and we need to feed our inner child and make ourselves proud. I hear a lot of Mums beat themselves up about what they’re not doing. This week try this instead… Every time you catch yourself saying something negative about how you parent or live replace it with a positive thought or phrase. This can be incredibly hard to begin with but watch the difference it makes to both you and the kids. Potty training is also around the corner for me and I haven’t a clue so please mail me with any tips and tricks you have?? I need other mummies to help right now!! Everything I read seems to give conflicting advice as usual. I think he’s ready but it’s only my first so what do I know? I’m having dreams (nightmares) of a urine soaked house, car and more washing than one human can cope with. Dramatic? Me?… Never!!
TotsBots are undoubtedly the King of Cool when it comes to designing cloth nappies, so it comes with great excitement that the brand is now launching their new and improved Swimtots –Swimtots are a trendy, practical, comfortable and affordable solution for water babies everywhere! Bring on the summer!
RRP: €11.70 (+p&p) Stockist: www.totsbots.com
Puppy Pursuit contains ten active games to encourage the development of memory, patterning, sequencing, colour recognition and matching skills. Canine activities children will be begging to play! €21.95 www.adamandfriends.ie
ASK ALISON:
Hi Alison,
Do you use SPF on your face every day or just when you are abroad or in the sun?
Kelli Dublin
Hi Kelli,
The Number One cause of premature skin ageing is sun exposure. Clinical signs of photoaged skin include the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone and overall loss of radiance. 40% of the people never use sun protection because they dislike the heavy feel of certain sun protection on their faces or like me they experience irritation or allergic reactions to certain chemical sun filters. However, SkinCeuticals has a brand new product called Mineral Radiance UV Defense spf 50 which will be on shelves in June and even better its tinted so for busy Mums it has everything in one. I use it first thing to drop James to creche so I don’t scare people with the white just out of bed look and if the sun ever did come out I’d be protected. It’s also lightweight and suitable for sensitive skin.
FOR MUM:
PREVENT. CORRECT. PROTECT With Mineral Radiance UV Defense SPF 50 – RRP €43.00 www.skinceuticals.co.uk
FOR BABY:
Kangaroos don’t come cuter than this. Joey is €10.50 and available from www.bubbaroo.co.uk
THIS FORTNIGHT WE ARE:
WE’RE GETTING EXCITED ABOUT The Just 4 Kids Show Coming to the RDS 25/26th May. The Show will feature a huge free fun zone led by Let’s Go Camps, a workshop zone, a technology and science zone, a library zone, a seminar zone and a host of exhibition stands to browse through. Be inspired, be informed and be involved with so much to do you’ll want to stay all day! A fun and educational day out for all the family awaits visit www.just4kids.ie
KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE with an IDME wristband. Great for any outing where your child might get separated from you. Whether it’s a trip to the beach, on holiday, a birthday party, school tour or just a visit to the shops, your child will have potentially life saving information at hand. www.idme.ie €12.99
Well if you had told me 3 years ago I would be unable to sleep because I was so excited about going to a baby fair I would have had you committed…. No, really I would and so would anyone who knows me! However that is simply what happened last week. I just returned from the Nursery Fair in Harrogate near Leeds and it was so exciting. There are so many new products on the market and struggling to fold your buggy will soon be a thing of the past, as you will soon do it with the touch of a button.
Being single, 35 and James past the baby stage no man was safe near me as the broody feelings ran through my body. I asked Zarah did she find every man as attractive as I did? From her look I guessed not. However I then thought it through and realized that making such a rash decision was probably wrong after all I had just had my palm read at the mind, body and spirit festival and was told I had twins in my future. When this memory returned I took a vow of celibacy and that’s where we are today. I have left a small window open for prince charming I just hope I’m not to busy to notice if he ever decides to pass by.
On a more serious note the fair was a wake up call to really do your research continually. The parenting industry moves at an incredibly fast rate but I’ll do my best to keep you informed. At the moment it’s moving as fast as James mouth, which never stops and some of the sentences are shocking. There are fingers being pointed and I have been informed that I make him angry. This is usually when I interrupt him (if you don’t mind) or say no. I will not let my 2 year old win. If you think this makes me sound immature you would be 100% right but I’m not going down without a fight. I’ll keep you posted or if I lose James will be writing this column next week!!
Found this gem in Harrogate. Simple and genius: a dribble bib and teether in one. Soft, absorbent, reversible and comforting for your teething tot. We have enough bits and pieces to take with us so I simply love products like this, which make our lives easier. Check out www.cheekychompers.com for more information and watch the video! €11.85
These wonderful storage boxes come all the way from Australia and are
exclusive to Cherish Me in Ireland . They are made from durable canvas
material and they come in a range of different styles and sizes so a
great way store all those toys and keep their rooms organised.
They also stock matching wall stickers to complete the look and it’s a
great way to capture their imagination and bring their room to life.
From €42.00 to €52.00 www.cherishme.ie
ASK ALISON:
Hi Alison,
I read recently that you were doing a detox – perhaps in the last month . Do you mind me asking what type it was and did you find it good? Thanks, Colette
Hi Colette,
I’m not a big fan of just juicing and being hungry so when I detox I cut out all sugar, white products and alcohol and increase fruit, veg and brown/wholemeal products. I also introduce healthier products as part of a healthier lifestyle. I’ve recently discovered Chia. Chia is a complete food, which contains the highest plant source of omega-3 with soluble and insoluble fibre, protein and antioxidants to help get your heart, mind and body in shape. The main health benefits associated with Chia Bia include; reduced blood pressure, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and improved concentration and energy levels. Chia Bia can also help promote weight loss as the seeds can absorb 12 times their weight in water; this results in a gel forming in the stomach that slows the absorption of carbohydrates and leaves you feeling fuller for longer helping you avoid the 3pm slump! You can use it in baking as the seeds are tasteless or I simply add it to my cereal.
FOR MUM:
Chia Bia is available in Dunnes Stores, Supervalu and in all good health stores nationwide. Visit www.chiabia.com for more on information on Chia Bia.
FOR BABY:
Yes To Baby Carrots Shampoo+Body Wash Yes To a Soft Clean that’s as delicious as your little munchkin (is that possible?!). Yes to softening organic melon, moisturising vitamin E and nourishing carrot oil. Yes to 100% natural ingredients because Mama Nature knows best. Yes to being tear-free too (of course). Price €9.16
THIS FORTNIGHT WE ARE:
ATTENDING PARENTING CLASSES in the mid-west. As a mum yourself The first year after your baby was born you have endless questions which is why GP: Dr Maire Finn is offering new parenting classes for first time mum’s and dad’s. The classes will cover a wide variety of topics from breast/bottle feeding problems to dealing with bumps and bruises and everything else in between, as well as talks on mum’s post natal health. Contact Ennis family medical center (065) 6840388 for more information
TAKING a mum break. In order to give, you must make sure that you are replenished you need to step back, recharge, and take breaks. Try this daily care product, Human+Kind All-in-one Body Oil. It is the ultimate multi-purpose beauty oil created to treat arms, thighs, buttocks, tummies and décolletage. It has an instantly uplifting and energising fragrance that stimulates the senses. €14.95
I’m trying to figure out why my bladder is so near my eyes these days. I often think because I buried my emotions for so long there was a backlog of tears or else I’m simply drinking to much… water that is!!! I had a crap birthday; no ones fault and I was feeling really sorry for myself. I was actually just feeling very sad all week. In the midst of my frustration my friend Orla without even realizing made me smile and cry for all the right reasons. As often happens I had no one to mind James so Orla took him again! Senan, Orlas son is the same age as James and it is often at this point I am dumped as James “bef Friend”. Very fickle and not very loyal you might think or very smart depending, which way you look at it.
I got home from work and was greeted by a birthday cake (meant to be a surprise but James couldn’t wait to tell me) I acted totally shocked and did such a good job I’m rethinking my acting career. We decided to have a sleepover and the next morning Orla and her hubby took James to rugby tots with Senan and let me have a lie in. Then they brought me back coffee and my favourite bagel. To top that on mother’s day a card was posted through my letterbox and it was from James. “Senans Mum did that with me” James said at which point I started crying.
It really is the little things in life that we overlook every day. I’m not sure Orla even realizes just what she did. Even with my Mum and good friends I struggle so much as a single Mum. Sometimes I get so overwhelmed I can barely breathe. However I have been assured that I’m not alone and by this I mean my friends who are married have admitted to feeling exactly the same way. It’s good to know you’re not alone. Taking one day at a time and beginning Deepak/Oprahs 21 day meditation challenge is keeping me focused but I am reminded again how easy we fall but I am also reminded how the kindness of others can turn a persons life around and most of the time they don’t even know it.
I just love this 3 in 1 Activity Mat available in various colours. €94.95
This is an activity mat with a difference though as it folds into 3 positions:
1. Activity mat from 0 -6 months
2. Play mat 0-12 months
3. Mini sofa 1-4 years
It’s also machine washable and rolls up for easy storage!!
Available from Piquant Baby & Kids Store, Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2.www.piquantbaby.ie
No more slipping and struggling with tongs. These simple but genius Innosense Unique Silicon Tongs are another little step towards making mums life a bit easier – €3.99 Mothercare
ASK ALISON:
Hi Alison,
My little girl has a constant cough and it feels like the winter has gone on forever. With all this debate about antibiotics recently have you come across any natural alternatives?
Thanks,
Pamela Dublin
Hi Pamela,
First of all you always need to check with your doctor and explain your reservations about antibiotics. Midwife Maggie Evans recommends for babies over 12 months that you “Listen” to the cough – a “whoop” (whooping cough), “barking” (croup), or “wheezy” (bronchiolitis) Croup, a common winter cough, in children is relieved by moist air – try inhaling air in a steamy bathroom, outside or open the freezer door for a few minutes. A cool air vapouriser in the bedroom is also effective.
Allow the body’s immune system to respond to a simple cough – ensure ample rest, dilute fluids, nourishing food and patience. You can also try a cough remedy, especially those containing honey and lemon. Honey is well known not only for its great taste, but also for being a great natural remedy. Honey may indeed help with sore throats and nighttime coughs in children and that’s why I use Nelsons Sootha, a honey rich formula with zesty lemon. Nelsons Sootha cough syrup is free of artificial colourings or flavourings and does not cause drowsiness. Suitable for children aged 12 month onwards. Bryonia, more commonly known as Bryony, is a yellow flowering climbing plant, which has been used in homeopathic tradition for the symptomatic relief of coughs.
FOR BABY:
Nelsons Sootha is available from independent health stores and pharmacies nationwide
RRP €7.25
FOR MUM:
If you suffer from allergies like me you’ll need these so you can see your children Optrex SOOTHING Eye Drops – RRP €4.67
THIS FORTNIGHT WE ARE:
Visiting animal farms and getting outside, as it’s a great time of the year for your child to learn about new life and growth. You might even catch a lamb being born! Plant seeds in the garden or make a bird feeder. USING Aveeno Dermexa to soothe and hydrate skin. Providing relief from dry, red, and, itchy skin, it is suitable for babies from as little as three months of age. BUYING ‘pre-loved’ designer kids clothes at recession prices — from designers like Chloe, Baby Dior, Catamini, Ralph Lauren, Timberland and more. www.twicesmitten.ie
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