It seems that the list of banned products or foods for pregnant women is growing each day. Hysteria or informative research – you be the judge, but what it is highlighting is the fact that what you eat/do/put on your skin will possibly have some kind of effect on your growing baby.

The latest one is cosmetics. Manufacturers of natural skincare ranges have long been trying to convince the general public that what they rub into their skin is leached into their bodies, hence the reason we should use ranges made with natural ingredients free of the multitude of nasties.

But some of the chemicals of particular concern are:

- Parabens methyl-, propyl-, butyl- or ethyl-paraben or ingredients such as p-hydroxynenzoate (PHB) esters.
- Phthalates
- Fragrance (Otherwise known as “Perfume”, or “Parfum”)

The biggest problem is that the majority of cosmetics and personal products manufactured do use these chemicals. It’s not just your face creams, its makeup, eye shadow, body lotions, hairspray, nail polish, sunscreen, toothpaste, deodorant and the list goes on.

Parabens in particular are of concern as they mimic the effects of the female hormone estrogen. Research is showing this may be causing deformities and problems in the male reproductive system, so this information is of particular concern for women having baby boys.

It is important to remember the risks of problems associated with these chemicals are very low, and likewise, humans are very resilient. Look at a pregnant woman – just the fact her body can create a baby is a miracle. Our bodies can deal with certain levels of toxins, however for peace of mind, now might be the time to reconsider at least some of your products.

If you do decide to make the switch, be sure to check the labels as not all ‘organic’ or ‘natural’ lines are paraben, phthalates or fragrance free.

(Source)

As you shop for Christmas presents for your children, grandchildren, nephews and nieces, you will no doubt be struggling to find something exciting at a reasonable price. Toys seem to have all gone high tech, and along with that comes high prices.

But there is something that is not only cost effective but is also wonderful for a child’s imagination – you could give them a Dress-Up Box.

I don’t know about you, but I always adored my dress-up box. It was filled with my parent’s old pieces of clothing, as well as some impromptu items that we made workable. Beads, scarves, old sunglasses, towels, shirts or some foil, you can guarantee that whatever it is, children will find a way to make it work.

And whether you are starting from scratch, adding to your own collection or trawling op-shops to find some great items, you will most likely enjoy putting it together as much as they will enjoy playing with it.
 

A vivid imagination is one of the most precious things about a child’s life. It is the ability to make believe or create their ideal moments without any notion that it isn’t really possible. They can be anyone and do anything.

And I think it is interesting that when children are young, we would be asking questions like: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

The replies would be as diverse as a policeman, a professional sportsperson, an astronaut or a dancer, and we would encourage them regardless of their answer.

Yet ask a child this same question when they are in high school, and we take a completely different opinion about their choices. We question the money they would make, their ability to succeed or tell them their dreams are not realistic.

We should be encouraging our children to reach for the stars. They should know that with dedication and hard work, they can achieve their dreams. Of course you are able to guide them with your own experiences, but do it in an encouraging way. Teach them things like the importance of setting smaller goals on their way to the top, but never tell them it will be impossible.

Because ultimately, one of the best gifts you can give a child is the encouragement to create the life of their dreams.

(Source)

Dogs are supposed to be a man’s best friend, but it seems as though the benefits could go beyond their loyalty, companionship and unconditional love. 

Australian researchers have found that children who own a dog are up to 50 per cent less likely to be overweight or obese than those who don’t own a dog.

In the study of 1,100 children between the ages of 5 and 12, the researchers from Melbourne’s Deakin University discovered that owing a dog put children in the best shape. The interesting part is that it wasn’t because they were walking the dog. It’s because they were more likely to play with the dog, and hence be physically active. It comes back to the term incidental exercise.

Head of research Associate Professor Jo Salmon said: 'We've always known that physical activity is the key to maintaining a healthy weight - but the results are likely to be the same if children own pets,' she said.

'For parents who are trying to get their kids off the computer and switching off the TV and getting out and playing, having a pet might be a really good strategy for doing that.'

(Source)

Schools in the UK are under pressure to provide healthier meals to their students in order to combat the rising obesity levels. Jamie Oliver first brought attention to the issue, and after a long and hard battle, the message caught on. Healthy school dinners are now being dished out across the UK. 

But authorities seem to be taking it one step too far with the news that tomato sauce and marmite (similar yeast extract to vegemite) are being banned from schools in Wales. The pre-packaged tomato sauce is said to be too high in salt and sugar, while the marmite is said to be too high in salt.

While I am not disagreeing with these facts, it does seem very inconsequential when they are eating a healthy diet. A little tomato sauce on their healthy burger once a week is not going to impact their health, and in fact, the high levels of lycopene in tomato sauce make it a healthy condiment in some respects.

I applaud the moves they are taking in providing children with less processed foods, and yes, some avocado and tomato would be a much better option for their morning toast instead of marmite. But let’s get real. As long as the children are eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting as much physical activity as possible, then let them be kids. And what kind of childhood would it be without a bit of vegemite and tomato sauce?

(Source) 

Yesterday I was writing about incidental exercise, and how important it is for weight loss and good health.

While watching a show on the ABC last night about three year olds, I was delighted to hear one of experts agreed.

He said, “The key to maintaining a healthy weight is in the amount of incidental exercise they do.”

They then went on to say: “And it’s the key to keeping all of us trim.”

It seemed that no matter how much ‘planned’ exercise or sports the children participated in, it was the incidental activity that made all of the difference. And if your children are exposed to lots of general physical activity like playing in the backyard or walking to school, this will become second nature to them as they get older.

This is not to say you should stop your children from taking tennis lessons, or that you should quit your boxercise class. They are also important and fantastic at building a whole range of skills. But you cannot live your life by that one hour of the week and expect to remain healthy and slim. Incidental exercise has to be something you live by each and every day.