Article at a Glance• For pregnant women, low-carb diets can actually increase their baby’s risk of obesity.• A recent study gives us important insights into the factors that are contributing to childhood obesity.• While pregnant, make sure to eat plenty of whole grain breads and brown rice. We have known for years that a pregnant … Continue reading “Could Your Low-Carb Diet Make Your Baby Obese?”
Article at a Glance • Herbal supplements and teas are not regulated the same way drugs are and can sometimes contain ingredients that may be harmful to your baby. • Hyland’s Teething Tablets were recently recalled for using inconsistent amounts of belladonna—a substance that can be very harmful in large doses. • There are some … Continue reading “Herbal Supplements: “Natural” is Not Always Safer”
Article at a Glance• Starting formula-fed babies on solid foods before 4 months can increase their risk for obesity.• Breastfeeding decreases your baby’s risk for obesity. With childhood obesity becoming an increasing concern, many researchers are working to find out what factors contribute to the problem. A recent study by researchers at Children’s Hospital Boston … Continue reading “Study Links Early Introduction of Solid Foods to Obesity”
Article at a Glance • Save money on fresh produce by buying it in season or from a local farm. • You can find good bargains by buying generic brands or taking the time to clip coupons. • Cutting back on meat, sugary beverages, and portion sizes is not only healthy, but will also save … Continue reading “Being Healthy on the Cheap”
Article at a Glance • Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, seafood, and low-fat dairy products. • Limit saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, dietary cholesterol, added sugars, and refined grains (e.g., white flour). • Balance what you eat (calories consumed) with what energy you use (calories expended). • Increase your physical activity with a minimum goal … Continue reading “Taking the Guess Work Out of Your Diet: Dietary Guidelines for Americans”
Article at a Glance • Ninety percent of smokers started smoking when they were just children. • Smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States. • Taking a proactive approach can help you protect your children against this dangerous habit. Believe it or not, smoking isn’t a habit that most people … Continue reading “Smoking: An Early Habit”
Article at a Glance • In the last twenty years, increased portion sizes have helped contribute to a corresponding increase in obesity. • Teaching your children about proper portion sizes can help them avoid getting diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and high cholesterol. • Learn more about appropriate portion sizes … Continue reading “Bringing Our Portions Back Down to Size”
Article at a Glance • Family meals can help improve your children’s diet, reduce risky behaviors like drinking and taking drugs, and decrease the chances that your teens will use extreme weight control measures. • Planning ahead and keeping things fun can help make eating together a reality for your family. Top Three Reasons To … Continue reading “Making Family Meals as Easy as 1-2-3”
Article at a Glance • Annual physicals help your pediatrician build a long-term medical history of your child’s development and catch any emerging health problems. • During physicals, pediatricians often address important health issues relevant to your child’s age. • Sport physicals are not the same as an in-depth physical from your regular doctor. Can’t … Continue reading “Don’t Forget the Annual Physical”
Article at a Glance • Eating a healthy lunch can help you feel better and more energetic the rest of the day. • When planning your lunch, look for whole-wheat options, lighten up on the fattening condiments, and avoid fried and processed foods. • Grab a water instead of soda or juice. We all know … Continue reading “Long Live Lunch!”