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Thursday, December 2, 2010
Monday, September 13, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
Success in Breastfeeding Starts With a Healthy Pregnancy
The health of your pregnancy has a significant impact on your success in breastfeeding. The main reason being that the healthier you are, the longer you can grow your baby inside of you, which means the more developed they are, which leads to a more mature sucking reflex and digestive system.
Your diet has so much to do with how you feel in pregnancy, making it not as hard on your body, especially in the last couple of months when you are just ready to meet your baby and not be pregnant anymore. What you eat and how much water you drink has a direct effect on blood pressure, swelling/fluid retention, and many more things. Also, what you eat, if it is poor, has a direct effect on your body. A recent study found that women that drink diet soda during pregnancy are more likely to deliver preterm. Here is a quote from the article.
”Researchers discovered that mothers who consumed even small amounts of diet drinks each day had an increased risk of preterm birth. Mothers who consumed one diet drink per day had a 38% higher chance of preterm birth than those who did not drink any. Those who consumed four diet drinks per day were roughly 80% more likely to have a preterm baby than the mothers who did not drink any diet beverages. The results were no different for women who were at their normal weight or over their ideal weight during pregnancy.”
http://prenatal-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/are-diet-drinks-safe-during-pregnancy
The idea is to be pregnant as long as possible, and at least 41 weeks and 1 day (which is the normal gestational period for humans – not just 40 weeks).
Here is an example of what you should be eating everyday.
Protein - 60-80 grams of protein each day. If you have gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or pregnancy induced hypertension, you need more.
Foods high in protein are –
Dairy: milk, cheese, cottage cheese, eggs (dairy products are optional as some women do not choose to add dairy to their diet. It is recommended that you get 1-2 servings of some form of dairy each day. If you choose to eat yogurt choose one low in sugar but do not choose one with aspartame.
Meats: beef, poultry, pork
Seeds and Nuts: peanuts, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, cashews, soy nuts
Legumes: pinto beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, navy beans, lentils
Tofu is a great protein replacement for meat. Fish should only be eaten 1-2 times a week
Complex Carbs – You need 240 grams of complex carbs a day. That means only 100% whole grains like Old Fashioned Oats, stone ground wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, whole sprouted grains, etc. No white flour, white rice, corn, cornmeal. Your carb intake should not exceed 240 grams a day. Not meal or snack should contain more than 25% of your total carb intake for the day.
Fruits – Pregnant women need to eat 2 servings of fruit to obtain vital minerals and vitamins contained within colorful fruits. It is strongly suggested that you choose fruits that give you the best nutritive value while remaining lower on the glycemic index. Examples are: cherries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, apricots, grapefruit, kiwi, peach and tangerine. A serving of fruit is one cup or 1 piece of the fruit. These are lower in sugar but higher in nutrients. Fruit juices are higher in sugar and should be limited to 4 ozs a day and should be considered a fruit serving.
Green leafy vegetables – 2 good sized salads per day with dark green leafy lettuce, spinach, kale, swiss chard, turnip greens, collard greens and sea vegetables is recommended. Iceberg lettuce doesn’t count because it has no nutritional value. Look for the darkest greens you can find.
Vegetables – Vegetables are free foods. Eat LOTS of fresh or frozen vegetables every day. Include all the color you can. Make sure you get a good amount of red, yellow/orange, and green vegetables (tomatoes, red bell peppers, yellow/orange bell peppers, squash, pumpkin, broccoli, green beans, celery, asparagus, okra, avocado). Vegetables that should be eaten in great moderation are carrots, potatoes, peas, and corn. They are all high in natural sugars.
Fats – Fats should make up approximately 30% of your total caloric intake each day. This would be 83 grams of fat for a 2500 calorie diet. Fats are especially important for the proper development of the nervous system. Choose healthy fats such as: olive oil (14g per T), grape seed oil, canola oil (14g per T), and omega 3 fatty acids (flax seed oil (14g per T) fish oils). Of course dairy products, avocado (31g), meats and nuts (approx 15g per oz) are sources of fats. It is not recommended to eat a diet heavy in saturated fats.
Sodium – Pregnant women should salt food to taste. This means use table salt to satisfy your palate. Salts that are recommended are Vega Sal and sea salt. Foods that are abundant in natural sodium are celery, cucumber, kelp and dulce (seaweed) and fish. Processed foods are high in sodium but are also high in other additives like MSG and nitrites that will cause other problems. Please avoid these foods.
This sounds like a lot! But, the best thing to do is try to eat something small every 2 hours. This will help with reflux (from over eating) and also help maintain your blood sugar and reduce the feelings of nausea, fatigue, and indigestion.
WATER, WATER, WATER, WATER….!!!! – Hydration is vitally important during pregnancy. Dehydration is a major factor in the health of the mother and the baby. Many women are surprised at the amount of water required to support their needs during pregnancy. It is recommended that you drink half of your body weight in ounces PLUS an additional quart for your baby. The amount will slowly increase as your baby grows. Other drinks are not to be included in this amount. Dehydration can cause an irritable uterus, headaches, increased blood pressure (if this happens, drink a quart of water and rest), and preterm labor and birth.
AVOID –
Sugars and refined foods – white sugar, refined white flour, white rice, white pasta – these act as sugar when digested. Processed foods: box mixes, cold cereal, etc.
Fats digested as proteins – processed meats are associated with common pregnancy complaints and are full of saturated fats. So don’t be fooled into thinking you are getting enough protein when eating foods such as sausage or bacon.
Supplements -
Prenatal Vitamins - Make sure you are taking a good prenatal vitamin – one that is a natural botanical based prenatal. There are a number of brands you can choose from including: Melaleuca, Nature’s Way Completia, Rainbow Light (not the 1 a day), Now, NF Formula (Prenatal Forte).
Calcium – Take an additional calcium supplement each day, preferably at bedtime for maximum absorption. Calcium Citrate, any brand, up to 2000mg per day.
Iron – Liquid Chlorophyll is the most effective way to raise the hemoglobin so you may need to add this to your daily routine.
I also have a protein guide that will give you a list of proteins and their protein content per serving. I have a glycemic index guide, a “Sneaky Way to Increase Protein” guide, a “Good Food Sources” guide if you need help picking foods with certain nutrients, and a food diary chart. These can be copied, printed and mailed if anyone wants them.
I hope today’s topic was beneficial. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Tomorrow’s topic will cover Success in Breastfeeding as it correlates to labor and birth. I will also share a breastfeeding story from one of you.
Blessings to all of you,
Meredith
Your diet has so much to do with how you feel in pregnancy, making it not as hard on your body, especially in the last couple of months when you are just ready to meet your baby and not be pregnant anymore. What you eat and how much water you drink has a direct effect on blood pressure, swelling/fluid retention, and many more things. Also, what you eat, if it is poor, has a direct effect on your body. A recent study found that women that drink diet soda during pregnancy are more likely to deliver preterm. Here is a quote from the article.
”Researchers discovered that mothers who consumed even small amounts of diet drinks each day had an increased risk of preterm birth. Mothers who consumed one diet drink per day had a 38% higher chance of preterm birth than those who did not drink any. Those who consumed four diet drinks per day were roughly 80% more likely to have a preterm baby than the mothers who did not drink any diet beverages. The results were no different for women who were at their normal weight or over their ideal weight during pregnancy.”
http://prenatal-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/are-diet-drinks-safe-during-pregnancy
The idea is to be pregnant as long as possible, and at least 41 weeks and 1 day (which is the normal gestational period for humans – not just 40 weeks).
Here is an example of what you should be eating everyday.
Protein - 60-80 grams of protein each day. If you have gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or pregnancy induced hypertension, you need more.
Foods high in protein are –
Dairy: milk, cheese, cottage cheese, eggs (dairy products are optional as some women do not choose to add dairy to their diet. It is recommended that you get 1-2 servings of some form of dairy each day. If you choose to eat yogurt choose one low in sugar but do not choose one with aspartame.
Meats: beef, poultry, pork
Seeds and Nuts: peanuts, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, cashews, soy nuts
Legumes: pinto beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, navy beans, lentils
Tofu is a great protein replacement for meat. Fish should only be eaten 1-2 times a week
Complex Carbs – You need 240 grams of complex carbs a day. That means only 100% whole grains like Old Fashioned Oats, stone ground wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, whole sprouted grains, etc. No white flour, white rice, corn, cornmeal. Your carb intake should not exceed 240 grams a day. Not meal or snack should contain more than 25% of your total carb intake for the day.
Fruits – Pregnant women need to eat 2 servings of fruit to obtain vital minerals and vitamins contained within colorful fruits. It is strongly suggested that you choose fruits that give you the best nutritive value while remaining lower on the glycemic index. Examples are: cherries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, apricots, grapefruit, kiwi, peach and tangerine. A serving of fruit is one cup or 1 piece of the fruit. These are lower in sugar but higher in nutrients. Fruit juices are higher in sugar and should be limited to 4 ozs a day and should be considered a fruit serving.
Green leafy vegetables – 2 good sized salads per day with dark green leafy lettuce, spinach, kale, swiss chard, turnip greens, collard greens and sea vegetables is recommended. Iceberg lettuce doesn’t count because it has no nutritional value. Look for the darkest greens you can find.
Vegetables – Vegetables are free foods. Eat LOTS of fresh or frozen vegetables every day. Include all the color you can. Make sure you get a good amount of red, yellow/orange, and green vegetables (tomatoes, red bell peppers, yellow/orange bell peppers, squash, pumpkin, broccoli, green beans, celery, asparagus, okra, avocado). Vegetables that should be eaten in great moderation are carrots, potatoes, peas, and corn. They are all high in natural sugars.
Fats – Fats should make up approximately 30% of your total caloric intake each day. This would be 83 grams of fat for a 2500 calorie diet. Fats are especially important for the proper development of the nervous system. Choose healthy fats such as: olive oil (14g per T), grape seed oil, canola oil (14g per T), and omega 3 fatty acids (flax seed oil (14g per T) fish oils). Of course dairy products, avocado (31g), meats and nuts (approx 15g per oz) are sources of fats. It is not recommended to eat a diet heavy in saturated fats.
Sodium – Pregnant women should salt food to taste. This means use table salt to satisfy your palate. Salts that are recommended are Vega Sal and sea salt. Foods that are abundant in natural sodium are celery, cucumber, kelp and dulce (seaweed) and fish. Processed foods are high in sodium but are also high in other additives like MSG and nitrites that will cause other problems. Please avoid these foods.
This sounds like a lot! But, the best thing to do is try to eat something small every 2 hours. This will help with reflux (from over eating) and also help maintain your blood sugar and reduce the feelings of nausea, fatigue, and indigestion.
WATER, WATER, WATER, WATER….!!!! – Hydration is vitally important during pregnancy. Dehydration is a major factor in the health of the mother and the baby. Many women are surprised at the amount of water required to support their needs during pregnancy. It is recommended that you drink half of your body weight in ounces PLUS an additional quart for your baby. The amount will slowly increase as your baby grows. Other drinks are not to be included in this amount. Dehydration can cause an irritable uterus, headaches, increased blood pressure (if this happens, drink a quart of water and rest), and preterm labor and birth.
AVOID –
Sugars and refined foods – white sugar, refined white flour, white rice, white pasta – these act as sugar when digested. Processed foods: box mixes, cold cereal, etc.
Fats digested as proteins – processed meats are associated with common pregnancy complaints and are full of saturated fats. So don’t be fooled into thinking you are getting enough protein when eating foods such as sausage or bacon.
Supplements -
Prenatal Vitamins - Make sure you are taking a good prenatal vitamin – one that is a natural botanical based prenatal. There are a number of brands you can choose from including: Melaleuca, Nature’s Way Completia, Rainbow Light (not the 1 a day), Now, NF Formula (Prenatal Forte).
Calcium – Take an additional calcium supplement each day, preferably at bedtime for maximum absorption. Calcium Citrate, any brand, up to 2000mg per day.
Iron – Liquid Chlorophyll is the most effective way to raise the hemoglobin so you may need to add this to your daily routine.
I also have a protein guide that will give you a list of proteins and their protein content per serving. I have a glycemic index guide, a “Sneaky Way to Increase Protein” guide, a “Good Food Sources” guide if you need help picking foods with certain nutrients, and a food diary chart. These can be copied, printed and mailed if anyone wants them.
I hope today’s topic was beneficial. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Tomorrow’s topic will cover Success in Breastfeeding as it correlates to labor and birth. I will also share a breastfeeding story from one of you.
Blessings to all of you,
Meredith
Sunday, August 1, 2010
It's World Breastfeeding Week Y'all!
This week (August 1-7) is World Breastfeeding Week.
I am doing my part by sharing information I have researched and stories I have been blessed by about breastfeeding. I have a group on Facebook (Natural Childbirth and Breastfeeding) that I am sharing with, and I thought you might like the information too.
Here is what I shared with them today -
Hi ladies!
Hope you are all as excited about this week as I am. I am so happy and blessed to share information with you that I have found researching breastfeeding.
I have a few stories from other breastfeeding moms that I will share, and I will also answer the questions that some of you submitted.
*I do want to make a disclaimer - I hope that all of you are pro-breastfeeding. But, in the case you aren't, please do not take anything that is written this week (or any other time for that matter) to be judgemental towards you if you didn't breastfeed. This is an educational group. Some things will be my opinion, but most everything comes from research I have done. If you have any questions about anything that is posted, please feel free to ask.
Today, I am going to share an excerpt out of one of my favorite breastfeeding books, "So That's What They're For!" by Janet Tamaro.
This comes from the 2nd chapter in her book entitled "Breastmilk versus Artificial Baby Milk: The Fizzled Great Debate"
Did You Know?
1. Breastfeeding, thanks to the physical closeness and the rush of hormones, cements bonding (it’s an incredibly warm, comforting feeling for both of you).
2. Studies show that breastmilk is the perfect brain food during the first year of life. Formula feeding is associated with lower IQ – by 5 to 10 points!
3. Breastmilk enhances brain development and cognitive development.
4. Breastmilk provides nutrients not found anywhere else. Why is that a big deal? Because it contains immunities to diseases and aids in the development of your baby’s immune system – the “soldiers” that keep him healthy. Formula cannot do that.
5. Breastfed babies have fewer illnesses – and dramatically fewer serious illnesses. Through your breastmilk, you hand off your antibodies to disease. About 80 percent of the cells in breastmilk are “macrophages,” cells that are so powerful, they kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Other cells have been shown to kill carcinogens invading cells, preventing those cells from becoming cancerous.
6. Breastmilk has a protein called “human alpha-lactalbumin” that is lethal to tumors. This protein induces “apoptosis”. That’s a good thing: it keeps cancer cells from replicating, and eventually they take the hint and leave.
7. Because of numbers 5 and 6, say good-bye to pneumonia, botulism, bronchitis, staphylococcal infections, influenza, and German measles.
8. And…it dramatically lowers the risk for eczema, ulcerative colitis, Hodgkin’s disease, leukemia, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and urinary tract infections.
9. Ditto for other serious illnesses. Breastfed babies are four times less likely to be hospitalized for bacterial infections; less likely to suffer from Crohn’s disease (a difficult-to-treat intestinal disease), dermatitis, diarrhea, diabetes, liver diseases, and other afflictions.
10. The chance of SIDS is reduced by 50 percent compared to formula-fed babies.
11. Less gastrointestinal reflux (that’s “spit-up”, my friends).
12. Fewer cases of ear infections. In fact, ear infections are three to four times more prevalent in formula-fed babies.
13. Breastfed babies are less likely to have allergies, asthma, and allergic reactions to food and the environment. Even if you have a family full of wheezers and your baby has the wheezing gene, breastfeeding will reduce the severity.
14. Formula-fed babies see the doctor almost twice as often as breastfed babies do.
15. If you breastfeed, you’re less likely to be home with a sick baby.
16. Breastmilk is cheaper than formula. Wait, it’s free!
17. Breastmilk is easier to prepare and much easier to digest than formula.
18. Breastmilk is always the right temperature.
19. Breastmilk is always clean.
20. Breastfeeding requires no special equipment, and you don’t have to sterilize your chest!
21. If you breastfeed, you don’t have to remember food with you every time you leave the house. You’ll always have it with you.
22. Breastfeeding makes traveling less of a hassle. You won’t run out of breastmilk if your plane is delayed.
23. If you breastfeed, your pediatrician will (should!) commend you for it.
24. If you breastfeed, your baby will love you for it.
25. Breastfeeding may help your child avoid a weight problem later in life (research shows that formula-fed babies can gain too much weight, while breastfed babies gain a normal amount).
26. Ditto with adult obesity – much less likely in people who were breastfed.
27. Breast pumps make it possible to give your baby breastmilk even when you are not around.
28. Breastfed babies are 40 percent less likely to have misaligned teeth.
29. Breastfed babies have better eyesight.
30. Breastmilk is environmentally sound (and you don’t even have to recycle it!).
31. Breastfeeding satisfies crucial emotional needs. All babies need to be held, and studies have shown that premature babies are more likely to die if they are not held or stroked. Bottle feeding, no matter how well-intentioned the parents, requires less physical contact, and when a baby is old enough to hold a bottle, it’s often a solo activity.
32. Studies have shown that formula feeding may increase a baby girl’s risk of developing breast cancer in later life. (see 5 and 6)
33. Breastmilk contains normal pain relievers for baby. What a godsend to have liquid endorphins at the ready, and a breast to comfort a crying baby! We’re talking instant soothing.
34. Breastfeeding is great for jaw and proper dental development because babies use as much as sixty times more energy to get breastfed that to get formula from a bottle.
35. Breastfed babies have straighter teeth and fewer cavities.
And the BEST reason to breastfeed??? “Enzymatically hydrolyzed reduced minerals, whey protein concentrate, palm olein, soy, coconut, high-oleic safflower oils, lactose, maltodextrin, potassium citrate, calcium phosphate, calcium chloride, salt, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, potassium iodide, soy lecithin, mono and diglycerides, inositol, choline bitartrate, sodium ascorbate, alpha tocopheryl acetate, niacinamide, calcium pantothenate, vitamin A acetate, riboflavin, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, folic acid, phylloquinone, biotin, vitamin D3, vitamin B12, taurine, L-carnitine”
That’s what’s in formula.
More to come tomorrow. If you would like this information in a Word document, please ask and I can email it to you.
Blessings,
Meredith
Hope y'all have a wonderful day! There will be a post each day this week! I can hardly believe it myself!
I am doing my part by sharing information I have researched and stories I have been blessed by about breastfeeding. I have a group on Facebook (Natural Childbirth and Breastfeeding) that I am sharing with, and I thought you might like the information too.
Here is what I shared with them today -
Hi ladies!
Hope you are all as excited about this week as I am. I am so happy and blessed to share information with you that I have found researching breastfeeding.
I have a few stories from other breastfeeding moms that I will share, and I will also answer the questions that some of you submitted.
*I do want to make a disclaimer - I hope that all of you are pro-breastfeeding. But, in the case you aren't, please do not take anything that is written this week (or any other time for that matter) to be judgemental towards you if you didn't breastfeed. This is an educational group. Some things will be my opinion, but most everything comes from research I have done. If you have any questions about anything that is posted, please feel free to ask.
Today, I am going to share an excerpt out of one of my favorite breastfeeding books, "So That's What They're For!" by Janet Tamaro.
This comes from the 2nd chapter in her book entitled "Breastmilk versus Artificial Baby Milk: The Fizzled Great Debate"
Did You Know?
1. Breastfeeding, thanks to the physical closeness and the rush of hormones, cements bonding (it’s an incredibly warm, comforting feeling for both of you).
2. Studies show that breastmilk is the perfect brain food during the first year of life. Formula feeding is associated with lower IQ – by 5 to 10 points!
3. Breastmilk enhances brain development and cognitive development.
4. Breastmilk provides nutrients not found anywhere else. Why is that a big deal? Because it contains immunities to diseases and aids in the development of your baby’s immune system – the “soldiers” that keep him healthy. Formula cannot do that.
5. Breastfed babies have fewer illnesses – and dramatically fewer serious illnesses. Through your breastmilk, you hand off your antibodies to disease. About 80 percent of the cells in breastmilk are “macrophages,” cells that are so powerful, they kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Other cells have been shown to kill carcinogens invading cells, preventing those cells from becoming cancerous.
6. Breastmilk has a protein called “human alpha-lactalbumin” that is lethal to tumors. This protein induces “apoptosis”. That’s a good thing: it keeps cancer cells from replicating, and eventually they take the hint and leave.
7. Because of numbers 5 and 6, say good-bye to pneumonia, botulism, bronchitis, staphylococcal infections, influenza, and German measles.
8. And…it dramatically lowers the risk for eczema, ulcerative colitis, Hodgkin’s disease, leukemia, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and urinary tract infections.
9. Ditto for other serious illnesses. Breastfed babies are four times less likely to be hospitalized for bacterial infections; less likely to suffer from Crohn’s disease (a difficult-to-treat intestinal disease), dermatitis, diarrhea, diabetes, liver diseases, and other afflictions.
10. The chance of SIDS is reduced by 50 percent compared to formula-fed babies.
11. Less gastrointestinal reflux (that’s “spit-up”, my friends).
12. Fewer cases of ear infections. In fact, ear infections are three to four times more prevalent in formula-fed babies.
13. Breastfed babies are less likely to have allergies, asthma, and allergic reactions to food and the environment. Even if you have a family full of wheezers and your baby has the wheezing gene, breastfeeding will reduce the severity.
14. Formula-fed babies see the doctor almost twice as often as breastfed babies do.
15. If you breastfeed, you’re less likely to be home with a sick baby.
16. Breastmilk is cheaper than formula. Wait, it’s free!
17. Breastmilk is easier to prepare and much easier to digest than formula.
18. Breastmilk is always the right temperature.
19. Breastmilk is always clean.
20. Breastfeeding requires no special equipment, and you don’t have to sterilize your chest!
21. If you breastfeed, you don’t have to remember food with you every time you leave the house. You’ll always have it with you.
22. Breastfeeding makes traveling less of a hassle. You won’t run out of breastmilk if your plane is delayed.
23. If you breastfeed, your pediatrician will (should!) commend you for it.
24. If you breastfeed, your baby will love you for it.
25. Breastfeeding may help your child avoid a weight problem later in life (research shows that formula-fed babies can gain too much weight, while breastfed babies gain a normal amount).
26. Ditto with adult obesity – much less likely in people who were breastfed.
27. Breast pumps make it possible to give your baby breastmilk even when you are not around.
28. Breastfed babies are 40 percent less likely to have misaligned teeth.
29. Breastfed babies have better eyesight.
30. Breastmilk is environmentally sound (and you don’t even have to recycle it!).
31. Breastfeeding satisfies crucial emotional needs. All babies need to be held, and studies have shown that premature babies are more likely to die if they are not held or stroked. Bottle feeding, no matter how well-intentioned the parents, requires less physical contact, and when a baby is old enough to hold a bottle, it’s often a solo activity.
32. Studies have shown that formula feeding may increase a baby girl’s risk of developing breast cancer in later life. (see 5 and 6)
33. Breastmilk contains normal pain relievers for baby. What a godsend to have liquid endorphins at the ready, and a breast to comfort a crying baby! We’re talking instant soothing.
34. Breastfeeding is great for jaw and proper dental development because babies use as much as sixty times more energy to get breastfed that to get formula from a bottle.
35. Breastfed babies have straighter teeth and fewer cavities.
And the BEST reason to breastfeed??? “Enzymatically hydrolyzed reduced minerals, whey protein concentrate, palm olein, soy, coconut, high-oleic safflower oils, lactose, maltodextrin, potassium citrate, calcium phosphate, calcium chloride, salt, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, potassium iodide, soy lecithin, mono and diglycerides, inositol, choline bitartrate, sodium ascorbate, alpha tocopheryl acetate, niacinamide, calcium pantothenate, vitamin A acetate, riboflavin, pyridoxine hydrochloride, thiamine mononitrate, folic acid, phylloquinone, biotin, vitamin D3, vitamin B12, taurine, L-carnitine”
That’s what’s in formula.
More to come tomorrow. If you would like this information in a Word document, please ask and I can email it to you.
Blessings,
Meredith
Hope y'all have a wonderful day! There will be a post each day this week! I can hardly believe it myself!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
It's been a rough one
I just need to document these crazy last few days. Bear with me.
Thursday (4-8-10) we had Madalyn's pictures taken. She was feeling great, and we got some great pictures.
When I went to get her out of bed on Friday morning there was throw-up everywhere. Thankfully, Ryan was home from work that day. We tag-teamed it and got everything cleaned up. The throw up ensued for the rest of the day. I almost ran out of clothes and sanity. She threw up for the last time around 5 PM.
On Saturday morning I found a baby in a bed full of poop. Again, Ryan was home, so we tag-teamed it. She had one more diarrhea diaper that day but no vomit.
All day Sunday and Monday, no throw up or poop. Thought we were in the clear.
I had a headache all day Monday and woke up with it on Tuesday. Madalyn woke up like normal and seemed fine. She went down for a nap around 10. About an hour later she woke up. When I went in to get her there was poop everywhere...it was mostly in her diaper, but it was coming out the sides. gross, i know. sorry. I put her in the tub to rinse her off. She was moaning the whole time. She did not want to take a full bath, so I wrapped her up in her towel. We went to her room where she threw up on her changing pad. I cleaned her up, cleaned up all the poop and vomit, and then took a shower myself. So far, that has been it for the day. I am just nursing her and giving her some pedialite. She is asleep right now.
In other news, Ryan has to go into a refinery next week so he has to shave his beard. He is doing it little by little. Here is the first transformation. Enjoy.
Before:
After:
Thursday (4-8-10) we had Madalyn's pictures taken. She was feeling great, and we got some great pictures.
When I went to get her out of bed on Friday morning there was throw-up everywhere. Thankfully, Ryan was home from work that day. We tag-teamed it and got everything cleaned up. The throw up ensued for the rest of the day. I almost ran out of clothes and sanity. She threw up for the last time around 5 PM.
On Saturday morning I found a baby in a bed full of poop. Again, Ryan was home, so we tag-teamed it. She had one more diarrhea diaper that day but no vomit.
All day Sunday and Monday, no throw up or poop. Thought we were in the clear.
I had a headache all day Monday and woke up with it on Tuesday. Madalyn woke up like normal and seemed fine. She went down for a nap around 10. About an hour later she woke up. When I went in to get her there was poop everywhere...it was mostly in her diaper, but it was coming out the sides. gross, i know. sorry. I put her in the tub to rinse her off. She was moaning the whole time. She did not want to take a full bath, so I wrapped her up in her towel. We went to her room where she threw up on her changing pad. I cleaned her up, cleaned up all the poop and vomit, and then took a shower myself. So far, that has been it for the day. I am just nursing her and giving her some pedialite. She is asleep right now.
In other news, Ryan has to go into a refinery next week so he has to shave his beard. He is doing it little by little. Here is the first transformation. Enjoy.
Before:
After:
Sunday, April 4, 2010
We love You Jesus!
Happy Jesus Resurrection Day! We were so thankful to get to spend it at church and then with the Metting side of the family. Hope you were blessed by the knowledge that He is Risen; He is Risen indeed!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Snow Day!
Last Friday, December 4th, it snowed in south Texas!
This is the second year in a row that it has snowed in the Houston area. We were in Arkansas last year and got no snow, so we were ecstatic when we got snow this year in Sugar Land. We took Madalyn out in it and got some pictures.
Here is our backyard when the snow decided it wanted to stick. It actually stuck around for over a day.
Daddy and Madalyn
She is excited!!!
Mommy and Madalyn
And, my favorite!
I adore this girl! - p.s. check out her camo boots - yeehaw!
This is the second year in a row that it has snowed in the Houston area. We were in Arkansas last year and got no snow, so we were ecstatic when we got snow this year in Sugar Land. We took Madalyn out in it and got some pictures.
Here is our backyard when the snow decided it wanted to stick. It actually stuck around for over a day.
Daddy and Madalyn
She is excited!!!
Mommy and Madalyn
And, my favorite!
I adore this girl! - p.s. check out her camo boots - yeehaw!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Play Time
I was organizing pictures on my computer today. I realized I am HORRIBLE at remembering to take pictures! To remedy that, I got the camera out today during playtime. Here are a few from our fun on mommy and daddy's bed. When I say "a few", I really mean 12.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Madalyn's Photo Shoot
My friend Whitney took some pictures of Madalyn for us. We are going to use them for her birth announcement. That is next on my list to do. Enjoy!
The bracelet my sister Melissa made for Madalyn.
Ryan's Great-Grandma made the pink blanket and booties for Ryan (before they found out he was a boy). Ryan's mom gave them to Madalyn as a gift!
Had to get our country girl into some camo.
The bracelet my sister Melissa made for Madalyn.
Ryan's Great-Grandma made the pink blanket and booties for Ryan (before they found out he was a boy). Ryan's mom gave them to Madalyn as a gift!
Had to get our country girl into some camo.
Well, It's About Time!
That is what some of you (mom and dad) are saying right now. I cannot believe it has been over a month since my last blog. Madalyn was almost two months when I last blogged. Now, she is over three months! Time has flown by. I will try to update you on the last month, the best my memory will let me.
Since Madalyn was 2 months old we have done A LOT! We were gone 3 weekends in a row! She has been a traveling baby.
June 26th-28th Ryan, Madalyn, and I went to Shreveport, LA. There was a fire at the refinery where Ryan works, so he got 4 days off! It was such a great treat for us. We travel the hour and a half to Shreveport. We shopped at the Boardwalk, ate some great food, and of course, we spent most of our time at Bass Pro Shops. It was extremely hot outside! Madalyn was a trooper, letting mommy and daddy shop. She did get a treat though. We made her a Build-A-Bear! We actually got her a rabbit and named her Mary Susan! That has always been Ryan's joke nickname for me...we thought, why not? It will give us a story to tell Madalyn when she gets older. One funny thing about the trip...I actually fed Madalyn (not bottle, I am a breastfeeding momma) on the floor at Bass Pro. I was planning on sitting in one of their comfy, cozy recliners, but they were all taken up by all the other ladies that had men shopping in the store. So, I went over to the bedding section, sat in between two displays, used a plastic wrapped comforter set as a pillow, put the stroller in front of me, and leaned against the wall. Can you picture it??? I had a few looks, mostly smiles from ladies that knew exactly what I was doing. I didn't care though...I was proud of myself.
The next weekend, we headed to TEXAS!!!! That's right, I said TEXAS!!!! It was fourth of July and Ryan had a three day weekend...where else would we have gone. It was so nice to be back in the homeland! We miss it so much. It was Ryan's first time to be in TEXAS since Christmas! That is way to long for a good ol' Texas boy. We got to spend some time with my family and Ryan's brother Jason and his wife Catherine. Ryan and I actually got to go on a date! We chose a double date with Jason and Catherine. We had a great dinner and movie night! Thanks mom and dad for babysitting the princess. We spent most of the 4th in the pool at my parents' house, and headed back to El Dorado on Sunday. Oh, Ryan got to go to the shooting range with his brother on Friday. I was so glad he was able to go. Can you believe they don't have a shooting range anywhere around us in Arkansas??!!!
4th of July with Aunt Christy and Uncle Ronald
Papa and Madalyn
Mama and Madalyn
Papa and Mama with Madalyn
The LORD is so good to us! I started getting sick Sunday morning, and ended up getting a summer cold I am still fighting. The amazing thing is that Madalyn started sleeping through the night THAT NIGHT! The LORD knew I needed a full nights sleep. She did it on her own...no stirring in the middle of the night, no crying, nothing, nada! That was July 5th...she was 11 weeks and 3 days old!
I fought that cold hard that week...I had a trip planned the next weekend and wanted to be able to go...there was a point that I thought I was not going to make it, but we did. That's right, our third trip in as many weekends. Madalyn and I went to Mobile, Alabama for Robert and Amy's wedding! We were so excited to be able to attend. We not only got to see Robert and Amy wed, we also got to see Ronald and Christy (for the 2nd weekend in a row) and Madalyn got to meet one of my best friends Kandace and her hubby Steven! We had the best time!
Madalyn and I at the wedding.
Madalyn with Kandace and Steven.
Not that I want to bore you (this is more for my memory than for your enjoyment, although you might get a kick out of the stories), but I need to recount two things that happened on that trip.
On the way there, I stopped at a Shell station to feed Madalyn, get gas, get a drink, etc. When I tell you we were there for an hour...I am not exagerating at all. I pulled in, ran inside and went to the bathroom (with Madalyn of course), came outside and fed her in the backseat. Pretty uneventful, huh? Then, and I mean a BIG then...we pulled to a pump and got gas. We pumped, and then we went inside to get a drink. (Remember, I have a cold) I start choking. not choking on something, just coughing uncontrollably choking. I run to get a big water and start chugging! I can't stop coughing! I am snotting all over the place. Madalyn, who is on my shoulder, throws up all over the floor. I have to sit her on a Bud Light with Lime display. I wipe her up, use her birp cloth to wipe my nose. Finally I stop coughing. I have mascara running down my face from my eyes watering, and I have just chugged 32 ounces of water! I go to the counter pay for my water, walk out to the car, move it, and nurse Madalyn a little more before we get on the road again. whew! it was insane!
My next story comes at the wedding. They had the wedding in a really cute chapel (think A Walk to Remember). The problem was there was no aisle except the middle aisle. I did not want Madalyn to start crying during the processional and have no where to go. SO, I went into the bathroom (it was at the entrance of the chapel). I stood in there with Madalyn while the processional happened. As soon as Amy walked in the door Madalyn started to whimper. I immediatley shut the door and starting feeding her (I wanted to say, stuck my boob in her mouth, but, well I just did) :) So, I watched (listened) to the wedding from the bathroom with the door cracked. That's right folks, I drove all the way to Alabama and didn't even get to see the wedding. If anyone but my sweet girl had prevented me from seeing it, I would have been mad. But, i can't get mad at that face!
We drove back home on Sunday, just in time for me to get ready for Vacation Bible School the next week. My friend Amanda and I co-taught the first graders. It was awesome! There were about 30-40 of them on any given day. One day was completely out of control, but overall we had a great week. I got to pray with a little girl as she asked Jesus to forgive her of her sin! It was a sweet moment. She was so excited to go home and tell her dad. He actually read her the pamplet that we gave her that night before bed.
Thursday, July 16th was Madalyn's 3 month birthday. She is currently 16 lbs. 4 oz and is 25 inches long. (just to remind you, she was 9 lbs. 7 oz. and 22 inches long at birth). She is growing so much, so fast! She is still sleeping through the night...all except for two days (growth spurt). She stayed in the nursery during church for the first time on July 19th. I figured, she had been in there everyday the previous week for VBS, she could handle a couple of hours on Sunday morning. She has done great! She has also started grabbing at her toys, holding her hands together, laughing a lot more, chewing on her hands, and so much more. We also had her first photo shoot (pics to follow)! She is the most beautiful baby if I do say so myself. :)
Funny Madalyn at 3 months old.
Ryan is about to start the turn-around at the refinery next Thursday. Since he is going to be working 7 days a week, 14 hours a day until it is finished (hopefully no more than 60 days), his company is giving him 4 days off before it starts (how generous of them...insert sarcasm here.) We decided that we are going to take a little trip to the beach! We are leaving Sunday and will be back on Tuesday or Wednesday...we haven't decided yet. It should be wonderful! I will update with pictures when we get back.
Here are some pics of the last month. Sorry the post is so long...I should have probably broken it down...oh well. Love you all.
Father's Day 2009. Her onesie says "Jesus Loves Me and So Does My Daddy".
This was after church on Father's Day.
Sometimes she has what we like to call Conan O'Brien Hair.
Since Madalyn was 2 months old we have done A LOT! We were gone 3 weekends in a row! She has been a traveling baby.
June 26th-28th Ryan, Madalyn, and I went to Shreveport, LA. There was a fire at the refinery where Ryan works, so he got 4 days off! It was such a great treat for us. We travel the hour and a half to Shreveport. We shopped at the Boardwalk, ate some great food, and of course, we spent most of our time at Bass Pro Shops. It was extremely hot outside! Madalyn was a trooper, letting mommy and daddy shop. She did get a treat though. We made her a Build-A-Bear! We actually got her a rabbit and named her Mary Susan! That has always been Ryan's joke nickname for me...we thought, why not? It will give us a story to tell Madalyn when she gets older. One funny thing about the trip...I actually fed Madalyn (not bottle, I am a breastfeeding momma) on the floor at Bass Pro. I was planning on sitting in one of their comfy, cozy recliners, but they were all taken up by all the other ladies that had men shopping in the store. So, I went over to the bedding section, sat in between two displays, used a plastic wrapped comforter set as a pillow, put the stroller in front of me, and leaned against the wall. Can you picture it??? I had a few looks, mostly smiles from ladies that knew exactly what I was doing. I didn't care though...I was proud of myself.
The next weekend, we headed to TEXAS!!!! That's right, I said TEXAS!!!! It was fourth of July and Ryan had a three day weekend...where else would we have gone. It was so nice to be back in the homeland! We miss it so much. It was Ryan's first time to be in TEXAS since Christmas! That is way to long for a good ol' Texas boy. We got to spend some time with my family and Ryan's brother Jason and his wife Catherine. Ryan and I actually got to go on a date! We chose a double date with Jason and Catherine. We had a great dinner and movie night! Thanks mom and dad for babysitting the princess. We spent most of the 4th in the pool at my parents' house, and headed back to El Dorado on Sunday. Oh, Ryan got to go to the shooting range with his brother on Friday. I was so glad he was able to go. Can you believe they don't have a shooting range anywhere around us in Arkansas??!!!
4th of July with Aunt Christy and Uncle Ronald
Papa and Madalyn
Mama and Madalyn
Papa and Mama with Madalyn
The LORD is so good to us! I started getting sick Sunday morning, and ended up getting a summer cold I am still fighting. The amazing thing is that Madalyn started sleeping through the night THAT NIGHT! The LORD knew I needed a full nights sleep. She did it on her own...no stirring in the middle of the night, no crying, nothing, nada! That was July 5th...she was 11 weeks and 3 days old!
I fought that cold hard that week...I had a trip planned the next weekend and wanted to be able to go...there was a point that I thought I was not going to make it, but we did. That's right, our third trip in as many weekends. Madalyn and I went to Mobile, Alabama for Robert and Amy's wedding! We were so excited to be able to attend. We not only got to see Robert and Amy wed, we also got to see Ronald and Christy (for the 2nd weekend in a row) and Madalyn got to meet one of my best friends Kandace and her hubby Steven! We had the best time!
Madalyn and I at the wedding.
Madalyn with Kandace and Steven.
Not that I want to bore you (this is more for my memory than for your enjoyment, although you might get a kick out of the stories), but I need to recount two things that happened on that trip.
On the way there, I stopped at a Shell station to feed Madalyn, get gas, get a drink, etc. When I tell you we were there for an hour...I am not exagerating at all. I pulled in, ran inside and went to the bathroom (with Madalyn of course), came outside and fed her in the backseat. Pretty uneventful, huh? Then, and I mean a BIG then...we pulled to a pump and got gas. We pumped, and then we went inside to get a drink. (Remember, I have a cold) I start choking. not choking on something, just coughing uncontrollably choking. I run to get a big water and start chugging! I can't stop coughing! I am snotting all over the place. Madalyn, who is on my shoulder, throws up all over the floor. I have to sit her on a Bud Light with Lime display. I wipe her up, use her birp cloth to wipe my nose. Finally I stop coughing. I have mascara running down my face from my eyes watering, and I have just chugged 32 ounces of water! I go to the counter pay for my water, walk out to the car, move it, and nurse Madalyn a little more before we get on the road again. whew! it was insane!
My next story comes at the wedding. They had the wedding in a really cute chapel (think A Walk to Remember). The problem was there was no aisle except the middle aisle. I did not want Madalyn to start crying during the processional and have no where to go. SO, I went into the bathroom (it was at the entrance of the chapel). I stood in there with Madalyn while the processional happened. As soon as Amy walked in the door Madalyn started to whimper. I immediatley shut the door and starting feeding her (I wanted to say, stuck my boob in her mouth, but, well I just did) :) So, I watched (listened) to the wedding from the bathroom with the door cracked. That's right folks, I drove all the way to Alabama and didn't even get to see the wedding. If anyone but my sweet girl had prevented me from seeing it, I would have been mad. But, i can't get mad at that face!
We drove back home on Sunday, just in time for me to get ready for Vacation Bible School the next week. My friend Amanda and I co-taught the first graders. It was awesome! There were about 30-40 of them on any given day. One day was completely out of control, but overall we had a great week. I got to pray with a little girl as she asked Jesus to forgive her of her sin! It was a sweet moment. She was so excited to go home and tell her dad. He actually read her the pamplet that we gave her that night before bed.
Thursday, July 16th was Madalyn's 3 month birthday. She is currently 16 lbs. 4 oz and is 25 inches long. (just to remind you, she was 9 lbs. 7 oz. and 22 inches long at birth). She is growing so much, so fast! She is still sleeping through the night...all except for two days (growth spurt). She stayed in the nursery during church for the first time on July 19th. I figured, she had been in there everyday the previous week for VBS, she could handle a couple of hours on Sunday morning. She has done great! She has also started grabbing at her toys, holding her hands together, laughing a lot more, chewing on her hands, and so much more. We also had her first photo shoot (pics to follow)! She is the most beautiful baby if I do say so myself. :)
Funny Madalyn at 3 months old.
Ryan is about to start the turn-around at the refinery next Thursday. Since he is going to be working 7 days a week, 14 hours a day until it is finished (hopefully no more than 60 days), his company is giving him 4 days off before it starts (how generous of them...insert sarcasm here.) We decided that we are going to take a little trip to the beach! We are leaving Sunday and will be back on Tuesday or Wednesday...we haven't decided yet. It should be wonderful! I will update with pictures when we get back.
Here are some pics of the last month. Sorry the post is so long...I should have probably broken it down...oh well. Love you all.
Father's Day 2009. Her onesie says "Jesus Loves Me and So Does My Daddy".
This was after church on Father's Day.
Sometimes she has what we like to call Conan O'Brien Hair.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Almost 2 Months Old
For those of you that have been asking, here are some recent pictures. Madalyn is almost 2 months old!
This is one of her new things...playing with her hair. She does this all the time.
This is one of her new things...playing with her hair. She does this all the time.
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