tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46597816883082686052024-03-14T18:21:46.723+08:00Singapore Motherhood & KidsAbout babies and kids, toddlers and young children, child rearing, parenting tips.. dedicated to all pregnant women, new mothers, young mummies and new parents in Singapore. Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-29675946925562185482022-08-11T19:39:00.009+08:002022-08-12T19:30:54.344+08:00When to worry if your baby has jaundice?<p><span style="background-color: white;"> <span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">It's perfectly normal for all newborns to have jaundice a few days after birth. Parents don't have to panic after seeing their babies have yellow eyes and skin. This yellow discoloration is common in newborns.</span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">Jaundice is due to an elevated level of yellowish pigment in the blood. This yellow pigment, known as bilirubin, is formed when the baby's body breaks down excess red blood cells. According to </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Dr. Radhakrishnan, t</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">his is </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">typically seen on the baby’s second or third day of life and is called physiological jaundice</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span>Most often, physiologic jaundice does not require treatment and will improve on its own. </span></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span>Placing the baby under light, called phototherapy, is the most common treatment to lower bilirubin levels. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">However, if the jaundice is noticeable on the first day of your baby’s life or it affects the chest or abdomen, it’s a sign their level of bilirubin may be higher than normal and the baby should be evaluated by their doctor.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">The problem could be more than physiologic jaundice. It could be other issues such as blood group incompatibility, infection in the bloodstream, viral infections, abnormalities of certain enzymes or the red cell membrane. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: trebuchet; font-size: medium;">Source: <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-not-worry-baby-jaundice/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CIf%20the%20jaundice%20is%20noticeable,be%20evaluated%20by%20their%20doctor.%E2%80%9D" target="_blank">Cleveland Clinic, October 19, 2020</a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-58126089792191222242022-07-28T12:36:00.002+08:002022-07-28T12:36:42.634+08:00What to do when your baby has nasal congestion?<div style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; letter-spacing: -0.273104px; line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px 0px 0.715em; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRBKBSexbbSegRMbfxjA8n_hOky85iloUbOtul6fgCDQzHmX_3gtT6V5Fio8lLK8xZmz1d7asnbxcdXwbLOpjiqC80PZW7NYFXe3aM459SNCGQx6mZm00N7jcULL6I3rYWQ0wCNcg0lrM1tYN8JO-m7gbwSYvIWJ9BwX7Jr5ONdPey31ioUeaj9D-uUQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRBKBSexbbSegRMbfxjA8n_hOky85iloUbOtul6fgCDQzHmX_3gtT6V5Fio8lLK8xZmz1d7asnbxcdXwbLOpjiqC80PZW7NYFXe3aM459SNCGQx6mZm00N7jcULL6I3rYWQ0wCNcg0lrM1tYN8JO-m7gbwSYvIWJ9BwX7Jr5ONdPey31ioUeaj9D-uUQ" width="240" /></a></div><br />Baby nasal congestion or baby “stuffy nose” upsets the baby a lot. They do not know how to communicate to the adults but cry. It can be quite an ordeal to see them suffer and lose their appetite. I</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;">t can really affect sleep and eating habits.</span></span></div><div style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; letter-spacing: -0.273104px; line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px 0px 0.715em; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;">Nasal congestion is </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;">typically caused by anything that inflames the nasal tissues - usually a cold, influenza, sinusitis, or allergies</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;">. There are several ways to relieve the baby from their nasal discomfort. You can read them <a href="https://www.webmd.com/children/features/help-child-stuffy-nose" target="_blank">here</a> (webmd) but today I'm just going to introduce this method using the nasal aspirator which you can buy at the pharmacy easily. All parents with babies should equip with this gadget.</span></span></div><div style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; letter-spacing: -0.273104px; line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px 0px 0.715em; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Babies don't have the ability to blow their nose, so this gadget really helps a lot. This is a quick relieve to their nasal congestion or blocked nose, the ultimate solution is of course to bring them to their pediatrician. <br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; letter-spacing: -0.273104px; line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px 0px 0.715em; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202124;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>How to use the nasal aspirator:</b><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Squeeze the bulb before you place it in the nose. That way, when you release the bulb, it will pull out mucus from inside. Please note that if you squeeze when the bulb is already inside a nostril, it will give off a puff of air that could push the mucus farther into the nasal cavity. So be mindful when using this.</span></div><div style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; letter-spacing: -0.273104px; line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px 0px 0.715em; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Squeeze out any mucus inside the bulb onto a tissue. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can do this about 15 minutes or so before you feed your child and before bedtime. This will help your baby breathe more easily when they nurse, take a bottle, or go down to sleep.</span></div><div style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444; letter-spacing: -0.273104px; line-height: 1.75; margin: 0px 0px 0.715em; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hope this helps.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-31466581404573888882017-06-09T20:36:00.002+08:002017-06-09T20:36:26.017+08:00Positive things to say to your childCame across this article by Daniel Wong, thought it is good to share. Daniel provides in a concise list not 10 nor 15, but 50 positive things to say to your child. If you run out of words to say, this list may help. Let's start with some of our personal likes. For the full list, please refer to his <a href="https://www.daniel-wong.com/2017/06/05/positive-things-to-say-to-your-children/">website</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>1. </b><b>“I love you.”</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>2. “What do you think?” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>3. “I enjoy spending time with you.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>4. “All of us make mistakes.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>5. “You’re special to me.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>6. “I appreciate it when you . . .” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>7. “I trust you.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>8. “You’re getting better at . . .” </strong><br />
<b></b><span id="more-6143"><br /></span>
<strong>9. “Have a good day!” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>10. “Let me think about it.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>11. “What happened here?” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>12. “It looks like you’re having a difficult time. Can you tell me about it?” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>13. “I’m sorry.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>14. “Your practice is paying off.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>15. “How did you do that?” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>16. “What’s one interesting thing that happened in school today?” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>17. “What did you try hard at today?”</strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>18. “I’m sure you can do it.”</strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>19. “You decide.” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>20. “How do you feel about that?” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>21. “I’m ready to listen.” </strong><br />
<br />
<b>22. </b><b>“You were right.”</b><br />
<br />
<b>23. </b><b>“I believe in you.”</b><br />
<br />
<b>24. </b><b>“I saw that you tried hard at . . .” </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>26. “I can see that you’re becoming more . . .” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>27. “I’m excited about doing this with you!” </strong><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>28. “That’s a good question.” </strong><br />
<br />
<b>29. </b><b>“Let’s do it your way.”</b><br />
<br />
<b>30. </b><b>“</b><b>Can you explain to me why you did it this way?”</b><br />
<br />
<b>31. </b><b>“That was thoughtful of you.”</b><br />
<br />
<b>32. </b><b>“Can you teach me how to . . .?”</b><br />
<br />
<b>33. </b><b>“How did you think of that?”</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>34. </b><b>“I knew you could do it.”</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<strong>35. “You’re learning how to . . .”</strong><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-44764818383553931402017-05-11T11:16:00.000+08:002017-07-11T10:09:51.157+08:00Too busy for baby? Check out this gadget helper! [Review]<div dir="ltr">
Ever grumbled about how busy with housework that you have no time for your precious baby? To those mums who have helper, you are fortunate; for those who don't, you may need help to free up time for your kids or baby. <br />
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
To start with, buy a "helper" who can vacuum and mop your floors. Personally, I find this iLife Robot V5S Pro very helpful. It comes with vacuum and mop function. The most wonderful thing is that it is very quiet, which means you can use it even while your baby is napping. It is unlike that of iRobot, which produces noise that can be deafening!<br />
<br />
An <a href="http://ho.lazada.sg/SHPNk7?sku=&redirect=http%3A%2F%2Fho.lazada.sg%2FSHPNk8%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.lazada.sg%252Filife-v5s-intelligent-robotic-vacuum-cleaner-cordless-2-in-1-drywet-sweeping-cleaning-machine-intl-19045136.html%253Fff%253D1%2526offer_id%253D%257Boffer_id%257D%2526affiliate_id%253D%257Baffiliate_id%257D%2526offer_name%253D%257Boffer_name%257D_%257Boffer_file_id%257D%2526affiliate_name%253D%257Baffiliate_name%257D%2526transaction_id%253D%257Btransaction_id%257D" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2780c7;">iLife V5S pro</span></a> on Lazada costs a quarter of what I paid for iRobot. I had thought that it would be much inferior compared to iRobot for the price tag, but to my surprise I find it much better than iRobot! <br />
<br />
Firstly, <a href="http://ho.lazada.sg/SHPNk7?sku=&redirect=http%3A%2F%2Fho.lazada.sg%2FSHPNk8%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.lazada.sg%252Filife-v5s-intelligent-robotic-vacuum-cleaner-cordless-2-in-1-drywet-sweeping-cleaning-machine-intl-19045136.html%253Fff%253D1%2526offer_id%253D%257Boffer_id%257D%2526affiliate_id%253D%257Baffiliate_id%257D%2526offer_name%253D%257Boffer_name%257D_%257Boffer_file_id%257D%2526affiliate_name%253D%257Baffiliate_name%257D%2526transaction_id%253D%257Btransaction_id%257D" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2780c7;">iLife V5S pro</span></a> not only vacuums but does mopping as well and it is much quieter compared to irobot. It comes with two spinning brushes at the bottom instead of one in iRobot, and cleans up dust more effectively. The only con is that it does not come with a handle to be carried around with one hand, other than that, whatever feature you find in iRobot, you can find it in <a href="http://ho.lazada.sg/SHPNk7?sku=&redirect=http%3A%2F%2Fho.lazada.sg%2FSHPNk8%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.lazada.sg%252Filife-v5s-intelligent-robotic-vacuum-cleaner-cordless-2-in-1-drywet-sweeping-cleaning-machine-intl-19045136.html%253Fff%253D1%2526offer_id%253D%257Boffer_id%257D%2526affiliate_id%253D%257Baffiliate_id%257D%2526offer_name%253D%257Boffer_name%257D_%257Boffer_file_id%257D%2526affiliate_name%253D%257Baffiliate_name%257D%2526transaction_id%253D%257Btransaction_id%257D">ilife V5S pro</a>! <br />
<br />
It doesn't fall off the stairs it has sensors at the bottom to detect the high gap and avoid the dropping. It has the spot cleaning function as well. Spot cleaning allows you to vacuum a particular area that is especially dusty. The iLife will go in circles until the spot is cleaned. It also has the edge cleaning function, which is lacking in iRobot. With its anti-collision system, it doesn't bang hard onto walls and furniture too.<br />
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
Check it out:<br />
<br /></div>
<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" scrolling="no" src="https://lap.lazada.com/generator/banner.php?banner_id=596431409cb3d" width="350"></iframe><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-9603698939686287272016-02-16T11:22:00.001+08:002016-02-16T11:24:53.519+08:00Naming your baby in ChineseMany parents nowadays resort to Fengshui Master to provide names for their babies based on their birth time and date, etc. I realised that Fengshui master often suggest names that comprises ancient "surnames" (姓) , some characters of which, are difficult to read, and some already non-existent. So, as parents, please do your part in researching through the characters suggested by the Fengshui Master before deciding on the name. Some points to note when choosing Chinese names:<br />
<br />
1. Make sure character is "readable"<br />
2. Check the tone of how the character is read. Some Chinese characters have a few tones and different meanings attached to different tones. Use a reliable Chinese dictionary to check (preferably physical hard copy dictionary versus online dictionaries which are not as reliable and comprehensive).<br />
3. If you really have to choose a "rare" character that people are unsure of how to read, perhaps it might help if you include the Pinyin name when you regsiter for your baby's birth cert.<br />
<br />
Hope this helps.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-4522398891733378012014-08-20T11:08:00.003+08:002014-08-20T11:11:18.439+08:00Foreign object in noseAt three years plus or even four plus, children are getting more and more inquisitive and curious. So do not be surprise when you spot something alien fly out from your child's nose when he sneezes! Kids at age of 3 and 4 are capable of putting foreign objects in their noses simply out of curiosity. So do check if there are broken or loose parts in their collection of toys.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px;">Potential objects placed in the nose may include food, seeds, dried beans, small toys (such as marbles), crayon pieces, erasers, paper wads, cotton, and beads. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px;">A foreign body in a child's nose can be there for awhile without arousing the parents' attention. The object may only be discovered when visiting a doctor to find the cause of irritation, bleeding, infection, or difficulty breathing.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px;">Below are some information on the symptoms and first aid advise from MedlinePlus, if something gets into the nose.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="background: url(http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/images/ency_section_head_bg.png) 0% 0% no-repeat rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0082c8; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1em; height: 25px; line-height: 1.2; margin: 10px 0px 0.5em; padding-left: 1px; padding-top: 2px;">
Symptoms</div>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li><a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003075.htm" style="color: #990066; outline: none;">Difficulty breathing</a> through the affected nostril</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Feeling of something in the nose</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Foul-smelling or bloody <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003051.htm" style="color: #990066; outline: none;">nasal discharge</a></li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Irritability, particularly in infants</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Irritation or pain in the nose</li>
</ul>
First Aid<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>DO NOT search the nose with cotton swabs or other tools. This may push the object further into the nose.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>DO NOT use tweezers or other tools to remove an object that is stuck deep inside the nose.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>DO NOT try to remove an object that you cannot see or one that is not easy to grasp. This can push the object farther in or cause damage.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Have the person breathe through the mouth. The person should not breathe in sharply. This may force the object in further.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Gently press and close the nostril that does NOT have the object in it. Ask the person to blow gently. This may help push the object out. Avoid blowing the nose too hard or repeatedly.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>If this method fails, get medical help.</li>
</ul>
When to Contact a Medical Professional<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>The person cannot breathe well</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>Bleeding occurs and continues for more than 2 or 3 minutes after you remove the foreign object, despite placing gentle pressure on the nose</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>An object is stuck in both nostrils</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>You cannot easily remove a foreign object from the person's nose</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.68000030517578px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: outside;">
<li>You think an infection has developed in the nostril where the object is stuck</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Lucida Grande, Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 19.68000030517578px;">Source: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000037.htm</span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-65751737781499729472014-07-02T11:19:00.004+08:002014-07-02T11:19:50.721+08:00Puberty and periodsSome short but important notes about girls' menstruation:<br />
<br />
Menstruation (a period) is a major stage of puberty in girls, signalling that a girl is turning into a woman. When girls begin to go through puberty (usually starting between the ages of 8 and 13), their bodies and minds change in many ways. The hormones in their bodies stimulate new physical development, such as growth and breast development. About <strong>2 to 2½ years after a girl's breasts begin to develop, she usually gets her first menstrual period</strong>.<br />
<br />
About<strong> 6 months or so before getting her first period, a girl might notice an increased amount of clear vaginal discharge.</strong> This discharge is common. There's no need for a girl to worry about discharge unless it has a strong odour or causes itchiness.<br />
<br />
Some girls may start menstruating as early as age 10, but others may not get their first period until they are 15 years old. <strong>Irregular periods are common in girls who are just beginning to menstruate</strong>. It may take the body a while to sort out all the changes going on, usually, <strong>after a year or two, the menstrual cycle will become more regular</strong>. Some women continue to have irregular periods into adulthood, though.<br />
<br />
Some girls may notice physical or emotional changes around the time of their periods. <strong>Once girls start to menstruate, for the next two years, they usually grow about 1 to 2 more inches</strong>, reaching their final adult height by about age 14 or 15 years (younger or older depending on when puberty began). There are usually not large growth
spurts once the period starts. <br />
<br /><br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://kidshealth.org/parent/growth/growth/growth_13_to_18.html">http://kidshealth.org/parent/growth/growth/growth_13_to_18.html</a><br />
<a href="http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/girls/menstruation.html">http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/girls/menstruation.html</a>#Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-1566052298387311762014-03-24T19:19:00.001+08:002014-03-25T11:50:28.381+08:00To LEGOLAND Malaysia and Back [Review]<strong><span style="color: #351c75;">Following is a Review Post on LEGOLAND Malaysia by fellow mummy blogger, Jane.</span></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx__cuOEL5WPHXXHuhrxNc2LH9o96nn6VTQ_N2rxm-qLoH2eI_Acjcp_ZPcQt11sU9WgIyovv09WCeJGpXuwe88nkkdxBHTmFjFR-40qJz_xOD_eqFHeU-p6wq8X51hC3ciaRML51X41mK/s1600/P1030823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx__cuOEL5WPHXXHuhrxNc2LH9o96nn6VTQ_N2rxm-qLoH2eI_Acjcp_ZPcQt11sU9WgIyovv09WCeJGpXuwe88nkkdxBHTmFjFR-40qJz_xOD_eqFHeU-p6wq8X51hC3ciaRML51X41mK/s1600/P1030823.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For the first time, we self-drove into Johor Bahru, and made
our way into LEGOLAND Malaysia!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We were contemplating on whether to self drive or go by
coach, which could save all the hassle in finding our way and all the insecurities,
after having heard so many stories about cars being hijacked, dangerous driving
on the roads, etc. etc. Well, in the end, for the sake of convenience, we
decided on self-drive, with my sister's car leading the way, that is.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Booking the tickets<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Booking the LEGOLAND tickets was a breeze. We did it <a href="https://bookings.ihotelier.com/LEGOLAND-Hotel/bookings.jsp?themeId=10181&hotelId=86189">online</a>
via the <a href="http://www.legoland.com.my/Hotel/Home/">LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel</a> website. All you need was a credit card to
guarantee the booking.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We booked two hotel rooms (Kingdom themed) for on night and
tickets to the theme parks (Water park and LEGOLAND theme park) for 2 days as a
combo package. The tickets to the theme parks could be collected at the Front
Office earlier in the morning when you do the pre-check-in at the hotel. Just
remember to bring your confirmation letter.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Driving to LEGOLAND Malaysia</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Despite having told that it was a short and easy drive to LEGOLAND,
and with the convoy of my sister and her family, a lot of research has been
done prior to driving on our part. The husband studied the Google maps
intensely, even down to the terrains and stuff like that. We borrowed the
"Touch and Go" card for fast entry, we got a steering wheel lock, and
other equipment for the car in case it broke down on the road... we even
checked with friends and relatives on the step by step procedures at the
customs... Well, anyway, we thought that going to LEGOLAND Malaysia via Tuas
Second Link was the most straight forward. After going through the customs, all
you need was to drive until you see the Nusajaya Exit 312. Next, you will see LEGOLAND
Malaysia signage and we followed the signs (or rather my sister's car) all the
way... hee.</span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtHEAiqjPedVb8pHd0XA31D4jjmVuhdAJxzLWOa4s0amq-QNkutbxE3pYXmlKudZC0OqchHZ4X7HqDY5itpg4x4T7H-oOF2Pvn1vyDZqxJ79BjGzPgNDDuDs8AcUefDjMJleM1fi20tvDK/s1600/P1030804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtHEAiqjPedVb8pHd0XA31D4jjmVuhdAJxzLWOa4s0amq-QNkutbxE3pYXmlKudZC0OqchHZ4X7HqDY5itpg4x4T7H-oOF2Pvn1vyDZqxJ79BjGzPgNDDuDs8AcUefDjMJleM1fi20tvDK/s1600/P1030804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtHEAiqjPedVb8pHd0XA31D4jjmVuhdAJxzLWOa4s0amq-QNkutbxE3pYXmlKudZC0OqchHZ4X7HqDY5itpg4x4T7H-oOF2Pvn1vyDZqxJ79BjGzPgNDDuDs8AcUefDjMJleM1fi20tvDK/s1600/P1030804.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Checking-in to LEGOLAND
Malaysia Hotel<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The official check-in time for LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel was
4pm! Yes, I heard lots of grumblings... and to make things worse, the check-out
time was 10am the following day! (more cursings..) Well, I heard of stories of
how some lucky people got to check in as early as 10+am. We weren't that lucky
but we were told that once the rooms were ready, the hotel staff would give us
a call. And they really did! We got one of our rooms at 2pm after we had eaten
our lunch at Medini Mall right opposite the Hotel. So we went straight to
deposit all our belongings in the hotel room, got changed into our swim wear
and flew right to the Water Park!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel<o:p></o:p></span></strong> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2203wZ_xBLwKMjbPjU-VSnewYgT-HPX4fkexFYrhITzmg-XxS-IG4U6L5ssdawi6VntQ_UwXIkgCsn_8DcO1gWbfdvmWhdJT-Q2hdOmC6YjYN1qWl1pw4Hu0GHAMfBwMp272ejdI4haoF/s1600/P1030818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2203wZ_xBLwKMjbPjU-VSnewYgT-HPX4fkexFYrhITzmg-XxS-IG4U6L5ssdawi6VntQ_UwXIkgCsn_8DcO1gWbfdvmWhdJT-Q2hdOmC6YjYN1qWl1pw4Hu0GHAMfBwMp272ejdI4haoF/s1600/P1030818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2203wZ_xBLwKMjbPjU-VSnewYgT-HPX4fkexFYrhITzmg-XxS-IG4U6L5ssdawi6VntQ_UwXIkgCsn_8DcO1gWbfdvmWhdJT-Q2hdOmC6YjYN1qWl1pw4Hu0GHAMfBwMp272ejdI4haoF/s1600/P1030818.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The kids were exhilarated once they stepped into the hotel lobby! There were many stations and pits with Lego bricks for the kids to build their masterpieces. There was also an interactive <span style="color: black;">XBOX Kinect machine for kids to dance crazy. Even within the elevator itself there was DISCO! Almost every display in LEGOLAND Hotel were made from Lego bricks!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the LEGOLAND Hotel, every single room is themed. Each floor of the hotel has a different theme: Adventure, Kingdom, and Pirate. We had the Kingdom Themed room which was equipped with a separate sleep area for children with bunk beds and a trundle bed to accommodate up to three children, plus a king-sized bed for parents. The two areas were separated by a sliding door. It was thoughtful for the hotel to even equip every room with two sinks - one for adult and the other lower one for kids to reach!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The rooms were fancifully decorated with Lego bricks and stuff, of course. Another fun thing that got the kids high in the Kingdom room was that they got to embark on a Treasure Hunt in their own room. There was a Frog Prince Treasure safe box waiting to be unlocked. In order to unlock the safe, they will have to look for clues in the room by answering 4 questions. Much to the delight of the kids, they uncovered two small packs of Lego creator, which they opened and fixed immediately.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2hsQcknRKAWUx130bUYbf-0_-2t5fW-ooruPsFEFMfzYqReDcp6KaEarHeVyHvHgcGlDRN9Mdy5hMtUAmRrbKcx0qbVQ11m-7AJw1u0b9mBp2Cy2ajZApq1_qzXXkAMj3vhi18fUYE2sJ/s1600/P1030799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2hsQcknRKAWUx130bUYbf-0_-2t5fW-ooruPsFEFMfzYqReDcp6KaEarHeVyHvHgcGlDRN9Mdy5hMtUAmRrbKcx0qbVQ11m-7AJw1u0b9mBp2Cy2ajZApq1_qzXXkAMj3vhi18fUYE2sJ/s1600/P1030799.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifW81bHyt4WOxqYJukO4oT7mC7Ruaeh7j8F83wSz5JYlpOessQTw2OGhA3v8KGhVI4IlWbvScWWME5paz3QA8ELTe3btLq0dPq9YprFjIxfAfU_Z0Z9T2oWCB8mU6f2CMFkQR1svAm4quj/s1600/P1030813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifW81bHyt4WOxqYJukO4oT7mC7Ruaeh7j8F83wSz5JYlpOessQTw2OGhA3v8KGhVI4IlWbvScWWME5paz3QA8ELTe3btLq0dPq9YprFjIxfAfU_Z0Z9T2oWCB8mU6f2CMFkQR1svAm4quj/s1600/P1030813.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpQUzk_LCRmRdC8syT1sMa4vTQb_7R6THnXrh2DgUYnrtbq5OUw8bR2r1QTRkTbTZ8sJTPo8Z0ITE0LIRc7nyYyRx3YBSl78AbvF2YVGhlxmBa_G26NZXaciU57InEBExh43q55l-YM2d/s1600/P1030814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpQUzk_LCRmRdC8syT1sMa4vTQb_7R6THnXrh2DgUYnrtbq5OUw8bR2r1QTRkTbTZ8sJTPo8Z0ITE0LIRc7nyYyRx3YBSl78AbvF2YVGhlxmBa_G26NZXaciU57InEBExh43q55l-YM2d/s1600/P1030814.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">LEGOLAND Malaysia Water Park<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The weather was kind on us. It wasn't hot. In fact, dark clouds hovered in the skies but it didn't rain. We were blessed. There were cabanas for rental around the water park. But it was too expensive (RM300 for full day rental and RM150 for half day rental starting from 2pm). We didn't have to rent anyway since we didn't bring any cash (err... remember to bring RM10 if you have a baby child under 2 years of age for some swim diaper before you can be admitted) or important documents, just our towels and bottles, which we left under the big shades and lounge chairs. We had a whale of time at the Water Park until 5pm. The park closed at 6pm. Please visit the <a href="http://www.legoland.com.my/Explore/Water-Park/">water park website</a> for more information and <a href="http://www.legoland.com.my/Explore/Water-Park/FAQ/">FAQs</a>. If you have read the FAQs in detail, you'd find out that there's no re-entry to the park unless you are an annual ticket holder. But, no, that was only in FAQs, in reality, the kind souls there allowed multiple entries as long as you showed them your tickets. So no worries if you need to step out of the park for meals, etc.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">LEGOLAND Theme Park</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The day was hot. Nevertheless, we were well prepared with
our sunglasses, hats, umbrellas and sun lotion. We stepped into the park only
at 11am. We had checked out from the hotel by then. At the theme park, the kids
went for the driving school car drive, train ride, playground, and we managed
to get a quick glimpse of the Miniland before heading for lunch at the cafe in
the park. Thereafter, we proceed back home! The anxious husband said that there
might be jams at the customs unless we leave before 4pm. So at around 3pm, we
left the park, leaving half of the park unfinished!!! What a waste. Sigh! So we
didn't get to enjoy all rides... in fact we only complete 25 per cent of the
park.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdvYpunye5vuuTllPkVcNvshAxOvbQTskRFGiuIvLfGYRYIXTZBl2kJ5wQl7PezimuUIyL3slXZgJhO3LHK9rbUqqK_jeadyvi4HpVSjKhLkKGqNxICEtXBucde4WKCZvlRtHOX-BoQe7/s1600/P1030860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdvYpunye5vuuTllPkVcNvshAxOvbQTskRFGiuIvLfGYRYIXTZBl2kJ5wQl7PezimuUIyL3slXZgJhO3LHK9rbUqqK_jeadyvi4HpVSjKhLkKGqNxICEtXBucde4WKCZvlRtHOX-BoQe7/s1600/P1030860.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KfKRYqRpYkZdLFYJjUf0qvN7-LiQIpTMyuJHtGvsL0HhYuRw1wvCApc6YAR6U8SanJbljV4stl_WC5ecuxJ_P0xVBt0ki2twvLQhWsS6q1iHfNJfSAiCRr1qusYXKQBCGb5qm6T6UE1m/s1600/P1030862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KfKRYqRpYkZdLFYJjUf0qvN7-LiQIpTMyuJHtGvsL0HhYuRw1wvCApc6YAR6U8SanJbljV4stl_WC5ecuxJ_P0xVBt0ki2twvLQhWsS6q1iHfNJfSAiCRr1qusYXKQBCGb5qm6T6UE1m/s1600/P1030862.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXvDOanOP44B96lI5G8b88rItR_x700f3NjwnU0A6xpZJkzaYH_BfJ4jtRXTBa99Ub-mWGrH9YP5utlKD3lR4KEbOXZ53AQMDr751NrLpbCnwJWl2sTbPYp1P7_ZqcQvhk5sRzktZcxR2/s1600/P1030855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXvDOanOP44B96lI5G8b88rItR_x700f3NjwnU0A6xpZJkzaYH_BfJ4jtRXTBa99Ub-mWGrH9YP5utlKD3lR4KEbOXZ53AQMDr751NrLpbCnwJWl2sTbPYp1P7_ZqcQvhk5sRzktZcxR2/s1600/P1030855.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlECsbtsC67awL2459BFoSmk503lANpIG2yHIkJk2BWTDb9LzOl6XvjUR6l-7JJ0qGNdDrvYzhdDMNnrgOFHSEE2GMUfi0eiq8YUriioQyTfZhqn4oGZH2rfwSqbq2T6IBfvXbxxWpw4f/s1600/P1030856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlECsbtsC67awL2459BFoSmk503lANpIG2yHIkJk2BWTDb9LzOl6XvjUR6l-7JJ0qGNdDrvYzhdDMNnrgOFHSEE2GMUfi0eiq8YUriioQyTfZhqn4oGZH2rfwSqbq2T6IBfvXbxxWpw4f/s1600/P1030856.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Overall, the trip to LEGOLAND Malaysia was fun despite not having played the entire LEGOLAND theme park. We might visit LEGOLAND Malaysia again for the purpose of completing the theme park. After hearing stories of kids being kidnapped at LEGOLAND Malaysia, we made it a point to hold their hands every second! And for cars being hijacked, we were told to park the cars head in. With these safety measures in place, we had successfully gone to LEGOLAND Malaysia and came BACK (in one piece)!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-83379905965477886032014-02-28T19:55:00.000+08:002014-02-28T19:55:14.458+08:00ADHD in Singapore<div class="title2">
<span class="title4"><b></b></span> </div>
<span class="title4">Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neuro-developmental
disorder of self-control. As the name suggests, the symptoms of ADHD are
characterised by serious and persistent difficulty in three areas, namely: <br />
</span><ul><span class="title4">
<li><div class="title2">
Inattention </div>
</li>
<li>Impulsivity</li>
<li>Hyperactivity </li>
</span></ul>
<span class="title4">
It is quite normal for children to be active, inattentive and impulsive.
However, children have difficulties in the above areas when these
behaviours:<br />
<ul>
<li>
are severe and persistent</li>
<li>occur across more than one situation, for example, at home, school, the
supermarket</li>
<li>impair their performance at school and their relationships with
others</li>
</ul>
Children who exhibit such behaviours may be suffering from ADHD. Another name
for this is hyperkinetic disorder. ADHD is related to abnormalities in brain
functioning and development. It is also associated with other factors that can
affect brain functioning or development, such as genetic factors, injuries,
toxins and infections. <br />
<br />
<h2>
Signs and Symptoms</h2>
Children with ADHD exhibit a variety of symptoms. Accordingly to diagnostic
criteria, the symptoms must have started before the age of seven and be evident
for at least six months. <br />
<br />
With inattention, the child:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>often fails to give close attention to details</li>
<li>often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities</li>
<li>is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli</li>
<li>is often forgetful in daily activities</li>
<li>often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly</li>
<li>makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities</li>
<li>often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or
duties</li>
<li>often has difficulty organising tasks and activities</li>
<li>often avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require
sustained mental effort </li>
<li>often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (toys, school
assignments, pencils or books)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
With hyperactivity and impulsivity, the child: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>often fidgets or squirms in the seat</li>
<li>often leaves his seat in the classroom or in other situations where
remaining seated is expected</li>
<li>often runs about or climbs excessively in situations where it is
inappropriate</li>
<li>often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly</li>
<li>is often ‘on the go’ or often acts as if he is ‘driven by a motor’</li>
<li>often talks excessively</li>
<li>often blurts out answers before questions have been completed</li>
<li>often has difficulty waiting turns</li>
<li>often interrupts or intrudes on others</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h2>
Treatment</h2>
There is no simple treatment. A multidisciplinary approach is most effective.
This includes:<br />
<ul>
<li>
<strong>Medication</strong></li>
<li>Medicine changes the brain chemistry so that
the brain may function in a more orderly manner. As a child’s concentration
improves and hyperactivity lessens, the child will find life more manageable and
satisfying.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Help with behaviour management and organisation
skills</strong>Parents can help children structure and organise their life.
Having a routine is essential. Parents may make use of concrete reminders, such
as lists, schedules and alarm clocks to help break down homework activities into
small steps. Use of small, frequent and constantly repeated incentives and
feedback increase children’s awareness of what they are doing. Positive results
are encouraged in this way.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Training parents to elicit desired behaviour</strong>Training
parents helps them to elicit the desired behaviour they want in their children.
As children with ADHD often feel they can do nothing right or well, helping
children experience success by discovering what they are good at will foster
their confidence and competence. </li>
</ul>
<br />
<strong>Where to Get Help for ADHD Diagnosis, Treatment and Support</strong> </span><br />
<div class="title2">
<b></b> </div>
<div class="style3">
(A) Subsidised Venues for Diagnosis & Treatment of ADHD/ADD (For Children)</div>
<div class="style3">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>Child Guidance Clinic (CGC)</strong><br />
Health Promotion Board Building <br />
3 Second Hospital Ave #03-01<br />
Singapore 168937<br />
Tel: 6435-3878/9<br />
<br />
The main government clinic in Singapore under the Institute of Mental Health that assesses and treats behavioural and developmental disorders in children and adolescents up to the age of 18 years. Students can pay a subsidized fee if there is a referral letter from school or polyclinic (Long queue expected) </div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>Child Development Unit (KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital)</strong><br />
Specialist Clinic M<br />
Podium I, Children’s Tower<br />
100 Bukit Timah Road<br />
Singapore 229899<br />
Tel: 6394 2211<br />
Students can pay a subsidized fee if there is a referral letter from school or polyclinic <br />
(Long queue expected)</div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>The Children's Specialist Clinic (National University Hospital)</strong><br />
Clinic 'A'<br />
Main Building Level 1 <br />
National University Hospital <br />
5 Lower Kent Ridge Road <br />
Singapore 119074<br />
Tel: 6772 5502</div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong> James Cook University Psychology Clinic</strong><br />
JCU Singapore Psychology Clinic<br />
JCU Singapore Campus Block D<br />
600 Upper Thomson Road<br />
Singapore 574421<br />
<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:epsenquiries@students.org.sg"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">psychologyclinic@jcu.edu.sg</span></strong></a><br />
Website: <a href="http://www.students.org.sg/"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">www.jcu.edu.sg/Clinic_Intro.htm</span></strong></a><br />
<br />
This is a University Clinic where ADHD children and adults can get diagnosis and medical treatment. Low cost of $20 per consultation session (diagnosis tests will cost more). As this is a training clinic, patients are seen by psychiatric students under training.</div>
<div class="style1">
<span class="style3"><br /><span style="color: black;"> (B) Support & Service Organisations </span></span></div>
<div class="style1">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>Student Care Services (SCS)</strong> <strong>– Educational Psychology Services (EPS)</strong><br />
The EPS serves students aged 5 to 18 years coming from families with less than $2000 monthly income. The EPS provides diagnostic and intervention programmes for students with learning difficulties, special behavioural / emotional / developmental issues, and special needs eg autism, dyslexia, attention deficit. They also provide support services for parents. <br />
<br />
There are 3 centres: <br />
<strong><br /> SCS Clementi Centre </strong><br />
Blk 437 Clementi Ave 3 #01-98 <br />
Singapore 120437 <br />
Tel: 6778 6867</div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>SCS Hougang Centre</strong><br />
Blk 463 Hougang Ave 10 #01-964 <br />
Singapore 530463<br />
Tel: 6286 9905<br />
<br />
<strong>SCS Yishun Centre</strong><br />
Blk 202 Yishun St 21 #01-89 <br />
Singapore 760202<br />
Tel: 6759 6821<br />
<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:epsenquiries@students.org.sg"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">epsenquiries@students.org.sg</span></strong></a><br />
Website: <a href="http://www.students.org.sg/"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">www.students.org.sg</span></strong></a></div>
<div class="body2">
<strong><br /> Care Corner Educational Therapy Services (ETS) - Mr. Isaac Tan </strong><br />
Offers specialized services for children with special learning needs which covers ADHD, attention difficulties, dyslexia, reading difficulties, writing difficulties and slow learning.<br />
Serves children from 5 to 13 years old. Services include consultation, specialist tuition and intervention programs to improve learning abilities conducted at its centre in Toa Payoh and at six primary schools. Subsidies are available to families needing financial assistance.<br />
<br />
<strong>Care Corner Educational Therapy Service</strong><br />
Blk 149 Toa Payoh Lorong 1 #01-963 <br />
Singapore 310149<br />
Tel: 6259 8683 <br />
Email: <a href="mailto:ets@carecorner.org.sg"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">ets@carecorner.org.sg</span></strong></a><br />
Website: <strong><span style="color: #330066;"><span class="style5">www.carecorner.org.sg/ets.html</span><br /></span> Learning To Learn Centres (Kampung Senang Charity and Education Foundation)</strong><br />
The Learning To Learn Centre is run by Kampung Senang Charity and Education Foundation. The Centre helps children with learning challenges, including ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Dyslexia, developmental delays and children who do not respond well to traditional teaching methods, at affordable and subsidized rates.<br />
<br />
They run 2 Centres : </div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>Kovan MRT Centre</strong><br />
Blk 221 Hougang St 21 #01-90 <br />
Singapore 530221 <br />
Tel: 6487 3430 (Mr. Ong Chee Seng)</div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>Tampines Centre</strong> <br />
Blk 840 Tampines St 82 #01-113 <br />
Singapore 520840 <br />
Tel: 6788 2568</div>
<div class="body2">
Email: <span class="style5"><a href="mailto:email@kg-senang.org.sg"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">email@kg-senang.org.sg</span></strong></a></span><br />
Website: <span class="style5"><a href="http://www.kg-senang.org.sg/"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">www.kg-senang.org.sg</span></strong></a></span></div>
<div class="style6">
(C) Support Groups</div>
<div class="style6">
</div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>Society for the Promotion of ADHD Research and Knowledge (SPARK)</strong><br />
1008 Toa Payoh North, #03-08<br />
Singapore 318996<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:Spark_Singapore@yahoogroups.com"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">Spark_Singapore@yahoogroups.com</span></strong></a><br />
Website: <a href="http://www.spark.org.sg/"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">www.spark.org.sg</span></strong></a><br />
<br />
SPARK is an independent, voluntary welfare organization which promotes ADHD awareness and runs a support group for parents who have children with ADHD / ADD. </div>
<div class="body2">
</div>
<div class="body2">
SPARK holds monthly Parent Support Group meetings and talks relating to ADHD, treatment methods and coping strategies. They are held on the first Saturday of every month, from 9am–12noon at the Child Guidance Clinic, 3rd floor of the Health Promotion Board Building, 3 Second Hospital Ave, Singapore 168937. </div>
<div class="body2">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div class="body2">
<strong>ADHD Singapore Mailing Group</strong><br />
This is a mailing group which offers a forum for people to connect with others in the group to ask questions on ADD / ADHD related issues and to share learning. To join the mailing group, just send an empty email to: <br />
<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:ADHD_Singapore-subscribe@yahoogroups.com"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">ADHD_Singapore-subscribe@yahoogroups.com</span></strong></a><br />
Website: <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ADHD_Singapore/"><strong><span style="color: #330066;">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ADHD_Singapore/</span></strong></a></div>
<span class="style7"><br /><strong><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"> </span></strong></span><br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://www.imh.com.sg/clinical/page.aspx?id=249">http://www.imh.com.sg/clinical/page.aspx?id=249</a><br />
<a href="http://www.spark.org.sg/help.html">http://www.spark.org.sg/help.html</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-54464579108224888762014-02-28T19:37:00.003+08:002014-02-28T19:38:12.776+08:00Does your child have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?Does your child have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviours (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or is overly active? If he does, does that mean he is suffering from ADHD? <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, above characteristics are symptoms of ADHD. And that makes almost the entire population of children being classified as sufferers of ADHD at one point or another. An article published by the British Medical Journal, claims that <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/Pages/Introduction.aspx" jquery171015127377235551526="132">attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD)</a> is being overdiagnosed. The writers argue that the definition of ADHD in doctors’ guidelines has
broadened in recent years and this has contributed to a steep rise in diagnosis
of and drug prescriptions for the disorder, which is unnecessary and possibly harmful for some
individuals. The authors call for a more cautious diagnostic approach to help reduce the
risk of overdiagnosis. This move is certainly welcomed. Well, before any changes is made to the diagnostic approach, let's take a look at what ADHD is and how a child is currently diagnosed.<br />
<br />
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior, and hyperactivity (over-activity). Although ADHD can't be cured, it can be successfully managed and some symptoms may improve as the child ages.<br />
<br />
ADHD has three subtypes:<br />
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive</strong> <ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">Most symptoms (six or more) are in the hyperactivity-impulsivity categories.</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Fewer than six symptoms of inattention are present, although inattention may still be present to some degree.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Predominantly inattentive</strong> <ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">The majority of symptoms (six or more) are in the inattention category and fewer than six symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity are present, although hyperactivity-impulsivity may still be present to some degree.</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Children with this subtype are less likely to act out or have difficulties getting along with other children. They may sit quietly, but they are not paying attention to what they are doing. Therefore, the child may be overlooked, and parents and teachers may not notice that he or she has ADHD.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive</strong> <ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">Six or more symptoms of inattention and six or more symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity are present.</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Most children have the combined type of ADHD.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>
Causes</h2>
Scientists are not sure what causes ADHD, although many studies suggest that genes play a large role. Like many other illnesses, ADHD probably results from a combination of factors. In addition to genetics, researchers are looking at possible environmental factors, and are studying how brain injuries, nutrition, and the social environment might contribute to ADHD.<br />
<br />
<strong>Genes.</strong> <br />
Results from several international studies of twins show that ADHD often runs in families. Researchers are looking at several genes that may make people more likely to develop the disorder. Knowing the genes involved may one day help researchers prevent the disorder before symptoms develop. Learning about specific genes could also lead to better treatments.<br />
Children with ADHD who carry a particular version of a certain gene have thinner brain tissue in the areas of the brain associated with attention. This NIMH research showed that the difference was not permanent, however, and as children with this gene grew up, the brain developed to a normal level of thickness. Their ADHD symptoms also improved.<br />
<br />
<strong>Environmental factors.</strong> <br />
Studies suggest a potential link between cigarette smoking and alcohol use during pregnancy and ADHD in children. In addition, preschoolers who are exposed to high levels of lead, which can sometimes be found in plumbing fixtures or paint in old buildings, may have a higher risk of developing ADHD.<br />
<br />
<strong>Brain injuries.</strong> <br />
Children who have suffered a brain injury may show some behaviors similar to those of ADHD. However, only a small percentage of children with ADHD have suffered a traumatic brain injury.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sugar.</strong> <br />
The idea that refined sugar causes ADHD or makes symptoms worse is popular, but more research discounts this theory than supports it. <br />
<br />
<strong>Food additives.</strong> <br />
Recent British research indicates a possible link between consumption of certain food additives like artificial colors or preservatives, and an increase in activity. Research is under way to confirm the findings and to learn more about how food additives may affect hyperactivity.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Signs & Symptoms</h2>
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the key behaviors of ADHD. It is normal for all children to be inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive sometimes, but for children with ADHD, these behaviors are more severe and occur more often. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a child must have symptoms for 6 or more months and to a degree that is greater than other children of the same age.<br />
<br />
Children who have symptoms of <strong>inattention</strong> may:<br />
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">Be easily distracted, miss details, forget things, and frequently switch from one activity to another</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have difficulty focusing on one thing</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Become bored with a task after only a few minutes, unless they are doing something enjoyable</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have difficulty focusing attention on organizing and completing a task or learning something new</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have trouble completing or turning in homework assignments, often losing things (e.g., pencils, toys, assignments) needed to complete tasks or activities</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Not seem to listen when spoken to</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Daydream, become easily confused, and move slowly</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have difficulty processing information as quickly and accurately as others</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Struggle to follow instructions.</li>
</ul>
Children who have symptoms of <strong>hyperactivity</strong> may:<br />
<ul class="ul_default" type="disc">
<li class=" generic-container">Fidget and squirm in their seats</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Talk nonstop</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Dash around, touching or playing with anything and everything in sight</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have trouble sitting still during dinner, school, and story time</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Be constantly in motion</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have difficulty doing quiet tasks or activities.</li>
</ul>
Children who have symptoms of <strong>impulsivity</strong> may:<br />
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">Be very impatient</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without regard for consequences</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have difficulty waiting for things they want or waiting their turns in games</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Often interrupt conversations or others' activities.</li>
</ul>
<h2>
Who Is At Risk?</h2>
ADHD is one of the most common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and into adulthood. The average age of onset is 7 years old.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Diagnosis</h2>
Children mature at different rates and have different personalities, temperaments, and energy levels. Most children get distracted, act impulsively, and struggle to concentrate at one time or another. Sometimes, these normal factors may be mistaken for ADHD. ADHD symptoms usually appear early in life, often between the ages of 3 and 6, and because symptoms vary from person to person, the disorder can be hard to diagnose. Parents may first notice that their child loses interest in things sooner than other children, or seems constantly "out of control." Often, teachers notice the symptoms first, when a child has trouble following rules, or frequently "spaces out" in the classroom or on the playground.<br />
No single test can diagnose a child as having ADHD. Instead, a licensed health professional needs to gather information about the child, and his or her behavior and environment. A family may want to first talk with the child's pediatrician. Some pediatricians can assess the child themselves, but many will refer the family to a mental health specialist with experience in childhood mental disorders such as ADHD. The pediatrician or mental health specialist will first try to rule out other possibilities for the symptoms. For example, certain situations, events, or health conditions may cause temporary behaviors in a child that seem like ADHD.<br />
Between them, the referring pediatrician and specialist will determine if a child:<br />
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">Is experiencing undetected seizures that could be associated with other medical conditions</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Has a middle ear infection that is causing hearing problems</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Has any undetected hearing or vision problems</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Has any medical problems that affect thinking and behavior</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Has any learning disabilities</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Has anxiety or depression, or other psychiatric problems that might cause ADHD-like symptoms</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Has been affected by a significant and sudden change, such as the death of a family member, a divorce, or parent's job loss.</li>
</ul>
A specialist will also check school and medical records for clues, to see if the child's home or school settings appear unusually stressful or disrupted, and gather information from the child's parents and teachers. Coaches, babysitters, and other adults who know the child well also may be consulted.<br />
The specialist also will ask:<br />
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container">Are the behaviors excessive and long-term, and do they affect all aspects of the child's life?</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Do they happen more often in this child compared with the child's peers?</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Are the behaviors a continuous problem or a response to a temporary situation?</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Do the behaviors occur in several settings or only in one place, such as the playground, classroom, or home?</li>
</ul>
The specialist pays close attention to the child's behavior during different situations. Some situations are highly structured, some have less structure. Others would require the child to keep paying attention. Most children with ADHD are better able to control their behaviors in situations where they are getting individual attention and when they are free to focus on enjoyable activities. These types of situations are less important in the assessment. A child also may be evaluated to see how he or she acts in social situations, and may be given tests of intellectual ability and academic achievement to see if he or she has a learning disability.<br />
<br />
Finally, if after gathering all this information the child meets the criteria for ADHD, he or she will be diagnosed with the disorder.<br />
<br />
Some children with ADHD also have other illnesses or conditions. For example, they may have one or more of the following:<br />
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>A learning disability</strong>. A child in preschool with a learning disability may have difficulty understanding certain sounds or words or have problems expressing himself or herself in words. A school-aged child may struggle with reading, spelling, writing, and math.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Oppositional defiant disorder</strong>. Kids with this condition, in which a child is overly stubborn or rebellious, often argue with adults and refuse to obey rules.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Conduct disorder</strong>. This condition includes behaviors in which the child may lie, steal, fight, or bully others. He or she may destroy property, break into homes, or carry or use weapons. These children or teens are also at a higher risk of using illegal substances. Kids with conduct disorder are at risk of getting into trouble at school or with the police.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Anxiety and depression</strong>. Treating ADHD may help to decrease anxiety or some forms of depression.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Bipolar disorder</strong>. Some children with ADHD may also have this condition in which extreme mood swings go from mania (an extremely high elevated mood) to depression in short periods of time.</li>
</ul>
<ul class="ul_default">
<li class=" generic-container"><strong>Tourette syndrome</strong>. Very few children have this brain disorder, but among those who do, many also have ADHD. Some people with Tourette syndrome have nervous tics and repetitive mannerisms, such as eye blinks, facial twitches, or grimacing. Others clear their throats, snort, or sniff frequently, or bark out words inappropriately. These behaviors can be controlled with medication.</li>
</ul>
ADHD also may coexist with a sleep disorder, bed-wetting, substance abuse, or other disorders or illnesses.<br />
<br />
Recognizing ADHD symptoms and seeking help early will lead to better outcomes for both affected children and their families.<br />
<br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/ADHD/">http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/ADHD/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml">http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/index.shtml</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nhs.uk/news/2013/11November/Pages/Experts-argue-that-ADHD-is-overdiagnosed.aspx">http://www.nhs.uk/news/2013/11November/Pages/Experts-argue-that-ADHD-is-overdiagnosed.aspx</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-51931481924077318052014-02-08T21:58:00.002+08:002014-02-08T21:58:19.961+08:00Auspicious Chinese Names For Horse Babies<strong><em>General Characteristics Of People Who Are Born In The Year Of The Horse</em></strong><br />
<em>The horse has always been a well-liked animal since the ancient time. Swift, enduring, elegant and spirited are adjectives that have always been synonymous with the stallion. It has always been a trusted partner of the mankind primarily as a form of transportation and many a time going through the thick and thin with our ancestors in the battle field.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>People who are born in the horse year love freedom. They are bold to express themselves and dare to pursue their dream. Such people are independent but they do enjoy social events. Nevertheless, they may appear to be aloof at times and this sometimes leads others to think that they are egoistic.</em><br />
<em>Having said that, those that belong to horse zodiac sign do enjoy better luck in terms of inter-people relationship. They are often met with helpful bosses and friends. If there is something that those born in the year of horse needs to be mindful of, it would be their desire to be unrestrained. This would ultimately have a repercussion on their relationship with their working partner or spouse since the level of commitment may dwindle over times.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>When selecting the names for your baby, we should choose those Chinese characters that can accentuate the positive attributes of the horse because there is an affiliation and resonance of energy between the zodiac sign and the way the character was scripted and evolved from the Chinese oracle.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<strong><em>Does Your Baby Have A Better Head-Start In Life?</em></strong><br />
<em>When we are born into this world, our surname has already been predetermined. Surname has a very heavy influence on the early part of our life. According to the principles of the Chinese Name Selection system, it governs our childhood luck, parents’ relationship with us, achievement in academic pursuit and upbringing. You can have 2 children born in the same year but bearing different surnames and this would give rise to different effect in terms of their destiny.</em><br />
<em>For instance, it would be preferable for horse babies to be born into families carrying surname like:<br />王、彭、陳、朱、張、熊、姜、龔、馮、許、丁、譚、 吳、黃、顏、蕭、蔡and etc.</em><br />
<em>It does not favour surnames such as:<br />徐、岳、孔、李、孫、郭、洪、汪、泰、江、沈、溫、潘、呂、高、鄭、翁、劉 and etc.</em><br />
<em>However, if it is found that the horse babies are born with surname that have conflicting energy, we will need to make sure that the 2nd and 3rd Chinese names are carefully calculated to harmonise the impact.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>The second Chinese character or middle name represents one’s relationship with spouse, romance and rapport with peers and the last name has a direct impact on a person’s career, wealth and children luck.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>The approach to selecting good names for your baby is a rigorous and holistic one because not only there is a need to ensure the names complement the baby’s destiny chart, individual Chinese character within the name must also contain the right strokes, right sound, right shape that ultimately create the right result for the child. It is quite common nowadays that many children and adults are seeking help from name experts to enhance or improve their study, romance, career luck and even one’s behaviour.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<strong><em>What Chinese Names Are Suitable For Babies Born In The Year Of Horse?</em></strong><br />
<em>Let us first try to understand some of the intrinsic characteristics of the horse so that from there we select Chinese characters that are appropriate for them. In the study of Chinese metaphysics, horse belongs to the fire element and hence, it is in conflict with water element. Together with dragon, horse has always been regarded as noble and elegant. In terms of diet, horse does not eat meat as it only feeds on grass and grains. Horse loves to trot in the open green and it feels safe and secured under the shelter.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<em>The following Chinese characters or radicals are some examples that are considered <span style="color: red;">auspicious</span> for people born in horse year:</em><br />
<ol>
<li><em>艿、芊、芙、芝、芩、芬、芮、芳、芷、苑、苓、茵、茹、莉、華、菁、萱、科、秦、秀、谷、豐、艷<br />(Good to see radicals like「艸」「禾」「豆」because horse is herbivorous and this implies the horse is well fed which will lead to a stronger and healthier body)</em></li>
<li><em>純、素、紳、紫、緯、維、緹、繆、衫、衿、袁、裕、彤、采、彥、彩、彬、彪(Good to see「糸」「衣」「彡」「采」「亠」「爫」radicals as this implies only elite and outstanding horses are dressed up. This also implies the horse earns its respect from others and will lead to an increase in status as well.)</em></li>
<li><em>木、杉、彬、琳、杞、榮、林、柄、霖、柔、杰、棟、森、楊、楚、村、松、樺 (Good to see「木」radical because horses belong to the forest and they love to gallop and wander in it. This increases the adaptability and enhances the horse’s efficiency.)</em></li>
<li><em>守、安、宋、宗、宜、定、宥、家、宸、容、榮、冠、莹 (Good to see「宀」、「冖」radicals because it means the horse is well rested and protected under a roof or cave.)</em></li>
<li><em>龍、攏、龐、辰、農、穠、寶、宸 (Good to see「龍」「辰」because in Chinese there is saying 龙马精神 which implies one will be enthusiastic, passionate, energetic and will achieve success in study and career.)</em></li>
<li><em>彪、寅、獻、成、茂、城、建、 莲、达、凯、南、美、群、進、 盛、 翔 (Good to see「寅」「戌」「巳」「午」「未」radicals because in the study of Chinese metaphysics, such words form a special resonance with horse zodiac and they have very positive and powerful influence on people born in the year of horse in terms of career, marriage, people’s luck, health, wealth and etc.)</em></li>
</ol>
<em>On the contrary, below Chinese characters are considered<span style="color: red;"> inauspicious</span> for people having horse zodiac sign:</em><br />
<ol>
<li><em>畸、留、町、畫、勇、由、當、富、男、甸、界、單、畛、畢 (Not good to have「田、甫」radicals because only mediocre horses will be used to plough the field. This implies people have to sacrifice or tend to receive the short end of the stick in their dealings with people.)</em></li>
<li><em>晶,喬、單、嘉、品、呂、器、嚴、哥、喜、煦、吉, 昌 (Not good to have more than one「日」or「口」radicals in the name because two 口form the Chinese word 骂 or “Scold” in English. People born in the year of Horse who have such combination in the Chinese name tend to easily be involved in disputes, attract petty people, say the wrong things and make enemies.)</em></li>
<li><em>冰、汪、泉、深、永、津、洲、海、涵、淑、凌、子、孝、季 (Not good to have「水」or「子」radicals because horse belongs to fire element and it is in conflict with water element)</em></li>
<li><em>恆、悠、慈、思、心、志、忠、念、怡、恬、恩、惠、意、愛、愉、慧、育 (Not good to have「心、月、忄」radicals because horse does not eat meat and such words contain elements of heart which is part of our body. In reality, people having such radical especially at the last character of the name often run into money problem. They always complain they are not able to grow their savings.)</em></li>
<li><em>山、岡、岳、岷、峻、崇、峰、崢、嵩、崑、崎、岱 (Not good to have「山」radical because for a horse to run on mountain road it is an uphill task. This implies one has to put in a lot of effort in their endeavours but it does not guarantee a favourable outcome. Not smooth-sailing.)</em></li>
<li><em>光、典、其、充、先、共、克、宏、雄、弘、公、俊、芸、 振、 提 (Not good to have「ㄙ」「手」「ㄦ」 in the name as such characters are very harmful to horse since it controls and restrains the movement of the horse, rendering it useless. It is also detrimental to the health of the horse. In real life, people found to have such characters are saddled with financial issues and they are not able to breakthrough and achieve what they want.)</em></li>
</ol>
<em>The above information serves to give you some insights and new perspectives on Chinese Name Selection for Horse babies. It is best to seek professional advice if you are contemplating of picking auspicious names for your child to have a smooth-sailing path in future.</em><br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://thenewageparents.com/auspicious-chinese-names-for-horse-babies/">http://thenewageparents.com/auspicious-chinese-names-for-horse-babies/</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-75390183748957757522014-01-08T17:29:00.002+08:002014-01-08T17:30:37.259+08:00Milk supply: How much milk should I pump?<br />
Most breastfeeding mothers tend to worry about their milk supply. "How much milk did you pump in week 3?" Many would compare their supply with their friends and colleagues. They are constantly worrying if they are giving their babies enough milk. How much expressed milk will my baby need?<br />
<br />
As a general rule, if the first month of exclusive breastfeeding is going well, your milk production dramatically increases from about 30 ml on Day 1 to a peak of about 900 ml per baby around Day 40.<br />
<br />
In exclusively breastfed babies, milk intake increases quickly during the first few weeks of life, then stays about the same between one and six months. After six months, breastmilk intake will continue at this same level until — sometime after six months, depending in baby’s intake from other foods — baby’s milk intake begins to decrease gradually.<br />
<br />
Research tells us that exclusively breastfed babies take in an average of 750 ml per day between the ages of 1 month and 6 months. Different babies take in different amounts of milk; a typical range of milk intakes is 570-900 ml per day.<br />
<br />
We can use this information to estimate the average amount of milk baby will need at a feeding:<br />
<ul>
<li>Estimate the number of times that baby nurses per day (24 hours).</li>
<li>Then divide 750 ml by the number of nursings.</li>
<li>This gives you a “ballpark” figure for the amount of expressed milk your exclusively breastfed baby will need at one feeding.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://kellymom.com/bf/pumpingmoms/pumping/milkcalc/">http://kellymom.com/bf/pumpingmoms/pumping/milkcalc/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nancymohrbacher.com/blog/2012/11/27/how-much-milk-should-you-expect-to-pump.html">http://www.nancymohrbacher.com/blog/2012/11/27/how-much-milk-should-you-expect-to-pump.html</a><br />
<a href="http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/9241562110.pdf">http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/9241562110.pdf</a><br />
<br />
<sup></sup><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-15355468693125823722013-12-21T16:59:00.000+08:002013-12-21T16:59:26.513+08:00Why do babies spit milk?Don't worry. It is normal for young babies to spit up regularly. The peak age for spitting up is 4 months.
<br />
<a href="javascript:void(0)" id="videoPromo10346342" shape="rect"> </a><div class="dialogLarge_ videoFloater dialogBox" id="videoFloater10346342" style="display: none;">
<div class="dialogBody_">
<a class="dialogCloseBtn" href="javascript:void(0);" id="videoFloaterCloser10346342" shape="rect"></a><div class="dialogInner_">
<div class="fakeH1">
How to calm a crying baby</div>
<div class="inner">
<span id="_containerbcVideoPlayerExperience10346342" style="display: inline-block;"></span> <div class="seeAllLink">
<a href="http://www.babycenter.com/video" shape="rect">See all videos</a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
When your baby takes in air along with his breast milk or formula, the air gets trapped in with the liquid. The air has to come up, and when it does, some of the liquid comes up too, through his mouth or nose.<br /><br />Some babies take in too much milk for their sizes, so sometimes they become overfilled and milk overflow through spitting up.<br /><br />Another reason is a newborn's digestive system isn't fully developed. The muscles at the bottom of your baby's esophagus, which control whether food is coming or going, is yet to be fully developed. So spitting up is not necessarily a worry.<br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://www.babycenter.com/0_why-babies-spit-up_1765.bc">http://www.babycenter.com/0_why-babies-spit-up_1765.bc</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-39984816305226867202013-11-10T18:41:00.001+08:002013-11-10T18:41:19.709+08:00Formula milk consumption and storage guideline<p dir=ltr>Once prepared, the formula is ready to feed to your baby immediately without additional refrigeration or warming.</p>
<p dir=ltr>Formula that's been prepared should be consumed or stored in the refrigerator within 1 hour. </p>
<p dir=ltr>If it has been at room temperature for more than 1 hour, throw it away. And if your baby doesn't drink all the formula in the bottle, throw away the unused portion — do not save it for later.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-45329790710992501622013-10-31T10:00:00.004+08:002013-10-31T10:01:51.489+08:00Kids' learning stylesOne 'style' does not fit all. Everybody has their own learning styles, or rather a prominent way in which they absorb information more effectively than the other - kids' included. Not all children learn the same way. Learning styles describe the ways in which individual children acquire information, evaluate it, and then examine their findings. <br />
<br />
By identifying your child's learning styles, you will be able to understand him better and reinforce the particular skills he needs to succeed in school.<br />
<br />
<br />
<li><strong>SPATIAL VISUAL LEARNER</strong> -- Needs and likes to visualize things; learns through images; enjoys art and drawing; reads maps, charts and diagrams well; fascinated with machines and inventions; plays with legos; likes mazes and puzzles. Often accused of being a daydreamer in class. </li>
<br />
MOTIVATING TIPS -- Use board games and memory devices to create visual patterns. In reading suggest visual clues. Offer picture books of all types; when reading chapter books together, encourage visualization of story and scenes at intervals. Promote writing via colored pens, computer or drawing. <br />
<br />
<br />
<li><strong>KINETIC LEARNER</strong> -- Processes knowledge through physical sensations; highly active, not able to sit still long; communicates with body language and gestures. Shows you rather than tells you; needs to touch and feel world; good at mimicking others; likes scary amusement rides; naturally athletic and enjoys sports. Often labelled with attention deficient disorder. </li>
<br />
MOTIVATING TIPS -- Physical action is the key ingredient to stimulating this student. While reading, let child chew gum, walk around, rock or ride stationary bicycle. Use numerous hands-on activities and experiments, art projects, nature walks or acting out stories. <br />
<br />
<br />
<li><strong>LANGUAGE-ORIENTED LEARNER</strong> -- Thinks in words, verbalizes concepts; spins tales and jokes; spells words accurately and easily. Can be a good reader or prefer the spoken word more; has excellent memory for names, dates and trivia; likes word games; enjoys using tape recorders and often musically talented. </li>
<br />
MOTIVATING TIPS -- Encourage creation of own word problems. Have child dictate a story to you and watch while you write it or type it out on a word processor -- then child can share it with you. Read aloud together and tape session for later playback. Consider purchasing some book/tape selections. <br />
<br />
<br />
<li><strong>LOGICAL</strong> <strong>LEARNER</strong> -- Thinks conceptually, likes to explore patterns and relationships; enjoys puzzles and seeing how things work; constantly questions and wonders; capable of highly abstract forms of logical thinking at early age; computes math problems quickly in head; enjoys strategy games, computers and experiments with purpose; creates own designs to build with blocks/legos. </li>
<br />
MOTIVATING TIPS -- Do science experiments together and have child record results; use computer learning games and word puzzles. Offer context clues as a reading aid. Introduce non-fiction and rhyming books. When reading fiction, discuss relation of story to real-life situations and people. <br />
<br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://www.fortnet.org/ParentToParent/PFellers/par_lern.html">http://www.fortnet.org/ParentToParent/PFellers/par_lern.html</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-14147312305042808412012-06-21T11:37:00.001+08:002012-06-21T20:55:18.869+08:00Puberty in boysA good source of information below:<br />
<br />
<i>Boys and girls begin and end puberty at all different ages. What is considered 'normal' or typical varies a great deal. To get a better idea of how much variation is considered normal, it is important to understand how puberty is assessed.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Puberty, the natural progression from a child-like physique to an adult body, begins with hormonal signaling between the gonads (the testes in the case of boys) and a part of the brain called the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. <b>In boys, puberty usually begins between 9 and 14 years of age</b> in the United States. (This is an important point to make as ethnicity apparently influences the average age at which puberty begins both for boys and girls.) If there is evidence of testicular enlargement before the 9th birthday or no evidence of pubertal changes by the 14th birthday, then those are reasons for concern and must be evaluated.</i><br />
<i>Th<b>e first physical change </b>that is noted in a boy is the <b>enlargement of the testes and the lengthening of the penis</b>. In the second stage of pubertal development, the<b> skin over the scrotum begins to thin and redden</b> and there is the beginning of a<b> sparse amount of pubic hair at the base of the penis. </b>Because most parents are no longer seeing their children fully undressed in early adolescence, these very early changes in boys may not be noticeable to the parent.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>The third stage of puberty begins when there is increased amount of pubic hair that is noticeably coarser and darker than before. It is at this point that the <b>peak height velocity</b> or 'growth spurt' usually begins. This is the most obvious physical change and is typically about <b>two years after the onset of the very first signs of puberty.</b> The <b>'growth spurt' lasts about two to three years.</b> A boy achieves about 25% of his final adult height during the growth spurt, and he will gain an average of <b>3.5 inches a year</b> during this time. This compares to 2.3 inches per year in the prepubertal male. Another common occurrence in the third stage of puberty is the development of <b>breast tissue</b>. This is called gynecomastia, and it can be on one or both sides. For most boys this is a passing change that will spontaneously improve if the breast tissue is less than 1.5 inches across.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>After the onset of the third stage of puberty, boys also<b> gain in muscle mass, the voice deepens, acne </b>frequently becomes bothersome. The fourth and fifth stages of pubertal development are marked by increased in pubic, axillary, and body hair as well as further enlargement of the penis and testes. For boys there is also a 'strength' spurt related to the increased muscle mass. Final height is usually achieved during the final stages of puberty. A look at the growth charts for boys ages two to eighteen can give you some sense of where your son fits in with his peers with regard to height and weight.</i><br />
<br />
Source:<br />
<a href="http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/development/puberty_boys.html">http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/development/puberty_boys.html</a>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-43357549931146519322012-06-18T14:35:00.001+08:002012-06-18T14:37:31.276+08:00Earwax: digging your child's earThere are many articles out there about earwax and the advice on not to dig children's ears, the ears self-clean by themselves, they said. <span style="background-color: white;">OK, here are some information to resolve the misunderstandings. </span><br />
<br />
<i>Earwax, also known as cerumen, is usually a friend, not a foe. It is formed by secretions from the sebaceous glands lining the ear canal, plus a collection of the cells that slough off from the lining of the ear canal. Earwax has protective properties. It provides a barrier protecting the sensitive lining of the ear canal against water. It also contains infection-fighting elements that protect against bacterial and fungal infections.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Yet, earwax can plug the canal, causing irritation and sometimes interfering with hearing. Earwax may also need to be removed if your doctor suspects an ear infection and needs a clear view of the eardrum.
The best way to handle earwax is to not handle it at all. Leave it alone. Do not go mining for wax in your child's ear. You may only use your finger or wet cloth to remove any visible wax from the outside of the ear canal. Experts advice not to dig ears for the fear of pushing even more wax deeper into the ear. This can lead to a totally blocked ear canal.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Although the advice is to "leave it alone," wax can build up enough to completely block the ear canal. This feeling can be very uncomfortable for a person. It can also muffle the hearing, which is okay for a brief time, but not good if left alone. Children and adults need to hear optimally to function in life. If an infant or toddler goes for many months with blocked ears, this can interfere with speech development.</i><br />
<br />
So if digging of ears is necessary, see a doctor. Otherwise, if you are doing it yourself, use a wooden ear digger (the type with a tiny spoon), don't use cotton buds as you might end up pushing the ear wax deeper in.<br />
<br />
Here are some summarised tips:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><i><span style="background-color: white;">Never dig your children's ears with a cotton bud. </span><span style="background-color: white;">It will make matters worse as the cotton buds would push the dirt deeper into the ear and there it will stay. </span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="background-color: white;">The ear wax forms on the outer part of the ear where there is ear hair. It will trap the dirt. </span><span style="background-color: white;">The wax in the ear will 'clean out' the dirt in the ear. It will flow out to the outer part of the ear and that's when we clean it out. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Don't dig in.</span></i></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Use an ear digger (the metal/wooden ones with a tiny spoon). Not cotton bud. </i></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Don't dig in. Esp for babies and children. Their ear drums ain't too far in. </i></span></li>
</ol>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Sources:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/childhood-illnesses/earwax
http://joanne-momsays.blogspot.sg/2009/11/should-we-dig-our-childrens-ears.html
http://www.babycenter.com/0_earwax-buildup_11426.bc</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-46278260016844618442012-06-18T12:41:00.000+08:002012-06-18T12:41:15.532+08:00Puberty in girlsThis is a good article on puberty development in girls. Important points are highlighted in bold.<br />
<br />
<i>Normal puberty in girls is a complicated topic. To understand what is normal, we need to start with some basic information. Before any visible changes take place, hormonal changes are occurring for a couple of years. These hormonal changes start in the adrenal glands, two small organs that rest on top of either kidney. These hormones send signals to an area of the brain known as the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus and the pituitary, in turn, send hormonal signals to the gonads, which in the case of girls, are the ovaries. This system of signaling takes a couple of years to become fully established, but once it does, then the physical, visible changes that we call puberty begin to take place.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Puberty follows a fairly consistent sequence in girls. Doctors stage the physical changes on a scale of 1 to 5, called Tanner staging. Children who do not show any physical changes of puberty are at Tanner stage 1. Adults who have completed puberty are at Tanner stage 5. For girls, Tanner staging is done to assess both breast and pubic hair changes. Sometimes the changes in these two areas are not at the same Tanner stage at the same time, and that is okay.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>The <b>first visible changes</b> are usually the development of <b>breast buds </b>(known as thelarche). This usually occurs between<b> ages 7 to 13 </b>and marks the transition to Tanner stage 2. Again ethnicity plays a factor in the age at which puberty first appears. Up to 15% of African-American girls with have breast buds by age seven years. Percent body fat is another factor associated with the earlier onset of pubertal changes. However, many overweight girls only appear to have breast development because of increased body fat deposited on the chest. This “pseudo” breast development can usually differentiated from real breast development by a doctor during the physical exam. Breast budding may begin on one side before the other and is often accompanied by tenderness. The tenderness generally goes away in a few months.</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>Following breast development, most girls then have the development of coarse, dark <b>pubic hair</b> (adrenarche) generally limited to the labia majora. This is also Tanner stage 2. Some girls (about 15%) will have the development of pubic hair before breast development. The amount of<b> pubic hair increases to an almost adult amount prior to the onset of the menses</b> (Tanner stage 3).</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
<i>The<b> onset of the menstrual cycles (menarche) begins about 2 to 2 1/2 years after the onset of breast development</b>. Thus, the menstrual cycle can occur anywhere from <b>age 9 to age 15 </b>and be considered 'normal.' Most girls do not have regular, predictable menstrual cycles for another year or two.</i><br />
<i>Most girls have their growth spurt in the year preceding the onset of the menstrual cycles and have reached closed to their final adult height, unlike boys who have their 'growth spurt' later in puberty. Most girls stop having bone growth within 18 to 24 months after the onset of menses.</i><br />
<br />
Source: <a href="http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/development/puberty_girls.html">http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/development/puberty_girls.html</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-5361303875665797142012-06-18T11:44:00.002+08:002012-06-18T12:33:20.479+08:00How many times can your healthy child sneeze in a day?I know this is outright funny. But there are parents who are as paranoid as this. The moment their child sneezes, they get uptight, fearing a flu or cold. So perhaps this information about the number of times a child can sneeze in a day will give them some comfort.<br />
<br />
<i>A healthy person sneeze on average up to 13 times in a day.</i><br />
Source: <a href="http://www.chineseop.com/health/How-many-times-does-the-average-person-sneeze-a-day-.html">http://www.chineseop.com/health/How-many-times-does-the-average-person-sneeze-a-day-.html</a><br />
<br />
Of course, we do not know if the source is credible. If anyone has other answers, please tell us.<br />
Meanwhile, parents, just relax :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-52532801562602346582010-12-15T20:20:00.003+08:002010-12-15T20:28:15.325+08:00Water requirements for childrenHave you ever wondered what is the amount of fluid your child should be taking in a day? We all always say that adults should drink 8 glasses of water a day, so what about the kids? There is actually a method of calculating the fluid requirements for your child. See below:<br /><br /><strong>Body weight method:<br /></strong><br /><10 kg<br />100 mL/kg/day<br /><br />11-20 kg<br />1000 mL + 50 mL/kg (for each kg >10)<br /><br />>20 kg<br />1500 mL + 20 mL/kg (for each kg >20)<br /><br />This is also known as the Holliday-Segar Fluid Requirement Calculation.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-59242563638361257012010-12-04T15:16:00.003+08:002010-12-04T15:29:13.386+08:00Cow's Milk, Almond Milk, Rice Milk, Soy Milk?<em>Recently I was introduced to articles about the dangers of cow's milk. I was horrified to read about so many disadvantages of cow's milk. We have all been brought up drinking cow's milk and thinking how wholesome it is! Many people, despite knowing the truth, are still skeptical. They thought "We have all drank cow's milk when we were young and we are fine! So how wrong can it be?" My only advice is "don't let stubbornness rule your head" - Have a read. No harm finding out more.<br /><br />Below article is full adapted from <a href="http://curezone.com/blogs/fm.asp?i=984989">http://curezone.com/blogs/fm.asp?i=984989</a></em><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">With recent news about the price of milk on the rise to unprecedented costs, I decided to post this "deadly poison" information about milk. Why pay even more than ever just to get sick?<br />Date: 9/28/2007 9:17:15 AM ( 3 y ) ... viewed 10731 times </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;">When I grew up, milk was a staple. Everyone had it, even the family who ate health food and were eccentric. It is hard to believe that Curezonians would drink milk, as they are more informed than the general public. Now, Dr. Mercola of mercola.com, believes raw cow's milk or goat's milk is ok and actually healthy. I believe we can get those nutrients elsewhere and click here for raw milk info. Milk doesn't have hardly any vitamin D. It has to be added (fortified). Milk also is a poor source of calcium. But, high amounts calcium actually interferes with absorption of calcium anyway, which can actually cause osteoporosis. Furthermore, milk is protein and protein inhibits calcium absorption. Every baby who drinks milk, whether it be cow or human or other, their own mother produces the kind of milk they need. I am sure you have heard "cow's milk is for baby cows" by the milk opponents. Well, it is true and there is science behind it. Many doctors say cow's milk leads to lactose intolerance, while pointing out we are the only species to drink another species' milk and we are the only species to drink milk past babyhood. </span><br /><span style="font-family:courier new;"><br />But if that isn't enough to scare you, 60% of the cows in America have the Leukemia virus. 80% have paratuberculosis, which many scientists believe is the cause of Functional Dyspepsia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Crohn's Disease.<br /><br />Dr. Robert M. Kradjian, Breast Surgery Chief of California's Seton Medical Center, thinks three glasses is too much. In fact, he thinks you shouldn't drink any milk at all. After systematically reviewing the archives of medical and scientific journals, his findings were "slightly less than horrifying."<br /><br />No, don't drink soy milk, i'll post about it later. The beans are acid washed in aluminum vats and the funny taste you get in soy milk is from the retention of that aluminum. The only safe soy for humans to consume is fermented soy, because the anti-nutrient properties are mostly removed by the processing.<br /><br />Years ago, when I found out about milk, I quit. I had heard about the book: Milk, the deadly poison. That was enough for me. At first I drank soy milk, but researched it and quickly disposed of it. Then, I discovered almond milk, and later, rice milk. I began using almond milk is all recipes just like it were milk. It works perfect. In some things you would want to use rice milk because almond milk has a distinct flavor and you can taste it in some recipes. Rice milk is a bit too sweet for me, so I use it less often. The only brand I buy is Pacific, in both almond and rice, because they taste best. Almond breeze tastes funny to me.<br /><br /><strong>GOT MILK? You may wish you didn't:<br />THE MILK LETTER : A MESSAGE TO MY PATIENTS<br /></strong>Robert M. Kradjian, MD Breast Surgery Chief Division of General Surgery, Seton Medical Centre #302 - 1800 Sullivan Ave. Daly City, CA 94015 USA<br /><br />"MILK" Just the word itself sounds comforting! "How about a nice cup of hot milk?" The last time you heard that question it was from someone who cared for you--and you appreciated their effort.<br /><br />The entire matter of food and especially that of milk is surrounded with emotional and cultural importance. Milk was our very first food. If we were fortunate it was our mother's milk. A loving link, given and taken. It was the only path to survival. If not mother's milk it was cow's milk or soy milk "formula"--rarely it was goat, camel or water buffalo milk.<br /><br />Now, we are a nation of milk drinkers. Nearly all of us. Infants, the young, adolescents, adults and even the aged. We drink dozens or even several hundred gallons a year and add to that many pounds of "dairy products" such as cheese, butter, and yogurt.<br /><br />Can there be anything wrong with this? We see reassuring images of healthy, beautiful people on our television screens and hear messages that assure us that, "Milk is good for your body." Our dieticians insist that: "You've got to have milk, or where will you get your calcium?" School lunches always include milk and nearly every hospital meal will have milk added. And if that isn't enough, our nutritionists told us for years that dairy products make up an "essential food group." Industry spokesmen made sure that colourful charts proclaiming the necessity of milk and other essential nutrients were made available at no cost for schools. Cow's milk became "normal."<br /><br />You may be surprised to learn that most of the human beings that live on planet Earth today do not drink or use cow's milk. Further, most of them can't drink milk because it makes them ill.<br /><br />There are students of human nutrition who are not supportive of milk use for adults. Here is a quotation from the March/April 1991 Utne Reader:<br /><br />If you really want to play it safe, you may decide to join the growing number of Americans who are eliminating dairy products from their diets altogether. Although this sounds radical to those of us weaned on milk and the five basic food groups, it is eminently viable. Indeed, of all the mammals, only humans--and then only a minority, principally Caucasians--continue to drink milk beyond babyhood.<br /><br />Who is right? Why the confusion? Where best to get our answers? Can we trust milk industry spokesmen? Can you trust any industry spokesmen? Are nutritionists up to date or are they simply repeating what their professors learned years ago? What about the new voices urging caution?<br /><br />I believe that there are three reliable sources of information. The first, and probably the best, is a study of nature. The second is to study the history of our own species. Finally we need to look at the world's scientific literature on the subject of milk.<br /><br />Let's look at the scientific literature first. From 1988 to<br />1993 there were over 2,700 articles dealing with milk recorded in the 'Medicine' archives. Fifteen hundred of theses had milk as the main focus of the article. There is no lack of scientific information on this subject. I reviewed over 500 of the 1,500 articles, discarding articles that dealt exclusively with animals, esoteric research and inconclusive studies.<br /><br />How would I summarize the articles? They were only slightly less than horrifying. First of all, none of the authors spoke of cow's milk as an excellent food, free of side effects and the 'perfect food' as we have been led to believe by the industry. The main focus of the published reports seems to be on intestinal colic, intestinal irritation, intestinal bleeding, anemia, allergic reactions in infants and children as well as infections such as salmonella. More ominous is the fear of viral infection with bovine leukemia virus or an AIDS-like virus as well as concern for childhood diabetes. Contamination of milk by blood and white (pus) cells as well as a variety of chemicals and insecticides was also discussed. Among children the problems were allergy, ear and tonsillar infections, bedwetting, asthma, intestinal bleeding, colic and childhood diabetes. In adults the problems seemed centered more around heart disease and arthritis, allergy, sinusitis, and the more serious questions of leukemia, lymphoma and cancer.<br /><br />I think that an answer can also be found in a consideration of what occurs in nature & what happens with free living mammals and what happens with human groups living in close to a natural state as 'hunter-gatherers'.<br /><br />Our paleolithic ancestors are another crucial and interesting group to study. Here we are limited to speculation and indirect evidences, but the bony remains available for our study are remarkable. There is no doubt whatever that these skeletal remains reflect great strength, muscularity (the size of the muscular insertions show this), and total absence of advanced osteoporosis. And if you feel that these people are not important for us to study, consider that today our genes are programming our bodies in almost exactly the same way as our ancestors of 50,000 to<br />100,000 years ago.<br /><br /><strong>WHAT IS MILK?</strong><br /><br />Milk is a maternal lactating secretion, a short term nutrient for new-borns. Nothing more, nothing less. Invariably, the mother of any mammal will provide her milk for a short period of time immediately after birth. When the time comes for 'weaning', the young offspring is introduced to the proper food for that species of mammal. A familiar example is that of a puppy. The mother nurses the pup for just a few weeks and then rejects the young animal and teaches it to eat solid food. Nursing is provided by nature only for the very youngest of mammals. Of course, it is not possible for animals living in a natural state to continue with the drinking of milk after weaning.<br /><br /><strong>IS ALL MILK THE SAME?<br /></strong><br />Then there is the matter of where we get our milk. We have settled on the cow because of its docile nature, its size, and its abundant milk supply. Somehow this choice seems 'normal' and blessed by nature, our culture, and our customs. But is it natural? Is it wise to drink the milk of another species of mammal?<br /><br />Consider for a moment, if it was possible, to drink the milk of a mammal other than a cow, let's say a rat. Or perhaps the milk of a dog would be more to your liking. Possibly some horse milk or cat milk. Do you get the idea? Well, I'm not serious about this, except to suggest that human milk is for human infants, dogs' milk is for pups, cows' milk is for calves, cats' milk is for kittens, and so forth. Clearly, this is the way nature intends it. Just use your own good judgement on this one.<br /><br />Milk is not just milk. The milk of every species of mammal is unique and specifically tailored to the requirements of that animal. For example, cows' milk is very much richer in protein than human milk. Three to four times as much. It has five to seven times the mineral content. However, it is markedly deficient in essential fatty acids when compared to human mothers' milk. Mothers' milk has six to ten times as much of the essential fatty acids, especially linoleic acid.<br />(Incidentally, skimmed cow's milk has no linoleic acid). It simply is not designed for humans.<br /><br />Food is not just food, and milk is not just milk. It is not only the proper amount of food but the proper qualitative composition that is critical for the very best in health and growth. Biochemists and physiologists -and rarely medical doctors - are gradually learning that foods contain the crucial elements that allow a particular species to develop its unique specializations.<br /><br />Clearly, our specialization is for advanced neurological development and delicate neuromuscular control. We do not have much need of massive skeletal growth or huge muscle groups as does a calf. Think of the difference between the demands make on the human hand and the demands on a cow's hoof. Human new-borns specifically need critical material for their brains, spinal cord and nerves.<br /><br />Can mother's milk increase intelligence? It seems that it can. In a remarkable study published in Lancet during 1992<br />(Vol. 339, p. 261-4), a group of British workers randomly placed premature infants into two groups. One group received a proper formula, the other group received human breast milk. Both fluids were given by stomach tube. These children were followed up for over 10 years. In intelligence testing, the human milk children averaged 10 IQ points higher! Well, why not? Why wouldn't the correct building blocks for the rapidly maturing and growing brain have a positive effect?<br /><br />In the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1982) Ralph Holman described an infant who developed profound neurological disease while being nourished by intravenous fluids only. The fluids used contained only linoleic acid - just one of the essential fatty acids. When the other, alpha linoleic acid, was added to the intravenous fluids the neurological disorders cleared.<br /><br />In the same journal five years later Bjerve, Mostad and Thoresen, working in Norway found exactly the same problem in adult patients on long term gastric tube feeding.<br /><br />In 1930 Dr. G.O. Burr in Minnesota working with rats found that linoleic acid deficiencies created a deficiency syndrome. Why is this mentioned? In the early 1960s pediatricians found skin lesions in children fed formulas without the same linoleic acid. Remembering the research, the addition of the acid to the formula cured the problem. Essential fatty acids are just that and cows' milk is markedly deficient in these when compared to human milk.<br /><br /><strong>WELL, AT LEAST COW'S MILK IS PURE<br /></strong><br />Or is it? Fifty years ago an average cow produced 2,000 pounds of milk per year. Today the top producers give 50,000 pounds! How was this accomplished? Drugs, antibiotics, hormones, forced feeding plans and specialized breeding; that's how.<br /><br />The latest high-tech onslaught on the poor cow is bovine growth hormone or BGH. This genetically engineered drug is supposed to stimulate milk production but, according to Monsanto, the hormone's manufacturer, does not affect the milk or meat. There are three other manufacturers: Upjohn, Eli Lilly, and American Cyanamid Company. Obviously, there have been no long-term studies on the hormone's effect on the humans drinking the milk. Other countries have banned BGH because of safety concerns. One of the problems with adding molecules to a milk cows' body is that the molecules usually come out in the milk. I don't know how you feel, but I don't want to experiment with the ingestion of a growth hormone. A related problem is that it causes a marked increase (50 to 70 per cent) in mastitis. This, then, requires antibiotic therapy, and the residues of the antibiotics appear in the milk. It seems that the public is uneasy about this product and in one survey 43 per cent felt that growth hormone treated milk represented a health risk. A vice president for public policy at Monsanto was opposed to labelling for that reason, and because the labelling would create an 'artificial distinction'. The country is awash with milk as it is, we produce more milk than we can consume. Let's not create storage costs and further taxpayer burdens, because the law requires the USDA to buy any surplus of butter, cheese, or non-fat dry milk at a support price set by Congress! In fiscal 1991, the USDA spent $757 million on surplus butter, and one billion dollars a year on average for price supports during the 1980s (Consumer Reports, May 1992: 330-32).<br /><br />Any lactating mammal excretes toxins through her milk. This includes antibiotics, pesticides, chemicals and hormones. Also, all cows' milk contains blood! The inspectors are simply asked to keep it under certain limits. You may be horrified to learn that the USDA allows milk to contain from one to one and a half million white blood cells per millilitre. (That's only 1/30 of an ounce). If you don't already know this, I'm sorry to tell you that another way to describe white cells where they don't belong would be to call them pus cells. To get to the point, is milk pure or is it a chemical, biological, and bacterial cocktail? Finally, will the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) protect you? The United States General Accounting Office (GAO) tells us that the FDA and the individual States are failing to protect the public from drug residues in milk. Authorities test for only<br />4 of the 82 drugs in dairy cows.<br /><br />As you can imagine, the Milk Industry Foundation's spokesman claims it's perfectly safe. Jerome Kozak says, "I still think that milk is the safest product we have."<br /><br />Other, perhaps less biased observers, have found the following: 38% of milk samples in 10 cities were contaminated with sulfa drugs or other antibiotics. (This from the Centre for Science in the Public Interest and The Wall Street Journal, Dec. 29, 1989).. A similar study in Washington, DC found a 20 percent contamination rate<br />(Nutrition Action Healthletter, April 1990).<br /><br />What's going on here? When the FDA tested milk, they found few problems. However, they used very lax standards. When they used the same criteria, the FDA data showed 51 percent of the milk samples showed drug traces.<br /><br />Let's focus in on this because itÂ's critical to our understanding of the apparent discrepancies. The FDA uses a disk-assay method that can detect only 2 of the 30 or so drugs found in milk. Also, the test detects only at the relatively high level. A more powerful test called the 'Charm II test' can detect drugs down to 5 parts per billion.<br /><br />One nasty subject must be discussed. It seems that cows are forever getting infections around the udder that require ointments and antibiotics. An article from France tells us that when a cow receives penicillin, that penicillin appears in the milk for from 4 to 7 milkings. Another study from the University of Nevada, Reno tells of cells in 'mastic milk', milk from cows with infected udders. An elaborate analysis of the cell fragments, employing cell cultures, flow cytometric analysis , and a great deal of high tech stuff. Do you know what the conclusion was? If the cow has mastitis, there is pus in the milk. Sorry, itÂ's in the study, all concealed with language such as "macrophages containing many vacuoles and phagocytosed particles," etc.<br /><br /><strong>IT GETS WORSE<br /></strong><br />Well, at least human mothers' milk is pure! Sorry. A huge study showed that human breast milk in over 14,000 women had contamination by pesticides! Further, it seems that the sources of the pesticides are meat and--you guessed it-- dairy products. Well, why not? These pesticides are concentrated in fat and that's what's in these products. (Of interest, a subgroup of lactating vegetarian mothers had only half the levels of contamination).<br /><br />A recent report showed an increased concentration of pesticides in the breast tissue of women with breast cancer when compared to the tissue of women with fibrocystic disease. Other articles in the standard medical literature describe problems. Just scan these titles:<br /><br />1.Cow's Milk as a Cause of Infantile Colic Breast-Fed Infants. Lancet 2 (1978): 437 2.Dietary Protein-Induced Colitis in Breast- Fed Infants, J. Pediatr. I01 (1982): 906<br />3.The Question of the Elimination of Foreign Protein in Women's Milk, J. Immunology 19 (1930): 15<br /><br />There are many others. There are dozens of studies describing the prompt appearance of cows' milk allergy in children being exclusively breast-fed! The cows' milk allergens simply appear in the mother's milk and are transmitted to the infant.<br /><br />A committee on nutrition of the American Academy of Pediatrics reported on the use of whole cows' milk in infancy (Pediatrics 1983: 72-253). They were unable to provide any cogent reason why bovine milk should be used before the first birthday yet continued to recommend its use! Doctor Frank Oski from the Upstate Medical Centre Department of Pediatrics, commenting on the recommendation, cited the problems of acute gastrointestinal blood loss in infants, the lack of iron, recurrent abdominal pain, milk- borne infections and contaminants, and said:<br /><br />Why give it at all - then or ever? In the face of uncertainty about many of the potential dangers of whole bovine milk, it would seem prudent to recommend that whole milk not be started until the answers are available. Isn't it time for these uncontrolled experiments on human nutrition to come to an end?<br /><br />In the same issue of Pediatrics he further commented:<br /><br />It is my thesis that whole milk should not be fed to the infant in the first year of life because of its association with iron deficiency anemia (milk is so deficient in iron that an infant would have to drink an impossible 31 quarts a day to get the RDA of 15 mg), acute gastrointiestinal bleeding, and various manifestations of food allergy.<br /><br />I suggest that unmodified whole bovine milk should not be consumed after infancy because of the problems of lactose intolerance, its contribution to the genesis of atherosclerosis, and its possible link to other diseases.<br /><br />In late 1992 Dr. Benjamin Spock, possibly the best known pediatrician in history, shocked the country when he articulated the same thoughts and specified avoidance for the first two years of life. Here is his quotation:<br /><br />I want to pass on the word to parents that cows' milk from the carton has definite faults for some babies. Human milk is the right one for babies. A study comparing the incidence of allergy and colic in the breast-fed infants of omnivorous and vegan mothers would be important. I haven't found such a study; it would be both important and inexpensive. And it will probably never be done. There is simply no academic or economic profit involved.<br /><br /><strong>OTHER PROBLEMS<br /><br /></strong>Let's just mention the problems of bacterial contamination. Salmonella, E. coli, and staphylococcal infections can be traced to milk. In the old days tuberculosis was a major problem and some folks want to go back to those times by insisting on raw milk on the basis that it's "natural." This is insanity! A study from UCLA showed that over a third of all cases of salmonella infection in California, 1980-1983 were traced to raw milk. That'll be a way to revive good old brucellosis again and I would fear leukemia, too. (More about that later). In England, and Wales where raw milk is still consumed there have been outbreaks of milk-borne diseases. The Journal of the American Medical Association<br />(251: 483, 1984) reported a multi-state series of infections caused by Yersinia enterocolitica in pasteurised whole milk. This is despite safety precautions.<br /><br />All parents dread juvenile diabetes for their children. A Canadian study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Mar. 1990, describes a "...significant positive correlation between consumption of unfermented milk protein and incidence of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in data from various countries. Conversely a possible negative relationship is observed between breast-feeding at age 3 months and diabetes risk.".<br /><br />Another study from Finland found that diabetic children had higher levels of serum antibodies to cowsÂ' milk (Diabetes Research 7(3): 137-140 March 1988). Here is a quotation from this study:<br /><br />We infer that either the pattern of cows' milk consumption is altered in children who will have insulin dependent diabetes mellitus or, their immunological reactivity to proteins in cows' milk is enhanced, or the permeability of their intestines to cows' milk protein is higher than normal.<br /><br />The April 18, 1992 British Medical Journal has a fascinating study contrasting the difference in incidence of juvenile insulin dependent diabetes in Pakistani children who have migrated to England. The incidence is roughly 10 times greater in the English group compared to children remaining in Pakistan! What caused this highly significant increase? The authors said that "the diet was unchanged in Great Britain." Do you believe that? Do you think that the availability of milk, sugar and fat is the same in Pakistan as it is in England? That a grocery store in England has the same products as food sources in Pakistan? I don't believe that for a minute. Remember, we're not talking here about adult onset, type II diabetes which all workers agree is strongly linked to diet as well as to a genetic predisposition. This study is a major blow to the "it's all in your genes" crowd. Type I diabetes was always considered to be genetic or possibly viral, but now this? So resistant are we to consider diet as causation that the authors of the last article concluded that the cooler climate in England altered viruses and caused the very real increase in diabetes! The first two authors had the same reluctance top admit the obvious. The milk just may have had something to do with the disease.<br /><br />The latest in this remarkable list of reports, a New England Journal of Medicine article (July 30, 1992), also reported in the Los Angeles Times. This study comes from the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and from Finnish researchers. In Finland there is "...the world's highest rate of dairy product consumption and the world's highest rate of insulin dependent diabetes. The disease strikes about 40 children out of every 1,000 there contrasted with six to eight per<br />1,000 in the United States.... Antibodies produced against the milk protein during the first year of life, the researchers speculate, also attack and destroy the pancreas in a so-called auto-immune reaction, producing diabetes in people whose genetic makeup leaves them vulnerable." "...142 Finnish children with newly diagnosed diabetes. They found that every one had at least eight times as many antibodies against the milk protein as did healthy children, clear evidence that the children had a raging auto immune disorder." The team has now expanded the study to 400 children and is starting a trial where 3,000 children will receive no dairy products during the first nine months of life. "The study may take 10 years, but we'll get a definitive answer one way or the other," according to one of the researchers. I would caution them to be certain that the breast feeding mothers use on cows' milk in their diets or the results will be confounded by the transmission of the cows' milk protein in the mother's breast milk.... Now what was the reaction from the diabetes association? This is very interesting! Dr. F. Xavier Pi-Sunyer, the president of the association says: "It does not mean that children should stop drinking milk or that parents of diabetics should withdraw dairy products. These are rich sources of good protein." (Emphasis added) My God, it's the "good protein" that causes the problem! Do you suspect that the dairy industry may have helped the American Diabetes Association in the past?<br /><br /><strong>LEUKEMIA? LYMPHOMA? THIS MAY BE THE WORST--BRACE YOURSELF!</strong><br />I hate to tell you this, but the bovine leukemia virus is found in more than three of five dairy cows in the United States! This involves about 80% of dairy herds. Unfortunately, when the milk is pooled, a very large percentage of all milk produced is contaminated (90 to 95 per cent). Of course the virus is killed in pasteurisation-- if the pasteurisation was done correctly. What if the milk is raw? In a study of randomly collected raw milk samples the bovine leukemia virus was recovered from two-thirds. I sincerely hope that the raw milk dairy herds are carefully monitored when compared to the regular herds. (Science 1981;<br />213:1014).<br /><br />This is a world-wide problem. One lengthy study from Germany deplored the problem and admitted the impossibility of keeping the virus from infected cows' milk from the rest of the milk. Several European countries, including Germany and Switzerland, have attempted to "cull" the infected cows from their herds. Certainly the United States must be the leader in the fight against leukemic dairy cows, right? Wrong! We are the worst in the world with the former exception of Venezuela according to Virgil Hulse MD, a milk specialist who also has a B.S. in Dairy Manufacturing as well as a Master's degree in Public Health.<br /><br />As mentioned, the leukemia virus is rendered inactive by pasteurisation. Of course. However, there can be Chernobyl like accidents. One of these occurred in the Chicago area in April, 1985. At a modern, large, milk processing plant an accidental "cross connection" between raw and pasteurized milk occurred. A violent salmonella outbreak followed, killing 4 and making an estimated 150,000 ill. Now the question I would pose to the dairy industry people is this: "How can you assure the people who drank this milk that they were not exposed to the ingestion of raw, unkilled, bully active bovine leukemia viruses?" Further, it would be fascinating to know if a "cluster" of leukemia cases blossoms in that area in 1 to 3 decades. There are reports of "leukemia clusters" elsewhere, one of them mentioned in the June 10, 1990 San Francisco Chronicle involving Northern California.<br /><br />What happens to other species of mammals when they are exposed to the bovine leukemia virus? It's a fair question and the answer is not reassuring. Virtually all animals exposed to the virus develop leukemia. This includes sheep, goats, and even primates such as rhesus monkeys and chimpanzees. The route of transmission includes ingestion<br />(both intravenous and intramuscular) and cells present in milk. There are obviously no instances of transfer attempts to human beings, but we know that the virus can infect human cells in vitro. There is evidence of human antibody formation to the bovine leukemia virus; this is disturbing. How did the bovine leukemia virus particles gain access to humans and become antigens? Was it as small, denatured particles?<br /><br />If the bovine leukemia viruses causes human leukemia, we could expect the dairy states with known leukemic herds to have a higher incidence of human leukemia. Is this so? Unfortunately, it seems to be the case! Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin have statistically higher incidence of leukemia than the national average. In Russia and in Sweden, areas with uncontrolled bovine leukemia virus have been linked with increases in human leukemia. I am also told that veterinarians have higher rates of leukemia than the general public. Dairy farmers have significantly elevated leukemia rates. Recent research shows lymphocytes from milk fed to neonatal mammals gains access to bodily tissues by passing directly through the intestinal wall.<br /><br />An optimistic note from the University of Illinois, Ubana from the Department of Animal Sciences shows the importance of one's perspective. Since they are concerned with the economics of milk and not primarily the health aspects, they noted that the production of milk was greater in the cows with the bovine leukemia virus. However when the leukemia produced a persistent and significant lymphocytosis (increased white blood cell count), the production fell off. They suggested "a need to re-evaluate the economic impact of bovine leukemia virus infection on the dairy industry". Does this mean that leukemia is good for profits only if we can keep it under control? You can get the details on this business concern from Proc. Nat. Acad. Sciences, U.S. Feb.<br />1989. I added emphasis and am insulted that a university department feels that this is an economic and not a human health issue. Do not expect help from the Department of Agriculture or the universities. The money stakes and the political pressures are too great. You're on you own.<br /><br />What does this all mean? We know that virus is capable of producing leukemia in other animals. Is it proven that it can contribute to human leukemia (or lymphoma, a related cancer)? Several articles tackle this one:<br /><br />1.Epidemiologic Relationships of the Bovine Population and Human Leukemia in Iowa. Am Journal of Epidemiology 112<br />(1980):80 2.Milk of Dairy Cows Frequently Contains a Leukemogenic Virus. Science 213 (1981): 1014 3.Beware of the Cow. (Editorial) Lancet 2 (1974):30 4.Is Bovine Milk A Health Hazard?. Pediatrics; Suppl. Feeding the Normal Infant. 75:182-186; 1985<br /><br />In Norway, 1422 individuals were followed for 11 and a half years. Those drinking 2 or more glasses of milk per day had<br />3.5 times the incidence of cancer of the lymphatic organs. British Med. Journal 61:456-9, March 1990.<br /><br />One of the more thoughtful articles on this subject is from Allan S. Cunningham of Cooperstown, New York. Writing in the Lancet, November 27, 1976 (page 1184), his article is entitled, "Lymphomas and Animal-Protein Consumption". Many people think of milk as Â"liquid meatÂ" and Dr. Cunningham agrees with this. He tracked the beef and dairy consumption in terms of grams per day for a one year period, 1955-1956., in 15 countries . New Zealand, United States and Canada were highest in that order. The lowest was Japan followed by Yugoslavia and France. The difference between the highest and lowest was quite pronounced: 43.8 grams/day for New Zealanders versus 1.5 for Japan. Nearly a 30-fold difference! (Parenthetically, the last 36 years have seen a startling increase in the amount of beef and milk used in Japan and their disease patterns are reflecting this, confirming the lack of 'genetic protection' seen in migration studies. Formerly the increase in frequency of lymphomas in Japanese people was only in those who moved to the USA)!<br /><br />An interesting bit of trivia is to note the memorial built at the Gyokusenji Temple in Shimoda, Japan. This marked the spot where the first cow was killed in Japan for human consumption! The chains around this memorial were a gift from the US Navy. Where do you suppose the Japanese got the idea to eat beef? The year? 1930.<br /><br />Cunningham found a highly significant positive correlation between deaths from lymphomas and beef and dairy ingestion in the 15 countries analysed. A few quotations from his article follow:<br /><br />The average intake of protein in many countries is far in excess of the recommended requirements. Excessive consumption of animal protein may be one co-factor in the causation of lymphomas by acting in the following manner. Ingestion of certain proteins results in the adsorption of antigenic fragments through the gastrointestinal mucous membrane.<br /><br />This results in chronic stimulation of lymphoid tissue to which these fragments gain access "Chronic immunological stimulation causes lymphomas in laboratory animals and is believed to cause lymphoid cancers in men." The gastrointestinal mucous membrane is only a partial barrier to the absorption of food antigens, and circulating antibodies to food protein is commonplace especially potent lymphoid stimulants. Ingestion of cows' milk can produce generalized lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, and profound adenoid hypertrophy. It has been conservatively estimated that more than 100 distinct antigens are released by the normal digestion of cows' milk which evoke production of all antibody classes [This may explain why pasteurized, killed viruses are still antigenic and can still cause disease.<br /><br />Here's more. A large prospective study from Norway was reported in the British Journal of Cancer 61 (3):456-9, March 1990. (Almost 16,000 individuals were followed for 11 and a half years). For most cancers there was no association between the tumour and milk ingestion. However, in lymphoma, there was a strong positive association. If one drank two glasses or more daily (or the equivalent in dairy products), the odds were 3.4 times greater than in persons drinking less than one glass of developing a lymphoma.<br /><br />There are two other cow-related diseases that you should be aware of. At this time they are not known to be spread by the use of dairy products and are not known to involve man. The first is bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), and the second is the bovine immunodeficiency virus (BIV). The first of these diseases, we hope, is confined to England and causes cavities in the animal's brain. Sheep have long been known to suffer from a disease called scrapie. It seems to have been started by the feeding of contaminated sheep parts, especially brains, to the British cows. Now, use your good sense. Do cows seem like carnivores? Should they eat meat? This profit-motivated practice backfired and bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or Mad Cow Disease, swept Britain. The disease literally causes dementia in the unfortunate animal and is 100 per cent incurable. To date, over 100,000 cows have been incinerated in England in keeping with British law. Four hundred to 500 cows are reported as infected each month. The British public is concerned and has dropped its beef consumption by 25 per cent, while some 2,000 schools have stopped serving beef to children. Several farmers have developed a fatal disease syndrome that resembles both BSE and CJD (Creutzfeldt-Jakob- Disease). But the British Veterinary Association says that transmission of BSE to humans is "remote."<br /><br />The USDA agrees that the British epidemic was due to the feeding of cattle with bonemeal or animal protein produced at rendering plants from the carcasses of scrapie-infected sheep. The have prohibited the importation of live cattle and zoo ruminants from Great Britain and claim that the disease does not exist in the United States. However, there may be a problem. "Downer cows" are animals who arrive at auction yards or slaughter houses dead, trampled, lacerated, dehydrated, or too ill from viral or bacterial diseases to walk. Thus they are "down." If they cannot respond to electrical shocks by walking, they are dragged by chains to dumpsters and transported to rendering plants where, if they are not already dead, they are killed. Even a "humane" death is usually denied them. They are then turned into protein food for animals as well as other preparations. Minks that have been fed this protein have developed a fatal encephalopathy that has some resemblance to BSE. Entire colonies of minks have been lost in this manner, particularly in Wisconsin. It is feared that the infective agent is a prion or slow virus possible obtained from the ill "downer cows."<br /><br />The British Medical Journal in an editorial whimsically entitled "How Now Mad Cow?" (BMJ vol. 304, 11 Apr. 1992:929-<br />30) describes cases of BSE in species not previously known to be affected, such as cats. They admit that produce contaminated with bovine spongiform encephalopathy entered the human food chain in England between 1986 and 1989. They say. "The result of this experiment is awaited." As the incubation period can be up to three decades, wait we must.<br /><br />The immunodeficency virus is seen in cattle in the United States and is more worrisome. Its structure is closely related to that of the human AIDS virus. At this time we do not know if exposure to the raw BIV proteins can cause the sera of humans to become positive for HIV. The extent of the virus among American herds is said to be "widespread". (The USDA refuses to inspect the meat and milk to see if antibodies to this retrovirus is present). It also has no plans to quarantine the infected animals. As in the case of humans with AIDS, there is no cure for BIV in cows. Each day we consume beef and diary products from cows infected with these viruses and no scientific assurance exists that the products are safe. Eating raw beef (as in steak Tartare) strikes me as being very risky, especially after the Seattle E. coli deaths of 1993.<br /><br />A report in the Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research, October 1992, Vol. 56 pp.353-359 and another from the Russian literature, tell of a horrifying development. They report the first detection in human serum of the antibody to a bovine immunodeficiency virus protein. In addition to this disturbing report, is another from Russia telling us of the presence of virus proteins related to the bovine leukemia virus in 5 of 89 women with breast disease (Acta Virologica Feb. 1990 34(1): 19-26). The implications of these developments are unknown at present. However, it is safe to assume that these animal viruses are unlikely to "stay" in the animal kingdom.<br /><br /><strong>OTHER CANCERS--DOES IT GET WORSE?</strong><br /><br />Unfortunately it does. Ovarian cancer--a particularly nasty tumour--was associated with milk consumption by workers at Roswell Park Memorial Institute in Buffalo, New York. Drinking more than one glass of whole milk or equivalent daily gave a woman a 3.1 times risk over non-milk users. They felt that the reduced fat milk products helped reduce the risk. This association has been made repeatedly by numerous investigators.<br /><br />Another important study, this from the Harvard Medical School, analyzed data from 27 countries mainly from the<br />1970s. Again a significant positive correlation is revealed between ovarian cancer and per capita milk consumption. These investigators feel that the lactose component of milk is the responsible fraction, and the digestion of this is facilitated by the persistence of the ability to digest the lactose (lactose persistence) - a little different emphasis, but the same conclusion. This study was reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology 130 (5): 904-10 Nov. 1989. These articles come from two of the country's leading institutions, not the Rodale Press or Prevention Magazine.<br /><br />Even lung cancer has been associated with milk ingestion? The beverage habits of 569 lung cancer patients and 569 controls again at Roswell Park were studied in the International Journal of Cancer, April 15, 1989. Persons drinking whole milk 3 or more times daily had a 2-fold increase in lung cancer risk when compared to those never drinking whole milk.<br /><br />For many years we have been watching the lung cancer rates for Japanese men who smoke far more than American or European men but who develop fewer lung cancers. Workers in this research area feel that the total fat intake is the difference.<br /><br />There are not many reports studying an association between milk ingestion and prostate cancer. One such report though was of great interest. This is from the Roswell Park Memorial Institute and is found in Cancer 64 (3): 605-12,<br />1989. They analyzed the diets of 371 prostate cancer patients and comparable control subjects:<br /><br />Men who reported drinking three or more glasses of whole milk daily had a relative risk of 2.49 compared with men who reported never drinking whole milk the weight of the evidence appears to favour the hypothesis that animal fat is related to increased risk of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer diagnosed in US men and is the second leading cause of cancer mortality.<br /><br /><strong>WELL, WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? </strong><br />Is there any health reason at all for an adult human to drink cows' milk?<br /><br />It's hard for me to come up with even one good reason other than simple preference. But if you try hard, in my opinion, these would be the best two: milk is a source of calcium and it's a source of amino acids (proteins).<br /><br />Let's look at the calcium first. Why are we concerned at all about calcium? Obviously, we intend it to build strong bones and protect us against osteoporosis. And no doubt about it, milk is loaded with calcium. But is it a good calcium source for humans? I think not. These are the reasons. Excessive amounts of dairy products actually interfere with calcium absorption. Secondly, the excess of protein that the milk provides is a major cause of the osteoporosis problem. Dr. H egsted in England has been writing for years about the geographical distribution of osteoporosis. It seems that the countries with the highest intake of dairy products are invariably the countries with the most osteoporosis. He feels that milk is a cause of osteoporosis. Reasons to be given below.<br /><br />Numerous studies have shown that the level of calcium ingestion and especially calcium supplementation has no effect whatever on the development of osteoporosis. The most important such article appeared recently in the British Journal of Medicine where the long arm of our dairy industry can't reach. Another study in the United States actually showed a worsening in calcium balance in post-menopausal women given three 8-ounce glasses of cows' milk per day.<br />(Am. Journal of Clin. Nutrition, 1985). The effects of hormone, gender, weight bearing on the axial bones, and in particular protein intake, are critically important. Another observation that may be helpful to our analysis is to note the absence of any recorded dietary deficiencies of calcium among people living on a natural diet without milk.<br /><br />For the key to the osteoporosis riddle, don't look at calcium, look at protein. Consider these two contrasting groups. Eskimos have an exceptionally high protein intake estimated at 25 percent of total calories. They also have a high calcium intake at 2,500 mg/day. Their osteoporosis is among the worst in the world. The other instructive group are the Bantus of South Africa. They have a 12 percent protein diet, mostly p lant protein, and only 200 to 350 mg/day of calcium, about half our women's intake. The women have virtually no osteoporosis despite bearing six or more children and nursing them for prolonged periods! When African women immigrate to the United States, do they develop osteoporosis? The answer is yes, but not quite are much as Caucasian or Asian women. Thus, there is a genetic difference that is modified by diet.<br /><br />To answer the obvious question, "Well, where do you get your calcium?" The answer is: "From exactly the same place the cow gets the calcium, from green things that grow in the ground," mainly from leafy vegetables. After all, elephants and rhinos develop their huge bones (after being weaned) by eating green leafy plants, so do horses. Carnivorous animals also do quite nicely without leafy plants. It seems that all of earth's mammals do well if they live in harmony with their genetic programming and natural food. Only humans living an affluent life style have rampant osteoporosis.<br /><br />If animal references do not convince you, think of the several billion humans on this earth who have never seen cows' milk. Wouldn't you think osteoporosis would be prevalent in this huge group? The dairy people would suggest this but the truth is exactly the opposite. They have far less than that seen in the countries where dairy products are commonly consumed. It is the subject of another paper, but the truly significant determinants of osteoporosis are grossly excessive protein intakes and lack of weight bearing on long bones, both taking place over decades. Hormones play a secondary, but not trivial role in women. Milk is a deterrent to good bone health.<br /><br /><strong>THE PROTEIN MYTH<br /></strong>Remember when you were a kid and the adults all told you to "make sure you get plenty of good protein". Protein was the nutritional "good guys"" when I was young. And of course milk is fitted right in.<br /><br />As regards protein, milk is indeed a rich source of protein- -"liquid meat," remember? However that isn't necessarily what we need. In actual fact it is a source of difficulty. Nearly all Americans eat too much protein.<br /><br />For this information we rely on the most authoritative source that I am aware of. This is the latest edition (1oth,<br />1989: 4th printing, Jan. 1992) of the Recommended Dietary Allowances produced by the National Research Council. Of interest, the current editor of this important work is Dr. Richard Havel of the University of California in San Francisco.<br /><br />First to be noted is that the recommended protein has been steadily revised downward in successive editions. The current recommendation is 0.75 g/kilo/day for adults 19 through 51 years. This, of course, is only 45 grams per day for the mythical 60 kilogram adult. You should also know that the WHO estimated the need for protein in adults to by<br />.6g/kilo per day. (All RDA's are calculated with large safety allowances in case you're the type that wants to add some more to "be sure.") You can "get by" on 28 to 30 grams a day if necessary!<br /><br />Now 45 grams a day is a tiny amount of protein. That's an ounce and a half! Consider too, that the protein does not have to be animal protein. Vegetable protein is identical for all practical purposes and has no cholesterol and vastly less saturated fat. (Do not be misled by the antiquated belief that plant proteins must be carefully balanced to avoid deficiencies. This is not a realistic concern.) Therefore virtually all Americans, Canadians, British and European people are in a protein overloaded state. This has serious consequences when maintained over decades. The problems are the already mentioned osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and kidney damage. There is good evidence that certain malignancies, chiefly colon and rectal, are related to excessive meat intake. Barry Brenner, an eminent renal physiologist was the first to fully point out the dangers of excess protein for the kidney tubule. The dangers of the fat and cholesterol are known to all. Finally, you should know that the protein content of human milk is amount the lowest (0.9%) in mammals.<br /><br /><strong>IS THAT ALL OF THE TROUBLE?<br /></strong>Sorry, there's more. Remember lactose? This is the principal carbohydrate of milk. It seems that nature provides new- borns with the enzymatic equipment to metabolize lactose, but this ability often extinguishes by age 4 or 5 years.<br /><br />What is the problem with lactose or milk sugar? It seems that it is a disaccharide which is too large to be absorbed into the blood stream without first being broken down into monosaccharides, namely galactose and glucose. This requires the presence of an enzyme, lactase plus additional enzymes to break down the galactose into glucose.<br /><br />Let's think about his for a moment. Nature gives us the ability to metabolize lactose for a few years and then shuts off the mechanism. Is Mother Nature trying to tell us something? Clearly all infants must drink milk. The fact that so many adults cannot seems to be related to the tendency for nature to abandon mechanisms that are not needed. At least half of the adult humans on this earth are lactose intolerant. It was not until the relatively recent introduction of dairy herding and the ability to "borrow" milk from another group of mammals that the survival advantage of preserving lactase (the enzyme that allows us to digest lactose) became evident. But why would it be advantageous to drink cows' milk? After all, most of the human beings in the history of the world did. And further, why was it just the white or light skinned humans who retained this knack while the pigmented people tended to lose it?<br /><br />Some students of evolution feel that white skin is a fairly recent innovation, perhaps not more than 20,000 or 30,000 years old. It clearly has to do with the Northward migration of early man to cold and relatively sunless areas when skins and clothing became available. Fair skin allows the production of Vitamin D from sunlight more readily than does dark skin. However, when only the face was exposed to sunlight that area of fair skin was insufficient to provide the vitamin D from sunlight. If dietary and sunlight sources were poorly available, the ability to use the abundant calcium in cows' milk would give a survival advantage to humans who could digest that milk. This seems to be the only logical explanation for fair skinned humans having a high degree of lactose tolerance when compared to dark skinned people.<br /><br />How does this break down? Certain racial groups, namely blacks are up to 90% lactose intolerant as adults. Caucasians are 20 to 40% lactose intolerant. Orientals are midway between the above two groups. Diarrhea, gas and abdominal cramps are the results of substantial milk intake in such persons. Most American Indians cannot tolerate milk. The milk industry admits that lactose intolerance plays intestinal havoc with as many as 50 million Americans. A lactose-intolerance industry has sprung up and had sales of $117 million in 1992 (Time May 17, 1993.)<br /><br />What if you are lactose-intolerant and lust after dairy products? Is all lost? Not at all. It seems that lactose is largely digested by bacteria and you will be able to enjoy your cheese despite lactose intolerance. Yogurt is similar in this respect. Finally, and I could never have dreamed this up, geneticists want to splice genes to alter the composition of milk (Am J Clin Nutr 1993 Suppl 302s).<br /><br />One could quibble and say that milk is totally devoid of fiber content and that its habitual use will predispose to constipation and bowel disorders.<br /><br />The association with anemia and occult intestinal bleeding in infants is known to all physicians. This is chiefly from its lack of iron and its irritating qualities for the intestinal mucosa. The pediatric literature abounds with articles describing irritated intestinal lining, bleeding, increased permeability as well as colic, diarrhea and vomiting in cows'milk-sensitive babies. The anemia gets a double push by loss of blood and iron as well as deficiency of iron in the cows' milk. Milk is also the leading cause of childhood allergy.<br /><br /><strong>LOW FAT </strong><br />One additional topic: the matter of "low fat" milk. A common and sincere question is: "Well, low fat milk is OK, isn't it?"<br /><br />The answer to this question is that low fat milk isn't low fat. The term "low fat" is a marketing term used to gull the public. Low fat milk contains from 24 to 33% fat as calories! The 2% figure is also misleading. This refers to weight. They don't tell you that, by weight, the milk is 87% water!<br /><br />"Well, then, kill-joy surely you must approve of non-fat milk!" I hear this quite a bit. (Another constant concern is: "What do you put on your cereal?") True, there is little or no fat, but now you have a relative overburden of protein and lactose. It there is something that we do not need more of it is another simple sugar-lactose, composed of galactose and glucose. Millions of Americans are lactose intolerant to boot, as noted. As for protein, as stated earlier, we live in a society that routinely ingests far more protein than we need. It is a burden for our bodies, especially the kidneys, and a prominent cause of osteoporosis. Concerning the dry cereal issue, I would suggest...rice milk or almond milk as a healthy substitute. ....<br /><br /><strong>SUMMARY<br /></strong>To my thinking, there is only one valid reason to drink milk or use milk products. That is just because we simply want to. Because we like it and because it has become a part of our culture. Because we have become accustomed to its taste and texture. Because we like the way it slides down our throat. Because our parents did the very best they could for us and provided milk in our earliest training and conditioning. They taught us to like it. And then probably the very best reason is ice cream! I've heard it described "to die for".<br /><br />I had one patient who did exactly that. He had no obvious vices. He didn't smoke or drink, he didnÂ't eat meat, his diet and lifestyle was nearly a perfectly health promoting one; but he had a passion. You guessed it, he loved rich ice cream. A pint of the richest would be a lean day's ration for him. On many occasions he would eat an entire quart - and yes there were some cookies and other pastries. Good ice cream deserves this after all. He seemed to be in good health despite some expected "middle age spread" when he had a devastating stroke which left him paralyzed, miserable and helpless, and he had additional strokes and d ied several years later never having left a hospital or rehabilitation unit. Was he old? I don't think so. He was in his 50s.<br /><br />So don't drink milk for health. I am convinced on the weight of the scientific evidence that it does not "do a body good." Inclusion of milk will only reduce your diet's nutritional value and safety.<br /><br />Most of the people on this planet live very healthfully without cows' milk. You can too.<br /><br />It will be difficult to change; we've been conditioned since childhood to think of milk as "nature's most perfect food." I'll guarantee you that it will be safe, improve your health and it won't cost anything. What can you lose?<br /><br />(Article courtesy of Dr. Kradjian)<br />________________________________________<br />MILK: A DEADLY POISON According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), in 1994 the average American ate 586 pounds of milk and dairy products, 394 pounds of vegetables, 121 pounds of fresh fruit, 199 pounds of meat and 193 pounds of products containing flour and cereal. That totals to over four pounds of food per day per person and nearly forty percent of that is milk and dairy, one very lopsided food pyramid!<br /><br />Each sip of milk provides you with:<br />Pituitary hormones (PRL, GH, TSH, FSH, LH ACTH Oxytocin)<br />Steroid hormones (Estradiol, Estriol, Progesterone, Testosterone,<br />17-Ketosteroids, Corticosterone, Vitamine D)<br />Hypothalamic hormones (TRH, LHRH, Somatostatin, PRL-inhibiting<br />factor, PRL-releasing factor, GnRH, GRH)<br />Thyroid and Parathyroid hormones (T3, T4, rT3, Calcitonin,<br />Parathormone, PTH peptide)<br />gastrointestinal peptides (Vasoactive intestinal peptide, Bombesin, Cholecystokinin, Gastrin, Gastrin inhibitory peptide, Pancreatic<br />peptide, Y peptide, Substance P and Neurotensin)<br />Growth Factors (IGF's (I and II), IGF binding proteins, Nerve growth<br />factor, Epidermal growth factor and TGF alpha, TGF beta, Growth<br />Inhibitors MDGI and MAF, and Platelet derived growth factor<br />Others... (PGE, PGF2 alpha, cAMP, cGMP, Delta sleep inducing<br />peptide, Transferrin, Lactoferrin, Casomorphin and Erythropoietin<br />In Short... Growth hormones, fat, cholesterol, allergenic proteins, blood, pus, antibiotics, bacteria, virus and more as it is sponsored, in part, by Monsanto, WestAgro, and Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc..<br /><br />Did you know that...<br />* Milk is the foundation of heart disease and the explanation for America's number one killer.<br /><br />Milk is the reason that one out of six American women will develop cancer of the breast. Twenty-five million American women over the age of forty have been diagnosed with bone crippling arthritis and osteoporosis. These females have been drinking in excess of two pounds of milk per day for their entire adult lives. Why are their doctors blind to the fact that drinking milk does not prevent osteoporosis? Calcium in milk is not adequately absorbed and milk consumption is the probable cause of osteoporosis. Milk is responsible for allergies, colic, colitis, earaches, colds and congestion in young children. Research indicates that one bovine protein in milk destroys theinsulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas, causing diabetes. Sixty Percent of America's dairy cows have leukemia virus. Is it wise to eat the flesh or drink body fluids from diseased animals? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) used to allow a small amount of antibiotics in milk. FDA scientists recognized that consumers should not be drinking a fluid containing antibiotics. In 1990, the one part per hundred-million antibiotic residue in milk standardwas increased by one-hundred times to one part per million. As a result, new strains of bacteria developed, immune to the 52 different antibiotics found in milk. Antibiotics no longer work because Americans have been drinking milk and eating dairy productscontaining increased amounts of these powerful drugs and, in addition, new strains of emerging diseases. Beer bellies are indeed making a comeback in America. According to the Food Consumption, Prices and Expenditures, 1996, Statistical Bulletin Number 928, published by the USDA, the average American consumed 24 gallons of beer in 1994. That works out to less than 8 1/2 ounces of beer per day. Total milk and dairy products consumed per capita in 1994 equaled 26 ounces per day, more than triple the amount of beer. One 12 ounce glass of beer contains 144 calories and no fat. On the other hand, a 12 ounce glass of milk contains 300 calories and 16 grams of fat. It seems that beer is taking a bad rap. Protruding stomachs on overweight people should be called milk bellies, not beer bellies.<br /><br />When we drink milk we are taking in the most powerful growth hormone naturally produced in our own bodies. However, this growth hormone in milk is safeguarded by naturally occurring mechanisms unique to milk. That hormone is called Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and it is identical (70 amino acids, same gene sequence) in cows and humans<br /><br />(Milk: The Deadly Poison by Robert Cohen 317 pages containing 336 references<br />ISBN 0-9659-196-0-9)<br /><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-16977187846180882522010-09-20T16:34:00.004+08:002010-09-20T17:04:20.186+08:00Echinacea for kids<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51qWIw-5M%2BL._SL160_SS160_.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 160px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51qWIw-5M%2BL._SL160_SS160_.jpg" /></a>Children have low immunity. They fall sick every now and then, especially after they started attending nurseries and preschools. This made concerned parents look for alternative medicines and supplements to boost their kids' immunity.<br /><br />Herbal remedies and nutritional supplements are becoming increasingly popular among adults, and many parents are beginning to give them to their children as well. Echinacea is one of the most popular herbal preparations.<br /><br />Also known as purple coneflower, Echinacea is a member of the sunflower/daisy family. The most commonly used preparation is made from the root of one type of Echinacea (E. purpura), although herbal preparations vary widely as to which plants and what components are used.<br /><br />Echinacea is used to prevent and treat colds and other upper respiratory infections. It is thought to work by boosting the immune system. Studies of Echinacea in adults have found that it may be effective—some studies have shown that it is effective and others have not shown that it is effective.<br /><br />There have been a couple of recent studies of Echinacea in children. One found that it was not effective in treating colds in children ages 2 to 11. It did not lessen the severity of their symptoms nor shorten the number of days they were sick. However, the study was criticised for using Enchinacea extracted from the flower of the plant, instead of using the root where potency is!<br /><br />Another study tested a product called Chizukit, which includes Echinacea, propolis (a plant resin collected by bees) and vitamin C. Parents were assigned to give their 1- to 5-year-old children either Chizukit or a placebo (inactive or fake medicine) twice a day for 12 weeks. The study found that children taking the Chizukit had significantly fewer colds, a little more than half of those suffered by the other children. This study suggests that Echinacea combined with the other products may be effective in preventing colds in children.<br /><br />One of the good choice to try is <strong>L'il Critters Gummy Immune C Plus Zinc & Echinacea, Dietary Supplement for Kids.</strong> Some parents have testified that it works. No harm trying and tell us if it works for you as well?<br /><iframe style="WIDTH: 120px; HEIGHT: 240px" marginheight="0" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=coolgadgandgi-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&md=10FE9736YVPPT7A0FBG2&asins=B001G7QPYG" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no"></iframe><br /><br />Sources:<br /><a href="http://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CBgQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fisher-price.com%2Ffp.aspx%3Fst%3D10%26e%3Dexpertadvice%26content%3D132948&ei=OhyXTI3EBtSkcZGytKQF&usg=AFQjCNFxOLXnnac112lU7ra27gBKFPEDzw">Is Enchinacea safe for kids?</a><br /><a href="http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:mtnnPlz2TikJ:www.thehealthierlife.co.uk/natural-remedies/herbs/recent-echinacea-study-flawed-00605.html+echinacea+for+children&cd=2&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=sg">Echinacea: The True Lowdown On Echinacea </a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-5546978066307265392010-03-05T10:21:00.001+08:002010-03-05T10:24:45.283+08:00How Much Sleep Do Children Need?The amount of sleep a child needs varies depending on the individual and certain factors, including the age of the child. Following are some general guidelines:<br /><br /><strong>1-4 Weeks Old</strong>: 15 - 16 hours per day<br />Newborns typically sleep about 15 to 18 hours a day, but only in short periods of two to four hours. Premature babies may sleep longer and colicky ones shorter.<br /><br />Since newborns do not yet have an internal biological clock, or circadian rhythm, their sleep patterns are not related to the daylight and nighttime cycles. In fact, they tend not to have much of a pattern at all.<br /><br /><strong>1-4 Months Old</strong>: 14 - 15 hours per day<br />By 6 weeks of age your baby is beginning to settle down a bit, and you may notice more regular sleep patterns emerging. The longest periods of sleep run four to six hours and now tends to occur more regularly in the evening. Day-night confusion ends.<br /><br /><strong>4-12 Months</strong> <strong>Old</strong>: 14 - 15 hours per day<br />While up to 15 hours is ideal, most infants up to 11 months old get only about 12 hours sleep. Establishing healthy sleep habits is a primary goal during this period, as your baby is now much more social, and his sleep patterns are more adult-like.<br /><br />Babies typically have three naps and drop to two at around 6 months old, at which time (or earlier) they are physically capable of sleeping through the night. Establishing regular naps generally happens at the latter part of this time frame, as his biological rhythms mature. The midmorning nap usually starts at 9 a.m. and lasts about an hour. The early afternoon nap starts from 12 to 2 p.m. and lasts an hour or two. And the late afternoon nap may start from 3 to 5 p.m. and is variable in duration.<br /><br /><strong>1-3 Years Old</strong>: 12 - 14 hours per day<br />As your child moves past the first year toward 18-21 months of age he will likely lose his morning nap and nap only once a day. While toddlers need up to 14 hours a day of sleep, they typically get only about 10.<br /><br />Most children from about 21 to 36 months of age still need one nap a day, which may range from one to three and a half hours long. They typically go to bed between 7 and 9 p.m. and wake up between 6 and 8 a.m.<br /><br /><strong>3-6 Years Old</strong>: 10 - 12 hours per day<br />Children at this age typically go to bed between 7 and 9 p.m. and wake up around 6 and 8 a.m., just as they did when they were younger. At 3, most children are still napping while at 5, most are not. Naps gradually become shorter as well. New sleep problems do not usually develop after 3 years of age.<br /><br /><strong>7-12 Years Old</strong>: 10 - 11 hours per day<br />At these ages, with social, school, and family activities, bedtimes gradually become later and later, with most 12-years-olds going to bed at about 9 p.m. There is still a wide range of bedtimes, from 7:30 to 10 p.m., as well as total sleep times, from 9 to 12 hours, although the average is only about 9 hours.<br /><br /><strong>12-18 Years Old</strong>: 8 - 9 hours per day<br />Sleep needs remain just as vital to health and well-being for teenagers as when they were younger. It turns out that many teenagers actually may need more sleep than in previous years. Now, however, social pressures conspire against getting the proper amount and quality of sleep.<br /><br /><strong>Source:</strong><br />http://www.webmd.com/parenting/guide/sleep-childrenUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-10682441013100239232009-11-04T09:52:00.003+08:002009-11-04T10:14:44.429+08:00Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in childrenObsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder. It is an illness that causes people to have unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and to repeat certain behaviors (compulsions) over and over again. We all have habits and routines in our daily lives, such as brushing our teeth before bed. However, for people with OCD, patterns of behavior get in the way of their daily lives. Most people with OCD know that their obsessions and compulsions make no sense, but they can't ignore or stop them. All kids have worries and doubts. But kids with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often can't stop worrying, no matter how much they want to. And those worries frequently compel them to behave in certain ways over and over again.<br /><br /><strong>What are obsessions?</strong><br />Obsessions are ideas, images and impulses that run through the person's mind over and over again. A person with OCD doesn't want to have these thoughts and finds them disturbing, but he or she can't control them. Sometimes these thoughts just come once in a while and are only mildly annoying. Other times, a person who has OCD will have obsessive thoughts all the time.<br />Kids with OCD become preoccupied with whether something could be harmful, dangerous, wrong, or dirty — or with thoughts about bad stuff that might happen. With OCD, upsetting or scary thoughts or images, called obsessions, pop into a person's mind and are hard to shake. Kids with OCD may also worry about things being out of "order" or not "just right." They may worry about losing "useless" items, sometimes feeling the need to collect these items.<br /><br /><strong>What are compulsions?</strong><br />Obsessive thoughts make people who have OCD feel nervous and afraid. They try to get rid of these feelings by performing certain behaviors according to "rules" that they make up for themselves. These behaviors are called compulsions. (Compulsive behaviors are sometimes also called rituals.) For example, a person who has OCD may have obsessive thoughts about germs. Because of these thoughts, the person may wash his or her hands repeatedly after using a public toilet. Performing these behaviors usually only makes the nervous feelings go away for a short time. When the fear and nervousness return, the person who has OCD repeats the routine all over again. Similarly, a child with OCD feels strong urges to do certain things repeatedly — called rituals or compulsions — in order to banish the scary thoughts, ward off something dreaded, or make extra sure that things are safe or clean or right. Children may have a difficult time explaining a reason for their rituals and say they do them "just because." But in general, by doing a ritual, the child with OCD is trying to feel absolutely certain that something bad won't happen.<br /><br /><strong>What are some common obsessions?</strong><br />The following are some common obsessions:<br />Fear of dirt or germs<br />Disgust with bodily waste or fluids<br />Concern with order, symmetry (balance) and precision<br />Worry that a task has been done poorly, even when the person knows this is not true<br />Fear of thinking evil or sinful thoughts<br />Thinking about certain sounds, images, words or numbers all the time<br />Need for constant reassurance<br />Fear of harming a family member or friend<br /><br /><strong>What are some common compulsions?</strong><br />The following are some common compulsions:<br />Cleaning and grooming, such as washing hands, showering or brushing teeth over and over again<br />Checking drawers, door locks and appliances to be sure they are shut, locked or turned off<br />Repeating, such as going in and out of a door, sitting down and getting up from a chair, or touching certain objects several times<br />Ordering and arranging items in certain ways<br />Counting over and over to a certain number<br />Saving newspapers, mail or containers when they are no longer needed<br />Seeking constant reassurance and approval<br /><br /><strong>What causes OCD?<br /></strong>No one has found a single, proven cause for OCD. Some research shows that it may have to do with chemicals in the brain that carry messages from one nerve cell to another. One of these chemicals, called serotonin (say "seer-oh-tone-in"), helps to keep people from repeating the same behaviors over and over again. A person who has OCD may not have enough serotonin. Many people who have OCD can function better when they take medicines that increase the amount of serotonin in their brain.<br /><br />Evidence is also strong that OCD tends to run in families. Many people with OCD have one or more family members who also have it or other anxiety disorders influenced by the brain's serotonin levels. Because of this, scientists have come to believe that the tendency (or predisposition) for someone to develop the serotonin imbalance that causes OCD can be inherited through a person's genes.<br /><br /><strong>Signs and Symptoms of OCD<br /></strong>OCD in kids is usually diagnosed between the ages of 7 and 12. Since these are the years when kids naturally feel concerned about fitting in with their friends, the discomfort and stress brought on by OCD can make them feel scared, out of control, and alone.<br /><br />Recognizing OCD is often difficult because kids can become adept at hiding the behaviors. It's not uncommon for a child to engage in ritualistic behavior for months, or even years, before parents know about it. Also, a child may not engage in the ritual at school, so parents might think that it's just a phase.<br /><br />When a child with OCD tries to contain these thoughts or behaviors, this creates anxiety. Kids who feel embarrassed or as if they're "going crazy" may try to blend the OCD into the normal daily routine until they can't control it anymore.<br /><br />It's common for kids to ask a parent to join in the ritualistic behavior: First the child has to do something and then the parent has to do something else. If a child says, "I didn't touch something with germs, did I?" the parent might have to respond, "No, you're OK," and the ritual will begin again for a certain number of times. Initially, the parent might not notice what is happening. Tantrums, overt signs of worry, and difficult behaviors are common when parents fail to participate in their child's rituals. It is often this behavior, as much as the OCD itself, which brings families into treatment.<br /><br />Parents can look for the following possible signs of OCD:<br />raw, chapped hands from constant washing<br />unusually high rate of soap or paper towel usage<br />high, unexplained utility bills<br />a sudden drop in test grades<br />unproductive hours spent doing homework<br />holes erased through test papers and homework<br />requests for family members to repeat strange phrases or keep answering the same question<br />a persistent fear of illness<br />a dramatic increase in laundry<br />an exceptionally long amount of time spent getting ready for bed<br />a continual fear that something terrible will happen to someone<br />constant checks of the health of family members<br />reluctance to leave the house at the same time as other family members<br />Environmental and stress factors can trigger the onset of OCD. These can include ordinary developmental transitions (such as starting school) as well as significant losses or changes (such as the death of a loved one or moving).<br /><br /><strong>Diagnosing OCD</strong><br />If your child shows signs of OCD, talk to your doctor. In screening for OCD, a doctor or mental health professional will ask about your child about obsessions and compulsions in language that kids will understand, such as:<br />Do you have worries, thoughts, images, feelings, or ideas that bother you?<br />Do you have to check things over and over again?<br />Do you have to wash your hands a lot, more than most kids?<br />Do you count to a certain number or do things a certain number of times?<br />Do you collect things that others might throw away (like hair or fingernail clippings)?<br />Do things have to be "just so"?<br />Are there things you have to do before you go to bed?<br /><br /><strong>How is OCD treated?</strong><br />The most successful treatments for kids with OCD are behavioral therapy and medication. Behavioral therapy, also known as cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy (CBT), helps kids learn to change thoughts and feelings by first changing behavior. It involves exposing kids to their fears, with the agreement that they will not perform rituals, to help them recognize that their anxiety will eventually decrease and that no disastrous outcome will occur.<br /><br />For example, kids who are afraid of dirt might be exposed to something they consider dirty on numerous occasions. For exposure to be successful, it must be combined with response prevention, in which the child's rituals or avoidance behaviors are blocked. For example, a child who fears dirt must not only stay in contact with the dirty object, but also must not be allowed to wash repeatedly. Some treatment plans involve having the child "bossing back" the OCD, giving it a nasty nickname, and visualizing it as something the child can control. Over time, the anxiety provoked by dirt and the urge to perform washing rituals gradually disappear. The child also gains confidence that he or she can "fight" OCD.<br /><br />OCD can sometimes worsen if it's not treated in a consistent, logical, and supportive manner. So it's important to find a therapist who has training and experience in treating OCD. Just talking about the rituals and fears have not been shown to help OCD, and may actually make it worse by reinforcing the fears and prompting extra rituals. Family support and cooperation also go a long way toward helping a child cope with OCD.<br /><br />Many kids can do well with behavioral therapy alone while others will need a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Therapy can help your child and family learn strategies to manage the ebb and flow of OCD symptoms, while medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), often can reduce the impulse to perform rituals.<br /><br /><strong>Helping Kids With OCD</strong><br />It's important to understand that OCD is never a child's fault. Once a child is in treatment, it's important for parents to participate, to learn more about OCD, and to modify expectations and be supportive.<br /><br />Kids with OCD get better at different rates, so try to avoid any day-to-day comparisons and recognize and praise any small improvements. Keep in mind that it's the OCD that is causing the problem, not the child. The more that personal criticism can be avoided, the better.<br />It can be helpful to keep family routines as normal as possible, and for all family members to learn strategies to help the child with OCD. It is also important to not let OCD be the "boss" of the house and regular family activities. Giving in to OCD worries does not make them go away.<br /><br />Sources:<br /><a href="http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/OCD.html">http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/OCD.html</a>#<br /><a href="http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/mentalhealth/anxiety/133.html">http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/mentalhealth/anxiety/133.html</a><br /><a href="http://helpguide.org/mental/obsessive_compulsive_disorder_ocd.htm"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4659781688308268605.post-6805708407872848762009-08-08T14:33:00.000+08:002009-08-08T14:35:10.154+08:00H1N1 in childrenH1N1 flu is highly contagious. It spreads from person to person through droplets that form when an infected person coughs, sneezes, laughs, or talks. The virus can also live for hours on surfaces. A person can become infected by touching acontaminated surface then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.<br /><br />About half of the confirmed H1N1 flu cases in Singapore involve young people below the age of 20. At KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), the average age of a patient is 10 years old, with the youngest being just 14 months.<br /><br />Children are more susceptible to H1N1 because they have no underlying immunity to the virus, and also because children do not practise good hygiene most of the time. They may cough and sneeze and won’t even remember to cover their mouth and nose. Parents should always pay special attention to children under 5 years of age, because they are more likely to become seriously ill than older children.<br /><br />H1N1 flu symptoms are about the same as regular flu symptoms. These include fever and chills, headache, body and muscle aches, dry cough, runny nose, and weakness. The child may also have sore throat, diarrhea, or vomiting. Young children may have difficulty breathing and low activity, but few other symptoms. Children with Influenza A (H1N1) are likely to have a higher fever than adults.<br /><br />If your child, particularly small children, exhibits any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care:<br /><br />Trouble breathing, including rapid breathing.<br />Gray or bluish skin color<br />Not drinking enough fluids<br />Not waking up or not interacting<br />Being irritable and not wanting to be held<br />Not urinating or no tears when crying<br />The symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse coughUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1