YES or NO as simple as that

I was reading about the fantastic move that the Health Ministry is doing in trying to curb obesity issue in Malaysia. Various measures are being proposed to keep our children healthy including to list the BMI result in their report cards, banning some unhealthy food, recommending healthy food etc. I totally 101% support the move as both Ethan and Eli will eventually be going to school and I do worry about the kind of food they will eat in school as we will not be there to monitor them.

But what irk me most is when I hear things like this morning over the radio. We now know that the Government plans to ban Nasi Lemak from the school canteen and as I would  expect there are of coz protest especially from the Nasi Lemak sellers. Understand they will grumble especially if that is their main source of income. Anyway, upon hearing the complains and how it will affect a group of people's livelihood, I heard over the radio that there is a proposal to still allow the school canteen to sell Nasi Lemak twice a week. At that point in time I was like, what the heck are they doing??!! Ok, let's say that is allowed, for those who just can't resist Nasi Lemak (btw I do love Nasi Lemak!) after being deprive from it for a day or two he/she may want to not only take 1 pack but perhaps 2 or even 3 packs (breakfast, lunch and tea time) of Nasi Lemak in a day!! So tell me how does tht help to prevent obesity in our community??! It is the same concept as when you are very hungry u tend to eat more to ease your hunger...Why can't thy set a rule that sticks to the MAIN objective which in this case is to prevent obesity. IF they really are serious about it why can't they propose instead of allowing Nasi Lemak to be sold in the school canteen twice a week, please give the sellers a new list of healthy food that thy can prepare and sell instead. HELLOO.... please think out of the box and be creative, smart, forward looking and positive okay...when there is challenge why can't we sit down, discuss and think of a better way to solve the problem before we open our mouths instead of acting 'gabra' and talk nonsense and embarrass ourselves! Come on we're are better than that right?! Double BIG sigh...

Mercury poisoning part II

For the benefit of those who would like to know a little bit more about mercury poisoning, I would like to share with you  thanks to Gloria who has researched and compiled (and pinned it on her refrigerator as a reminder of which you can do so too hehe..) on the same topic for your reference :) Happy reading !! And oh thanks Glo for letting me share this useful info ;p

Should I give my baby fish?

Fish is a major source of omega-3 fatty acids (specifically DHA and EPA), which are important for a child's brain and eye development. It's also low in saturated fat and high in protein, vitamin D, and other important nutrients. Fish is too good a nutritional choice – especially during early childhood – to give up, and most experts agree that the benefits of eating fish usually outweigh the risks.

Almost all fish and shellfish contain some mercury, but large predator fish accumulate the most. That's because predator fish eat other fish – fish that have absorbed mercury themselves. And the bigger the predator fish, the more fish it eats. Larger fish also tend to live longer than smaller fish, so there's simply more time for mercury to build up in their bodies.

Experts are still debating exactly how much mercury is harmful, but most agree it's a good idea to avoid feeding your children fish that are high in mercury and to limit (but not eliminate) other fish in their diet.

Fish to avoid

Some types of fish contain contaminants such as mercury. In high doses, this metal is harmful to a child's developing brain and nervous system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that you avoid feeding your child shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish – large predatory fish that contain the highest levels of mercury.

Purdue toxicologist Santerre recommends that children between the ages of 2 and 6 not be served fresh or frozen tuna, striped bass, bluefish, Chilean sea bass, golden snapper, marlin, orange roughy, amberjack, Crevalle jack, Spanish mackerel from the Gulf of Mexico, and walleye from the Great Lakes.

So which fish – and how much – can I safely serve my child?

The FDA/EPA advisory says it's okay to serve your child two child-size servings a week of any fish and shellfish, other than the four you shouldn't serve at all: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish. (See special restrictions on canned tuna below.) A child-size serving is 1 ounce of fish for 1- and 2-year-olds; 1.5 ounces for children ages 3 to 6; and 2 ounces for a child over age 6.

By the way, fish sticks aren't part of this equation because they're generally low in mercury. But they're also not a good source of omega-3s.

Fish that are both low in mercury and high in healthy fats: Herring, Mackerel (Atlantic, jack, chub), Rainbow trout (farm raised), Salmon (wild or farm raised), Sardines, Whitefish, Anchovy.

Very sorry as I am unable to give you the exact links of these info but Glo assured that they are from various reliable sources :)

I've also extracted this from the net for easy reading

Extracted from Tuberose.com

My mum has always reminded me not to buy big fishes for the boys...reason being the amount of mercury content on bigger fishes which means older fishes may be more than the smaller/ younger fishes. Honestly speaking, I never check the facts but I assumed my mum is right as it does sound logic. Besides my  mum normally reads or pays attention to such info. So I always trust her advice ;p Anyway, back to the title, here's an informative personal experience about mercury poisoning for the sharing.

Mercury poisoning

31 August 2009

Taken from Paren Thots

My son is 18 months old now. We started feeding our son cod fish, and occasionally salmon since he was six months old until one year old.

We found out that he was suffering from mercury poisoning during a routine checkup when he was one.

There were no signs or symptoms of mercury poisoning. We casually asked the doctor whether it's okay to feed him cod fish (chilean sea bass) every day since we read that it contains high mercury content.

The doctor said he was not sure, but if we were worried, he could do a mercury test for my son. We found out that my son's mercury level was nearly nine times higher than the allowed level, which is less than 75. His was 622.

After a dose of DMSA (the treatment for mercury poisoning) and a few months of natural healing, his mercury level is now back to the normal range, that is 48.3.

A lot of Malaysian parents are not aware of the danger of mercury poisoning. We were very lucky to discover this even before the symptoms showed. Just imagine if your child is poisoned and you finally find out, say 10 years later when his mental and physical health have been damaged by this poisonous substance.

I strongly recommend parents take their children for a mercury test if they have been feeding their children with cod fish or any deep sea big fish which may have high mercury content.

Early detection and treatment are effective damage control for our precious children. After all, we feed them with expensive fish because we believe it is good for their brain development, right?

A concerned mom

Fish is served on alternate days for the boys (same reason as the Concerned Mom i.e. for brain development) and normally I will buy Tenggiri (Spanish mackerel) if not the black or white pompfret fish and occasionally red snapper...but last Sunday I got to know another type of fish that is good for babies/young children recommended by one of the lady fishmongers. Since the few left Tenggiri fish seemed rather 'old' I decided to try the newly introduced fish. I can't recall the name as it sounded very Chinese to me but it does sound something like "nguyen" fish... I'll have to go back to her again to ask for the actual name as the fish meat is really nice with fine and soft texture..especially good for babies who just started on solid :)

Ban on BPA bottles starting March 2012

I just read this on the paper after lunch today...glad to hear that the government is finally going to ban those polycarbonate milk bottles. So yeah..always go for non-BPA milk bottles :)

Ban on polycarbonate milk bottles from next year

By LESTER KONG

Published: Monday March 14, 2011 MYT 1:06:00 PM

PUTRAJAYA: Milk bottles for infants made with polycarbonates containing the chemical Bisphenol A (BPA) will be outlawed from March 1 next year.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the Cabinet had decided to ban such milk bottles due to BPA's risk to infant hormone systems.

"The enforcement will be made in stages and the industry is given one year to comply by making changes to their machines and buying new raw materials," Liow told a press conference on Monday.

Enforcement from March 1, 2012, will be done according to provisions in the Food Regulations 1985 under the Food Act 1983.

Liow said the move was in line with the World Health Organisation's recommendations, adding that the European Union (EU) had also made a similar announcement earlier this March to make the ban effective in June for EU member countries.

BPA is used to make baby milk bottles because it made the plastic translucent and stiffer while those without BPA had a less clear and dirtier look to it.

Source: The Star Online

30 Ways To Cut 100 Calories

Something interesting to read especially if you're trying to loose some weight ;p

30 Ways To Cut 100 Calories

Why French women don't get fat..

I was taking a short break from work and was reading an article when this "The French Paradox: The Reasons French Women Don't Get Fat" article grabbed my attention. I did a quick read and below are the reasons why French ladies are forever slim...

• French women eat 'good' fats rather than 'bad' fats
• French women savor their food
• French women eat fresh
• French women eat regular meals and don't snack between meals
• French women indulge -- in smaller portions
• French women drink plenty of water

Basically, its all the dos and don'ts of healthy eating though it is easier said than done eh ;p If only I have such discipline in following such regime hee...but then again I guess it is easier when it is already a part of our daily life or way of life/ culture like those chic and poised French women...Anyway, its a good practise that I hope to 'master' one day ;p

My poor kiddos

Both Ethan and baby Eli has been under the whether...Ethan has just recovered while baby Eli is still recovering from mouth ulcer... due to that both of them have not been eating well especially Ethan. He seems to have lost some weight as he didn't want to take his usual meals ... nor does he want to take his milk or water especially for the first 2 days. Actually, I didn't realise he has mouth ulcer and I was wondering why he doesn't want to take his milk or water...it was only when he started to whine and cry and kept pointing to his mouth when he was eating his banana that I realised he has mouth ulcer...when I first saw the ulcer I thought he might have caught the HFMD but a visit to his paed confirm it is not...phew...what a relieve ... but from then on he refused to eat his usual meals...at least for 3 days...luckily it was during the weekend so we could do a trial and error on what he can or will eat...though his appetite was bad at least he could take in some noodles and most of all his favourite Baby Bytes biscuits...he could finished up to 4 packets and even more if I didn't stop him ;p He was able to eat the butter/cheese spread sandwich that I prepared for him too.. as for his milk I reduced the hot water so it won't hurt his ulcer while feeding... he has no objection with hard boiled egg (only the white part) too...

Talking about medicine, previously, it was like World War III to feed Ethan his medicine...at times we need 3 people just to feed him medicines - one person to hold his head and mouth, another to hold his super strong legs while the 3rd person to feed him the medicine... but giving him his medicine nowadays is a lot more manageable...the trick is that we have to tell him that those are his vitamins instead of medicines ;p

Here's Ethan eating his cut and peeled grapes...

As for Eli..it is more heartbreaking as he can't speak. The only way he could tell us he is in pain is by crying and crying he did...a lot...till he almost lost his voice :( Poor baby his ulcer must have hurt him more as compare to Ethan...it's really heartbreaking to hear him cry for food and at the same time cry due to the pain...but as of last nite...the pain may have reduced as he didn't cry when I fed him his last milk before bedtime (I made his milk with no hot water..just room temperature boiled water...) Just hope he will recover soon ...

But am thankful that despite the mouth ulcer both boys are as active as ever...so that is a good sign :)

Just like his big bro, Eli doesn't like to take medicine too. He started to protest even before the medicine goes into his mouth ;p

Die mozzy die!

As night falls particularly during Ethan's bedtime, we especially moi will turn into a murderess..not your normal human kind of murderess but purely as mozzies murderess ;p

You may say why not use the normal insect spray or the usual green mosquito coils or the plug in ones...well for one, Ethan has sensitive airways so his paed does not recommend any of those which are chemical based..we tried anti mozzie lotion, even bought the insect repellent bracelet but sometimes the smell of lemon grass is just too strong to my liking especially during my preggy situation now...so we normally end up using our bare hands to kill those irritating mozzies. But recently hubby's friend recommended a solution to our problem... the "Eletrisk insekt fanger"!! I have no idea what language is that but so far it has worked for the past 2 days that we've started using it. Just this morning I electrocuted 8 mozzies!! Am I happy? You Bet! :)

It uses 2 AA batteries and only cost RM 12.99 - we bought ours from Servey

This is how the 'magic racket' looks like. You just press the red button and swing it around the room or whenever you see the mosquito and...

zapppps.....the mozzie will be electrocuted and kapis!! ;p

Vacinations for your children

This is just another useful article for my own reference.

We have of course given Ethan all the mandatory jabs and we have also given him additional ones including chicken pox, pneumococcal (after 12 months - 2 jabs), JE (pending his 2nd jab) and Hepatitis A. We however did not give him the Rotavirus vaccination as his paed said it was not necessary especially when he was already above 12 months then. His paed also did not stress the need to go for the influenza jab as it does not really help much as there are just so many types of influenza around.

WHICH SHOTS TO GIVE?
3 August 2009 By BRIGITTE ROZARIO
Taken from Parenthots

Do you know what shots your child is getting annually? In Malaysia, parents are given a schedule of vaccinations that their children should go for. Most parents take their children for the mandatory vaccinations without knowing what the shots are for.

Paediatrician Dr Sanjay Woodhull explains that on top of the mandatory vaccinations, there are also the optional ones. Doctors would normally advise parents on which optional shots their child should get based on the child's medical history.

MANDATORY SHOTS:

Vaccination: BCG
Age: At birth
For: Prevention of tuberculosis
Worst case scenario if you don't get the shot: You can die from TB.It usually affects people whose immune system is compromised, mainly those with cancer and HIV.

“It will prevent to a large extent severe tuberculosis. That means tuberculosis of the blood and the brain. It will not prevent TB of the lung. We don't have anything better for it. It may to some extent help TB of the lung but in most cases, not.

“Some parents don't want to give their children the BCG jab simply because it leaves an ugly scar but I think it's important and TB is a big problem nowadays. It is estimated that almost a third of the world's population harbours the bacteria. It will be a problem when your immune defences are down. That's when it starts to flare up.

“In the past we used to vaccinate the BCG at birth and screen children at school entry and we used to give the second BCG vaccine when they were 12 years of age. We have stopped doing that. Now there is only one BCG vaccination for life. Sometimes for some children there is no scar formation. If we don't see a scar we repeat the BCG otherwise there's only one jab for life.”

Vaccination: Hepatitis B
Age: At birth, 1 month and 5 months
For: Prevention of Hepatitis B
Worst case scenario if you don't get the jab: You can get liver cancer.

“Hepatitis B is endemic in Malaysia. It is transmitted the same way that HIV is – via blood, sexual intercourse. It affects the liver so you get hepatitis, chronic liver damage and jaundice. 10% of carriers will end up with cancer at some point in their life. There's no cure for Hepatitis B.

“We routinely tell parents that if any of their family members – mum, dad or anyone else within the same household – has Hepatitis B, then after the routine vaccination, all the family members, plus the child, need to be checked to ensure they are protected against Hepatitis B. That's the only time we will check the blood. Otherwise, we won't bother checking the blood for Hepatitis B. We just assume they are protected against it.”

Vaccination: The triple (Diphtheria, tetanus and Pertussis) and polio
Age: 3-dose schedule (2-3 months, 3-4 months and 4-5 months) with booster shots given at 18 months-2 years and 5-7 years. In total, five shots.
For: To prevent against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and polio
Worst case scenario if you don't get the jab: Diphtheria and tetanus can be fatal. The child might have to be ventilated for pertussis. Polio can affect the lungs, heart and kidneys.

“These are all pre-war diseases. We still have them in Malaysia and throughout the world. People who get diphtheria are those who are not vaccinated against it. We can see it in our illegal immigrants or well-educated parents who oppose the idea of vaccination.

“Diphtheria basically is a bacteria which is soil-bound and it can go through your respiratory tract. It causes a membrane swelling to your throat and if it affects your wind pipe, it can actually block it up and you can die from that. It also releases a toxin into the blood which is harmful to your nerves and heart. It is a disease you can prevent but it's life-threatening.

“Tetanus is lockjaw. Again, you can get this from cuts, bruises and it is soil-bound. It causes muscle spasms, paralysis and seizures. So, it is something you can prevent as well.“Pertussis is whooping cough. It's a problem in children who are not vaccinated. Children under two months who get pertussis can get it bad. They can end up in the ICU and needing to be ventilated. They cough and cough and cough until they stop breathing.

“The old name for it is the hundred-day cough or the three-month cough. Whatever we do, the child will cough for three months. The treatment for pertussis which is an antibiotic will only prevent pertussis from spreading to another child but once you've established pertussis you can't do anything about it.

“You can only treat and support the child while the coughing episode gets worse and typically that starts around the second week where the coughing gets worse and worse and lasts for about two to three weeks before it gets better.

“Polio is one disease we are trying to eradicate in the world. We used to give oral polio vaccine. I think in some government hospitals they still give the oral polio vaccine but in most private hospitals we give the injection.

“Oral polio vaccine is a live virus but a weakened virus. You can get polio from that. But the risk is very minute – one in a million chance. That's the disadvantage of oral polio vaccine. In the United States they only see vaccine-associated polio, they don't get wild polio. So that's why they have also changed theirs to injection polio vaccine from oral vaccine.”

Vaccination: Haemophilus influenzae B
Age: Given with the triple in three doses and the booster is given at 1½ years
For: To prevent against Haemophilus influenzae B
Worst case scenario if you don't get the jab: The child could die from meningitis

“This is a bacterial infection. Haemophilus influenzae B is the commonest cause of pneumonia and meningitis in children. (Meningitis is an infection of the brain covering.) Prior to the year 2000 it was a huge problem for Malaysia. The introduction of this vaccination has made a big difference. We hardly ever see meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae anymore.”

Vaccination: Measles, mumps and rubella
Age: After one year old. This is given in two doses (at one year old and at school entry)
For: To prevent against measles, mumps and rubella
Worst case scenario if you don't get the jab: Measles can cause death. Mumps and rubella can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

“Measles – the symptoms we are familiar with are high fever, some rashes, maybe a bit of conjunctivitis, cough and flu. For most people who get it, they're fine in a couple of days. But for about one in 1,000 children, measles can cause encephalitis – brain infection. That's brain damage and it's permanent. Measles can cause death. It can cause bad pneumonia. About one in 250 or 300 children with measles will get pneumonia.

“These are viruses for which there is no treatment. The care is all supportive; that's why it's important to prevent.

“Mumps may be known for the swelling of the glands but it can also cause encephalitis – the brain infection which you want to prevent. Mumps can also cause infection of the testes in males and that can lead to infertility. That's why you want to prevent it and the only way to prevent it is with the vaccine.

“Because we give two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, girls at the age of 13 years do not require the shot anymore. But if you're going through the government schedule then you will need the rubella shot at 12 or 13. In Malaysia, the rubella vaccine is mandatory for girls.

“Inadvertently sometimes the child might go for the extra shot because they've got their shots at the private hospital and then they follow the government schedule and get another shot. It is safe to get the extra shot. It is not going to cause them harm. It is just an extra boost. It isn't necessary but no harm.”

RECOMMENDED SHOTS:

Vaccination: Influenza
Age: Given annually
For: To protect against influenza
Worst case scenario if you don't get this jab: Child gets influenza

“The strain keeps varying. Every couple of months it varies. Personally I think giving influenza vaccine routinely for children may not be so beneficial simply because the influenza outbreaks here have two peaks and it keeps varying from year to year. Some years it makes a difference and some years it doesn't.

“So we tend to be selective. We give it to children who have problems – kidney problems, lung problems, heart problems – if they were born with it or if they just have bad lungs and heart whereby if they get influenza they can be significantly unwell.

“The recommendation as it stands is to vaccinate all children between six months to five years of age. After five years you don't require it unless you have heart, lung or kidney problems. And children with asthma have been added on to this recommendation but I explain to parents that if I think the asthma is well-controlled it is up to them. If I think it's not well-controlled I would recommend giving it.”

Vaccination: Chickenpox
Age: One jab for life
For: To protect against chickenpox
Worst case scenario if you don't get this jab: In rare cases it can cause encephalitis or affect the lungs.

“Many parents think chickenpox just causes a few spots, no big deal. Rarely, it can affect the brain and cause encephalitis and chickenpox can affect the lungs. This is usually seen in extreme ages – in the very young and the elderly.

“The chickenpox vaccine itself can prevent 95% of children from getting chickenpox. The 5%-7% will still get chickenpox in the future. However, if they do get it it's usually just a few spots, nothing severe. It will certainly protect the brain and the lungs. That's really why we give the chickenpox vaccine, not so much for the scars.

Vaccination: Pneumococcal
Age: Given as three doses in the first six months and the booster after a year. Can be given with the triple shot.
For: Prevent against pneumonia, meningitis and infections
Worst case scenario if you don't get this jab: Can be fatal

“The other optional vaccine that we are currently recommending is the pneumococcal vaccine. It's almost RM300 per jab. Pneumococcal is a bacteria and it is the second commonest cause of meningitis and pneumonia in children next to Haemophilus influenzae. Since children have been getting the Haemophilus influenzae vaccine they hardly get meningitis and pneumonia. If they do get it it's usually from the pneumococci bacteria.

“To prevent it, you get the vaccine done. It contains seven strains of the commonest pneumococci bacteria. Some parents can't afford it because it is expensive. Some parents opt to give it after a year so then they just need two doses. Or some parents opt to give it after the child's second birthday when they get only one dose which is adequate.

“It is fine to delay it a bit but you are only protected after you get the vaccination. I always explain to parents that the first two years are when the risk is highest to get the disease. “The pneumococci bacteria cause ear, brain and lung infection.”

Vaccination: Rotavirus
Age: It is given in three doses, a month apart. Given with the triple shot.
For: To prevent against rotavirus infection
Worse case scenario if you don't get this jab: Child gets diarrhoea

“This vaccine was introduced about six or seven years ago initially but it was taken off the market because of concerns of intussusception where the children's intestines telescopes in itself and it causes bowel obstruction. The risk of getting that was very minute but nonetheless the Government saw an increased risk of it so they stopped it. And they re-introduced it a couple of years ago, about three years ago. The new vaccine is safe; it shows no problems at all.

“Rotavirus is the commonest cause of diarrhoea in children under the age of three years. “This vaccine is given in the form of drops in the mouth.”

Vaccination: Hepatitis A
Age: Above the age of two, given in two doses, six months to a year apart.
For: Protects for life against Hepatitis A
Worse case scenario if you don't get this jab: Liver damage

“Hepatitis A is usually food borne. It is very uncommon for kids to get it because most children don't eat out. We tend to see it in teenagers. But we would advise parents definitely before going to school to get the Hepatitis A vaccine. It's endemic in Malaysia so you want to consider getting this jab.Hepatitis A can cause liver damage. Jaundice, fever, vomiting and tummy upset are the typical symptoms. It usually lasts about a week and then it gets better but bad Hepatitis A can cause permanent liver damage. And there's no cure for it so prevention is advisable.”

Conclusion

When a child is vaccinated, the common side effects are typically fever, a bit of pain, a bit of swelling or soreness. That usually lasts about a day or two.

The side effects from the MMR vaccination is a bit different. While the child would have similar symptoms of fever, it would only occur after a week to 10 days.

These symptoms typically last about one or two days. They shouldn't last beyond that.

According to Dr Sanjay, some parents are reluctant to vaccinate their children because they think vaccination causes autism. “This is because of a study published in the late 1970s or early 1980s in Britain which suggested a possible link between the measles vaccine and autism. If you were to Google measles and autism you would find many sites telling you that the measles vaccination causes autism, and many parents swear by it.

“Following that one reckless study, many studies have come out showing that there is no link between the measles vaccination and autism,” he says. Confirming that there is no link between vaccinations and autism, Dr Sanjay says it is safe to vaccinate children against measles. Dr Sanjay adds that another concern for parents is the presence of mercury in vaccines and whether the mercury content can cause long-term damage. He explains that the amount of mercury present in vaccines is so minute and even that the vaccine manufacturers have now taken it out so almost all vaccines now don't contain any mercury. The last worry that parents have regarding vaccines is whether there is a risk of overloading the child's immune system.

“What we are giving is antigens – dead organisms or particles of organisms. At one time when you vaccinate the whole series, for example if you take the routine ones plus the optional ones at one go, they will get between a maximum of 10 to 15 particles at one exposure. Typically a child is exposed from a couple of hundred to a thousand of the similar particles a day in their environment. So, that extra 10-15 particles won't make a difference. It is not going to overload the immune system,” he explains.

While parents can delay getting their children immunised, Dr Sanjay advises against too long a delay.

Mom's 9 health rules: True or not true?

While enjoying parenthood, have you ever wonder the truth behind the health rules passed on to us from our elderly inclulding our mom dearest? I bet like myself you must have heard not only from your mom, but also from your PILs, aunts, uncles, grandmas etc on what you should and shouldn't do in parenting.

Well, I came across an interesting article entitled "Your mom's 9 health rules" which actually answers some of my doubts on those health rules. I guess with new research and developments some of the old scool of thoughts on health rules are no longer applicable. Our mom meant well but we ought to keep ourself updated too to ensure we're giving the best to our children. Having said that, I've always trust my mum's health advice simply because I know she reads articles/ books on health (especially children's health as she used to look after her eldest grandchild i.e. Uaua fulltime and now her other grandchildren when one of us goes outstation) and watch health programmes on Astro :)

Anyway, let me share with you in brief what the article says:

1. Mama always said : Eat more! Kids are starving

Not true. According to a paediatric nutrient from Washington University School of Medicine, feeding should be based on appetite and not to be judged by an empty bowl/ plate. She said this is to help the children to stay attuned to their feelings of satiety (condition of feeling full) thus avoids future overweight problems. She added, healthy options should be allowed when they are hungry and stop when they are full.


2. Mama always said: Don't sit so close to the TV - you'll ruin your eyes
Not true (BINGO! A question I've been wanting to find out the truth has been answered!! ). According to the American Optometric Association, children can't harm their eyes by watching too close to the TV screen. It may however cause eyestrain which could lead to headache said a pediatrician in Dallas. Headache doesn't worsen your eyes but it is uncomfortable. For healthier viewing, we are to remind our children not to watch in total darkness as the darkness contrast will worsen the strain. They should also be 10 feet away. But if they keep on gluing their noses to the TV screen get their eyes checked.


3. Mama always said: Don't read in the dark
True. Reading in the dark will cause eyestrain which could lead to intermittent blurred vision and headaches especially if kept at a prolong period. However, all these symptoms can be resolved with rest. Nevertheless if it is a habit it could speed the onset of nearsightedness especially those who are genetically predisposed. For healthier habit, encourage children to read under at least a 60 watts of light and remind them to read at arm's length and to take frequent breaks.

4. Mama always said: Don't frown, you'll get wrinkles

True. Even laughing can give us wrinkles. But there's no way to avoid it nor any reason to try. The best we could do to protect our kids future faces and skin is to load our kids with SPF and encourage healthy stuff like vegetable.

5. Mama always said: Sit up straight

True. Slumping over puts major pressure on the back, shoulder and neck. It will also prevent the lungs from completely filling. But as nagging kids to sit up straight is frustrating, a better option is to try and let them stay active to strengthen their muscles and alignment.

6. Mama always said : That music is too loud!

True. It can cause future hearing loss. If your children likes to have their tunes up, ask them to take a break every 20 minutes. You could also get them a noise cancelling headphones to drown out background noise. It will make them less tempted to turn up the volume.

7. Mama always said: We're having dinner together cause that's what families do

Not quite true. More like being able to monitor the kids are eating balanced meals. Nevertheless, it is a great way to connect. But if your kids always response with a word, try to let them ask you questions instead or you could ask them specific questions like what made you laugh today? What was the nicest thing someone did to you today? What was the nicest thing you did today? You might be in for a surprise with their answers.

8. Mama always said: Eat your breakfast!

Very true. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Study shows that children who have breakfast perform better in school. Most breakfast foods are excellent sources of calcium, fibre and iron. But if your child is a picky breakfast eater, have them grab a handful of raisin, some dry cereal, or some left over pizzas to nibble on when they are ready.

9. Mama always said: Put on a coat, you'll catch a cold!

Not true. What you will get in the cold is ....just cold. Some research suggest that prolonged exposed to chilly temperatures will dampen the immune system because it puts strain on the body. But it does not make one sick. Only cold and flu viruses cause illness.

Fun filled activities for 2-year-olds

I was taking a break and was browsing at one of the local news papers i.e. Borneo Post when a particular article caught my eyes. The article was entitled "Activities for Two-Year-Olds" (Borneo Post, Nature & Health, pp8-9, 4 July 2009). According to the author and I supposed many other child experts, at the age of 2, the hand-eye co-ordination, motor movements and speech are in developing stages. Hence, activities that will help the child's motor skills, linguistic skills and overall development would certainly benefit the child in the long run. And read this, kids at this age LOVE TO BE MESSY!! Oh no...there goes your nice furniture and walls!! ;p

Anyway, the author had highlighted 8 fun activities for such purposes and they include:

1. Kitchen activities
Get a tiny table and chair set for your child. Provide large plastic bowls, spoons, plates along with real food like bananas, cornflakes and milk. You could show your child how to peel a banana and let him/her peel it on her own - am fine with the bananas and cornflakes idea but milk?? I can imagine the mess on the table, floor, everywhere and I doubt if I could handle that hehehe...but I guess I'll just have to learn to let go and loosen up a bit ;p

2. Play dough activities
You could either buy playing dough from the shop or DIY at home. Playing dough is very simple to make and all it needs is some flour, water and food colouring. Making a DIY dough will not make you apprehensive about the health and safety of your child - this sounds fun :)

3. Gluing activities
You could put bits and pieces of different wrapping papers into a cardboard box and ask your child to glue them onto a large sheet of paper.Tip: Tape the sheet of paper on the table/floor so that it doesn't interfere with the pasting. Glue sticks are less messier - you can also make a DIY glue at home by using corn flour and a lil' bit of water..

4. Colouring & painting activities
Prepare large thick uncovered non-toxic crayons and a perhaps a few pieces of papers that you tape them together to make one big piece on the floor. You could draw different shapes and figures for your child to colour in. Hand painting can be done too. Just prepare a bowl of child friendly paint for them to dip in and get their hand impressions on the paper - fun but not sure if I would allow this knowing Ethan may decides to "paint" our wall instead ;p

5. Bath-tub activities
Fill the bath-tub with some water and provide containers, plastic bottles and other bath-tub toys to keep your child entertained. You could also provide your child with his/her doll to give a bath in the bath-tub. You could even let him/her wash some of the doll's clothes - hmmmm...the clothes washing will be a good training eh hehehe...perhaps can let them play bubbles too :)

6. Throwing activities
This will help to develop your child's motor skills. Just crumple some newspapers or papers into medium-sized balls and ask your child to throw the balls into a waste bin. Adjust the distance of the waste bin according to your child's throwing ability. Alternatively you could use colourful balls or have a small tower of blocks at one end of the room and have your child roll a ball to break the tower - bowling games can be introduced too ;p

7. Sorting activities
Sorting coloured blocks and balls. Place all the blocks on the floor and ask your child to sort them according to the colours. You could provide boxes to sort the four colours. Alternatively you could use blocks in different shapes - sounds interesting

8. Tea parties
Organize tea parties. Invite her toy friends too. Dress her up for the party and let your child make sure each toy is seated has a drink. Some snacks can be prepared too. A photograph session would be good where you can ask your child to pose with her toys - more suitable for the girls ;p

Talking about activities..here are some pictures showing busy lil' E doing his 'thang'! ;p

Pap smear campaign @ Sabah Family Planning

If you or your mom, MIL, sister, SIL, niece, daughter, daughter in law, girlfriend, wife etc haven't done your or their pap smear this year...read on for the details:

Date : 1st – 31st July
Venue: Sabah Family Planning
Price: RM15 (test using normal method – results in 3 to 4 wks) ;
RM50.50 (test using liquid method – more accurate – results in 1 wk)
Time: Monday to Friday - 8.00 am to 4.30 pm (I think thy close during lunch time – do check wt them)
Saturday - 8.00 am to 12.00 pm (closed on every 1st and 3rd Saturday)

For detailed information and clinic operating days and hours, please call 222703 or 217553

Focus on Children Best Way to Stop Flu Bugs

LONDON (Reuters) - Travel restrictions and other measures help limit the spread of the new H1N1 virus but officials are largely ignoring the best way to stop the bug: focusing on children’s hygiene, a researcher said on Thursday.

Citing a review of 51 studies examining different ways to contain respiratory virus epidemics, Tom Jefferson of the Cochrane Library said encouraging children to do simple things like wash their hands is most effective.

“I don’t really understand why some governments are obsessed with popping pills and giving injections,” Jefferson, who led the review, said in a telephone interview.“The evidence is clear,” he added. “Hand washing offers protection against a lot of things, not just respiratory viruses.”
The review of published studies from around the world suggested that frequent hand washing, using gloves, gowns and masks with filtration, and isolating people believed to be sick help reduce transmission of viral respiratory diseases.

It also found that the greatest potential for preventing disease from spread came from focusing on children, not adults, Jefferson said.

“The main thing is if you teach children to wash their hands in schools, that is the biggest benefit to the whole of society,” he said.

One large study, for example, looking at 4,332 children in poor Pakistani households found children who washed their hands with soap several times daily had 50 percent fewer episodes of illnesses such as pneumonia or cough than the others.

“One of the explanations we found is that children are the most sociable beings and have the most physical contacts between people,” Jefferson said.

Since the emergence of the new H1N1 virus in Mexico health officials have scrambled to contain the infection that has so far spread to 33 countries, killed at least 65 people and put the world on the brink of a new pandemic.

And while quarantines, travel restrictions, school closures and facemasks have all been used, getting teachers and daycare workers to encourage good hygiene practices may do the most.
“If you enforce these kinds of hygienic measures in schools that is where the best benefits are,” Jefferson said.

Another study showed school absenteeism dropped 43 percent when children used alcohol gels along with hand washing. Others showed younger children taught hand-washing at school or home were significantly less likely to develop a respiratory illness. - (Reuters Health)

Meet the 7 super fruits

As a continuation from my earlier entry regarding eXfuze 7, here is the summary on the benefits of each superfruits. I know not many of us have the time nor the energy to read long research papers after a hard day's work. So I took the liberty to extract the information below for easy reference.

GAC from Southeast Asia
Contains:
• Antioxidants and carotenoids
• More beta-carotene than carrots

May help:
• Defend against vascular and cellular damage*
• Protect against the effects of aging*
• Rejuvenate cells and vascular system*
• Support cellular function*
• Support healthy immune function*
• Support proper blood flow*
• Help with anti inflammatory concerns*

ACAI from South America
Contains:
• Valuable trace minerals
• Naturally occurring vitamins
• Omegas
• Near-perfect, essential amino-acid complex
• Contains antioxidants
• Contains vital nutrients

May help:
• Increase energy and stamina*
• Enhance digestion*
• Improve mental focus and sleep quality*
• Enhance sexual function*
• Cleanse and detoxify the body*
• Boost immune system*

GOGI from Himalayan Mountains in Tibet and Mongolia
Contains:
• Wide array of Nutrients
• Trace minerals
• Amino acids
• Beta-carotene

May help:
• Support healthy liver function*
• Support eye and heart health*
• Increase exercise tolerance, stamina and endurance*
• Boost immune function*
• Promote longevity*
• Support blood glucose control*
• Aid with digestion*

NONI from Pacific Rim and West Indies
Contains:
• Abundant linoleic acid
• Powerful antioxidants

May help:
• Improve overall health and well being*
• Support proper digestion and helps the body absorb more nutrients at the cellular level*
• Support the body’s natural healing process*
• Superior antioxidant that helps rid the body of harmful free radicals*

FUCOIDAN from brown seaweed and algae
Contains:
• Omegas
• Powerful antioxidant compounds
• Many glyconutrients

May help:
• Enhance immune function and detoxify the body*
• Help maintain healthy blood flow*
• Support proper joint functions*
• Support the circulatory system*
• Aid in maintaining proper gastrointestinal function and health*
• Support vibrant health and vitality*
• Play a role in maintaining optimal kidney function*

MANGOSTEEN From Thailand
Contains:
• Antioxidants, nutrients, and phytonutrients
• Contains xanthones

May help:
• Maintain intestinal health*
• Aid the body’s healing process and strengthen cellular walls*
• Support the immune function
• Support cartilage and joint function*
• Aid with energy*
• Promote a healthy seasonal respiratory system*

SEABUCKTHORN from central and Southeast Asia
Contains:
• Flavonoids, carotenoids, and antioxidants
• Folic acid and vitamins
• Omegas

May help:
• Normalize gastric acid and control pro-inflammatory mediators*
• Enhance mental clarity*
• Provide anti-aging benefits*
• Maintain prostate & colon health*
• Boost immune system*
• Help body produce energy*
• Enhance mental clarity*

Take charge of your life!

Hi folks, you know how important our health is to us. Even if we have tonnes of money we will not be able to enjoy it if we are not healthy right. Anyway, what I'm going to introduce here is not merely for sales purposes but mainly for the benefits that this health drink brings. I can tell you that this products is good especially after looking at the positive health effects it gives to my MIL, my mom and a few other people that I know after taking it.

The effect on MIL is pretty obvious as I can see her face more fresh and lively. She has more energy as she didn't feel tired even after 3 rounds of non-stop brisk walking at the sport complex yesterday. And she has no more sleeping problem and her arthritis has improved tremendously. My mum who is super sceptical when it comes to this kinda thing is actually taking it religiously everyday and she finds that she has more energy too. My dad is taking it because I wanted him to get well faster especially after the operation (of cause to help him with his hypertension etc too) as this health drink promotes fast healing too. Hence, I am introducing eXfuze to you mainly due to its health benefits and I believe you will definitely benefit from it.

FYI, this product is not even launched in Malaysia but it is selling like hot cakes already. So that I supposed proves how good and well received it is.

If you're wondering what are the benefits it can bring, read about it from the image below:

Here's the unofficial eXfuze website in Sabah. You can read more about the products and the benefits of each different super fruits i.e. Gac, Acai, Goji, Noni, Fucoidan, Mangosteen and Seabuckthorn – along with Pomegranate, Wild Blueberries, Aloe Vera and Concord Grapes from this site (just click the images on the left side bar).

Should you want to purchase this health product and feel more comfortable asking from me, feel free to contact me as me and hubby are both members for our own consumption :) And if you're interested but you're not from Sabah and you're not sure who to contact in West Malaysia, I believe we can provide you the contacts from our network :) So folks, take charge of your life by looking after your health! ;p

Vicks Vaporub could be dangerous

I thought I should post this info after reading it from a blog and also getting it in my inbox from StoryMory today. If you have been applying Vicks Vaporub on your child/children below the age of 2 especially under the nose please stop. This ointment though has been around for donkey years may not be as safe as you think it is. Recent research shows that it could lead to severe breathing problem. Do read the articles below (click on the image for better view).

As for Ethan, I've stopped using Vicks Vaporub on him after I bought the Northern Essence All Natural Vapor Rub from MiaBambina last July. It is stated that this product is safe to use even on baby from 3 months old onwards.



Here's another article from cbcnews.ca about it.

It's almost over

Tomorrow will be the last day that Ethan will be on antibiotic. Overall, he seems to be back to normal except his appetite in the evening is not so good yet. No more fever and his nappy rash is almost gone. He is still experiencing loose bowel but not as bad... Apparently Augmentin antibiotic will cause nappy rash as well as loose bowel movement. But those are insignificant as compared to the very high fever that he had to endure recently. For his nappy rash we wash him with water and put on the Drapolene nappy barrier to prevent further rash and this seems to work pretty well. Both me and hubby are very happy to see his progress and hope that his cough and mucus will disappear very soon. Yes, he has been coughing with mucus on and off and still is on medications for that. His paed told us that as his fever subsides, his cough and mucus will come back again. But thank goodness it is not too bad and he seems to be recovering pretty fast from both too. We asked his paed what would be the cause to his throat infection. He told us that it is most likely from outside source (not because of his cough as we initially suspected) i.e. people who are sick came close to him or he got it from the crowded areas e.g. shopping malls. So now, no more public places for Ethan for at least a month...

Here we wish to extend our sincere thanks to my SIL, Lisa for being our walking medicine/ health encyclopedia during those challenging time...I think after 3 kids, she could consider taking up another degree and probably switch her career from an engineer to a pharmacist in the future hehehe...

And for my own reference, here am listing the types of fever medicines that can be used together when fever doesn't subside (information given by Dr. June of RMC ):
1. Ibuphoren & Uphamol
2. Ibuphoren & Voren (must be 6 hours gap/apart)
3. Uphamol & Voren (if fever doesn't subside after 45min-1 hr of Uphamol, insert Voren - this was the combination we used on Ethan recently)

Note: This general list is for my own future reference, you should refer to your own doctor for your own case.

Lil' E on the way to PIL's yesterday morning...he was still asleep when we had to carry him to the car...heee..

Oh btw, do share with me if you had experienced similar case and how did you handled your precious okay :)

p/s As I'm blogging away, my lil' precious is still fast asleep next to me at this moment ;p

Cancer warning for talcum powder

I've read and heard about talcum powder not good for babies (that was why I never use talcum powder on Ethan...) but I didn't know that it could cause ovarian cancer....so ladies and mommies do read on and pass the info around...

Cancer Warning for Talcum Powder
By TUNKU SHAHARIAH

extracted from the Star Online

Published: Tuesday February 17, 2009 MYT 1:13:00 PM

GEORGE TOWN: Be careful the next time you sprinkle yourself with talcum powder or inhale it as it has been found to cause cancers and tumours, said the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP).

Magnesium silicate hydroxide, also commonly known as talc, is the main ingredient in baby, medicated and designer perfumed body powder.

CAP president S.M. Mohamed Idris said the latest findings from the United States suggested that women who used talcum powder were 40% more likely to suffer from ovarian cancer.
“Talc particles are capable of moving up the reproductive system and becoming embedded in the ovary lining.

“Researchers have found talc particles in ovarian tumour and they have also discovered that women with ovarian cancer used talcum powder on their genitals more frequently than healthy women,” he told a press conference at the CAP headquarters here Tuesday.

He said that researchers from Harvard Medical School in Boston studied over 3,000 women and found that those using talcum once a week had a 36% chance of getting ovarian cancer, while those using talcum daily had a 41% chance.

Talcum, Mohamed Idris added, was also a health risk when exposed to the lungs as the puffy white cloud of powder ended up being inhaled by babies.

“Talc can cause the baby’s airways to swell and lead to pneumonia, and has been linked to asthma in children. Statistics show that several thousands infants die or become seriously ill each year due to inhalation of baby powder,” he said.

He urged the Health Ministry to place a warning on products containing talc and to stop the marketing of baby powder containing talc.

“Consumers should revert to using the traditional ‘bedak sejuk,’ which is made of rice flour or powder made from corn flour,” he added.

Picky eating behaviour

Ethan started to refuse his food since New Year eve...I thought he was playing up initially coz he stopped eating when family and friends drop by while he was having his meals...he will take a few spoons before he started to "lock" his mouth...being the impatient person that I am, I started to get frustrated and angry and started scolding and even forced and punished him...mealtimes became a battle ground for both of us and it drove me nut...then I thought to myself...this is not right...maybe something is wrong..perhaps he is bored with the food but then again I told myself he has only started eating pure solid food less than 2 weeks ago..he can't be bored with the food already as I cooked different menus most times...he used to love them that he even asked for more sometimes...it's a nerve wrecking to see him refusing food and it made me worry that he’s not getting the nutrition that he needs...I felt hopeless and kept wondering what's going on...I finally decided its time to open the pages of my "What to expect the toddler years" (1997, Murkoff et al) on the second day and true enough him refusing to eat during meal times is actually part of his developments ..it is normal for toddler to start refusing food as they are learning to be independent and thus trying to choose the type of food they like. And just to reconfirm, I did a search on the net to find out more...

"....it is perfectly normal for children to go through periods of saying they dislike something even if they loved it the day before. It is often due to their growing independence. This is why toddlers often go though periods of being fussy with what they eat." - having a mind of their own now...

"Refusing to eat is very common to toddlers because they are reaching a stage of learning control. To them, food is the easiest thing to control, eat or not eat." - aren't they smart as they now want to control us instead hehe

"...at about one year of age. The child now grows at a slower pace and does not require the amounts of food that were necessary to fuel the earlier growth. " - thus the reason why they don't eat as much I supposed....

"A common reason babies don't eat solids is that they are getting more food than they need the easy way, from the bottle. No toddler needs more than 24 ounces of milk a day and you can even cut down to 16 ounces. " - I may have overdosed him with his milk as I give him almost 24 ounces a day...

"...instead of aiming for a nutritionally balanced day, aim for a nutritionally balanced week" - ok now I know...

"Be aware of how little food a young child needs. A TABLESPOON PER YEAR OF AGE (i.e. two tablespoons for a two-year-old) of starches, fruits and vegetables is an adequate serving size. As for meat or chicken, a serving is the size of the CHILD'S PALM" - oh my...how little..no wonder...

and Murkoff et al said that "When it comes to eating and growing, a toddler's body works in mysterious ways. Toddlers manage to grow and thrive taking in amounts of food that, from parental point of view , seems insufficient to nourish a grasshopper" - thank goodness as I was worried sick about this ;p

So now I don't have to worry too much as my lil' boy is actually growing up and this is one of the phases that is perfectly normal..phew!! ;p

If you're having the same problem or getting yourself ready for this phase, here are some useful links:

• Managing mealtimes with your toddler
• Picky picky: When your toddler won't eat
• My toddler won't eat
• What to do when your toddler won't eat
• How to encourage your toddler to enjoy mealtimes

When to expect babies' teeth

Please click on the image to read the info clearly

Source: Heinz Teething Rusks (scanned)