This is What Malaysian Mums Expect From Maternal and Formulated Milk Powder for Children

With the advancement of technology, the new generation of parents are becoming increasingly cautious about their purchases and expect clarity, as well as accountability from brands they would like to buy.

It was found that Malaysian parents echoed the same sentiments following a survey conducted by theAsianparent and Friso Gold. In a bid to identify the motivating factors for their purchases, mums revealed their concerns and expectations on sourcing the best formulated milk powder for children, as well as the right pregnancy milk formula.

Here is what they had to say.

Packaging information

The desire for increased transparency was driven by worrying issues, including previous product recalls and safety breaches, that shed light on health concerns in relation to food products.

Mothers now feel that packaging information is insufficient and are looking for declarations on quality check processes as a form of reassurance that the product is truly safe for them, as well as their child.

These include transparency on how quality checks are conducted during food production, as well as during food sourcing and the types of quality control implementations.

Mums want more information

Mums share various concerns when it comes to finalising their buying decisions – they now want to track the information to have proper insight on types of quality control, product authenticity and quality check process before they make up their minds.

There are two factors that they take into account when it comes to quality checks – the food source and how it is processed during production. Every country has its own complex regulations when it comes to quality management as the risks of improper checks can have severe implications on mums and children.

Why they want to trace information

Majority of the participants emphasised that transparency and the ability to trace such crucial information are factors that provide them with the confidence they need in a brand – 91 percent of mums stated they want their qualms comforted by knowing the product has undergone the relevant checks and is safe for consumption.

Following that, they want to be able to track information to ensure the product on hand is genuine with quality assurance.

How they trust a product

Today, brand transparency matters more than ever – customers want to know everything about the products they buy and about the companies who produce the items too. This is especially crucial for mothers in particular when it comes to choosing a brand to supplement their womb and children.

For mums, trust is won through good quality products of brands that are able to be forthcoming about their processes. Brands that can show their formulation is made from reliable food sources and have adhered to proper quality controls offer mothers the assurance they yearn for.

With that being said, choose your brand wisely. The next time you consider a brand, opt for one that allows you to trace the product journey from farm-to-trolley, so that you can walk away from the store with a peace of mind.

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on theAsianparent Malaysia website.

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Covid-19 Consequences: How Preschools Are Hit by a Pandemic

Coronavirus
isn’t just making people sick. It is disrupting industries and personal lives. The field of early childhood education—a symbol of joy, safety, and growth—is not exempt from this.

This article attempts to shine some light on the realities faced by Malaysian preschools as a result of the outbreak, with input from local early childhood institutions.

A Sudden Online Shift

The Movement Control Order (MCO) hit us all like a ton of bricks. Its announcement from the government came two days before it was implemented. Preschools had to react quickly and decide how (and if) learning would continue, since kids weren’t able to go to physical classes.

The decision for most was to switch to online learning.

Teachers are now planning for and carrying out virtual classes, via platforms like Zoom. This allows a medium for preschools to continue with instruction while maintaining positive rapport between teacher and students.

This, however, isn’t too straightforward. Curriculums for preschools include lots of hands on learning and face-to-face interaction. This means that parental involvement is often needed for lessons.

Little Acorns At Play
, Kota Damansara, is one of many preschools sending learning materials—accompanied by teaching instructions—to parents. To keep tabs on student progress, parents would send teachers videos or pictures of their kids carrying out activities.

“We encourage a lot of bonding sessions and family time hence our materials are not taxing. We try to make it interesting both ways (teaching and learning)”

Ms. Kalvinder, Founder of
Little Acorns at Play

Preschools understand that parents stuck at home with their kids might find it challenging to take on the role of teacher, while juggling with their own jobs. This is why many preschools are also sharing online learning resources such as YouTube video links and independent activity ideas to help ease parents’ burdens.

Business Takes a Beating

Preschools are a business. And just like most other businesses, the pandemic has bruised it. Since kids aren’t allowed to go to school, parents are requesting for a reduction in monthly fees.

“Big Apple Kindergarten
, for example, is reducing the April fee for parents.”

Mr. Kingsley Ting, CEO of
Big Apple Kindergarten

“It is a heavy burden for principals to sustain business because rentals and expenses still have to be paid. Some parents are not actually willing to support online teaching, even though a discount has been given during this MCO. The premise rentals for some schools can be very high and fees are hefty for schools that have large, well-equipped environments.”

Ms. Heng, Founder of
H’Apples Kindergarten

Infant and daycare centres are especially suffering because they are i) unable to provide online teaching (as babies are too young), and ii) can’t carry out daycare services.

Parents are asking for refunds, and these centres have to submit, despite the financial blow.

Teacher salary is another big expense that schools have to maintain.

Ms. Mei Ling, the principal and founder of
Rise N Shine Childcare Centre
, shares, “We try to keep the teachers’ pay the same, as we are well aware that most of our teachers are either a mother or single lady staying away from home. Cutting their pay would just worsen their burden,” she says.

Preschools during this MCO are finding that parents do not fully understand their struggles, while parents do not understand why they have to pay for full fees when their kids aren’t going to school.

Many during this MCO are also losing jobs or receiving pay cuts, and surely there are parents who have been afflicted.

Perhaps the best solution is to seek for better understanding of all parties, and to work together in coming up with a viable agreement. Parents and principals are encouraged to talk openly to one another and find a way forward.

After all, this ultimately benefits the children and their education.

To aid Malaysians during the MCO, the government recently announced salary subsidies for SMEs under Pakej PRIHATIN PKS Tambahan. The allocation applies to local staff who are earning below Rm4,000. This might alleviate the financial strain for some preschools.

As for Islamic kindergartens in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan, a three-month fee waiver will be granted to parents, as decided by The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP). Lasting from April until June, this exemption will amount to a financial impact of almost RM1milion.

Preschools are hoping for more assistance during this time from the government. Ms. Kalvinder suggests, “Perhaps there could be a way for them to subsidize education for the private sectors as well, so it’s not a burden to both parents and operators.”

Keeping Kids Safe

The MCO is carried out to keep as many citizens safe and healthy as possible. But once the order is lifted, parents may still be concerned sending their children back to school. Preschools are therefore planning to put in additional safety measures once authorities give the green light.

“We will still be doing their usual sanitizing and screening each morning, but will limit parents from coming into the school compound. Parents that have been travelling will not be allowed to send their kids to school.”

Ms. Mei Ling, Founder of
Rise N Shine Childcare Centre

Doing What’s Possible

No one knows for sure when schools will reopen. In case of extended school closures, preschools are trying their best to continue with online learning. Once kids are allowed to attend school, replacement classes may be offered by some establishments.

For parents worried about the progress of their kids, Ms. Kalvinder offers her two cents: “In my opinion, not all learning is done in the classroom. I believe reading, writing and spelling are not all that is needed for one to prosper. With an excellent IQ one needs EQ as well. Hence this is the time for parents to expand this part, as the first step begins from home. “

She suggests that parents use this period to let kids
explore their interests
. It could be gardening, cooking, painting, or just engaging in open play. This helps children to freely express their creativity, while allowing them comfort and confidence building.

In times like these, we can all just do our parts and try to adjust to ‘the new normal,’ as Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin says.

This article has been republished with permission from
Kiddy123
.

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Raising a Resilient Child: 5 Ways Nutrition Contributes to a Resilient Mind and Body

Being resilient is the ability to bounce back from difficulties such as stress, trauma, anxiety and failure. This ensures our children grow up with the desire to explore and experience the world because they are confident in their ability to cope with life’s ups and downs. This ability to accept failure as well as success, happiness and disappointment, will allow our children to make the most of future opportunities. It is not something we’re born with, but a characteristic that children can learn to nurture, build and develop.

The first step towards
building resilience
 is to develop a strong body. This comes from proper nutrition, along with
 other nutrients and functional ingredients such as
pre
biotics
and probiotics to enhance immunity. This establishes a solid foundation upon which physical and mental resilience can be built.

To complement our research on this topic, we spoke to Ms. Michelle Low, Consultant Dietitian at Pantai Hospital about the relation between nutrition and a healthy immune system.

According to Ms. Michelle Low, good nutrition is vital in strengthening your child’s immune system. The immune system is complex and requires adequate nutrition to shield the body from infectious illnesses and other health problems.

How Probiotics and Prebiotics Can Benefit Children

Probiotics
1

Probiotics are living microorganisms, or “live bacteria” that are good for the digestive system.

They help with digestion by reducing symptoms of certain digestive disorders, boost immune system functions and even improve some mental health conditions.

They can be found as supplements or naturally in some foods, like yogurt and tempeh.

Consuming probiotics helps your child’s body to produce more good bacteria so they can prevent the bad ones from colonising the gut!

Prebiotics
2

Prebiotics is a dietary fibre that cannot be digested by the human body. It only serves as the food for the good bacteria in the gut.

Prebiotics are also found in foods like bananas, onions, garlic, asparagus and whole wheat as well as in fibre supplements.

Food manufacturers have started adding prebiotics into various food products such as ice cream, baby formula, cereals and yogurt under the name “chicory root extract”, “inulin” or “prebiotic fibre”.
3

A recent study also shows that prebiotics help the body to absorb calcium, which is an essential nutrient to build strong bones in growing children.
4

Besides the powerful combination of prebiotics and probiotics, your child can also strengthen his or her immune system by consuming a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Vitamin A

Sti
mulates skin growth and repairs damaged skin cells. Also contributes to eye health, plus the formation and maintenance of teeth, bones, soft tissue, white blood cells and the immune system
.
5

Vitamin C

Protects against immune system deficiencies by stimulating the production and activity of antibodies.
6

Vitamin E

A powerful antioxidant that neutralises free radicals and helps to boost the immune system.
7

Iron

Assists our red blood cells to transport oxygen to the whole body. It also contributes to the production of energy for our body.
8

While your child can certainly benefit from all these vitamins and minerals, there is yet another fun and easy way for children to naturally boost their immunity. We have the dirt on this, literally.

Get Messy, Get Dirty, Get Healthy!

Are you guilty of over-sterilising the environment your child is living in? If you are, perhaps it’s time to take a step back and just let your child explore the outdoors – dirt, germs and all.

According to Professor Gilbert, a germ expert and the director of the Microbiome Centre at the University of Chicago, outdoor microbes are actually helpful in establishing a solid immune system in young people
9
. He advised parents to let their young children explore the great outdoors because exposure to germs will naturally strengthen the child’s immune system hence making them stronger. In fact, an environment that is too clean and sterile can cause children to develop a hyper-sensitised immune system that makes them more susceptible to allergies and asthma.

Health benefits aside, letting your child experience the world in a free, self-directed and active environment also teaches them about resilience as they grow.

However, you should always be aware of the environmental factors that may affect your children as they experience the world. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the air could still weaken your child’s immune system. This is why a nutritious diet is vital for growing children. It strengthens your child’s immune system to ensure it is capable of fighting against various infections, thus allowing them to freely experience the world.

To find out more about this, we talked to two amazing mums about their children’s daily diet and what they do to boost their children’s immunity.

Mrs. Nur Aida, Mum of 2 children

Mrs. Nur Aida swears by the 5-A-Day concept to boost her children’s immune system. If you’re not familiar with 5-A-Day, it is a campaign by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that recommends the intake of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables (combined) a day. She also keeps her children active and healthy by allocating ample outdoor play time.

Mrs. Pamela Jansen, Mum of 3 children

Mrs. Pamela Jansen believes in the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics alongside daily servings of healthy meals to build her children’s immune system and protect them from illnesses.

Incorporating a healthy diet for children can be tricky as healthy foods generally tend to be bland and unattractive. But fret not! We’ve compiled a few healthy kid-friendly meal ideas for you.

Delicious Pre- and Probiotic Food And Meal Ideas For Children

Almonds

Benefits:

Recent studies have shown that almonds are able to increase levels of good bacteria in the gut thanks to their high fibre content. It’s also worth pointing out that almonds are highly fair in fat, so aim to eat them in moderation.

Meal Ideas:

Maple Almond Breakfast Smoothie

Get the recipe here:
https://www.superhealthykids.com/recipes/quick-breakfast-smoothie-maple-almond-crush/

Cinnamon Almonds

Get the recipe here:
https://www.superhealthykids.com/recipes/going-nuts-over-nuts/

Low-Sugar or Sugar-free Yogurt

Benefits:

Yogurts are loaded with probiotics that stimulate the immune system.

Meal Ideas:

Add natural vanilla extract or a drizzle of honey into plain yogurt for extra yumminess.

Healthy Instant Strawberry Banana Frozen Yogurt

Get the recipe here:
https://www.superhealthykids.com/recipes/healthy-instant-strawberry-banana-frozen-yogurt/

Blueberries

Benefits:

Blueberries contribute two kinds of probiotics, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Both have the ability to counter gut inflammation by enhancing the gut microbial profile.

Meal Ideas:

Triple Berry Baked Oatmeal

Get the recipe here:
https://happyhealthymama.com/triple-berry-baked-oatmeal.html

Blueberry Graham Pancakes

Get the recipe here:
https://www.superhealthykids.com/recipes/blueberry-pancakes-graham/

Looks yummy, right? We can’t wait to try these out ourselves!

Resilient Children Equals A Successful Adult!

Every child deserves a successful life. As children grow, it is our main role as parents to provide them with the support they need to stay healthy, resilient and successful all the way into adulthood.

So let’s begin at the basics. Teach your child about living a healthy and well-balanced life through good nutrition, an active lifestyle and a positive mindset. Start providing your child with nutritious foods at an early age, especially foods that contain prebiotics and probiotics, because with a healthy body, your child is prepared to step out into the world, resilient to the challenges of growing up.

With 40 years of pioneering research,
AptaGro
™

from the No.1 company* in formula milk for children in Europe**
 is formulated with a combination of
prebiotics & probiotic
 and additional important nutrients that support their bodies and learning development. This way they can build their resilience by experiencing the world.

References

1
Brown, Mary J. (2016, August 23). 8 Health Benefits Of Probiotics. Retrieved from
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-health-benefits-of-probiotics

2
 Westphalen, D. (2018, October 29). What Is The Difference Between Prebiotics And Probiotics?. Retrieved from
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323490.php

3
Freuman, Tamara D. (2015, May 5). What Is Inulin (Chicory Root Fibre)?. Retrieved from
health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/2015/05/05/what-is-inulin-chicory-root-fiber

4
McCabe, L., Britton, Robert, A., & Narayanan Parameswaran. (2016, December 1). Prebiotic And Probiotic Regulation Of Bone Health: Role Of The Intestine And Its Microbiome. Retrieved from
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4623939/

5
Bradford, A. (2015, August 25). Vitamin A: Sources And Benefits. Retrieved from
www.livescience.com/51975-vitamin-a.html

6
Carr, AC., & Maggini, S. (2017, November 3). Vitamin C And Immune Function. Retrieved from
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29099763

7
Zurich, Peter R. (2015, April 9). Can Vitamin E Rescue Your Immune Cells?. Retrieved from
www.futurity.org/vitamin-e-immune-cells-894482/

8
Nairz, M., Haschka, D., Demetz, E., & Weiss, G. (2014, July 16). Iron At The Interface Of Immunity And Infection. Retrieved from
www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2014.00152/full

9
 Timmins, B. (2017, July 17). Scientist Reveals Why Its Important To Let Your Kids Be Exposed To Germs. Retrieved from
www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/why-its-important-to-expose-kids-to-germs-scientist-explains-jack-gilbert-children-babies-immune-a7845031.html

*Danone Dumex is part of Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition

**Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition calculation based in part on information reported by Nielsen through its Scan Track, MarketTrack and Retail Index Services for the Children nutrition milk formula for children aged between 12 and 36 months segment (client defined) in the Children nutrition milk formula category (client defined) for the 52-week period December 2017, for the total grocery channel in Belgium, Czech, Estonia, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic, and Switzerland. (Copyright © 2017 The Nielsen Company.)

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A Natural And Effective Cough Remedy - Steamed Orange With Salt

Like most of you, we find ourselves at home and want to make sure the health of ourselves and our family is not compromised during these times. As many of you know, we’ve been proponents of natural herbs, ingredients and DIYs for a long time now, and today is no different.

We’d like to take our love for simple powerful ingredients and DIY – to the next level! At this level, we turn what’s available in our homes that’s natural and safe into remedies, concoctions and tonics that really help you with common ailments like the cough, flu, constipation, as well as help to boost immunity. Because although antibiotics could be used as a fast cure option, there’s more damage than good done in the long term.

Today, we’ll be sharing with you PurelyB’s Co-Founder Stephanie’s very own cough remedy – Steamed Orange With Salt. It’s proven to work like a charm  – putting her and her family to sleep through the night, where they wake up feeling less congested (the citrus worked like an expectorant), their throats eased up and within 2-3 days they were back to good shape. The best thing is arguably the taste – for both parents and the kids.

So what are some common ailments & health related concerns you have now? Is it immunity? Or an eternally running cold? Instead of quick-fixing them, how about looking at the natural route to see if there is a safe alternative for you – that’s currently sitting in your kitchen. Now that we’re all home anyway, let’s give it a try with this Steamed Orange

Recipe: Steamed Orange With Salt

Ingredients:
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1 orange per person

Himalayan salt

Method:

Soak the orange in salt water for 20 minutes.

Slice the top of the orange (about 2 cm from the top) to resemble a cap or cover.

Poke a fork through to make multiple holes in the top of the orange.

Sprinkle about ½ to 1 teaspoon of salt over and allow it to dissolve and seep into the orange.

Cover the orange with its top. Put the orange into an empty bowl.

Place it in a steamer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Serve warm – peel the orange (the skin will come off easily), eat the flesh and drink the juice that collects in the bowl.

Who would have known that a juicy vitamin-C filled orange could actually turn into something that helps with cough right? We have a ton other remedies that you can whip up straight from the comforts of your kitchen and home. So if you’d like to find out more remedies you can easily whip up – for immunity,  fevers, the flu, constipation, etc. check out
Natural Home Pharmacy
 – it’s an online program created by leading Naturopath Amanda Teh that’s got 30 simple videos that shares 30 remedies for you to put together – to transform your health in a safe and natural way.

This article has been republished with permission from
PurelyB.

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COVID-19 Fatigue Is A Real Issue, Here Are Things You Need to Know on Your Journey to Recovery

COVID-19 has infected almost half a billion people worldwide with just over 6 million deaths.  Fortunately, most COVID-19 patients survive especially following complete vaccination. However, some may suffer from what is known as long COVID or post-acute sequelae of SARS-COV2 infection (PASC) whereby fatigue is a predominant symptom affecting as many as 87%.

COVID fatigue may also refer to a person’s emotional reaction to the ongoing pandemic.  This could range from anger, exhaustion, frustration, and, feeling fed-up.  This is due to the pervasive nature of the pandemic on our daily activities, be it restrictions or changes to our lifestyle.  However, in this article, we will be reviewing COVID fatigue as part of the long COVID syndrome.

How long does it take to recover from COVID-19 and what is long COVID-19?

Credit: Freepik

Recovery from COVID-19 illness depends on multiple factors such as age, presence of existing medical conditions including diabetes and heart disease, the severity of COVID-19 illness especially those requiring hospitalization or intensive care, and complications of COVID-19.

Those with mild diseases usually recover in 2 weeks but those with severe illnesses may take months.  Symptoms persisting beyond 2 months are called long COVID.

Long COVID may follow asymptomatic, mild or severe illness.  It covers a broad range of symptoms from physical to neuropsychological.  Some common physical symptoms include cough, breathlessness, chest pain, fatigue, body and joint aches and pains, loss of smell and taste, and difficulty sleeping.  Cognitive and psychological symptoms include poor memory and concentration, also known as brain fog, as well as anxiety and depression.

The symptoms of long COVID are debilitating.  They affect a person’s functional ability, not just going to back to school or work but also simple tasks such as self-care.

What is COVID-19 fatigue and what are the symptoms?

COVID-19 fatigue is characterised by extreme tiredness, weakness and exhaustion which are not relieved by rest or sleep. Fatigue following viral illnesses has been well described even before COVID-19 such as in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).

COVID-19 fatigue symptoms are divided into two – physical and neuropsychological.  Physical symptoms include feeling sleepy and tired, exhaustion after simple activities, performing simple tasks poorly or difficulty in multi-tasking, and, performing tasks automatically without thinking.  Neuropsychological symptoms include poor memory and concentration, feeling irritable and frustrated, and, being less communicative.

How do I manage COVID-19 fatigue?

Credit: Freepik

Following COVID-19 infection, adequate rest and good sleep hygiene are important to combat fatigue.  Strategies to manage fatigue formulated by occupational therapists to manage other chronic illnesses have been adopted in COVID-19 fatigue management.  They are called the 3-Ps – pace, plan, and priorities.

Pace means to break down an activity into smaller tasks with breaks in between to recharge.  The idea is to avoid exhaustion which will take longer to recover. The plan is to spread different activities throughout the day or week, plus the option to obtain help from family or friends where possible.  And finally, to prioritise – what needs to be done today, and what can be postponed.

Relaxation techniques such as mindful meditation and yoga have also been adopted to manage COVID-19 fatigue but their efficacy is unknown.

When should I see a doctor for COVID-19 fatigue?

A doctor’s assessment is warranted when despite the above strategies, the symptoms persist, or are progressively worsening, and affecting the quality of life.  A formal evaluation is important because serious complications of COVID-19 can manifest as fatigue.

Your doctor will begin with a series of questions regarding symptoms and functional status, and physical examination followed by relevant investigations such as chest imaging, lung function testing, and ECG.  They would also assess for other factors that can worsen fatigue such as medications, deconditioning, muscle weakness, pain, sleep disturbance, mood disorders, endocrine disease, and cardiopulmonary disease.

How is COVID-19 fatigue managed?

Credit: Freepik

The principle of COVID-19 fatigue management is to gradually build up a tolerance and eventually resume activities as tolerated.  These activities include self-care such as bathing, dressing, walking, stair-climbing, housekeeping, and finally returning to school or work.  Your doctor will formulate an individual plan, or you may work with physiotherapy and occupational therapy to achieve these goals.

A person may start at a different level depending on the severity of their fatigue and escalate as tolerated.  Therapy normally begins with breathing exercises, gentle stretching, and light muscle strengthening before aerobic activities.

If a person is unable to progress, they may be enrolled on a formal rehabilitation program. Those with specific cardiac or pulmonary complications of COVID-19 will benefit from formal cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation.

Conclusion

COVID-19 is a new illness, and we are learning more and more each day regarding its recovery process including long COVID.  So far, research has shown that long COVID tends to be less severe in vaccinated versus unvaccinated individuals.

As with any illness, prevention of COVID-19 infection and therefore long COVID is important.  Strategies such as masking, social distancing and practising hand hygiene remain paramount even with widespread vaccination.

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This article is written by
Dr Liza Ahmad Fisal,
Internal Medicine at Pantai Hospital Cheras (PHC).

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on
theAsianparent Malaysia
 website

Read more:

 Home Remedies for Flu: 5 Foods That Will Boost Your Child’s Immunity

Read more:
The Importance Of Folic Acid During Pregnancy & Why You SHOULD Take It

Read more:
Understanding Down Syndrome: What Causes It and Can We Check During Pregnancy?

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How Nutrition Can Fuel Optimal Growth in Children

Parents should consistently track their children’s growth — and with good reason. This development can be an important indicator of how their overall health is shaping up. But children’s growth isn’t always steady. There will likely be periods of rapid growth and times when growth slows or even plateaus.

So, whether you’re tracking your child’s height on a wall or carefully jotting down measurements in a journal, how can you tell if their growth is on track, especially with regard to slow or stunted growth?

According to Dr Nina Mazera Mohd Said, Medical Director of Abbott Nutrition Malaysia, there are several key indicators of healthy growth in children. And the best way to make sure your child is hitting those is by providing good nutrition.

What Constitutes Healthy Growth?

When a child is slow to grow or is experiencing a growth plateau, it’s easy to get discouraged by the numbers. However, when your pediatrician sizes up your child’s height and weight, they are looking for a consistent trend — not a magic number. For instance, if your child has always been in the 25th percentile on the growth chart, there’s no cause for concern as long as they stay on that curve. However, a sudden drop to the 10th percentile could be a red flag. Consistent increases in height and weight are some of the most important indicators of healthy growth.

When a child is behind in growth early on, changes in weight are often the first clue. Chronic undernutrition can affect a child’s height and lead to stunted growth.

 How Can Nutrition Affect Children’s Growth and Development?

Slowed growth can have far-reaching effects, such as impacting a child’s activity levels, performance in school, and may even increase their risk for chronic diseases later in life
1
. If you’re worried your child’s growth may be falling behind, schedule a visit with your pediatrician to get an expert opinion.

Nutrition is a primary factor that can affect growth and development, especially in the first five years of a child’s life. By the age of 5, children will achieve 60% of their adult height
2
. With nutrition contributing 80% of a child’s height potential, starting children early on a nutritious diet with a sufficient amount of calories is crucial to set them up for optimal growth
3
. The remaining 20% of a child’s height potential is determined by genetics
3
.

Are Some Nutrients More Beneficial in a Growing Child’s Diet?

According to a WHO study, children from different ethnic backgrounds grow at very similar rates when they receive sufficient nutrition and a supportive environment
4
. Good nutrition can go a long way in supporting your child’s growth, but knowing where to start can be tough.

Parents can begin by taking a closer look at how their child is eating, especially if they suspect they’re lagging in growth. Have there been changes in their diet? If your child is eating poorly because they are picky eaters or have limited appetites, it is quite likely that they aren’t getting all the nutrition they need. Adding a complete and balanced oral nutrition supplement like PediaSure® can be key to overcome this.

When choosing a nutrition supplement, look for one that provides quality calories as well as nutrients that are proven to support growth, such as:

•
 High quality protein that includes arginine to support longer bone growth
5
. Turn to meats, fish, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt and beans.

•
 Calcium and vitamins D and K2 to help build strong bones
6
. Find calcium in dairy foods, vitamin D in fish, egg yolks and orange juice and vitamin K2 in fermented foods, cheese and eggs.

For busy parents, putting nutritious meals on the table isn’t always easy. But Dr Nina emphasises that nutrition remains a key factor in supporting a child’s optimal growth and learning potential and should not be neglected.

“It is crucial that parents recognise the importance of providing the right nutrition to help their children achieve their maximum growth potential,” she explains. “Ensure their diets are filled with nutrient-dense foods and consider adding in an oral nutrition supplement, if needed.”

If you find that your child is ravenous by lunchtime, snacks can be a great way to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need. There are many tasty and nutritious snacks you can add to your child’s diet, but be sure to consult your child’s doctor or dietitian at your nearest IMFeD clinic before making significant changes to their diet. They can help you pinpoint the exact areas of nutrition where your child may be falling short, so you can help set them on the right track to optimal growth and development.

References

1
World Health Organization. Stunted growth and development. Available from
www.who.int/nutrition/childhood_stunting_framework_leaflet_en.pdf?ua=1
. Last accessed November 21, 2019.

2
World Health Organization. Growth Standards. Available from
www.who.int/childgrowth/standards/Technical_report.pdf?ua=1
. Last accessed November 21, 2019.

3
Jelenkovic A et al. Genetic and environmental influences on height from infancy to early adulthood: An individual-based pooled analysis of 45 twin cohorts. Sci. Rep. 6, 28496; doi : 10.1038/srep28496.

4
WHO Multicentre Growth Reference Study Group 2006. Assessment of differences in linear growth among populations.

5
Van Vught AJ et al. Dietary arginine and linear growth: The Copenhagen school child intervention study. Br J Nutr (2013), 109, 1031-1039.

6
Van Summeren MJ et al. Vitamin K status is associated with childhood bone mineral content. Br J Nutr (2008), 100, 852-858.

This article was written by Abbott Nutrition Malaysia
 and has been published with permission

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Vaccinated Adults vs. Unvaccinated Children: What Parents Should Know

COVID-19 infections in Malaysia
 are at the highest daily average reported since the pandemic began. The current numbers showed that children and babies are increasingly vulnerable to the virus, contrary to what earlier studies suggested. Over 40k children and babies in Malaysia are infected with COVID-19 to date
(1)
.

As more and more doses of vaccines are being administered to Malaysian adults and older teens by the day, this leaves
children, who do not yet qualify for a vaccine, susceptible to infection
. Here is what parents may want to know so that children can be protected from the virus before vaccines become available to them.

1.
When will COVID-19 vaccines be available to children under 12?

Credit: Dermatology Physician Group

Currently, biopharmaceutical companies are undertaking clinical trials to test the
safety and efficacy of coronavirus vaccines
 for children under 12. The results are expected to be available in September or October this year (including approximately 1 month for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to give it the green light).

It will then depend on the Malaysian government to announce when and what vaccines will be available to children.

Meanwhile, remember to make sure that children’s other routine vaccinations such as measles and influenza are continuing as normal.

2.
Should children get vaccinated (when they are eligible to)?

Yes.
 Children who are infected can transmit the virus to others.
 Parents should consider the COVID-19 vaccine for their children to protect against potential harm to the child and others, including family and friends.

3.
Would side effects be the same in children getting vaccines?

Credit: The Conversation

According to Pfizer, yes. Similar side effects like pain on the arm, tiredness, achy muscles, headache and fever are possible in children. However, they are usually temporary and should clear up within 48 hours.

4.
With adults being vaccinated, do children (who are not vaccinated) still need to wear face masks?

Yes. Health experts advise children to continue
wearing face masks
 when out in public and at schools even as more adults are getting vaccinated. But it is not recommended for children younger than 2 years to wear masks.

5.
Can vaccinated family friends or grandparents interact with unvaccinated children?

Credit: The Conversation

The U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that unvaccinated
children should still wear face masks
 in most settings, especially when indoors around people who do not live in the same household.

6.
What are safe activities for unvaccinated children?

Right now, everyone should stay at home as much as possible. But unvaccinated children can enjoy
outdoor activities that allow plenty of space between them and others
. Spending time cycling in the neighbourhood or walking in a park pose a lower risk of spreading the virus than public indoor activities do.

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Do Not Take the Rotavirus Disease Lightly!

1. Ismail Sabri: 48,261 children infected with COVID-19 in Malaysia so far.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/05/693098/ismail-sabri-48261-children-infected-covid-19-malaysia-so-far

This article has been republished with permission from
Kiddy123
.

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on
theAsianparent Malaysia website
.

Read more
:
Why It Is Important to Wear Your Mask, Even After You Have Been Vaccinated?

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Best Gynaecologist (Male/Female Ob/Gyn Doctors) in Klang Valley and Kuala Lumpur Area

Just discovered you’re pregnant via a home pregnancy test and wondering which gynaecologist to go to?

We provide some information on when you should start seeing a gynae and where you can go if you’re expecting a baby.

What is a gynaecologist?

A gynaecologist specializes in female reproductive health, treating issues that are related to the female reproductive tract and organs. This includes the breast, ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes.

Gynaecologists provide sexual and reproductive health servies by diagnosing and treating issues such as infertility, endometriosis, ovarian cycst, as well as reproductive cancers.

Some gynaes are also obstetricians, providing prenatal and postnatal care for pregnancy. They are sometimes referred to as Ob/Gyns.

When to visit a gynaecologist during pregnancy?

It is recommended that you make an appointment with an Ob/Gyn within 8 weeks of your last period for your first prenatal visit. It’s important to start with the best prenatal care, even if you’ve been pregnant before.

Your Ob/Gyn will help you to:

Calculate your due date

Discover any potential pregnancy risks

Schedule the following prenatal care visits

Advise you on supplements and medications that you might need to take during the pregnancy.

Read other articles on pregnancy here
.

Other reasons to see a gynaecologist

Besides pregnancy related visits, women should also see an Ob/Gyn for the following reasons:

Breast exams, especially if there is a family history of breast cancer

Irregular menstruation or changes in blood flow during periods

Pelvic exams

Pap smear

Birth control, especially if you’re not ready to have a child

If there are changes in your vaginal discharge

If there is blood in your urine

If you experience painful sex

Female gynaecologist in the Klang Valley, KL and Selangor

Photo by
MART PRODUCTION
 from
Pexels

Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur (Bangsar)

Dr Adilah Ahmat

Dr Aqmar Suraya Sulaiman

Dr Idora Mohamed

Dr Kim-Lei Wong

Dr Kiren Sidhu

Dr Premitha Damodaran

Pantai Hospital Cheras (Taman Cheras Makmur)

Dr Ho Choon Moy

Dr Ida Lilywaty Md Latar

Dr Lim Wan Teng

Thomson Hospital (Kota Damansara)

Dr Arifah Binti Mohd Amin @ Hamim

Dr Khairun Marina binti Bachok

Dr Nurhazinat Yunus

ParkCity Medical Centre (Desa ParkCity)

Dr Khong Su Yen

Dr Goh Huay Yee

Dr Vinodhini Bhaskaran

Prince Court Medical Centre (Bukit Bintang)

Dr Seri Suniza Sufian

Dr Shilpa Nambiar

Dr Tan Ay Eeng

Dr Maiza Tusimin

Sunway Medical Centre (Bandar Sunway)

Dr Chan Joe Mee

Dr Ainul Zahaniah Hj Abd Aziz

Dr Farah Leong Rahman

Dr Janani Sivanathan

Dr Lim Lei Jun

Dr Sharmina Kamal Binti Shamsul Kamal

Dr Tan Ee Ping

Dr Uma Mariappen

Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur (Kampung Berembang)

Dr. Adzlina Jaaffar

Dr. Jean Woo Lee See

Datin Dr. Suhaiza Salleh

Dr. Teresa Chow

Columbia Asia Hospital (Kuala Lumpur & Klang Valley)

Dr Loo Suat Chin (Bukit Rimau)

Dr Norshida Brahim (Cheras)

Dr Khairiah Binti Seman (Klang)

Dr Bheena Vyshali (Petaling Jaya)

Dr Raja Juhaidah Raja Abdullah (Puchong)

You can browse through the
list of gynaecologists at Columbia Asia Hospital in Kuala Lumpur and Klang Valley
 here.

Subang Jaya Medical Centre (Subang Jaya)

Dr Tang Boon Nee

Dr Noor Aini

Male gynaecologist in the Klang Valley, KL and Selangor

Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur (Bangsar)

Dr Ahmad Zailani Hatta Mohd Dali

Dr Eeson Sinthamoney

Dr Idris Ahmad

Dr Ng Hock Oon

Dr Narayanan M.

Dr Michael Lim Chung Keat

Dr Tan Boon Khim

Dr Wong Wai Ping

Pantai Hospital Cheras (Taman Cheras Makmur)

Dr Eee Ching Woo

Dr Ho Woon Ping

Dr Lai Sing Foo

Dr M. Arasu Muthusamy

Dr Tan Chee Hoe

Dr Tan Cheng

Dr Tan Kock Kheng

Thompson Hospital (Kota Damansara)

Dr Aldrin Lie Tze Min

Dr Surinder Singh

Dr Thaneemalai Jeganathan

Dr Wai Kok Yau

Dr Yong Jee Kien

ParkCity Medical Centre (Desa ParkCity)

Dr Jeevaretanam A/L Soosaimuthu

Dr Jaspal Singh Sachdev

Dr Ng Kwee Boon

Dr Yong Chee Meng

Prince Court Medical Centre (Bukit Bintang)

Dr Tan Niap Hong

Dr Paul Tay Yee Siang

Dr K. K. Iswaran

Datuk Dr Abd. Aziz Yahya

Sunway Medical Centre (Bandar Sunway)

Dr Balasundram Govindasamy

Dr Chong Chin Kooi

Dr Jason Lim Meng Hock

Dr Kannappan Palaniappan

Dr Magendra Ramalingam

Dr Thangesweran Ayakannu

Dr Thow Sun Ta

Dr Wong Chin Yuan

Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur (Kampung Berembang)

Datuk Dr. Abd Aziz Yahya

Dato’ Dr. Alex Mathews

Dr. Andy Low Kok Kwan

Dr. Chung Chow Cheang

Dr. Edmund Lai Sing Foo

Dr. Jimmy Tang Sek Cheong

Dr. Michael Foong Chee Hong

Dr. Michael Samy

Dr. Ravi Chandran

Dr. T.P. Baskaran

Dr. Tan Lay Seng

Dr. Vijayan Padmanathan

Dr. Wong Kok Kien

Columbia Asia Hospital (Kuala Lumpur & Klang Valley)

Dr Rama Krishna Kumar Krishnamurthy (Bukit Rimau)

Dr Victor Chin (Cheras)

Dr Thiagarajan Chidambaram (Klang)

Dr Yip Khar Weng (Klang)

Dr Nicholas Lim (Petaling Jaya)

Dr Ng Soon Pheng (Puchong)

Dr Silvam Sellapan (Puchong)

Dr Low Wea Haw (Setapak)

Dr Mohd Suhaimi Hassan (Setapak)

You can browse through the
list of gynaecologists at Columbia Asia Hospital in Kuala Lumpur and Klang Valley
 here.

Subang Jaya Medical Centre (Subang Jaya)

Dr Ang Chin Guan

Dr Fong Chee Kin

Damai Service Hospital (Jalan Ipoh)

Dr Mahes Sittampalam

Assunta Hospital (Petaling Jaya)

Dr Liew Fah Onn

Dr Jaswant Singh

Dr Kuharaj Balasubramaniam

Dr Ragu Shanmuganathan

You can browse through the
list of gynaecologists at Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya
 here.

What to expect at the gynaecologist?

Heading to the gynaecologist can be a scary experience, especially if it’s your first time. So here’s what you can expect:

Examination of the internal and external parts of your reproductive system.

Breast examination for any lumps or cysts.

Examination of the vulva located outside of the vagina.

Internal pelvic examination, usually with a speculum to view the cervix. Pelvic examination can be painful.

A pap smear may be performed during the pelvic examination.

If there are any issues, your doctor may then do further tests and discuss a treatment plan with you.

Photo by
MART PRODUCTION
 from
Pexels

How to find a good gynaecologist?

Because you will most probably be discussing intimate details with your gynae, you’ll want a gynae whom you can trust. Here are a few tips to help you find a good fit:

They’re recommended by friends and family.

They have good reviews.

They’re experienced with legit credentials.

They have a good bedside manner.

You’re comfortable with them – it’s ok to change doctors if you’re not comfortable with the current one.

They’re located not too far from you.

They’re affiliated with hospitals that you trust.

Common gynaecological conditions

The following are several common gynaecological conditions that every woman should be aware of. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in order to prevent further medical issues.

Menstrual issues – Irregular periods, heavy and painful bleeding, bleeding in between periods, bleeding after sex, endometirosis and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Menopause – Hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances or night sweats, reduced libido, dry vagina, postmenopausal bleeding and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Abnormal smears – Colposcopy, and human papilloma virus (HPV).

Bladder issues – incontinence, problems passing urine and recurrent cystitis.

Pregnancy issues – Pain and bleeding, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy.

Fibroids – noncancerous growths around and in the womb

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – Characterized by polycystic ovaries, irregular or no periods and excess ‘male’ hormones.

Ovarian cysts

Pelvic pain and pelvic prolapse

Issues after childbirth – Pain in the vaginal area, incontinence, labial enlargement

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – HIV, genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, etc.

Common gynaecology procedures

While ob/gyns treat treat many conditions and perform numerous procedures, here are some common, minimally invasive ones:

Pap smears.

Colposcopy to examine the cervix,

Endometrial biopsy to take a sample of the uterus lining.

Hysterectomy to remove the uterus.

Fibroid removal to remove non-cancerous tumours present in the uterus.

Ovarian cyst removal via laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy.

Diagnostic hysteroscopy to evaluate the endometrial cavity.

Uterine polyps removal via hysteroscopy polypectomy.

Post-operative care, including the treatment of complications, if any.

Conclusion

It’s important to visit your gynaecologist at least once a year.

Regular screening allows potential medical issues to be diagnosed and treated early, minimizing health risks. Yearly checkups could include a pap smear, mammography and blood pressure monitoring.

If you haven’t visited a gynae before, make an appointment to see one as soon as possible.

For more on pregnancy,
labour and delivery
,
parenting
 and women tips, check out
theAsianparent
.

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Mums, Here is Something About Milk Proteins That Will Surprise You

Mummies, we all know that as your child grows up, their bodies need a lot more nutrients such as essential vitamins and minerals to support their development. Because of this, you may be looking for the right growing up milk to introduce into their diet.

So, if you are scouting around for growing up milk,  there is one thing you should also look out A2 milk protein – this may sound familiar as some imported cow milk brands that you see in the supermarket dairy aisle feature “A2 Milk Proteins” or “A2 Beta-Casein Protein” labels which you may have shrugged off.

But when it comes to your growing up child’s milk, be mindful of this because not all milk proteins are created equal!  So, here’s what you need to know.

What is A2 milk protein?

Proteins in cow milk are known as Beta-Casein and it accounts for approximately 82% of the proteins in cow’s milk
1
 – there are two types of Beta-Casein proteins in milk known as A1 and A2 milk proteins.

However, there was a time – centuries ago – where all cows only produced A2 milk proteins, making A2 milk protein the most original and all-natural form of milk protein.

It was only after a single genetic mutation in dairy cow herds that later created the additional A1 milk protein
2
. Most cow’s milk, which we know as ‘regular’ milk, contains both A1 and A2 milk.

These A1 and A2 milk protein are also referred to as A1 Beta-Casein and A2 Beta-Casein. Nevertheless, A2 milk protein is a popular choice for children because it is considered the most original and all-natural form of milk, as well as being easier to digest.

Why is A2 milk protein* easier for kids to digest?

A1 and A2 milk proteins are digested in the body differently because of its structure. Emerging science has shown that consuming A2 milk with only pure A2 milk protein lessens digestive discomfort which include a heavy stomach, bloating, abdominal pain and flatulence – in fact, some of  these problems are eased in just five days after consuming A2 milk with all-natural milk protein, compared to drinking regular milk
3
.

So, should you switch your child’s growing up milk to a milk formula with A2 protein*?

We now know that A2 milk
is
 contain the all-natural and original A2 milk protein which provides more benefits for your child, especially as a great source of natural nutrition while also being easy to digest – a great factor to consider for your kids.

Moreover, if your child has been troubled with stomachaches from drinking regular cow milk or regular growing up milk, a switch to a growing up milk formula with A2 protein* could helps-  Research has uncovered that it may be because they are intolerant to milk that contains A1 milk protein
4
, and not milk altogether.

So, it’s worth giving it a try if you want an all-natural and easy-to-digest source of milk for your growing up child.

Enfagrow AII MindPro is the FIRST & ONLY** children formula milk in Malaysia with all-natural A2 milk protein*

If you are keen on making the switch or trying out a growing up milk with A2 milk protein,
 try Enfagrow All MindPro. Sourced from New Zealand A2 cows***, Enfagrow AII MindPro is the first and only* children formula milk with all-natural A2 milk protein* in Malaysia.

All A2 cows, including the New Zealand A2 cows that are nurtured for the Enfagrow All MindPro formulation, undergo DNA-testing to ensure that they only produce milk with
A2 Beta-Casein Protein. T
his A2 milk protein is collected, tested, and then processed in a separated milk channel
5
.

Apart from the naturally easy-to-digest A2 milk protein* to help ease your child’s digestive issues, Enfagrow AII MindPro also contains Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) and a global expert-recommended amount of DHA
#
– these two components support brain cell connections that positively affect your child’s cognitive development
6,7
.

Meanwhile, Enfagrow All MindPro has no added sugar
♦
. An additional bonus is that, you can return your Enfagrow All MindPro for a full refund if you are not happy or satisfied with the product. That’s right, the Enfagrow All MindPro comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee
****
 which is valid from now until 31 July 2021!

If you are ready to try the new Enfagrow All MindPro, keep in mind that when you change up your child’s growing up milk, your child’s stomach may be unsettled as their body adapts to the new formulation. So, our tip is to give it time. With that,
find out more about Enfagrow All MindPro today and start your journey with A2 milk protein!

*
 Referred to A2 Beta Casein Protein from A2 skimmed milk

** Compared to key growing up milk brands as of Mar’21

***More than 90% of A2 milk is sourced from New Zealand.

****Terms and Conditions apply

#
FAO/WHO recommends daily dietary DHA intake of 10-12mg/kg body weight for children 12-24 months or 100-150mg DHA+EPA for children 2-4 years old. Reference: FAO 2010. Fats and fatty acids in human nutrition. Report of an expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper no.91. FAO: Rome

♦ S
ugar refers to sucrose based on Regulation 118 under Malaysia Food Regulation 1985

Reference:

1. (n.d.). Is A2 Milk the Game-Changer for Dairy Intolerance? – Today’s …. Retrieved June 23, 2021, from
https://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/1017p26.shtml

2.
 (n.d.). Milk proteins and human health: A1/A2 milk hypothesis – NCBI – NIH. Retrieved June 23, 2021, from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3475924/

3.
 (n.d.). Effects of Conventional Milk Versus Milk Containing Only … – PubMed. Retrieved June 30, 2021, from
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31305326/

4.
(n.d.). A2 milk: Benefits, vs. A1 milk, side effects, alternatives, and more. Retrieved June 22, 2021, from
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318577

5.
(n.d.). How Is A2 Milk Produced & Made Into Children Formula? | Enfagrow …. Retrieved June 23, 2021, from
https://www.enfagrow.com.my/articles/how-a2-milk-produced-made-children-formula

6.
(n.d.). Role of cholesterol and sphingolipids in brain … – PubMed. Retrieved July 21, 2021, from
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30683111/

7.
(n.d.). Nutrients | Free Full-Text | The Relationship of Docosahexaenoic …. Retrieved July 21, 2021, from
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/5/7/2777

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on
theAsianparent Malaysia website

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What to do if your child swallows a button battery?

If a child swallow battery , what would you do?

What should you do if your child has swallowed a battery, especially the button battery type? Of course it’s natural to panic, knowing the devastating effects these can have on your child’s body. While you might make your child gag or rush them to hospital, a new study is suggesting a simple method that can potentially save lives.

If Your Child Has Swallowed a Battery, Try Giving Them Honey*

If your child has swallowed a battery, eating honey can prevent any serious injuries.

*
Please note that honey is NOT recommended for babies under the age of one, due to the risk of
botulism
.

According to a team of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists from the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, USA, eating honey after swallowing a battery can reduce the risk of serious injuries in children.

They add that serious damage can occur within
just two hours of eating a battery
, so it’s a good idea to act quickly during this time frame.

Batteries — especially button batteries — pose a serious threat to children since they can be mistaken for candies or sweets. Curious kids can swallow loose batteries which can cause serious damage because of the chemicals inside.

That’s because when kids eat batteries, their saliva starts a chemical reaction which creates caustic chemicals. These chemicals are strong enough to dissolve the tissues in a child’s throat.

Symptoms of battery swallowing include sore throat, cough, fever, trouble swallowing etc. Those symptoms can also escalate to much more serious complications such as esophageal perforation, vocal cord paralysis, or erosion of the airway or blood vessels. The longer the battery stays inside the child, the greater the risk.

The researchers were trying to look for a means to prevent these serious injuries, and stumbled upon honey as the best substance to use.

They also tested fruit juices such as lemon juice, which were also effective; however kids didn’t like the taste of it. Honey was easier to give to kids and had a protective effect.

According to them, if your child swallows a battery, giving a teaspoon of honey every 5-10 minutes is crucial. This should be done right up until they can be taken to the hospital.

Honey has the ability to “create a protective barrier between the tissue and the battery, as well as neutralize harsh alkaline levels” and this is exactly how it can save your child, if they swallow a battery.

What Are Other Ways that Parents Can Keep Their Kids Safe?

Here are some important reminders when it comes to keeping your
child safe from swallowing a battery
:

Keep any and all batteries away from your child’s reach.
 Place them in a secure container that your child can’t open.

Throw out any old batteries.
 Old batteries should not be kept at home since the chemicals they contain can pose a health risk. Make sure to take them to the proper waste disposal facility.

Make sure that all the toys they have which contain batteries are secure.
 If the covers are loose, make sure to place tape over them to prevent the batteries from falling out.

If your child has swallowed a battery,
make sure to take them to a hospital ASAP
. In the meantime, feed them a teaspoon of honey every 5-10 minutes to prevent serious injury.

Here are some important numbers that you can call should your child accidentally swallow a battery:

Non-Emergency Ambulance
 1777

Ame
 6247 7080

Blesswell
6273 0147

Econ
6382 8888

ER
6222 2995

Green Crescent
 6788 8911

Heng Gref
 6788 8911

Civic Ambulance
 6333 3000

Don’t induce vomiting.
The best thing to do would be to take your child to a hospital right away. Vomiting can cause further injury, so it would be best to avoid doing so.

Source:
eurekalert.org

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New Normal: Sterilisation Devices for Households Debut in Malaysia, Claim Your Free Masks from Razer Pay

2020 has been a tough year for the world – we’re now living a new normal which includes wearing face masks everyday, queuing up in shopping lines, getting our temperature checked everywhere we go, among other safety precautions.

But, as the world readjusts, brands are realigning their efforts to make sure families meet the new norms. So, here are two of the latest debuts and initiative that cater to the new norms.

1. Korea’s Dr Clo brings sterilisation devices to Malaysia

The all-in-one
 sterilisation devices, which are mini sticks,
is carcinogen-free and contains non-toxic material, while acting as a potent formula as well as a preventive measure against viruses, bacteria as well as pathogens. Additionally, it is harmless to infants, the sick and the elderly – the product is also commonly used in nursing homes and aged care facilities.

Dr. Clo’s debut in Malaysia comes at the right time, where there is a greater consciousness of the need to sterilise, disinfect and deodorise air in living spaces within homes, as well as in private vehicles.
 Dr Clo has is now available on the shelves of selected pharmacies and via e-commerce platforms.

T
hese multi-purpose patented portable sterilisation sticks are customised for use in various aspects of modern lifestyles. It is the only liquid-based Chlorine Dioxide product in the world certified by the US Food and Drug Agency (FDA) – Chlorine Dioxide is a key agent to sterilise, sanitise and disinfect viruses, as well as pathogens in a matter of seconds.

Dr Clo Sterilisation Device comes in four labels:

Household:
 Suitable for any area of the home such as closets or beds, as well as office spaces

Automobile:
 Sanitises the car and other forms of transportation

Refrigerator:
 Keeps bacteria away from food

Bathroom:
 Deodorises unpleasant odours from sinks and toilets

How to use the Dr Clo Sterilisation Device:

Hold the ends of the Sterilisation Device with your hands and bend it once (you can hear a snap sound) to trigger the chemicals of the capsule inside. The indicator on the side will turn yellow within 12-24 hours once it has been activated.

Place it in your desired location by hanging or using the suction holder provided. Each of the labelled devices have different content created for its specific location.

The sterilisation effect
lasts up to 50 days
 and the yellow indicator will turn white to show that the Dr Clo device needs to be replaced.

The product has also been widely tested in both Korea and Japan and is registered as a safe product for use in the general living spaces. Check out their
Facebook page
 for more information.

2. Free masks via RazerPay app

In collaboration with Berjaya Group, Razer Fintech will be distributing free masks in 7-Eleven stores as part of the #RazerForLife initiative. These free masks are claimable by verified RazerPay app users. Every month, the initiative will provide five free surgical masks to every verified RazerPay user in Malaysia aged 18 and above. Users can claim their free masks from July until November 2020.

Here is how users can claim their free masks:

Download the Razer Pay app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store and verify your account

Once verified, you will receive
one free mask coupon each month for the next 5 months. These coupons are listed under the
“Razer For Life”
mini-app

Claim your mask at a 7-Eleven store with your coupon each month in the “Razer For Life”
mini-app

Additionally, from 1 July to 31 December, consumers who conduct at least one transaction of RM10 or more via RazerPay can redeem in-app redemption coupons, which include free face masks.

“The COVID-19 situation has made it apparent that both public and private sectors need to come together to address the challenges facing us as a society, and Razer Fintech is proud to step forward and in support of the government initiatives, play our part in any way possible,” said Min-Liang Tan, Co-founder and CEO of Razer Inc.

Check out the app
here
.

Safety precautions to take:

Although our government has implemented the Recovery Moment Control Order (RMCO) and the economy is in the midst of reopening in stages, families are now free to travel interstate and weekends are now no longer restricted to the confines of your home.

However, what we cannot ignore is the fact that coronavirus still exists and ensuring you and your family adhere to the new norm helps the nation in avoiding any further spread of this outbreak.

Here are some
key
 pieces of advice, besides wearing a mask, from the World Health Organisation (WHO) to remember when going out:

Wash your hands regularly:
 Wash your hands thoroughly with an alcohol-based hand rub or with soap and water. This will kill viruses that are on your hands.

 Social distancing:
 Maintain at least one metre between yourself and others. When someone coughs, sneezes or speaks they spray small liquid droplets from their nose of mouth which may contain the virus. If you stand too close, you may breathe in those droplets.

Avoid crowds:
 In crowds, you may be in close contact with people and it will be difficult to maintain your distance.

Avoid touching your face:
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This is because hands pick up viruses and you can transfers these viruses to your eyes, nose or mouth which allows the bacteria to enter your body.

Stay home if you are sick:
 If you have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, please seek medical attention. If you have minor symptoms such as a cough, headache or mild fever, stay home until you recover. If you need to leave the house, wear a mask.

Read more:

Diabetes In The Time Of COVID-19

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on theAsianparent Malaysia website.

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MCO Baby On The Way? Here's How To Prepare For Your Little One

If you got pregnant during the Movement Control Order (MCO), don’t worry, you’re not the only one! In fact, pregnancies have boomed in many countries during the various quarantines.

That means there are many babies on the way! And if you’re one of the families preparing for a new addition to the household, amidst this crazy COVID mess, there is quite a lot to prepare for.

Firstly, the economic situation is not looking good right now. The moratorium is about to end and many people are practicing austerity measures to make sure that they have enough savings to tide them over through these tough times.

Secondly, the new normal means that there are a lot of processes to follow. Wearing a mask, frequent hand washing and sanitising is all part of the new norm that we will have to practice for the unforeseeable future.

So, while it is exciting that your baby is on the way, it is also important to make sure you’re prepared to welcome them into this new world.

Here’s how you can prepare for your MCO pregnancy baby:

MCO Pregnancy Tip #1: Familiarise yourself with the SOPs

Whether it’s clinic check-ups or hospital delivery standard operating procedures (SOP), you should familiarise yourself with all of them. So that, when the time comes for delivery, you won’t be scrambling to figure out the right SOP. If you’re not sure, ask the clinic or hospital you’re delivering at ahead of time, or post up a question in a mummy community group on social media as they are always helpful.

MCO Pregnancy Tip #2: Get the right accessories for the family

Make sure to always have a good supply of masks for yourself and your family throughout this period and also ensure you have a face shield ready for your newborn.

We don’t recommend using masks for kids under 3 as it may be hard for them to breathe. It is always better to train the baby from young to wear a face shield as it might be harder for them to adapt when they’re older.

MCO Pregnancy Tip #3: Keep the visitors to a minimum

It is the BEST time to deliver your baby right now during this new normal period because you don’t have to worry about making excuses when you reject visitors.

You can spend your confinement month (or two) fully recovering from the birth of your baby and not have to worry about entertaining guests.

Better still if you check yourself into a confinement centre or a hospital that restricts visitors. This will allow for more privacy and safety for your newborn.

MCO Pregnancy Tip #4: Start buying your baby necessities early (and online!)

If you don’t feel comfortable making a trip down to baby stores at this time, it’s good to move your shopping online or to buy from a one-stop shop.

Parents should be buying from a reputable source to get the best baby necessities at a discounted price at this time to save as much as they can.

For parents preparing for their bub, or even those who want to stock up, the best savings usually happen during baby fairs.

The Tesco Baby Fair is happening from 24th September to 7th October with attractive deals for their Tesco Fred & Flo product range, Tesco baby apparel, groceries and baby related items like toys and houseware (like bottles and vacuum flasks).

Here are the top 10 picks from the Tesco Baby Fair to buy:

1. Tesco Fred & Flo liquid cleanser – RM7.99 per 600ml packet

Always handy to have around is liquid cleanser as we use it often for washing children’s bottles and toys.

2. Tesco Fred & Flo concentrated anti-bacterial liquid wash – RM7.99 per unit

At a time like this, it’s important to keep our children as protected as possible. Anti-bacterial wash can help to give that extra layer of protection they need.

3. Tesco Fred & Flo moisturising baby wipes 2 x 80s – RM8.99 per pack

Tesco Fred & Flo moisturising baby wipes (refill pack) – 2 x 150s – RM9.99 per pack

One of the things parents really need a lot of when they have babies is wet wipes. When you’re buying in bulk, the savings for this can be massive.

4. Tesco Fred & Flo diapers – RM26.99 per pack (for size M81, L69, XL56 and XXL46)

Of course, another item that is popular among parents to stock up is diapers. Stock up on your child’s Fred & Flo diapers during the Tesco Baby Fair to ensure savings in the long run.

5. Pet Pet Diapers – RM27.90 per pack (from size S-XL)

If you are using the Pet Pet brand of diapers, it is also going to be on sale during this period and you won’t want ot miss it! The price reduction is from RM34.50 to RM27.90. That’s a lot of savings!

6. Dutch Lady Milk Powder – RM18.99 per (NP: RM23.45)

Milk powder is another necessity parents will spend a lot on monthly. Any savings on this can help ease the burden on household expenses.

7. Enfagrow A+ milk powder – from RM99.99 to RM125.99 per unit

Purchase 2 units to enjoy RM20 off during the Tesco Baby Fair.

8. PediaSure 1.6kg – RM138.99 per unit

Buy 2 tins of PediaSure to enjoy RM10 off during the baby fair.

9. Similac Gold Gain 1.8kg – RM112.99 – RM119.99 per tin

Buy 2 to enjoy RM10 off during the Tesco Baby Fair.

10. Anmum Essential Step 3/4 Asli 1.5kg – RM82.90 per unit

Buy 2 tins of Anmum Essential Step 3 or 4 to enjoy RM20 off during the baby fair.

Start putting all your baby necessities in
your cart
. See you mummies at the Tesco Baby Fair this September!

You can also shop online at
Lazada
 and
Shopee
.

Got a parenting concern? Read articles or ask away and get instant answers on our app. Download
 theAsianparent Community
 on
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4 Instant Print Decorating Ideas That Are Fun For The Whole Family

The festive season is here and that means jingle bells are in the air! Every parent is out there shopping for gifts for the kids but also for themselves. And not to mention, the Christmas decorations are going up.

This year, we got a Fujifilm Instax Mini Link printer to review and we got really inspired to use the Instax print outs to decorate the house — not just for Christmas but also all year long!

Before we get into the ideas, here’s a quick review of the Fujifilm Instax Mini Link printer. The printer comes in four very sleek colours, including white, pink, denim and beige gold. We got our hands on a white unit and a couple of Instax film packets, which were the blue marble and macaron packets.

To get started, you have to download the Instax Mini Link app on your smartphone and the setup is very quick and easy. Just long press the Instax power button (which is just the middle button on the machine) and pair it on your smartphone. Then load up your printer with a film packet and you’re good to go!

From there, you can quickly upload your photos in the app and add in fun text and frames or even create a collage to print! Once you’re done with the design, just click print and within a couple of seconds, you’ll see your print out come out and the instant film will develop over the next minute or so.

I love the fact that you can now use your smartphone photos to print out using instant film rather than only getting photos directly from the Instax camera. This means MORE SELFIE print outs with better angles! But also that we can customised the instant film with fun frames too.

It makes for good gifts to others but also for home decoration! Here are some instant print decorating ideas for the home.

Here are our 4 instant print decorating ideas for parents

1. Pasting it in frames

To elevate the instant film as a decorative piece in the home, you can frame it up in quirky frames all around the house. In fact, there are frames that are specifically designed for Instax print outs that you can purchase from Lazada or Shopee!

2. Pasting it directly on the walls as a collage

If you prefer not to use frames, then Instax print outs are ready to be displayed as is by just pasting it directly onto the walls in a collage manner. You can choose the more colourful Instax film packets to make it stand out!

3. Putting it up on the fridge

Nothing spells out love more than family photos on the fridge. Get some cute magnets from your family holidays to hold these instant print outs in place and look at it every time you open the fridge. It will surely put a smile on your face!

4. Using it as Christmas decor by stringing it up

Undoubtedly, you can up your Christmas tree decor game by customising your “ornaments” by stringing up your instant print outs. You can either punch a hole in the photo and hang it up with some twine, or get tiny clips to clip them to the fairy lights on the tree to complete your Christmas decor for the year!

So which is your favourite home decoration idea for these instant print outs?
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To get your Fujifilm Instax Mini Link, you can visit their
Shopee
 or
Lazada
 store.

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Father bungee jumps with toddler: Reckless or not?

An Instagram video of a young father indulging in a high-risk sport with a two-year-old toddler in his arms has sparked outrage among parents.

In the video, Malaysian reality television star Redha Rozlan is seen jumping off a 200ft-high bridge in Kuala Kuba Bharu. But he is not alone. Rozlan is with his two-year-old daughter Mecca Mikaela.

The two then fall backwards into the gorge that is estimated to be a minimum 200 feet above ground.
While in the video Mecca doesn’t struggle or pull back as her father takes the plunge, commenters claim that she looked petrified.

Father bungee jumping risks daughter’s life?

In fact, soon after Rozlan shared this video on Instagram, his comments section was flooded with backlash from angry parents.

Many claimed that he forced the two-year-old to perform a dangerous stunt. Others pointed to some very real bungee jumping risks. However, Rozlan was not affected.

“Mecca was wearing complete safety harness and gear”

In his response to the backlash, he argued that his daughter was wearing protective gear and even insisted on being a part of the stunt. He clarified the same in his Instagram post. “Mecca (was) wearing complete safety harness and gear,” he wrote. His complete post said:

Chill guys

1. Mecca yang request untuk buat ropeswing. Tiada adegan paksa memaksa Untuk ini

2.mecca sangat enjoy dengan fisrt jump dan request for the second jump. Tapi bapaknya yang cuak

3.mecca wearing complete safety harness and gear

4.
@rentas_adventures
 adalah certified ropeswing organiser.

5. Dont try with your kids if your kids not ready for this.

6. Watch enjoy , chill guys and please pergi try sendiri at least once

Rozlan did however stress that kids should be prepared. “Don’t try with your kids if your kids not ready for this,” he wrote.

Image courtesy: Instagram

No bungee jumping risks — “We adhere to safety requirements”

Even with his clarification, many parents raised vital questions about bungee jumping risks. Some even noted that even though Rozlan claimed that his daughter was well-protected, she did not wear a helmet.

The bungee jump operators claim she was protected nonetheless.

Mohd Shafiq Azmi, operator at Rentas Adventures, the group that organised the jump, told the
Mirror
, “The equipment is inspected by our staff before someone does the jump, which is from a height of 197 feet.”

“I understand that safety is a concern as this activity is the first of its kind in Malaysia. We adhere to safety requirements especially in the equipment used such as the safety ropes by engaging qualified services providers,” he noted.

Even with all these clarifications and explanations child’s rights activists are insisting that Rozlan’s act was reckless and lacked judgement.

The parents were risking their daughter’s life, say experts

Child rights lawyer Goh Siu Lin was quoted by a leading
daily
 as saying that the child’s parents “lacked proper parental judgement.”

“Rope spring jump is an extreme sport and dangerous, and there is a high likelihood of the motions in such an activity causing physical injury to her. I have never heard of any child of that age being allowed to participate in such an extreme sports,” she said.

Human rights lawyer Andrew Khoo also concurred. He shared that safety requirements were “clearly breached.”

The daily reported that “According to the lawyer, the parents, as well as any parties involved in having the child participate in such dangerous activities, can be prosecuted for allegedly ‘putting the child in a dangerous situation that may cause physical or emotional injury to them.'”

While it remains to be seen whether Rozlan and the operators will be prosecuted, one thing is clear — children should be kept away from extreme sports.

Safety measures for extreme sports

Even if their kids want to try something new, parents must keep some key safety factors in mind.

Gather information
. Parents must gather all information about the sport including its dangers and consequences, then share the same information with their kids.

Speak to the operators
. They should also discuss the same with operators and check the safety regulations before letting the kids attempt anything extreme.

Your own safety gear
. If you feel that the sport is too extreme, you can provide your kids with your own safety gear and instructions. Share the same with the operators as well.

Are they prepared?
 Ask them if they are mentally prepared and excited about the sport they are about to attempt. Maybe they are doing it under peer pressure. If so, you can counsel your kids to guide them in the proper direction.

Sources:
Mirror
,
news.com.au

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Does Your Growing Up Child Have A Sensitive Tummy? Here’s What You Should Know

Every mum has been through the pain of seeing their child suffer from a series of tummy problems. No matter how many children you have, it puzzles you each time a tummy problem happens because the symptoms and causes vary from one child to another. If your child
aged 1 year old and above
 is known to have a sensitive tummy, what do you have to do about their diet and what can you do to help your child ease their tummy troubles?

First, let’s see if your child has any of these symptoms.

Common Sensitive Tummy Symptoms

Diarrhea

Cramping

Bloating

Intestinal Gas

Nausea

Vomiting

Constipation

Heartburn

Younger children may not be able to tell you verbally if they’re experiencing some kind of tummy trouble, in fact, they may not even understand the pain they are enduring. So pay attention if they’re unusually fussy or grumpy, having trouble sleeping, squirming and constantly touching their stomachs (due to tensed up muscles) or making faces that show pain.

If you’ve ticked off one or more of the symptoms above, let’s find out what could actually be triggering your
child’s
 sensitive tummy.

Common Causes of Tummy Pain

Tummy pain is very common in children and adults and the causes can be just about anything, really. Here are some of the most common causes:

Wind and indigestion

Infections: food poisoning, gastroenteritis, pneumonia or urinary tract infection

Food intolerances and/or allergies

Constipation

Appendicitis

Among the causes above, indigestion, food intolerance and constipation are usually the reasons behind tummy troubles in children. Oftentimes, parents would pinpoint their children’s diet before anything else. For the little ones, the first thing that comes to mind is the milk that they drink.

Credit: iStock

If your child often gets an upset stomach after consuming a glass of milk, milkshake or an ice cream, you might wonder if lactose
sensitivity
is the issue here. According to
this
 article by
Kadakkal Radhakrishnan, MD
, Paediatric Gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, here are the symptoms of lactose
sensitivity
:

Loose stools and gas after consuming dairy products

Watery diarrhea with gas

Stomach bloating, gas and nausea

Skin rash and frequent colds

Generalized abdominal pain and cramping

Note:

Milk allergy is often confused with lactose sensitivity
.
 They may share the same symptoms but their conditions are different.

Milk allergy – a serious immune system reaction to milk and products containing milk¹.

Lactose sensitivity – a digestive issue where the body is unable to digest lactose, a type of sugar commonly found in milk and dairy products².

Lactose – Yay OR Nay For Sensitive Tummies?

Dairy plays an important role in children’s daily diet. Milk and other dairy products such as cheeses and yoghurt contain nutrients that are essential for their growth, and this includes lactose.

What are the benefits of lactose?

Lactose gives us energy. When digested, it is broken into simpler sugars, galactose and glucose – the body’s energy generators³.

Lactose enhances the absorption of calcium and magnesium – nutrients for strong bones and teeth³⁻⁵.

Lactose enhances immunity and promotes better growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system due its prebiotic properties³′⁵.

Before you make drastic changes to your child’s diet, do note that every tummy is different. Children who tolerate lactose well naturally digest the lactose they consume with the aid of the lactase enzymes. Lactase breaks lactose into simpler components for our body to absorb and use³.

 Those with lactose sensitivity have insufficient lactase enzymes, so the lactose remains in the digestive system, where it is fermented by bacteria. Not everyone with lactose sensitivity will experience symptoms such as gassiness, bloating, watery stools and cramps, as it all depends on the amount of lactose the body can tolerate³.

The Milk Formulated For Sensitive Tummies

Whether your child is severely or just slightly sensitive to lactose, it is vital that you start gradually making changes to their diet according to their unique individual needs. Rule out food and drinks that trigger their sensitive tummies and stick to the ones that they can still tolerate well.

However, if you still wish for your growing up child to enjoy the nutritional benefits of milk and other dairy products, here’s what you can do:

Switch to growing up milk that is
lower in lactose

Your child may still be able to tolerate a certain amount of lactose, depending on their tolerance level⁵. Lactose should be taken in small amounts at a time. Follow the recommended amount of up to 24g of lactose/day⁶.

Choose milk that is formulated with
Partially Hydrolysed Protein (PHP)

PHP is a regular protein that is hydrolysed into amino acids and peptides and is absorbed well by sensitive tummies⁷. To put it simply, it is a regular protein that is broken down into smaller sizes, making it easier to digest and absorb. The nutrient value between regular protein and partially hydrolysed protein is the same.

PHP is good for intestinal health and supports the immune system too. It is great for kids with sensitive tummies as they can still fulfil their protein needs and maintain good health with a stronger immune system.⁸

Try Enfagrow A+ MindPro Gentlease (1-3 years)

 ♦ FAO/WHO recommends daily dietary DHA intake of 10-12mg/kg body weight for children 12-24 months or 100-150mg DHA+EPA for children 2-4 years old

▲ Compared to previous formulation. Enfagrow A+ provides 105mg DHA in 3 servings a day

˄ Manninen AH, Protein hydrolysates in sports nutrition, Nutrition & Metabolism 2009 ; 6(1):38.

▪ Compared to Enfagrow A+ Formulation.

* Sugar refers to sucrose based on Regulation 118 under Malaysia Food Regulation 1985

Scientifically designed for sensitive tummies

Enfagrow A+ MindPro Gentlease
(1-3 years) is designed for children with delicate tummies and provides balanced nutrition for your little one’s happy growth. It
contains partially hydrolyzed protein
 that helps children with sensitive tummies to have better digestion and absorption of key nutrients.

It
 is also now added with MFGM that supports brain development
9
 and enhanced with 105mg DHA in 3 servings per day to help meet expert-recommended daily DHA intake*, so you can be sure that your child’s daily DHA needs are always on track.

Credit: iStock

Your child needs optimum nutrition to experience well-rounded growth and development.
 Give your child’s sensitive tummy growing-up milk specially formulated with Partially Hydrolysed Protein that is easy to digest and with lower levels of lactose**.

Say goodbye to upset tummies and hello to more smiles and happier milk time with
Enfagrow A+ MindPro Gentlease
. Try it today!

*FAO/WHO recommended daily DHA intake of 10-12mg/kg body weight for children 12-24 months or 100-150mg DHA+EPA for children 2 years old and above. FAO 2010. Fats and fatty acids in human nutrition. Report of an expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper no.91. FAO: Rome.

**Compared to Enfagrow A+ formulation

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/milk-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20375101

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lactose-intolerance/#:~:text=Lactose%20intolerance%20is%20a%20common,in%20milk%20and%20dairy%20products
.

Schaafsma G. Lactose and lactose derivatives as bioactive ingredients in human nutrition. International Dairy Journal. 2008;18(5):458-65.

Zamberlin Š, Antunac N, Havranek J, Samaržija D. Mineral elements in milk and dairy products. Mljekarstvo/Dairy. 2012;62(2).

Lukito W, Malik SG, Surono IS, Wahlqvist ML. From ‘lactose intolerance ‘to’ lactose nutrition’. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2015;24:S1.

Wahlqvist ML. Lactose nutrition in lactase nonpersisters. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2015;24(S1):s21-5

Manninen AH, Protein hydrolysates in sports nutrition, Nutrition & Metabolism 2009 ; 6(1):38

https://www.enfagrow.com.my/articles/ease-protein-digestion-issue-partially-hydrolyzed-protein

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6189118/

Disclaimer: You are not allowed to share this article on any other website or on Facebook without providing proper credit and the original article link on
theAsianparent Malaysia website
.

Read more
:
A Gut Expert’s Guide To Bloat & Digestion

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 theAsianparent Community
 on
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 or
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What is a blighted ovum: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is a blighted ovum?

A blighted ovum happens when a fertilized egg attaches itself to the uterine wall, but the embryo does not develop. Cells develop to form the pregnancy sac, but not the embryo itself.

In normal cases, when a woman becomes pregnant, the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall. At about five to six weeks of pregnancy, an embryo should be present, together with the gestational sac. With a blighted ovum, though, the pregnancy sac forms and grows, but the embryo does not develop. That’s why a blighted ovum is also called an anembryonic pregnancy.

A blighted ovum occurs early on, within the first trimester, even before the woman may have realised she is pregnant. It will cause a miscarriage usually at 7-12 weeks of pregnancy. The body realises that the pregnancy is not developing properly and starts to shed blood and tissue from the uterus.

Pregnancy hormones are still produced in case of a blighted ovum, so it can show as a positive pregnancy test early on.

PHOTO: WIKIPEDIA

Causes of blighted ovum

In a normal pregnancy, the egg starts dividing within hours after being fertilized.

Around 10 days later, the cells will have formed an embryo, which will implant itself in the uterus. Then the placenta begins to develop and hormone levels begin to surge.

With a blighted ovum, the cells never divide to the point of forming an embryo, or the embryo stops growing very shortly after it implants in the uterus.

Studies have revealed t
hat a blighted ovum pregnancy usually happens because of abnormal chromosomes in the foetus. This can be caused by abnormal cell division, or poor quality of sperm or egg. The body terminates the pregnancy because the foetus will not develop into a healthy baby.

It is important to understand that it was not your fault and there was nothing you could have done to prevent it from happening. For most women, a blighted ovum occurs only once. If you have repeated blighted ovum pregnancies, talk to your doctor about a chromosomal analysis of your embryos.

Signs of blighted ovum

In many cases, a blighted ovum can occur very early in pregnancy before most women even know that they are pregnant.

A blighted ovum may have the same early symptoms associated with pregnancy, such as:

A positive pregnancy test

Breast tenderness

Nausea and vomiting

A missed period

An ultrasound showing an amniotic sac but no embryo

As the pregnancy ends, symptoms may include those of miscarriage. These can include:

Vaginal spotting or bleeding

Abdominal cramping

Disappearance of breast soreness

A period that is heavier than usual.

Blood clots or grayish tissue passing from the vagina

Diagnosis and treatment

A blighted ovum is usually detected on the first ultrasound given during a prenatal appointment. Sometimes, there may have been bleeding at the start of the pregnancy and an ultrasound is used to investigate.

It will show the placenta and empty embryonic sac. In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound, in which a wand is inserted directly into the vagina, may be used to confirm a blighted ovum if the results of a standard abdominal ultrasound are inconclusive.

In case of a blighted ovum, your doctor may suggest these treatment options:

Waiting for miscarriage symptoms to occur naturally

Taking medication to bring on a miscarriage

Having a D and C (dilation and curettage) surgical procedure to remove the placental tissues from the uterus

Your doctor will discuss the options with you. You will want to discuss the side effects and the standard risks associated with any type of medication or surgical procedure, including a D and C.

You might choose to allow a natural miscarriage to happen. Once this starts, it can take days to weeks for the bleeding to finish. If the bleeding is getting heavier, if you are in pain or you feel unwell, see your doctor.

Your doctor also needs to monitor the process to ensure that all the tissue in the uterus has been appropriately expelled. If tissue remains in the uterus after the miscarriage, a D&C may still be required. If the tissue is not removed, an infection can occur and lead to a potentially serious complication called a septic miscarriage.

A D&C will also be helpful if you want a pathologist to examine tissues to confirm the reason for the miscarriage.

Risk factors

Experts estimate that a third of early pregnancy loss, those before 8 weeks gestation, are due to blighted ovum.

Some risk factors include:

Chromosomal abnormalities

History of miscarriage

Being older than 35

Obesity

Infections such as toxoplasmosis, chlamydia, or syphilis

Uterine abnormalities

Luteal phase defect

Smoking

Abuse of alcohol or drugs

Diabetes and Thyroid diseases

Exposure to toxins (for example, pesticides) and ionizing radiation

How to cope with a blighted ovum

Loss of a pregnancy can be very hard. It is natural to feel upset, sad or even guilty. In case of a blighted ovum, remember that it wasn’t your fault, and there was no way that you could have prevented it.
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Talking to family members, friends, a counsellor, or your doctor may help you cope with your loss.

Here are some things you need to take note of after a blighted ovum:

You will probably have vaginal bleeding, similar to a heavy period, for up to a week. Use pads instead of tampons. You may use tampons during your next period, which should start in 3 to 6 weeks.

You may have cramps for several days after the miscarriage. Over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Inform your doctor if you have any severe pain.

Monitor your temperature in the evening for the next five days after the miscarriage. Call your doctor if you have a temperature above 100°F.

Your doctor may want you to collect tissue that you might pass. Use a clear container for it and take it to your doctor as soon as you can.

Do not have sex until the bleeding stops.

It is also recommended that you avoid heavy exercise until the bleeding stops.

If you plan to get pregnant again, check with your doctor. Most doctors suggest waiting until you have had at least one normal period before you try to get pregnant.
If you do not want to get pregnant, ask your doctor about birth control.

Eat a balanced diet that is high in iron and vitamin C. You may be low in iron because of blood loss. Talk to your doctor about whether you need to take iron pills or a multivitamin.

Can I get pregnant after a blighted ovum pregnancy?

Having a blighted ovum in pregnancy won’t affect your chances of conceiving and having a successful pregnancy in the future. In a
 study of women with early miscarriages
, including blighted ovums, around 80% went on to give birth to a healthy baby within five years.

Will I have another blighted ovum pregnancy?

A blighted ovum is usually a one-time occurrence. However, in the rare case of repeated incidents of blighted ovum, your doctor may recommend testing to identify possible causes.

Prevention tips

Unfortunately, in most cases, a blighted ovum cannot be prevented. In case of multiple early pregnancy losses, do talk to your doctor about possible genetic causes, and if any tests are required.

Most doctors recommend that couples wait at least 1-3 regular menstrual cycles before trying to conceive again after any type of miscarriage, so that your body has time to recuperate fully and is ready to support pregnancy.

During this time, focus on healthy lifestyle habits for your body and mental health, such as:

Eating well

Sleeping well and keeping stress at bay

Exercising

Taking a daily prenatal supplement that contains folate

(Source:
American Pregnancy Association
,
WebMD
,
VeryWellFamily
)

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