From the moment that liquid gold leaves your body, a countdown begins. At room temperature (~25°C /77°F or colder), freshly expressed breast milk can maintain its nutritional integrity for about four hours. It’s important to store it in clean, food-grade containers with airtight seals. Exposure to air can introduce bacteria, which is why room temperature storage isn’t for the long haul.
The first three years are pivotal in shaping your child’s gut health, as it takes that time to fully mature. That’s why opting for whole, unprocessed foods for your infant (once solids are introduced) is vital beyond breastfeeding. So, faced with my baby eyeing my chocolate shake, I whipped up a special treat – a Chocolate “Baby Shake.”
You can start by boiling the sweet potato slices in a large skillet, filling the bottom with fresh, filtered water. Eventually, you could add herbs and more flavors. Once cooked, place the sweet potatoes in a food processor or blender, adding a splash of warmed breastmilk or water at a time to achieve your desired consistency.
These elements occur naturally in the environment but can also stem from industrial activities. You may be horrified to know they have been found in common baby foods. Exposure to heavy metals can have lasting effects on a child’s health. Cognitive development, growth, and immune function may be compromised, laying the foundation for future challenges.
The “I Love You” baby massage — named after the hand motions that make up the letters I, L and U — corresponds to the path of the large intestine. Here’s how you do it: Rub unscented lotion or oil between your palms until it warms up. Gently massage your baby’s belly to prepare them for a soothing experience.