Blogs
12 Best Nutritional Supplements to Control Blood Sugar
If you struggle with blood sugar levels, you know how worrying this condition can be. It can result in numerous health complications, and unfortunately, thousands succumb to its effects each year. Around 1.5 to 5.1 million people lose their lives every year due to problems related to blood sugar levels. Currently, it is one of the leading causes of mortality across the globe. (Source: IDF Diabetes Atlas 10th Edition Scientific Committee) Keeping your levels within a normal range is crucial if you have blood sugar concerns. So, what can you do? A healthy diet has a substantial impact on this. Eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, and bridging nutritional gaps with supplements help regulate blood sugar levels. 12 Best Nutritional Supplements to Control Blood Sugar Level Supplements aid the body in insulin utilization. Insulin is a hormone that allows the body to change sugar from foods into energy. Here are 12 best supplements to control blood sugar: 1. Vitamin D Insufficient vitamin D levels may contribute to the onset of type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that increasing vitamin D intake can enhance the functioning of pancreatic cells (which produce insulin). It may also increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin. (Source: ScienceDirect) For the most part, getting adequate sunlight helps your body produce Vitamin D naturally, burning calories. However, if you are facing a vitamin D deficiency, you can include foods and supplements to fill the gap. 2. Gymnema Gymnema Sylvestre is a plant used in Ayurveda as a medicine for controlling blood sugar levels. It limits the quantity of sugar in foods. Also, it potentially reduces blood sugar levels in a fasted state. 3. Magnesium If you have type 2 diabetes, your magnesium levels may be lower than expected. This condition occurs during the overextended periods of uncontrolled blood sugar. Magnesium supplements can enable the body to create and use insulin properly. Good sources of magnesium include unrefined cereals, leafy vegetables, pulses, and seeds. These helps maintain the blood sugar levels. 4. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) Your body naturally produces Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA). It is an antioxidant that protects cells from destruction. You can also find it in small amounts in foods like spinach and broccoli. Taking ALA and diabetes medications may help lower haemoglobin A1C and improve blood sugar levels. It could be a few months before these results start to show. ALA may also protect against the harmful effects of high blood sugar levels. 5. Chromium Chromium deficiency makes it harder to use sugar as an energy source. It hence increases the dependency on Insulin. Adding chromium to your diet can help your body use insulin more effectively, allowing cells to absorb sugar efficiently. Improving insulin function enables the human body to manage blood sugar levels more effectively. Chromium is the best aid for keeping blood sugar within a healthy range! 6. Zinc The body utilizes sugar better with the aid of Zinc. It is essential for both the synthesis and secretion of Insulin. Additionally, during hyperglycemia, there is more excretion of Zinc through urine. Zinc levels are low in diabetic patients. Taking zinc supplements may improve the body’s insulin activity. (Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs) 7. Cinnamon Cinnamon supplements are sold in two forms: One as an extract and two as crushed Cinnamon. Research suggests that these forms of Cinnamon may enhance one’s response to insulin. Therefore, it helps lower blood glucose levels and better manage diabetes. 8. Ginseng Ginseng is a plant native to North America. Ginseng extracts have been shown to promote insulin secretion through stimulation of the pancreas. The ginseng supplement decreases blood glucose concentrations and promotes insulin action in the tissues. The compound is aimed at stabilizing insulin function. Recently, it has been shown that Ginseng reduces postprandial hyperglycemia in healthy and type 2 diabetic patients. (Source: National Library of Medicine (NIH)) 9. Probiotics Disruption of bacteria in the gut (usually due to antibiotics) can increase the risk of diseases such as diabetes. Probiotic supplements improve blood sugar levels as they contain good bacteria. These bacteria can improve health and sugar tolerance. 10. Aloe Vera People with prediabetes or type two diabetes may benefit from fasting blood sugar reduction attributed to Aloe Vera. Aloe juice can help with blood sugar management and aids in lowering blood sugar levels. Compounds in Aloe can increase insulin sensitivity. 11. Berberine Berberine has been a promising nutrient for controlling blood sugar, especially for those who cannot take medication. It lowers fasting blood sugar through multiple modes, such as insulin production and sensitivity, reduces glucose production, and enhances breakdown and metabolism. Thus, berberine helps with the natural properties of reducing sugar from blood, which results in faster blood sugar lowering. It can also lower fasting blood sugar without causing too much reduction in sugar levels. 12. Folate Increased levels of homocysteine can cause insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes) and cardiovascular diseases. Folate helps regulate homocysteine levels and improves insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and other diseases. MamaCare Diabetes Nutrition – 30+ Nutrients MamaCare Diabetics nutrition is a scientifically developed, milk-based formula designed to meet the nutritional needs of individuals managing blood sugar levels. It contains 37 essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, helping to combat poor nutrient absorption caused by high blood sugar levels. The formula is also enriched with dietary fibre to support digestion and nutrient absorption. Key features of MamaCare Diabetic Nutrition: Low Glycemic Index (GI 33), endorsed by Sydney University’s Glycemic Index Research Service (SUGiRS). Contains unique herbal ingredients – fenugreek seed, cinnamon powder, and bitter gourd powder – known to support blood sugar management. The best part is that it is easy to consume and tastes great. Simply mix 50g of MamaCare Diabetic Nutrition Powder with 200ml of water at room temperature and enjoy.
Learn more
10 Ways to Maintain Good Mental Health for Seniors
Mental health is essential for overall well-being, especially for seniors. Loneliness, isolation, and a decline in physical health can cast a long shadow on the golden years. Still, they ignore it and don’t pay proper attention. Studies reveal a concerning fact: Approximately 10%-15% of older Australians suffer from depression, while 10% suffer from anxiety disorders. (Source: Haralambous et al. 2009) Another report states that over 14% of adults aged 60 and above are facing a mental or neurological disorder (Source:World Health Organization (WHO)) These stats are painful, but there is hope. With the proper mental health care strategy, the elderly population can live their life with happiness. This article will find 10 effective ways for seniors to maintain good mental health. Factors Affecting Mental Health in Seniors Several factors contribute to mental health challenges among seniors: 1. Lack of Social Contact: Retirement from work or school, losing loved ones, and health or mobility problems can cause older people to have less social contact. This culminates in depression and loneliness. 2. Chronic Illness: Chronic diseases have slowly but surely become more prevalent with age. These diseases affect physical functionality and pose a significant danger to mental health. 3. Loss of Independence: Reliance on children to function in daily activities leads to feelings of anger and uselessness. It can result in lower self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness. 4. Cognitive Decline: Changes are a part of ageing. In older age, people lose the ability to remember things or think. These ideas will create anxiety and angst in older adults. 10 Ways to Maintain Good Mental Health for Seniors 1. Stay Physically Active Exercise is key for one’s mental health. Activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga can boost one’s mood, reduce anxiety and improve one’s well-being. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural happiness and relaxation chemicals in the body. A new study revealed that older adults greatly benefit from strength training as it improves their sleep quality. Which, in turn, strengthens their mental health (Source:Study on Impact of Physical Exercise on Sleep Quality) 2. Maintain Social Connections Staying social is equally crucial for one’s welfare. Keeping in touch with friends, family, or anyone in your community can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Social activities tend to provide aid and support the feeling of inclusion. Social connections are fundamental in helping prevent homelessness among older women. 3. Engage in Mental Stimulation Like exercising, it’s key to keeping your brain active as well. Reading, solving puzzles or learning new things are simple ways to keep your brain active. These activities can help mitigate cognitive decline. Furthermore, mentally stimulating activities improve inculcation, memory and problem-solving adeptness. 4. Adopt a Healthy Diet Understanding the connection between mental and physical health matters is vital in today’s autonomy-oriented world's care paradigm. Proper nutrition supports healthy body movement and increases self-care in older adults. Eating healthy food and maintaining a healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to maintain good mental health. Also, you can try natural supplements that provide daily magnesium and other essential nutrients for full body support. Natural and easy to consume nutritional supplements like MamaCare’s Complete Nutrition can offer 32 nutrients for your physical and mental health. 5. Manage Stress Effectively Consistent worrying can harm one’s mental health. Stress-relief activities, such as meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness, can aid in relaxation and lessen anxiety levels. All these techniques are important for stress as well as mental health. 6. Make Sure to Get Enough Sleep Sleeping is vital to maintain mental and physical well-being. Therefore, take proper 7 hours of sleep. Also, ensure you have a sleeping schedule to avoid distractions. Good sleep is the best way to keep your mood relaxed, improve your thinking ability and support your health. 7. Seek Professional Help When Needed It is best to see a healthcare professional for mental health concerns. Therapists, counsellors, and mental practitioners can offer adequate help and care. Individuals can significantly improve their condition and quality of life with proper support and treatment. 8. Maintain a Routine Creating a daily routine is essential to help individuals build an identity. Older people can participate in physical activities. These can be any activities, like exercising, yoga, and attending social gatherings to improve mental health. 9. Foster a Positive Outlook The way a person views things impacts their mental health. Daily activities like journaling and reminiscing about one’s favourite activities can boost mood and resilience in handling problems. Being surrounded by positivity and engaging in activities that bring joy enables one to live better. 10. Address Substance Use Certain activities like drinking alcohol need supervision and moderation while dealing with mental health. A recent survey showed that some retirees could worsen their symptoms of depression due to drinking alcohol excessively, which needs to be tackled with healthier coping mechanisms. Socialisation, exercise, diet, and other physical activities that put less stress on the mind can effectively improve a person's emotional state. MamaCare Complete Nutrition for Healthy Adult Life Whether you want to boost your immunity or complete wellness naturally, MamaCare Complete Nutrition supplement if a right fit for you. It’s a gentle formulation which delivers 32 nutrients to your body including critical minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. MamaCare Complete Nutrition is a scientifically- formulated product that works even if you have a weak digestion. It contains prebiotic fiber (FOS) that supports your gut health and digestion. As older adults, having adequate nutrition can dramatically improves your mental and physical state. Thus, with proper diet and regular physical exercise you can improve your mental health and stay active even in the golden years of your life.
Learn more
Navigating Women’s Health in Your 30s: Eight Essential Considerations
The 30s are a fascinating decade in your life. Whether you are a career professional, homemaker, or simple hobbyist, this decade is full of changes and challenges. You balance career growth, family planning, and maintaining a healthy body within these 10 years. Topping it off is your immune system, which faces instability due to natural fluctuations in hormones and metabolism in this period of life. The good news is you can stay in control of all these changes. You just need to take care of essential nutrients and pave the way for a thriving and fulfilling life. At Mama Care, we curate scientifically proven supplemental nutrition for mothers and senior adults. Healthy Tips for Women in 30s 1. Heart Health Heart disease is one of the most concerning health issues around the world, especially in women. Though it is most common in older generations, it also affects younger women. Research suggests women with endometriosis, PCOS, or irregular menstruation may face a 28% (source: BMJ- Cardiac risk factors and prevention) higher risk related to heart conditions. Taking preventative measures and making lifestyle changes can help significantly. Consult with healthcare providers to evaluate your risk factors. They will assist in making the necessary lifestyle changes to help reduce heart disease. Some of these changes can include eating nutritious food, engaging in physical activities, and taking dietary supplements containing optimal Omega 3 to support cardiovascular health. 2. Skin Health In your thirties, you might begin to see some shifts in your skin, consisting of fine lines, reduced elasticity, and darker spots on your skin. What brings about these changes? The sun, hormones, and lifestyle combined all play a significant role. What can you do? Simply follow a basic skincare regimen. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, regardless of cloud cover, hydrate your skin, and intake vitamin C to protect your skin. Start caring for your skin now; remember, if you’re consistent, you will see results. 3. Breast Health Breast health examination in the 30s becomes more critical. Usually, women start getting their routine checkups at 40, but taking care in the 30s can prevent you from future problems that you might face in the 40s. In case you have a family history of breast cancer, consult a doctor to know when to initiate a mammogram. A proactive approach towards your breast health can save you from the costly and painful processes. 4. Nutritional Needs Your diet determines how you feel. In your 30s, you usually have a lot on your plate: career, family, and many other responsibilities. Ensure that you are receiving the necessary nutrients: Iron: Many women face iron deficits at this age, resulting in tiredness and physical weakness. 80% (Source: PMC-Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy) of pregnant women face anaemia due to iron deficiency. Eat lean meat, beans, and leafy green vegetables to eliminate iron deficiency. Additionally, you can add Mama Care's Premium Women’s Iron supplement in your diet. It contains 24mg iron II glycinate for optimal absorption, to fulfil your body’s regular iron demands. Milk and Essential Nutrients: Dairy products and fortified plant-based milks (like almond and soy) are excellent sources of Calcium and Vitamin D. They strengthen your bones and skeleton. Mama Care Mothers Nutrition contains both abundant milk and 30 essential nutrients, making it one of the best pregnancy nutrition options. It includes high levels of folic acid, DHA, GOS, and FOS to support maternal and foetal health. 5. Mental Health Self-care does not need to be solely physical. In comparison to men, women experience anxiety and depression more often. Also, hormonal shifts throughout the month due to your period, while pregnant, or going through menopause can influence emotions as well. It's okay to seek assistance if you're having a rough time. The right therapist or counsellor can help resolve many issues. Additionally, there are countless support groups created to help relieve the burden. There are also many support groups available. Remember, taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. 6. Bone Density The older you become, the more you should pay attention to your bone health. Women face the threat of osteoporosis, which weakens the bones. Here's how you can protect your bones - Walking, jogging, dancing and weightlifting are biogenic activities and particularly helpful in strengthening your bones. Whether you obtain Calcium and Vitamin D via your diet or supplements, ensure you get an adequate amount of them through your food. For additional support, Arravite’s Bone Health contains calcium hydroxyapatite, the most bioavailable form of calcium, combined with vitamin D3 and K2 to enhance calcium absorption. What to avoid? Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol! 7. Reproductive Health If women are considering having children or having to deal with conditions such as endometriosis or PCOS, this decade often becomes the focus of their reproductive health. Regular Checkups: Consult your physician and voice any worries you want to address. Menstrual Health: Irrespective of heavy bleeding or severe pain, keep track of one’s cycle and share any concerns with your physician. Family Planning: Strategize your family goals with the assistance of your healthcare professional if you wish to have children. Understanding your reproductive health is essential for your overall well-being. 8. Regular Exercise Regular workout is essential for the smooth functioning of your body and mental well-being. Whether you are looking to improve your health or just want to maintain a healthy life, doing exercises is a life saviour. It lowers the risk of chronic disease. Cardio is best to keep your cardiovascular in shape. You can run, swim, dance or cycle as a cardio workout. Strength training, including weightlifting and body strength, is also excellent for building muscle and bone density. To improve flexibility, you can perform stretching, which enhances range of motion and provides relaxation. Mama Care Nutritional Supplements for Moms Enhance your immune system with our Australian pharmaceutical-grade nutritional supplement. Our supplements are researched, tested, approved, and made in Australia for Australian needs. Our immunity boosters improve metabolism, cell formation and absorption. So, explore all our products and order the best one for full body support.
Learn more
The Benefits of Milk Powder for Your Daily Routine
In today's fast-paced world, convenience often plays a significant role in our daily choices, including our dietary habits. One product that has gained popularity due to its versatility and long shelf life is milk powder. Here, we'll explore the benefits of incorporating milk powder into your daily routine. Nutritional Advantages Milk powder is a concentrated source of nutrients, offering essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining strong bones, a healthy immune system, and overall well-being. Whether it's in your morning coffee, a smoothie, or a baking recipe, milk powder provides a convenient way to supplement your diet with these essential nutrients. Long Shelf Life Unlike liquid milk, milk powder has a significantly longer shelf life. This makes it an ideal option for those who may not use milk regularly, reducing the risk of wastage. Additionally, its long storage capability makes it an excellent choice for camping, traveling, and emergency preparedness. Convenience and Versatility Milk powder can be reconstituted with water to create liquid milk, providing convenience in areas where refrigeration isn't readily available. Its versatility extends to various culinary uses, from enriching soups and sauces to creating creamy desserts and baked goods. In conclusion, milk powder offers a range of benefits that cater to modern lifestyles. From its nutritional value to its convenience and versatility, incorporating milk powder into your routine can be a practical and valuable choice.
Learn more
Weight and Preconception Health
Obesity can negatively impact fertility in both men and women. In women, obesity is associated with hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, ovulatory dysfunction, and reduced egg quality, all of which can hinder conception. In men, obesity can affect sperm quality, motility, and overall reproductive function. Being obese increases the risk of complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure (preeclampsia), caesarean delivery, and foetal macrosomia (large birth weight). These complications can have long-term effects on both maternal and child health. It can also pose challenges during fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF). It may reduce the success rates of fertility treatments and increase the risk of miscarriage. Studies suggest that a 10% decrease in pre-pregnancy BMI for obese women could reduce stillbirth risk by 10%. Achieving a healthy weight before conception is widely recognised as crucial. Moreover, the WHO Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity views preconception and prenatal care as key strategies to combat non-communicable diseases. Therefore, a regular routine of physical activity plays a crucial role in weight management during preconception, which is important for individuals with obesity or overweight status. Recommendations for Preconception Health Aim for a healthy weight before conception by following a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity. A routine to consider: A low-impact aerobic activity such as brisk walks 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week Muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days per week Some physical activities to enjoy: Swimming, a gentle yet effective full-body workout that is easy on the joints Prenatal yoga that is a combination of stretching, strengthening, and relaxation techniques Pilates that focuses on core strength, flexibility and posture Indoor and outdoor cycling Dancing or dance-based fitness classes Remember to always consult with healthcare providers before starting any new exercise regimen, especially during preconception and pregnancy. Focus on activities that you enjoy and can safely perform based on your fitness level and health status.
Learn more
Why Preconception Health Matters
During the preconception period, maternal health and diet profoundly impact foetal and infant growth, birth outcomes, and even long-term health. For instance, maternal obesity at conception can lead to offspring with a higher risk of obesity, cardiovascular issues, and metabolic diseases later in life. This emphasises the critical role of preconception health in preventing adverse health outcomes and promoting lifelong well-being. Are you considering starting a family or planning for pregnancy? Here's a comprehensive guide to the important nutrients you should focus on when preparing for pregnancy: Folic Acid Folic acid is perhaps one of the most crucial nutrients for preconception health. It plays a vital role in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) in the developing baby's brain and spinal cord. It also benefits maternal health by reducing the risk of anaemia and supporting overall well-being during pregnancy. The recommended daily intake of folic acid for women of childbearing age is 400 micrograms (mcg) per day. However, during the preconception period and early pregnancy, this requirement increases to 500 mcg per day to ensure sufficient levels for the developing baby's needs. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3s, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are essential for the baby's brain and eye development. It is a key component of brain tissue and plays a crucial role in the development of the baby's brain and nervous system during pregnancy. Adequate DHA intake is associated with improved cognitive function as well as a healthy development of the visual system. As Omega-3 fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory effects, it can benefit maternal health by reducing inflammation and supporting overall well-being. Minerals like Iron and Magnesium While folic acid remains the top priority mineral during preconception for its role in preventing neural tube defects, iron and magnesium are also essential for overall health and well-being during this crucial period. Iron is essential for preventing anaemia, which can affect both maternal and foetal health. It also supports oxygen transport in the blood. Adequate iron intake before pregnancy ensures optimal iron stores for the increased blood volume during pregnancy. On the other hand, magnesium is crucial for muscle and nerve function, including the relaxation of muscles and proper nerve signalling. Adequate magnesium intake supports overall health and may help reduce the risk of complications such as preeclampsia during pregnancy. Prebiotics and Probiotics During preconception, when optimal nutrition is critical for both the mother and potential baby, a well-functioning gut ensures that essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are absorbed efficiently. More importantly, gut health influences hormone regulation, including reproductive hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. Balanced hormone levels are vital for menstrual cycle regularity, ovulation, and overall fertility. By focusing on these essential nutrients and maintaining a balanced diet, you'll be better equipped to support a healthy pregnancy and give your baby the best start in life. Consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist for personalised advice based on your individual needs and health status. Shop Mother's Nutrition
Learn more
A 7-Step Guide to Preparing for Pregnancy
So, you're ready to take the plunge into motherhood and embark on the amazing journey of pregnancy. Congratulations! Before you dive into this life-changing adventure, let's talk about how to prepare yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally for the road ahead. Step 1: Prioritise Your Health Your health is paramount, so kickstart your journey by scheduling a preconception check-up with your healthcare provider. They'll assess your overall well-being, discuss any health concerns, and guide you on optimising your health for a healthy pregnancy. Step 2: Ditch the Bad Habits Bid farewell to unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These habits not only impact your fertility but can also affect your baby's health during pregnancy. It's time to embrace a healthier lifestyle for you and your little one. Step 3: Nourish Your Body Fuel your body with nutritious foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy in your diet. Consider taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid to support your baby's development. And when it comes to pregnancy nutrition, try MamaCare’s Mothers Nutrition, a specially formulated blend packed with 30 essential nutrients, including a proven prebiotic blend of GOS/FOS in a 9:1 golden ratio. This comprehensive supplement offers higher amounts of B-vitamins crucial for foetal development and energy metabolism, along with iron and iodine for preventing some of the common challenges during pregnancy such as anaemia and thyroid dysfunction. Step 4: Balance Physical Activity & Relaxation Keep your body moving with regular exercise. Opt for activities that you enjoy and are safe during pregnancy, such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, or Pilates. Exercise boosts your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. Pregnancy can bring its share of stress, so prioritize stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. A calm and relaxed mind sets the stage for a positive pregnancy experience. Step 5: Educate Yourself Arm yourself with knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. Attend prenatal classes, read informative books, and seek advice from experienced mothers or healthcare professionals. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions. Or even easier, you can choose to follow MamaCare on our social media as our content covers educational topics on pregnancy and health! Step 6: Embrace Your Emotions Pregnancy is a rollercoaster of emotions, and it's okay to feel a range of feelings. Talk about your emotions with your partner, friends, or a counsellor if needed. Embracing your emotions and seeking support when needed is key to a healthy pregnancy journey. Step 7: Enjoy the Moment Finally, remember to savour each moment of your pregnancy journey. Embrace the changes, celebrate milestones, and cherish the anticipation of meeting your little one. This journey is uniquely yours, and it's filled with love, growth, and incredible moments. Here's to you, the empowered woman stepping into the beautiful journey of motherhood. May your pregnancy be filled with health, happiness, and unforgettable moments. You've got this!
Learn more
Alcohol’s Role In Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Before diving into the baby-making adventure, let's talk about a crucial aspect often overlooked: alcohol. We all love a good drink now and then, but when it comes to planning for a baby, it's time to hit the pause button on those boozy nights because no amount of alcohol is considered safe at any stage of pregnancy. First things first, excessive alcohol can mess with your body's hormones, throwing off your menstrual cycle and ovulation, making it trickier to conceive. A study by Lee et al. (2020) discovered that drinking alcohol (5% ethanol) two weeks before getting pregnant led to fewer healthy baby embryos and caused problems with how the babies developed. This drinking also affected how the mothers' bodies handled sugar and led to fat buildup in the liver during pregnancy. But it doesn't stop there. Drinking during pregnancy can pose significant risks to both the baby and the mother. The most well-known risk is the potential for the baby to develop Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which encompass a range of developmental and behavioural issues. According to Merrick et al. (2006), these can have long-term effects on the child's health and well-being such as resulting in lasting and irreversible harm, impacting the individual's social and occupational prospects for life. This often necessitates ongoing support and assistance to enable them to function at their best. Additionally, alcohol consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Moreover, the risks of drinking extend to breastfeeding as well. When a breastfeeding mother consumes alcohol, it passes into the breast milk and can affect the baby's sleep patterns, growth, and development. Excessive alcohol consumption while breastfeeding can also impair the mother's ability to care for her child safely. So, what's the takeaway? Before you start trying for a baby, it's time to rethink those happy hours. Pregnancy care is all about adopting a healthy lifestyle, which means saying no to excessive alcohol. It's not forever, just until you're ready to welcome a little bundle of joy into your lives. Remember, a little sacrifice now can lead to a lifetime of happiness with your future mini-me. Reference Lee, Y.J., Kim, J.Y., Lee, D.Y. et al. Alcohol consumption before pregnancy causes detrimental fetal development and maternal metabolic disorders. Sci Rep 10, 10054 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-66971-1 Merrick J, Merrick E, Morad M, Kandel I. Fetal alcohol syndrome and its long-term effects. Minerva Pediatr. 2006 Jun;58(3):211-8. PMID: 16832326.
Learn more
The Evolution of Milk Powder: A Culinary Essential
Milk powder, once primarily known for its convenience and long shelf life, has steadily evolved to become a culinary essential in kitchens around the world. From adding richness to recipes to extending the shelf life of homemade treats, milk powder has found its place as a versatile ingredient. Enhancing Flavor and Texture In both sweet and savory dishes, milk powder contributes to a richer and creamier consistency, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the final product. Its ability to dissolve easily makes it a popular choice for creating smooth sauces, velvety ice creams, and decadent baked goods. Extended Shelf Life in Baking When incorporated in baking recipes, milk powder extends the shelf life of the baked goods by retaining moisture and texture over time. This makes it an invaluable ingredient for home bakers, bakeries, and food preservation efforts. Dairy-Free Alternatives For those with dietary restrictions, milk powder has also become a crucial component in creating dairy-free alternatives. From plant-based milk substitutes to lactose-free products, milk powder serves as a foundational ingredient in creating dairy-free options without compromising on flavor and nutritional value. As culinary innovation continues to thrive, milk powder remains a steadfast ally in the kitchen. Its ability to enhance flavors, extend shelf life, and cater to dietary preferences demonstrates its enduring relevance in the culinary world.
Learn more