Mums and Tots - Issue 06 - Spring 2013 by Mums and Tots

mums &tots ISSN 2009-437X

IRELAND’S FAVOURITE MATERNITY MAGAZINE

www.mumsandtots.ie Embracing Life - Pregnancy

to Parenting

ISSUE 06 SPRING 2013 €3.00

Win!

DOUBLETROUBLE:

It’s a Twin Thing X+Y CHROMOSOMES:

Mummy Makeove r and Photoshoot

TRENDY MUMS:

Opulent Oriental must haves

Prams for Boys + Cars for Girls

3 PAGE SPECIAL

Co - Sleeping Chronic Colic: The Facts

Night Terrors vs Nightmares

PURE IRISH

FirstwithAidRedknow how Cross Ireland You Are What You Eat

Foods and Supplements for Pregnancy Annabel Karmel’s

Spring Time Munchies

DADDY DIARIES: Sex During Pregnancy

Art + Craft Time

Conception for the over 40s

! e m o c l e W Hello and We have an action packed issue in store for you so I hope you have your cup of tea and cosy slippers to the ready! Lots of our readers are pregnant with, or have recently had, twins so we thought it’s about time we covered all things twin. If you are expecting twins make sure to check out our twins feature, pages 34 - 54, how to prepare for twins, useful twin products, breastfeeding twins and of course our experts mums with twins - who better to advise? When you were pregnant did you ever have someone you didn’t know come up and put their hands on your belly? I know I did! Check out page similar stories feel free to email hello@mumsandtots.ie and we will include them in our summer issue’s Inbox. What is the recovery position? How do I care for burns? What do I do with a chocking infant? No great safety tips, page 48. My favourite look this spring is for us mums - opulent oriental prints, splashes of hot pink and jade with black rope belts and silk tops. Gorgeous! Make sure to enter all our great giveaways. We have some wonderful prizes up for grabs including a makeover and photoshoot for one lucky mum from Beauty Team Ireland, page 80, and a photoshoot for one lucky baby from DOK Photography, page 12. I hope you enjoy the read. Feel free to drop me a line with any questions for our M&T Clinic or if you just want to say ‘hi’ - editor@mumsandtots.ie We would love to hear from you!

Editor Roberta von Meding

to get Mums & Tots delivered to your door. Only €16 for an annual subscription at www.mumsandtots.ie

www.mumsandtots.ie Editor: Roberta von Meding Graphic Designer: Juliet Symes Cover Image: Shutterstock Contributers: Annabel Karmel, Anne O’Connor, Therese Handibode, Don Conroy, Orla Walsh, Mothercare Published by: Juliet Publishing Printed By: Quinn’s Contact us: editor@mumsandtots.ie or call +353 85 703 1181 Facebook: www.facebook.com/mumsandtots All rights reserved. Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate. The publishers cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. © Juliet Publishing 2012. Please note all discounts, special offers and competitions contained in this magazine are run independently of Mums & Tots, and therefore the promoter is responsible for honouring the prize. All opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or Editor. Medical articles and opinions are not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. All prices are correct at time of print.

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Mum’s SHOPPING LIST

Flower Power It’s cliche at spring but

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Floral Box Bag, €35, Marks and Spencer

Linen Spring Plimsolls, €29, Cath Kidston

Win! 10

Voyage Eau de Toilette, €25.95, The Body Shop

Voyage Shower Gels x5 scents, €13.95, The Body Shop

The new Scents of the World shower gel and eau de toilette ranges from The Body Shop. Just email your contact details to competitions@mumsandtots.ie with ‘The Body Shop’ in the subject line.

Summer Bloom Sandal,

Bloom Wow Collar, €28.90, Accessorize

Home Fragrance Oil, 10ml, €5.95, The Body Shop

Canvases x3, €124, Next Pop in the Bath, Bubble Bar, €4.25, LUSH

Matthew Williamson, set of 3 Floating Candles, €19, Debenhams Clutch, €54, Accessorize

Think Pink, Bath Ball, €3.75, LUSH

Limited Collection Platform, €27, Marks and Spencer

Rose Hangers, €15, Cath Kidston

Floral Watercolour Set, Items individually priced, House of Fraser

Linea Bright Cushion, €30, House of Fraser

Flower Pressing Kit, €14.24, Oliver Bonas

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Conception for the over

40’s Words by therese Handibode

recent study has shown that Ireland has the highest rate of women over 40 giving birth in Europe. The average age has been steadily increasing since the 1980’s and over 5% of babies born in 2011 in Ireland were born to mothers over the age of 40. As the chance of conception each month declines rapidly with a woman’s age, more and more women here are turning to fertility treatments or drastic lifestyle changes in order to conceive. We look at why age and lifestyle plays such a big role in fertility and what options are available when women need help to conceive.

HOW AGE AND LIFESTYLE IMPACTS ON A WOMAN’S FERTILITY Age remains the most common reason

for couples seeking assistance from fertility clinics in Ireland. All women are born with their own supply of eggs, which can be released by the ovaries ready for fertilisation every month. Unlike men, we can’t regenerate our supply, and so we are only capable of conceiving naturally for a limited period of time (reproductive span is 20-25 years). A woman’s ovarian reserve, or the “activity levels” in her ovaries, declines with age and so does her chances of natural conception along with it. For women in their forties, chances of conception are limited. On average, it takes 3-4 months for a healthy 25 year old to conceive, but it can take twice as long at 35. By the time a woman reaches 39 years of age, it is not uncommon for a fertile couple to take in excess of 15

months to conceive. Dr. John Waterstone, Honorary Secretary, Irish Fertility Society (IFS) states that “by the age of 45 it is almost impossible for a woman to have babies, even with fertility treatment”. According to Ian Claxton of the Elmtree Fertility Clinic in Galway, it is not age alone which affects a woman’s ability to conceive, however. He believes that “it also has to do with how the person behaved in their teens and twenties i.e. did they abuse their bodies, take drugs, excessive alcohol etc.” This theory is further support by John Lally of the ‘Blue Heron Acupuncture & Natural Fertility Clinic. In his professional opinion, there are many contributing lifestyle factors which may negatively influence a woman’s (and man’s) ability to produce children such as stress, diet,

environmental factors and constitution. “Lifestyle is the number one factor affecting declining fertility, and general health, in men and women today”, he says. “Long working hours under stressful conditions, poor diets, excess consumption of alcohol or recreational drugs and putting your professional life ahead of starting a family especially for women has had a huge impact on natural pregnancy rates and could potentially lead to an infertility epidemic in western Europe and North America.

Options available for fertility treatments IVF IVF is the process of fertilising a woman’s egg with the chosen sperm in a petri dish (in vitro) and implanting it into the womb. This option is viable for all women, regardless of the condition of their fallopian tubes or the quality of the sperm. IVF can be a very expensive option for having a family, with the average cost of a cycle in Ireland reaching €5,000. With many couples requiring four treatments to successfully conceive, that can mean a cost of up to €20,000 per couple. And there is still no guarantee of a successful pregnancy. Almost 2% of babies in the western world today are conceived through IVF and Dr Mary Wingfield, Clinical Director of the Merrion Fertility Clinic in Dublin, predicts an increase of IVF in Ireland of at least 23% over the next decade.

DONOR EGGS As the quality of a woman’s eggs also decreases along with her age, IVF attempts may not be successful for older women. There is then the option of using a donor egg, where an egg from another woman (a donor), is fertilised with the recipient partners sperm in vitro, and then transferred into the uterus of the recipient. This gives a woman the option of carrying a baby and giving birth although the baby will not be genetically linked to that woman. This option can cost up to €10,000 per treatment in Ireland.

SURROGACY Surrogacy is the practice whereby one woman carries a baby for another couple or person. There are two options available: Firstly, the surrogate mother may be the biological mother of the embryo as

her egg is used (known as traditional surrogacy), or the surrogate mother may only carry the embryo of another couple (known as gestational surrogacy). While surrogacy is commonly practised in other countries, in particular India, Ukraine and the United States, it is not currently catered for in Irish law and so can be fraught with difficulties for the many infertile Irish couples who are now turning to this option.

CHANCE OF CONCEPTION MONTHLY BY WOMAN’S AGE AGE

25%

20%

16%

11%

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

06%

04%

For those for whom modern medicine is not an option, or who wish to explore different approaches such as a change in diet, acupuncture or yoga. According to Ian Claxton of the ‘Elmtree Clinic’, “sometimes, regulation of your hormones through avoiding dairy can help you conceive and save you thousands.”

02%

45+

<2%

Acupuncture in particular has gained in popularity in Ireland in recent years. This method helps women to conceive through stress reduction and the regulation of the menstrual and ovulation phases of a woman’s cycle. The fact that so many women are continuing to conceive through to their mid-forties in Ireland is a positive reflection of our lifestyle choices and testament to the high standard of living we have here. Whilst natural conception may become more difficult with age, it is possible to conceive naturally and have a healthy pregnancy, providing you are still ovulating and lead an active and balanced lifestyle. Help is available for anyone who does need assistance in trying to have a baby, and your GP will be able to provide further information where necessary.

Useful Websites Irish Fertility Society www.irishfertilitysociety.com National Infertility Support and Information Group www.nisig.ie Merrion Fertility Clinic www.merrionfertility.ie Galway Fertility Unit www.galwayfertilityunit.ie Cork Fertility Centre www.corkfertilitycentre.com The Adoption Authority of Ireland www.aai.gov.ie

NUMBER OF BIRTHS BY MOTHER’S AGE IN QUARTER 1 OF 2006 V QUARTER 1 OF 2011 Age

No. in Q1 2006

No. in Q1 2011

< 20

649

498

20 - 24

2,186

2,046

25 – 29

3,600

4,490

30 – 34

5,444

7,108

35 – 39

3,331

4,770

40 – 44

646

971

45 +

APPROXIMATE RISK OF MISCARRIAGE BY AGE Age

25 – 34

10%

35 – 39

20%

40 – 44

35%

45+

50%

AVERAGE IVF SUCCESS RATES BY AGE Age

Chance of Success

>35

30%

35-37

24%

38-39

18%

40-42

10%

43-44

03%

<45

01%

The Art of conceiving

...Naturally! Words by Dr. Phil Boyle MRCGP, CFCMC

n a perfect world couples wishing to conceive could do so at will, as often and quickly as desired and have perfectly healthy babies all of the time. They would never have a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth, premature delivery or a child with special needs. They could plan their family size confidently with optimum gynaecological and general health. Premenstrual syndrome, excessive body hair, low libido and irregular cycles would be a thing of the past and breast and gynaecological cancers would see a new downward trend. Could modern science ever deliver on such a wish list? Well “No” is the short answer. There will always be some pain and disappointment

in this aspect of human existence but there is a quiet revolution in gynaecological health care that promises to deliver (excuse the pun!) on most of these levels over the coming years. Natural Procreative Technology (NaProTechnology or NaPro) developed by Professor Thomas Hilgers from Omaha Nebraska, USA is revolutionising this aspect of medicine. Prof. Hilgers has written a book called the “NaProTechnology Revolution” which explains how this restorative approach to reproductive medicine discovers the underlying causes of infertility, miscarriage and gynaecological ill health. Using a combination of the most advanced medical and surgical techniques, gynaecological well being and procreative health are restored. He shows how improving gynaecological health may even reduce the risk of endometrial and breast cancer. NaProTechnology has been available in Ireland since 1998 and over the past 15 years 1,600 Irish couples have achieved successful pregnancies after years of infertility, repeated miscarriages and previously failed IVF. Couples with up to 17 years of infertility, including some with up to 8 previously failed attempts at IVF or 10 miscarriages have all achieved success with our NaPro FertilityCare programme. Overall successful pregnancies are delivered for 50% of couples treated by NaPro in Ireland, with an average female age of 36 years and 5 years trying to conceive. Chances of success vary according to female age and history. For example a 32 year old female with 2 years of infertility will do much better

on average compared to a 42 year old female with 10 years of infertility. We often remind couples that “there are percentages and then there are people who come the right and wrong side of those percentages.” We dearly wish everybody could achieve success, but clearly recognise this is not possible. What we do see for the vast majority of couples is that we will often find a reason for their infertility or miscarriages. In fact we often find multiple factors and with NaPro FertilityCare we take a multifactorial approach – assessing hormones, endorphins, diet, nutrition, surgical factors, male factors, immunological factors and infection. NaProTechnology has made exciting new advances in treating reduced ovarian reserve. We have several couples with failed IVF who were told to consider egg donation or adoption and they have achieved success with our treatment naturally. We have also seen many cases of severe male factor infertility with failed ICSI that have conceived naturally with our treatment. Although we cannot achieve a successful pregnancy for everyone, about 80% of the time we will achieve a significant improvement in the couples health. Our philisophy is “Get you healthy, Get you happy” and then correct all of the factors we can find to help you conceive. Finally don’t forget to love each other because ultimately a child is a fruit of your love – not your labour. In Ireland there are two full time clinics in Dublin and Galway with part time clinics in Donegal and Cork. More information about conceiving naturally with NaPro FertilityCare is available from www.fertilitycare.net . For healthcare professionals more information is available at www.reproductiveinstitute.com and www.naprotechnology.com

Hands Off! Words by Roberta von Meding

hen people see a pregnant woman they start to feel their inhibitions slip away. Suddenly strangers feel they have the right to pat, rub or talk to your belly. For those of you who have had babies or are expecting you may know what I am talking about. Now don’t get me wrong. I have no problem with close friends and family wanting to feel a kick or two. It’s lovely to be able to share the whole experience with the ones you love. However, why should I have to share this precious time in my life with random punters on the street, even if they are well wishers? A year ago, at a local play centre, with my daughter Juliet and a mammoth 7 month bump I waddled around, following her from slide to swing to ball pool. I felt like super mum, dinner made, dishes put away, house hoovered and toys tidied and here I was out and about for the afternoon. Suddenly I find two hands on my belly and a woman asking me ‘are you about to pop?’. ‘Em no.’ I said, a bit startled, ‘another 2 months to go.’ She continued, ‘My god you’re huge. Are you carrying twins?!!!’. Having digested what was happening I was now seeing red! ‘No!’ I replied, removing her hands, ‘I’m just reeeeally fat!’. Off I went after Juliet leaving the poor lady gobsmacked. I shared the story with my mother in law, Kathy, (mum of 4) and she told me about an incident which happened at a local pool when she was heavily pregnant on her second. There she was minding her own business, playing with her 1 year old son Jason. A woman

nearby commented, ‘you must be having a girl... girl’s steal your beauty.’ Eh.. what? Apparently this is some pregnancy myth. My (very beautiful!!) mother in law is a very kind woman - slow to anger, unlike yours truly and the mouthy woman got off very lightly, with a shoulder shrug and a blank stare. Big bump, small bump it really doesn’t matter, people will always feel the need to comment or touch. For the first few months of my pregnancies (all 2 of them!) I am neat and glowing. Lots of my friends and, of course, people I don’t know, would say (as they touch!), ‘you have such a neat bump’, ‘are you really 5 months, you’re so small!’. These comments left me wondering, ‘why is my bump so small, is everything okay?’ and ‘is baby growing?’. Then ‘BAM!’ 7 months - the emergence of the lesser spotted pregnant Roberta whale creature. Unfortunately I get preeclampsia when I’m pregnant. For those of you unfamiliar with this illness it involves copious amounts of swelling. Combine this with polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) and you have a very large walking, talking orb with arms, legs and a head (no neck, calves or waist) - just a large sphere. When I walked down the street I felt like a magnet for hands, comments and stares, so much so that I avoided going out for the last 2 weeks until D-day. I know it’s not intended on being personal, but it’s my body and as such I will say who gets to touch my bump. So, how do we discourage these barrierless hands? 1) A simple, ‘please don’t touch my bump’. 2) Buy or make a customised t-shirt - i.e: ‘I am pregnant. It is a girl. I am in due in October.’ 3) Act oblivious to the advance and turn around to look at something. 4) Let all the pregnancy hormones out at once - cry, shout, swear - let your inner crazy out. 5) When asked when you are due reply with ‘I’m not pregnant!’, even if you are.

REAL MUMS:

Double Trouble

PREPARING FOR TWINS

Caroline Finnerty is a mum to a threeyear old little girl and one-year old boy/ girl twins.

As well as writing parenting features, she is also an author. Her first novel In a Moment is out now and her second book, A Small Hand in Mine will be released in summer 2013. Both are published by Poolbeg Press.

inding out that you are expecting twins will almost always come as a complete shock. Some people will be elated, others will be terrified but no matter which end of the scale your reaction lies, it will almost certainly take a while to sink in.

Your practitioner will advise you on whether or not your twins are identical which will determine the level of care provided (identical twins are higher risk due to the risk of twin to twin transfusion syndrome which is when one baby takes the lion’s share from a shared placenta). Your pregnancy will be watched more closely when you are carrying twins – with all the scans you will be receiving you will get lots of scan pictures for the album.

GivinG birTh: You should be prepared to finish up work earlier with health practitioners recommending finishing between 3032 weeks although if you are feeling well, there is no reason why you can’t continue longer. Then of course there is the birth itself - most doctors will allow a vaginal delivery if the first baby is head down. Even if the second baby isn’t in the correct position, often it will turn with the new space created after the first baby is born or if not, it can usually be delivered breech. However, if the first baby isn’t in the cephalic position or other pregnancy complications arise, your obstetrician will usually recommend a caesarean section delivery.

SleepinG ArrAnGemenTS: After your babies are born many hospitals will put them side-by-side in the same crib, unless they require special care. Some parents find that as their babies are used to sleeping so closely in the womb that they settle better when put sleeping together, other mothers have found that their babies settled better apart – maybe because they were enjoying having some space to themselves for the first time in their lives! If yours settle well together, then they can share a cot side by side while they are small. If you are sleeping them apart, then two cribs will usually get you through for the first few months.

FeeDinG: Most parents of twins will all say one thing - routine is key. For your sanity try to keep both babies on the same feeding schedule even if that involves waking a sleeping baby, otherwise it will feel like you are constantly feeding. If you’re on your own and find feeding two at the same time stressful, stagger feeds by half an hour. You should also keep a feeding chart to track which baby drank what and when because with two babies you WILL

forget. Although not necessary, some people like to double up on the bottles and buy two sterilizers rather than making two separate sets of bottles a day. If you are planning on breastfeeding (yes it is possible) then it is useful to have a chat with a hospital lactation consultant about the best positions and also check out the EZ-2-NURSE or My Brest Friend specialist twin feeding cushions. You may also wish to purchase a breast pump so you can express milk to allow other people help with feeding.

ASk For help: Be prepared to spend a lot of time lamenting evolution for giving mums of twins only one pair of hands so if you can, line up some help for when you come home from hospital – dad, grandparents, friends, the postman - whoever can hold a baby, fold your washing (the mountain would bring tears to your eyes at times) or make your dinner. Bringing one baby home from hospital can be overwhelming let alone two, so don’t be afraid to ask for help, as most people will be delighted to get involved.

SupporT: The Irish Multiple Birth’s Association (IMBA) is a support group for parents of multiples. It provides a mine of information and run information evenings for expectant parents given by experienced multiple mums and can put you in touch with a multiples group in your area. As well as running antenatal classes specifically for expectant parents of multiples, they also have a great Facebook page to ask questions and get advice from other twin mums. The main advantage of becoming an IMBA member is the discount card, which can be used in lots of stores. The last thing I will say is that twins are special – if you are expecting twins, you are very, very lucky; if you have twins then of course you already know this. It is amazing to be able to watch two babies smiling at each other as the bond between them starts to form. People just can’t resist twins. You will no longer be able to nip into Tesco because wherever you go with twins in tow people will stop you to look at the babies. You will feel like a celebrity as people whisper ‘Aaaah twins’ as you walk past. You will also have to practice smiling when you are told for the hundredth time that ‘you’ve got your hands full’ and be prepared to explain patiently that ‘no your boy and girl twins are definitely not identical’. So while twins may mean double the work, they are also double the fun, double the smiles and double the cuddles.

Top Ten Twin TipS: What size baby clothes to buy will usually be dependent on when your babies arrive, so it is a good idea to buy a few outfits in different sizes and keep your receipt to exchange them for bigger sizes if needed. If your twins are identical, paint one baby’s nails to help tell them apart or keep their hospital bracelets on for a little while. If bottle feeding, rolled up cloths are a handy way to prop up a bottle if you need to continue feeding a baby while winding the other one – obviously never leave baby unattended with a propped bottle. If your babies are sharing a cot, give them a side each – it helps you identify who is who when you’re half asleep doing night feeds. You may think that of course you will be able to tell your babies apart but when the tiredness kicks in, you will surprise even yourself at what you will do. In the early days, I often thought I was feeding one baby only to discover it was actually the other – and I have a boy and girl. Two bouncers or swings are brilliant to entertain the babies for five minutes while you try and scale the laundry mountain or to keep one happy while you change the other. They are also great for bottlefeeding two babies at the same time. Try to get out of the house every day – even a five-minute walk to the shops will do you good. Don’t stress over the housework – as one twin mum put it “happy babies trump clean floors any day”. Soothers – love them or hate them there is no doubt that these are a godsend for many twin parents. Make friends with your washing machine and tumble dryer, you are going to be seeing a lot more of each other. And if you don’t have a tumble dryer, ask for one for your birthday (seriously it will be the best present you ever get). And finally, the early days will be a blur. It can feel like you are just swapping one baby for the other – when you put one down, the other will want to be picked up and when you put that one down, you can bet your life on it that the other will start again but remember it goes by so quickly and before you know it you’ll have a pair of head-banging, tantrum throwing two year olds on your hands.

Ella’s KitchEn WaKEy WaKEy BrEaKfasts HEALTHY, NUTRITIOUS AND FUN, THEY’RE THE PERFECT START TO THE DAY FOR YOUR BUSY TOT Bright and early in the morning, your little one is up and ready for a busy day ahead. He’s also hungry for breakfast. It’s so important to give him a healthy, nutritious start to the day so he can spend the morning exploring the world. Ella’s Kitchen new Wakey Wakey Range is the perfect choice as they know that children eat with all their senses. Taste is just one factor – texture, and the feel of food are also important to get little one’s

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munching healthy food. Try waking up your toddler’s senses with Ella’s Kitchen Round Ones cereal, designed to encourage the chewing action in toddlers from age one. The Round Ones are packed with organic multigrains but have no refined sugar. The range also includes deeelicious porridges in handy, resealable pouches – you just need to add milk! Ella’s Kitchen use real fruit, not concentrates so they

taste natural and fruity – you could make them even fruitier by mixing in an Ella’s First Tastes pouch for even more variety. Good mornings start with a Wakey Wakey from Ella’s Kitchen. For more information go to www.ellaskitchen.co.uk/our-products.co.uk

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WaKE up your littlE onE’s sEnsEs With thE round onEs Using the fun shape of the Round Ones, see if you can help your little one find other round things in the house. The Round Ones are the perfect size for tiny fingers to hold. Help your little one to squeeze them and listen to the crunch. Feel the texture of the Round Ones with your little one. See if you can each pick one up by licking your finger. Can you get one to stick to every finger? On a wet and cold day, try eating the Round Ones with warm milk instead of cold milk to see how different they taste. AVAILABLE IN MOST DUNNES, SUPERVALU AND SUPERQUINN STORES ACROSS IRELAND.

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Follow-On

Milk Words by therese Handibode

hen it comes to milk choices for formula-fed or breastfed weaned toddlers, it can be confusing deciding what option is best for your little one. You will want to ensure they are receiving the optimum nutrition, whilst also being cost effective. Previously, follow-on formula milk was aimed at toddlers up to the age of two, but recently we have seen the expansion of this to include toddlers up to the age of three. Commonly referred to as “Growing-Up Milk”, manufacturers market this milk as being nutritionally superior to cow’s milk. With so much focus on the diet of young children these days, is it really necessary to continue to supplement a toddler’s diet with milk of this type for this long, or are there other options available?

Why milk is important for toddlers? Milk continues to form an essential part of the diet of a toddler as it contains valuable protein, vitamins and minerals, including calcium. Children can often become fussy eaters during their toddler years, and so milk can ensure the inclusion of these important nutrients in their diets. It is recommended, however, that they do not have more than about 300-400 ml of milk a day so that their appetites for other foods are not reduced, especially foods that are higher in iron.

What does growing up milk claim to offer? Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in the development of bones and teeth in young children and is required for nerve and muscle function. Many toddlers may lack this important nutrient, as it is only found in a limited number of foods such as oily fish and eggs. Our bodies can produce this from sunlight, but due to the Irish climate, this can be difficult for Irish children to do. Some formula milk’s are fortified with vitamin D in order to protect against a deficiency of this vital vitamin. Follow-on milk also claims to be higher in iron, which is essential for brain development and growth. Due to the active nature of a toddler’s lifestyle, and their rapid learning, they require a diet which is rich in iron. A lack of iron in the diet can lead to low-energy levels, and in extreme cases, iron-deficiency anaemia. With 50% of Irish toddlers suffering from low iron levels, the claims by follow-on milk manufacturers that formula milk is a superior source of iron is one which many parents take very seriously. Despite this, according to Child Dietician

Judy More, “there is no need to give your toddler a follow-on formula milk as he should be getting all of the nutrients required from a varied diet”. Similarly, a study by the British Medical Association also concluded that there was “no clear evidence” of any health benefit of using follow-on formula milk. The World Health Assembly (WHA) describes follow-on milk as “not necessary” and they feel that they should not be promoted.

A balanced diet overall is essential for the health growth and development of a toddler, and they should be offered foods from each of the main food groups every day, in addition to milk consumption. If you are confused about which option is best for your toddler, your concerns should be addressed to your health practitioner.

What other options are available? The leading milk of choice for toddlers today continues to be cow’s milk. Whilst being cost effective, cow’s milk promotes strong bones by being a good source of vitamin D and calcium. On the other hand, some studies show negative health effects directly linked to cow’s milk consumption. Dr. Neal Barnard, an American physician, advises against giving children pasteurized cow’s milk, as it is associated with juvenile diabetes and allergies. According to the American Academy of Paediatrics, early exposure of infants to cow’s milk protein may put children at greater risk of developing type 1 diabetes. As an alternative to cow’s milk, it may be surprising to hear that goat’s milk accounts for 65% of milk consumption globally. Goat’s milk tends to be less allergenic, is easier to digest, and is closer in composition to human milk than cow’s milk. Goat’s milk has also been shown to be an effective treatment for asthma, which affects almost 20% of Irish children today. Due to demand and supply issues, goat’s milk prices remain high in Ireland today. For children with dairy intolerance or allergies, soya milk remains a popular choice. Made from soya beans, soya milk is naturally high in essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins and minerals and is lower in sugar content than cow’s milk. Soya milk is not as high in protein or calcium as cow’s milk, however, but calcium fortified options are available. Some studies have shown that long-term consumption of soya milk can be linked to the development of certain cancers, but further research into this area is needed. We have recently seen an increase in the popularity of other non-dairy milks also, including rice milk, oat milk and nut milks such as almond. Whilst safe for consumption over the age of one, it is important to bear in mind that they may not contain the same nutritional content as other milk. Any milk chosen for a toddler should be fortified with vitamin A, vitamin D and calcium, and the diet should be supplemented with additional protein.

Simple Tips

To Inject A Spring Into Your Step

pring has sprung and with its appearance on the calendar I am filled yet again with a newfound hope that this is the season to gear up and brush off cobwebs from winter or pardon the pun spring into action. This season is perfect for a complete overhaul or a “spring clean” inside and out. Start now and you will dazzle with confidence in your summer bikini. I know the start of a new year is traditionally the time we are supposed to start changing our ways but I feel it seems like we are setting ourselves up for failure because by February most of our best intentions for losing weight, quitting smoking or limiting Facebook time to an hour a day fall by the wayside. I prefer to wait a few months until spring when the days are getting longer, warmer and everything seems to come alive. This is my favourite season and I’m going to actually commit to my spring resolutions which are getting fit, loosing that long finger and annihilating my ‘To-do’ list. I am also making a conscious decision to buy and try more Irish beauty products, brands and support our own. Finally ladies enjoy and embrace the season and here is my Spring Quick Top Tips for fabulousity that won’t break the bank.

Sarah Jane x

Words by Beauty team Ireland’s Sarah Jane Hanton

You can check out all our details on www.beautyteam.ie

Model In A Bottle The majority of people leave the house in the morning with a face of makeup that looks pretty good but unfortunately by lunch time you are asking yourself where did that makeup go or did I forget to actually apply my face? A light spritz of Model in a Bottle changes that and you will look the same from day to night. This matte finishing spray will hold foundation and eye make-up in place. It is resistant to smudging, tears, humidity, water and with Aloe Vera extract it won’t dry out your skin. Importantly it dries with a translucent matte finish, absorbs excess oil and doesn’t clog pores. Yes It all sounds incredible but it actually works with over 300 sprays per bottle making it well worth the investment. Available in Ireland at www.beautyemporium.ie: €19.99

Backcomb, backcomb and then backcomb Here is the general technique that is used as a base for most hairstyles. Just do this before any style, pin or clip to change the look as desired and you are runway ready in no time. The texture of your hair will make or break any hairstyle. A big full bodied hairstyle would be very difficult to pull off if you have freshly washed hair with no product in it. You can improve and change the texture of your hair by adding a finishing product like a volumising mousse or any texture spray. The tools are the secret to this very simple yet effective trick. These combs are all designed specifically for backcombing. They provide a tight backcomb that doesn’t fall out with less mess and damage to the hair. BACKCOMBING COMB WITH TAIL Great overall comb that will work great on all hair types with a little pick at the end to help parting hair. Available from Niall O’ Reilly Cosmetics for just €3.99. Start at the crown and pull up a 1-2 inch section – the smaller the section the tighter the backcomb. Comb it to smooth and remove any tangles. With one hand tightly hold the ends of the section straight up from the scalp, holding the comb in your other hand. Insert the comb midway and run the comb down the length of the hair towards the scalp, when you reach the scalp pull the comb out and continue back at midway, making quick short strokes until you have the desired height and fullness. You will work around the head always making sure that all the sections are connected. Remember go bigger than you want the end result to be, and it will look like a disaster until you smooth over the top layer. Take the comb and lightly smooth out the top layer of hair, then spray with hairspray to set. Style and clip as you desire. Now you have mega volume and you are feeling ultra-confident so try a retro ponytail with height at the back or a down style with a few loose curls. Practice makes perfect ladies.

The Nima Mitt - Spring Clean Skin Since I started using this mitt I cannot express how happy I am with my skin. This could not be easier for me, at last I’ve found the item I have always dreamed of this truly is ‘wash & go’, it’s the simplicity of this mitt that makes it so fantastic. This mitt gently exfoliates dead skin cells and makeup residue revealing glowing skin. Made from ‘Microfiber’ tiny fibres smaller than a human hair are closely woven and when wet with just regular tap water they can be swept over the skin breaking the bond that locks makeup, oil, grime to the skin without causing any irritation, no need for cleansers, soap or any other products if you wish as you are still benefiting using the mitt To finish I tone after with rosewater - a routine I have stayed with since my teens. I adore it. The less chemicals used on the skin the better. Too many oils and chemicals can affect your skin’s natural ph balance. Water is very close to your skin’s natural ph - so while the Nima Mitt will remove every last trace of makeup, it’s not going to upset your skin making it suitable for any skin type and conditions. The Nima Mitt is an Irish eco-friendly makeup removal mitt brought to us by Nima Brush. RRP €12.95. Available from www.nimabrush.com

Floss Regularly Every time I visit the dentist he stresses about the importance of flossing. People make a point of brushing their teeth twice a day, as recommended, but fewer people follow the recommendation to floss at least once a day. Flossing plays an extremely important role in dental health. Unlike a toothbrush, which cleans the tops and outer surfaces of the teeth and gums, floss is designed specifically to clean the tight spaces between the teeth and the gap between the base of the teeth and gums. These are places that a toothbrush can’t reach. Although mouthwash can kill the bacteria that form plaque, it can’t remove the stubborn tartar and bits of food that can lodge in teeth. Tooth and gum disease can have effects that go far beyond discoloured teeth, discomfort or bad breath. Extensive research has shown that the bacteria that flourish in an unhealthy mouth can harm the rest of the body, leading to heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness. So there you have the facts if you don’t floss, start asap!!!

Win!

To celebrate the opening of our second Makeup and photography Studio in Waterford I would love to hear your favourite things about spring in no more than 30 words. Please drop me a line on Sarahjane@beautyteamireland. com and let me know before the 25th April. I will pick one winner and a friend to come down to our Beauty Team Studio for a VIP Photographic Makeover where we will spoil you to the max. I look forward to hearing from you.

The Bump & Grind...

Sex in Pregnancy S

o let’s cut to the chase: when your partner is pregnant, your sex life WILL change, I would like to say for the better, but in the majority of cases you should expect to have a less ‘active’ sex life during the pregnancy. But it’s not all doom and gloom, and out of a famine some fortunate expectant dads experience a feast, with a small percentage of expectant mums experiencing no change in sexual drive, and a few expectant mums saying they actually have an increased interest in sex during pregnancy. Expectant dads may also experience changes in their own libido throughout their partner’s pregnancy. Every new dad-to-be worries about sex and hurting the baby, but sex will NOT hurt the baby. In fact, in many cases, the motion of having sex will rock baby off to sleep. Rest assured your baby is safe within a cushioned amnioticfluid-filled sac and unless you’re having very rough sex you have ‘almost’ no chance of injuring anyone but yourselves! A lot of expectant dads feel closer to their partner during pregnancy than ever before and this closeness is often expressed in a physical way. For some, sex during pregnancy can be exciting, but for other men, well, it’s literally services suspended for the duration, with some men finding the physical change a turn off. Please be sensitive, after all, this is the mother of your unborn child.

Daddy

Diaries An excerpt from David Caren’s ‘the Irish Dad’s Survival Guide: to Pregnancy and Beyond’

The way in which you have sex will also change. You may have to try new positions especially during the last few months of the pregnancy. Keep in physical touch with each other and explore other options for non-sexual closeness, such as cuddling or massage. Or consider alternative ways in which the pair of you can feel close. Oral sex is not dangerous during pregnancy (especially for men!); however, there is one exception − don’t blow air into the vagina as this could cause an air embolism (blocked blood vessel) that could endanger your partner and the baby. Do be aware that there are some circumstances in which sex may be dangerous, and you and your partner may be advised to abstain, including; a history of miscarriages, unexplained bleeding or premature contractions. It is always best to contact your GP if you have any uncertainties.

Dad of three, David Caren, is the founder of Dad.ie and author of ‘The Irish Dad’s Survival Guide to Pregnancy & Beyond...’ available in all good bookstores and online here at www.obrien.ie

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