tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64831829350207017072024-02-21T03:37:14.158-08:00An Aussie Mum's Guide To Eco Friendly BabiesHi, my name is Amy and I've just become a second time mum. Working in the natural health industry has opened my eyes to the down side of 'modern convenience' and led me to look for natural alternatives... You'll be surprised what I find!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-78927683807612260422011-07-29T16:00:00.000-07:002011-07-29T16:00:43.819-07:00Lack of posting...Hey guys, sorry the posts have been a little slow lately! We are preparing to 'move house' to a new domain! The new website is <a href="http://naturalaussiefamilies.com.au/">naturalaussiefamilies.com.au</a> and is pretty much up and running. I still have to sort out soem kinks in older posts but the new site should make it much easier to find old posts or research certain topics.<br />
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Go over now, and have a look! Hope you enjoy the new site, and please leave a comment on the welcome post when you drop by :)<br />
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AmyUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-5963811607983958602011-07-24T15:09:00.000-07:002011-07-24T15:09:43.413-07:00Facebook Page UpdatedFor those who haven't checked out the Facebook page, jump on and have a look! There are lots of great link to Natural Health and Eco articles and it's a great way to have some input on the blog. I've renamed the page All Natural Families and we now have our own URL- <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AllNaturalFamilies">http://www.facebook.com/AllNaturalFamilies</a><br />
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Jump on, like the page and please leave a comment or two! I would love to hear from my readers- do you like the blog or have some feedback on it? Want to see more or less of something? Got a burning question? Have news or a link to share? Also feel free to advertise pages as long as they fit into the Natural Health and Sustainability category.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-79247425416688919442011-07-23T17:45:00.000-07:002011-07-23T17:45:41.796-07:00FUSION WINNERS ANNOUNCED!Hi Guys. sorry it took me a while but things have been pretty crazy around here! The winners of the Fusion comp have been drawn, <a href="http://www.mathgoodies.com/calculators/random_no_custom.html">using a random number generator</a>.<br />
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The Winner of the Energy Multi is Vicki and Pam has taken away the Stress and Anxiety! I have sent emails to both of you guys to let you know :)<br />
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Thank you so much to Fusion, they not only provided the prizes but some info I can post out to the lucky winners about their chosen products.<br />
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The Fusion Hair Tonic and Skin Tonic have now been officially launched and are in store today! The Hair Tonic is an updated version of the Women's Balance that has been used for hair growth, as it stimulates the flow of blood and nutrients to the scalp. We've had some great feedback in store about the WB formula so we are expecting the Hair Tonic to be even better! I will be getting some info in on the brand new Skin Formula, but I know we have some readers from the Fusion crew so if they are listening in, feel free to post a comment with some more info!<br />
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Congratulations to the lucky winners, and a big thanks to all the entrants.<br />
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AmyUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-81784698100720379672011-07-20T02:23:00.000-07:002011-07-20T02:24:20.508-07:00Out and About and a Whole Lot HappierWe all know how hard it can be with small children- no time for exercise, socialising or 'me' time. It can be stressful and overwhelming and those very things that will make us feel better- getting outside, going for a walk, releasing some endorphins with a good workout- can seem like monumental tasks. Lack of exercise and Vitamin D (from sunshine), along with few social contacts can contribute to post natal depression, run-of-the-mill depression, and a general tendancy to avoid the outside world. Getting into a fitness routine-preferably one that involves going outside- can do a world of good for you and bub. Suzie Tjin (B.ExSci, B.Ed.) has written the following article on just this topic:<br />
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<b>Nature AND Nurture...and all while you get fit!</b><br />
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<b>The first few years of parenthood can be hectic (OK, so perhaps that was the understatement of the century)! With regular feed times, nappy changes, play time, nappy changes, housework, nappy changes, the battle at sleep times, and yet more nappy changes, a Mum’s job is never done! But who is looking after you? You are the go-to person after all, so there’s no time for feeling under the weather!</b><br />
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<b>Getting outside amongst nature and being active are so important for both your physical & mental wellbeing! Studies suggest that those who regularly get amongst leafy surrounds generally have a more positive state of mind – couple this with the endorphins you experience during an ‘exerciser’s high’ and you’re on your way to a happier & healthier you! Why pay for an expensive gym membership with lengthy contract periods, only to avoid going because it’s ‘too macho’ ‘too busy’ or you feel too self conscious? Your own natural gym is at your doorstep – it’s the footpaths in your neighbourhood, the park down the street, the park bench down the road or the hill down the block. Don’t have any exercise equipment? Think again! If you have a baby or toddler, you have all the equipment you need! A simple walk or jog with the stroller, or a few simple baby lifts and you’re on your way to fit town....And bubs can benefit too!</b><br />
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<b>By carefully selecting the movements you do with bubs, you could provide the vestibular stimulation that’s linked with improved balance, coordination and strength development. By incorporating both fast & slow, bumpy & flowing movements, you enable bubs to improve their head control, adopt appropriate posture and develop the strength required for crawling and walking. Better still, doing such exercises outside with other mothers allows bubs to explore their surrounds and learn the skills required for appropriate social interaction. Even if you decide to go it alone, bubs is assured to appreciate the time spent outdoors, so do yourself a favour & get amongst it!</b><br />
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<i>Suzie Tjin (B.ExSci, B.Ed.) runs <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mumsandbubsfitness">Mums and Bubs Fitness at North Lakes and Redcliffe</a>, a group class for mums and their little ones held in the great outdoors. It's a great place not only to get fit, but to socialise with other mums!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-285477938211064812011-07-11T20:19:00.000-07:002011-07-11T20:19:16.409-07:00Does Your Child Need a Multi?Nearly every big vitamin brand makes a kids multi and most parents who buy them do so for pretty valid reasons. Picky eaters or restricted diets, low soil quality, increased exposure to germs and pollutants- but how do you know if your child needs a multi, and which one do you choose?<br />
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Firstly, what is your child likely to be lacking? <br />
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Iodine deficiency is very common in Australia- Iodine is essential for brain development, hormone production and energy and is of particular importance for kids, pregnant women and menopause. To combat rising levels of iodine deficiency, most breads now include an potassium iodide and you can also buy iodized salt- neither of which is easy to absorb. The best source of iodine is seaweed and how many Aussie families use seaweed in their daily diet? The best way to top up iodine levels is to sprinkle a teaspoon of kelp, <a href="http://www.powersuperfoods.com.au/wakame-seaweed.html">wakame </a>or <a href="http://www.powersuperfoods.com.au/dulse-flakes.html">dulse </a>powder over dinner (don't mix it in before as heat destroys a lot of nutrients). These seaweeds also contain calcium, iron and magnesium. The best way to describe the taste is slightly salty and 'like the ocean'. Once you try it you'll see what I mean. You don't need much so it's easy to blend into various dishes.<br />
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Another thing we don't eat a lot of in Australia is oily fish, kind of silly considering we live on a great big island. Though a great source of omega 3, many people are currently avoiding seafood altogether due to the Fukushima power plant meltdown. It's pretty easy to get omega 3 from your diet though- just make sure to include lots of wholegrains, and you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds for a super boost. These can be added to breakfast cereal, yoghurt or a smoothie.<br />
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Iron is a little trickier; most people assume low energy is caused by iron deficiency but they don't realise too much iron can cause the same symptoms. Before supplementing iron always check with a naturopath or doctor. Meat has the highest concentration and easiest to absorb iron, but it's easy to get through vegan sources as well, like the seaweeds mentioned above, pepitas, sesame seeds, soybeans, tofu, lentils and spinach.<br />
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Calcium can be a concern for parents who live a vegan lifestyle, or have kids who are intolerant/allergic to dairy or just plain don't like it. Again, Google can be your friend and using 'vegan' in the search term will pull up all the non dairy calcium option. Chickpeas, tofu and non-dairy, calcium fortified milks (including almond, buckwheat, rice and quinoa) can easily replace milk in the diet.<br />
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The other thing you can do is look at the food you eat, and how it's prepared. A varied diet rich in fresh, organic produce will maximise the nutritional content. Cooking foods in a microwave destroys nutrients so stick to steaming, stir-frying and baking where you can. Raw is great too- add things like capsicum, broccoli, beetroot and other colourful veg to raw salads. You can add superfoods to the diet too, things like blueberries, spirulina, wheatgrass, chia and goji are all packed full of great nutrients for a healthy body.<br />
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Sometimes despite best intentions a supplement is needed. Kids with digestive disorders or special needs, those on a very restricted diet, limited access to fresh, healthy food or kids that just don't eat enough. How do you pick from the array of bright boxes and bubblegum flavours?<br />
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1. Look at what's NOT in your kids multi- there should be no artificial preservatives, sweeteners, colours or flavours. Make sure they use natural fruit flavouring and stick to natural sweeteners like Xylitol and stevia.<br />
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2. Look at the type of ingredients- are there lot's of oxide (heavy metal, hard to absorb) based minerals or are they chelates and citrates (much easier to assimilate). If you are after a specific ingredient like magnesium, is there enough? You might have to consider a more specific product than a multi. <br />
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3. Look at the dose and how to administer it- a one-size-fits-all dose of one a day for 2-12 year olds mean the 12 year old is probably not getting nearly enough for it to be useful. Age specific dosing is always better. Compare the quantities of a few ingredients between brands and consider taste too.<br />
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4. Check for allergy ingredients and other things you want to avoid.<br />
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So far, all the best kids supplements I've seen are practitioner only brands like Metagenics, which means you need to see your Naturopath or Herbalist to get them. It's definitely worth it though- much better dosing, powder formulas for easy administering and better quality ingredients. The only off the shelf product I really, really like is the <a href="http://www.naturalhighfoods.com.au/all-products/superfood-shakes/kids-real-vanilla-superfood-shake">Natural High Supershak</a>e, which is more a superfood/protein powder than anything. I also like <a href="http://www.lifestream.co.nz/Products/Lifestream-Ultimate-Veggies/default.aspx">Lifestream Ultimate Veggies</a> to give a boost to the diet. Both are food based for maximum absorption and range of constituents.<br />
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Whether you use a single multi for your kids or a tailored supplement regime, they will always get the best out of life if their diet is good. So eat up, get plenty of fresh air and sunshine and enjoy life to the fullest :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-70736030402188230982011-07-11T15:54:00.001-07:002011-07-11T15:54:58.909-07:005 Days Left for Fusion Giveaway!<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'>Don't forget to enter the fusion comp to win one of two great Fusion products! To enter, complete this quote off the Fusion Health Facebook page about Whole Body Tonic: "It's like a __________ for all you organs!"<br/>Email the answer to naturalaussiemum@live.com.au<br/><br/>For T's and C's see the 'Fusion Giveaway' post<br/><br/>Amy<br/>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-89193539441868967602011-07-09T03:14:00.000-07:002011-07-09T03:14:45.900-07:00Natural therapies are not just for healthy kids, or for treating colds and tummy upsets. Yoga, osteopathy, naturopathy, homeopathy and a multitude of therapies are now being used for Down syndrome, Asperger syndrome, Autism spectrum disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and other conditions. One aussie mum who knows all about the huge (but often dismissed) benefits these therapies can have is Kristen Morrison. Her story is here (copied directly from her website, with permission).<br />
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<h1 class="title" style="color: #e56100; font: normal normal normal 28px/normal georgia, palatino, times, serif; line-height: 30px; margin-top: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><a href="http://naturallybetterkids.com/natural/down-syndrome-doesnt-have-to-be-that-way" rel="bookmark" style="color: #e56100; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;" title="Permanent Link to Down syndrome – there is hope!"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b>Down syndrome – there is hope!</b></span></a></h1><div class="meta" style="clear: both; display: block; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>I woke this morning to my son trying to ‘bite mummy’s nose’ with Dad’s glasses case. I buried my nose in his delicious soft neck – ahh the smell of your own child’s skin! It’s kind of irrelevant to me now that as well as being cheeky and smelling divine, my son has Down syndrome.</b></span></div><div class="entry" style="clear: both; display: block; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>Then I read today’s news. Two families from my home town are taking their doctors to court because they had children with Down syndrome – their diagnosis was not picked up during pregnancy.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b><a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/two-couples-suing-doctors-for-failing-to-diagnose-down-syndrome/story-e6frf7kx-1225894768423">The Herald Sun</a> says ‘..in Victoria, people can sue for compensation for the continuing costs of raising a child to the age of 18, where the child was born as a result of negligent care’.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>I am not one to judge. Human challenges are many.. daily.. for all of us, and we all respond differently. I hear stories every day about how different parents react to a situation like this and I feel for every one of them. It’s hard!</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1117" height="300" src="http://naturallybetterkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/NBK_some-days-300x300.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; border-width: initial; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 380px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 1px; padding-right: 1px; padding-top: 1px;" title="NBK_some days" width="300" /></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b><span id="more-1106"></span>I had no<a href="http://naturallybetterkids.com/media" style="color: #e56100; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1110" height="300" src="http://naturallybetterkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/100323_Leader_lowres-298x300.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; border-width: initial; float: right; height: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; max-width: 380px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 1px; padding-right: 1px; padding-top: 1px;" title="100323_Leader_lowres" width="298" /></a> idea I would react the way I did when my son was born. I don’t know how I would have reacted had I been told during pregnancy. But for me, research into healing was therapy – for me AND my son. Others find a situation like this utterly anihilating.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>I TOTALLY understand!</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>There is a common thread through the articles I’ve read today – everyone I’ve seen interviewed, every interview I have read, talks about the FACT that Down syndrome equals health issues. The FACT that it is to be avoided – at all costs, better screening is the solution. Avoid it.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>On Channel 9′s Today Show, Mia Freedman talked about children with Down syndrome having ‘enormous health problems’.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>I can honestly say that our experience of Down syndrome has not fitted this mould in any way. I know there are plenty of people who will say we got lucky, everything we did is placebo – our successes would have happened anyway.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>We have worked our guts out to help our son since he was born! But apparently we got very lucky that he has no heart</b><img alt="" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1111" height="300" src="http://naturallybetterkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_1543-225x300.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; border-width: initial; float: right; height: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; max-width: 380px; padding-bottom: 1px; padding-left: 1px; padding-right: 1px; padding-top: 1px;" title="IMG_1543" width="225" /><b> defect, no thyroid problems, no mobility or vision issues. We got lucky with his hearing, lucky with his ability to walk, lucky that he has only had to go to emergency once in his life (when he had a nasty cold) and has had no other serious illness. We got lucky that he has no food intolerances or behaviour problems, lucky that he now speaks, lucky that he cuts with scissors at 3 and could read words at 18 months.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>That’s pretty lucky.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>And that’s exactly why I wrote my book. It’s a case study. It’s only one child’s story, I understand this doesn’t constitute a double blind scientific study. But I felt the need to tell others what we did, what supplements and therapies I selected for him and what results we achieved in his first few years. We observed miracles I had thought impossible. And now I read more and more stories from other parents who are doing some of what we have done and are observing similar improvements.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>I guess they got lucky too.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>I produced a documentary about our experiences to bring awareness for other parents that Down syndrome is NOT a life sentence. Children with Down syndrome DO respond to natural and alternative therapies very well.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>I want others to know what is possible for their kids. Or for the kids of people they know. This is a human problem. Humans should know there is something that can be done to make things better.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>My son delights us just as our daughters did at 3 1/2. He steals my wallet and runs away, wants to cook<em> all the time</em> and counted ’3 white utes’ on our walk yesterday. We love him to pieces.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b><a href="http://naturallybetterkids.com/resources/documentary">Click here to watch the documentary</a> – Part 3 shows my son at 3 1/2. And no, he doesn’t have mosaic Down syndrome (the mildest form). Trisomy 21 – the most common kind.</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><b>Here’s to healing!</b></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">Kristen took her experience, knowledge, research and passion and brought it all together to write the book 'Naturally Better'. It details her personal journey and the therapies she used to help her gorgeous son beat the odds, despite facing those 'enormous health problems'. The book is written in a way that not only lets the reader share the close relationship between Gryffin and Kristen, and learn about the practical applications of the various therapies for Down syndrome, it also gives great advice and information to help us raise our kids to be the best (and healthiest) they can be. </div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">At the heart of this amazing story of hope lies the sad fact that today, the Australian Government gives little or no funding either to parents wishing to use natural therapies to assist their children, or to the research on how these therapies can be effective, or applied. This is a topic I could blog about for hours- funding the research into or the use of natural therapies could save the country millions of </span>dollars<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"> spent on conditions like the ones mentioned, but also cholesterol, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and immune conditions. With the correct application we could prevent so many degenerative or lifestyles diseases, and stop unnecessary reliance on prescriptions medications which often just cause more problems. We could also offer so many more effective treatments for kids with Down syndrome, ASD, Asperger syndrome and ADHD- without the need for Ritalin!</span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">In response to the needs of families in similar situations to hers, Kristen along with Sarah Delarue have co-founded the </span></span><a href="http://naturallybetterkids.com/foundation" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;">GROW foundation</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">. With the help of sponsors, the foundation gives families the opportunity to attend the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential in Philadelphia, USA. The Institutes teach parents to provide home based therapy to help kids see, hear, read and walk. GROW also lobbies the Australian Government to provide funding for natural therapies, something that is desperately needed if we are to become a truly healthy nation.</span></span></div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;">I'll leave you with a quote from Kristen:</div><div style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; color: #454545; font-size: 12px; font: normal normal normal 13px/normal arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 3px; text-align: left;"></div><pre style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17px; white-space: normal;"><i>"We as parents have the instinct to help our own children, and these instincts can – in my opinion – be honed, validated and fine tuned. All we need is education and some encouraging results – instead of being expected to just ‘take a pill’ or accept a professional’s word unquestioningly. I am meeting so many parents who are feeling deflated because of their child’s diagnosis and who have been left thinking they can’t make a difference, but they can! And I am LOVING being able to help them get the confidence to research their own healing campaigns for their kids. (And I’m now hearing some stunning results too!) Natural health options have remained the world’s best kept secret for many years, now the internet allows us to share our own family’s experiences and help others have similar benefits."</i></pre><pre style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17px; white-space: normal;"><i>
</i></pre><pre style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17px; white-space: normal;">If you would like to help the GROW foundation please jump on the <a href="http://naturallybetterkids.com/products-page/grow-foundation">website</a> to check out the fundraiser packs or see their <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grow-Foundation/143055902403758">Facebook</a> page. You can buy the book from their website, or on Kindle!</pre><div style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"></div><div style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-62661169009401731912011-07-03T19:00:00.000-07:002011-07-03T22:34:22.785-07:00Fusion Giveaway!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The lovely staff at Fusion Health stumbled upon my blog and sent me an email a little while ago. They have kindly donated a <a href="http://fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Stress%20and%20Anxiety">Stress and Anxiety</a> and an <a href="http://fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Energy%20Multi%20Advanced">Energy Multi</a> formula for me to give away! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">To enter, you'll need to pop over to the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/fusionhealth">Fusion Facebook Page</a>. </span>Alfonse, the National Sales Manager says the Whole Body Tonic is his favourite formula, because "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><i>It's like a ______ ________ for all your organs!</i>". </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Complete the sentence and email me the answer at naturalaussiemum@live.com.au </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Make sure you tell me which of the two products you'd like!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">The two formulas provided are both great, and suitable for just about anyone. The Stress and Anxiety is a gentle, nourishing formula that helps stress, worry, low </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">energy</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">/fatigue and related </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">symptoms</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"> like nervous dyspepsia. I've given it to my daughter when she was having a few issues at school- it's so gentle you can use it from the age of six, and yet seems to be so effective for just about any person or situation.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"> </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Energy Multi Advanced has a select combination of vitamins and minerals at doses specific for boosting energy levels. Combined with herbs like astragalus, gotu kola, ginseng and green tea, it will protect the body from the effects of a busy lifestyle or stress and fatigue. It also helps the digestion of protein, carbs and fats to make sure you are getting the most out of your diet. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Stay tuned- Following the success of the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHSVFn_8A0w&feature=youtu.be">Alopecia </a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">story, they are releasing two new products- a Hair Tonic and Skin Tonic, I'll keep you posted<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">!</span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small; line-height: 14px;">Competition T&Cs: Only open to Australian residents. One entry per person. There is a total of two prizes to be given away. Entries must be received by 5.00pm Sunday 17th July and will be notified by email by the end of this month. Winners will be selected by lucky draw, dependant on the correct answer being supplied. Dates may be extended and if this happens it will be posted on this blog. Amy.</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-54039104981265727022011-07-01T22:05:00.000-07:002011-07-01T22:05:34.879-07:00Weight Loss Pills<div dir="ltr"><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Everyone puts on a few kg's over winter, so it's no surprise the market is glutted with new pills and potions for weight loss. Hungry? Take a pill! Don't want to exercise? Take another pill! They can't really do any harm, can they?</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Think again. Apart from being ENTIRELY unsuitable for pregnant/breastfeeding mums, they really aren't that good for healthy people either, if taken long term.</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Most of these metabolism boosters work by supercharging your adrenals. The stronger it is, the better it works. It's ramps up your energy levels, body temp and the rate you burn fat- all well and good, for the first couple of weeks, if you can avoid the side effects (some people get the jitters, insomnia, shakes, headaches, nausea and a temper). The issue comes after being on them for a few weeks. Your poor little adrenal glands are being stimulated to the point of exhaustion. They stop functioning on their own and start to crash. You'll feel tired after the last dose wears off and the 'buzz' you first got when taking them has worn off. You can increase the dose (most of these supplements tell you to start on a low dose and increase it later) or keep plugging away with something that no longer feels like it's working. Or you can try a different or stronger formula.</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I'm not saying these magic bullets don't have their place. If they are used wisely, they can be great to kick start you on a new way of eating, keep you motivated or get you past a plateau that would otherwise have you giving up. But, only use them for short periods and try healthier options first. If you have been using stimulant based weight loss pills for a while, you can help your body to recover by taking a gentle ginseng formula to restore adrenal function, getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of water. Keep energy levels up with good nutrient intake, focussing on B vitamins, CoQ10, Magnesium and Vitamin C. Try a dietary detox- eliminate caffeine, sugars and processed foods for a couple of weeks and stick to fresh, unprocessed foods and lean meat.</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">If you look at the ingredients of most weight loss pills, they seem familiar enough- things like capsicum, bitter melon, peppers, grapefruit, caffeine and cinnamon all feature on the labels. If you include or increase these foods in your diet they can help pick up a sluggish metabolism, warm you up from the inside (great in winter) and have other benefits, like being really high in antioxidants and other nutrients. Cinnamon will also help to balance blood sugars and stop cravings. You can do this every day, and suffer no ill effects (though go easy on the caffeine!). Combining these foods with a healthy eating plan and some exercise can make a huge difference to your waistline, but also to your energy levels, digestive system and overall health. Don't forget, your metabolism is higher if you are a little cold!</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="font-family: Garamond;"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="color: #31859b;">An Aussie Mum's Guide to Eco Friendly Babies</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://firsttimenaturalmama.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span class="ecxApple-style-span" style="color: #31859b; font-family: Garamond;">http://firsttimenaturalmama.blogspot.com/</span></a></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-48596746411152484532011-06-22T17:09:00.000-07:002011-06-22T17:09:17.907-07:00No Use Crying Over Low Milk Supply!I've had so many people ask lately about low milk supply- though I've written about it before I thought I'd put it up again to make it easier to find, and provide a bit more info...<br />
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The main causes of low milk are stress, fatigue and lack of suckling (especially hard with babies in special care or after a c-section). Getting adequate rest and trying not worry are things we tell new mums, but rarely do ourselves when it's our turn. Even just getting someone to look after the baby for an hour in the afternoon while you lay down can help to refresh and rejuvenate you, while allowing your body to catch up on producing milk.<br />
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Nutrition is also highly important. Caloric needs are higher when breast feeding than when pregnant, but it's at this time we find ourselves to busy to eat. Try and have healthy, nutritionally dense snacks on hand all the time, and carry around a bottle of water- you need 2-3L every day. Now is NOT the time to try cutting calories or carbs, or going on a low fat diet. Making milk burns a lot of energy so you can afford the extra food- as long as it's not just 'empty' calories from refined foods and sweet drinks.<br />
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Foods to eat include pepitas (high in iron), flaxseeds (protein and good fats), lean meat (iron and protein), colourful veg (high in many vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients), brewer's yeast (you don't eat it for the taste- it's great for breastmilk though!). There is a recipe out there called 'lactation cookies'. I've added it to the bottom of this post- I wanted to credit the genius who came up with it, but there are a million variations on the web so I couldn't track down the original!<br />
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There are also a few herbs (listed below) that help increase breast milk quantity or quality. Though Fenugreek seems to be the most widely known, it's not, naturopathically speaking the best. It's a digestive tonic and as it passes through the breast milk, some babies find it causes wind and griping pains. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><strong>Natural Galactagogues:</strong></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><em>(A Galactagogue is a substance that increases lactation)</em></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Blessed Thistle-</b> the number one for increasing milk! Available in 500mg capsules from <a href="http://www.naturessunshine.com.au/all/products/Blessed-Thistle-/">Nature's Sunshine</a>. Take up to 6-8 per day, spaced out as much as possible. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Fenugreek</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">- better known as a galactagogue but may cause wind pain in baby. There are plenty of 'breastfeeding formulas' available that contain Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle together, in brands such as Herbs of Gold and <a href="http://www.naturessunshine.com.au/all/products/Breast-Feeding-Support/">Nature's Sunshine</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Marshmallow</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">- rather than increase the quantity, marshmallow will increase the quality and nutrition of breastmilk </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><b>Shatavari</b>- improves lactation and helps hormone balance. Nourishing and toning for reproductive system and may help libido </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><b>Nettle</b>- can be taken as a tea to boost milk supply and replenish the blood- a really good one for just after the birth </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">Teas such as <a href="http://www.weleda.com.au/Product_Display_42.aspx?CategoryId=8&ProductId=3365">Weleda Nursing Tea</a> and <a href="http://bioliving.com.au/brands/holle/baby_tea">Holle Organic Nursing Tea</a> can also be really beneficial. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"><b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">Here's that recipe I mentioned earlier:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br />
</span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"><b>Lactation Cookies</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">1 cup butter or coconut oil<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
4 tablespoons water<br />
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal<br />
2 large eggs or egg substitute<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
2 cups wholemeal flour (I substitute 1 cup flour for 1/2 cup protein powder. You can use coconut flour the same way)<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
3 cups rolled oats (you can also use rolled barley, rye or triticale)<br />
1 cup or more pepitas, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, almond flakes or anything else you can think of!<br />
2 tablespoons (or more!) of brewers yeast. </span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">You can play around with the recipe, but make sure you include the flaxseed and brewers yeast! The more nutrition you can pack in, the better they will work.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br />
</span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Directions:<br />
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Preheat oven at 190 degrees C. Mix together 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal and water, set aside for 3-5 minutes. Cream (beat well) margarine and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mix well. Stir flaxseed mixture and add with vanilla to the margarine mix. Beat until blended. Sift together dry ingredients, except oats and chips. Add to margarine mixture. Stir in oats then chips. Scoop or drop onto baking sheet, preferably lined with parchment or silpat. The dough is a little crumbly, so it helps to use a scoop.<br />
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Bake 8-12 minutes, depending on size of cookies.</span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-20820385183494936462011-06-15T16:16:00.000-07:002011-06-15T16:16:50.920-07:00Another great read!<a href="http://kathrynelliott.com.au/blog">Limes & Lycopene - The Blog of Kathryn Elliott</a><div>This one is by Kathryn Elliot, a Sydney based nutritionist who looks like an amazing cook! Check out her great winter soup recipes. She also has a link to her clinic on her blog, so check it out if you are a local.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-57851909979003139782011-06-15T16:12:00.000-07:002011-06-15T16:12:44.508-07:00Quick find...<a href="http://greatbigvegchallenge.blogspot.com/">THE GREAT BIG VEGETABLE CHALLENGE</a><div>I saw this book in QBD yesterday and noticed it mentioned a blog. I had a look and here it is! Not only some great advice on getting fussy kids to eat their greens (and oranges, purples, black, whites, yellows and blues) but some great recipes for the grown ups too. It also spotlights some more unusual produce like Black Garlic, which I'm now itching to try!</div><div><br /></div><div>I haven't read through it all yet but have decided I may just go buy the book. Though the blog is no longer active, it's highly worth a look.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bon apetit!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-23742773520830267432011-06-11T02:42:00.000-07:002011-06-11T02:42:38.304-07:00Gluten Free Diets- the How, the Why and the What The Heck Is Gluten Anyway?Gluten free foods are increasing in popularity- once consigned to specialty health food stores, now supermarkets have entire aisle dedicated to gluten free foods. Still the gluten jungle can be pretty scary to those who are new to it. <br />
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Gluten intolerance usually causes gut discomfort which can range from mild bloating to severe coeliac disease. Before starting a gluten free diet, it's a good idea to be tested for coeliac disease- you need to have ingested gluten for this test to work. Coelic disease is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks it's own intestinal villi, the tiny hair like projections in the small intestine that are responsible to absorption of nutrients. If you have CD, you must avoid ALL gluten at all times- very challenging indeed. For simple gluten intolerance, some people can tolerate small amounts of gluten as long as they don't go over board. Gluten intolerance often goes hand in hand with IBS and other gut conditions and often gluten avoidance is used to help manage disorders like Autism.<br />
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Gluten and wheat are not the same thing- though if a product has wheat in it, it also has gluten. Wheat sensitivity can occur when you react negatively to wheat proteins other than gluten, but it can be hard to pinpoint which is causing the problem. Most wheat-free products are also gluten free though, so it's often just as easy to avoid both anyway.<br />
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Gluten is found in Wheat, Barley and Rye grains. Oats are a little contentious- they can be cross contaminated (for example, if they are planted next to a wheat field) and therefore contain small amounts of added gluten. Many US/Canadian associations say that pure uncontaminated oat products are fine to have, but the <a href="http://www.coeliac.org.au/index.html">Coeliac Australia</a> released this <a href="http://www.coeliac.org.au/content/downloads/Oats%20Position%20Statement.pdf">statement </a>saying they do not recommend you have oats if you have coeliac disease.<br />
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Gluten can also be present in products that have ingredients such as thickening agents, stabilisers, vegetable gums, starch or flavouring. <br />
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The popularity of gluten free products and much clearer product labelling in recent years has made it easier to shop gluten free. Flours made from rice, potato, soy, quinoa, buckwheat and chickpeas (known as besan flour) are getting easier to obtain and brands like <a href="http://www.orgran.com/home">Orgran </a>and <a href="http://www.freedomfoods.com.au/">Freedom Foods</a> are everywhere you look. Gluten free breads have come a long way too- though many are quite different from wheat bread (they are a lot heavier and denser though still yummy), some varieties like <a href="http://www.zehnder.com.au/our-products/breads/potato-700g/">Zehnder's Potato Loaf</a> are light and fluffy enough to appeal to everyone. <a href="http://www.schaer.com/en/">Schar </a>have gone to a great effort 'copying' popular products like Oreo's and KitKat's, giving you a range of gluten free comfort foods that you are familiar with. When shopping, always look for foods labelled Gluten Free as you will know there are no hidden nasties in there.<br />
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Changing to a gluten free diet can be challanging and you need to make sure you are replacing, not excluding- though it may seem easier to eliminate all grain, they are an essential source of fibre, carbohydrates and several very important vitamins and minerals. Gluten free doesn't mean taste free- it takes time and practise but with some effort you can eat most of your favourite foods without compromising your gluten free lifestyle.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWgFueluX3M47774gOH72f9MWSH3FMk46Isd6l6CXcCDC2VVOa6F1VLQfM16buTzustlJ1sjjrC5grINc4DwS7Lummi-BsWc6NqBAn_07Wr3Bbi6O3pqt3ZeKhpL6T_rCEPfjd0Or4Wk-/s1600/cook-book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWgFueluX3M47774gOH72f9MWSH3FMk46Isd6l6CXcCDC2VVOa6F1VLQfM16buTzustlJ1sjjrC5grINc4DwS7Lummi-BsWc6NqBAn_07Wr3Bbi6O3pqt3ZeKhpL6T_rCEPfjd0Or4Wk-/s1600/cook-book.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healing Foods Cookbook, courtesy of CCCIBS.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>There are numerous books available and a dazzling array of websites and online recipes to play with. One such book is <a href="http://www.ccccibs.com/">Healing Foods</a>, a beautifully illustrated cookbook that is based on the principles of the <a href="http://www.breakingtheviciouscycle.info/">Specific Carbohydrate Diet</a> (this is an eating plan developed for bowel disorders and food intolerances and is also great for kids with Autism).<br />
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<a href="http://janellapurcell.com/">Janella Purcell</a> of 'Good Chef, Bad Chef' on channel Ten tailors most of her recipes to the gluten free sector. Her recipes are full of wholefoods and superfood ingredients that pack a huge punch, nutritionally speaking. As a qualified Nutritionist and Naturopath, she has a 'food as medicine' approach to her clinic and has several books and DVD's on the topic.<br />
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If you want to try an elimination diet to see if removing gluten helps your digestive discomfort, or if you have been diagnosed with a gluten condition, it's best to see a Naturopath or Nutritionist who can help you plan a healthy diet that isn't lacking in essential components. Do your research and don't be afraid to experiment!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-23085896385986538242011-05-26T17:09:00.000-07:002011-05-26T17:09:21.154-07:00Yoghurt and Fruit for BabiesLast time <a href="http://www.aldi.com.au/au/html/offers/2827_17935.htm">Aldi </a>had their awesome yoghurt makers on special, I missed out- not this time! I'm going out today to see if I can track one down, I heard rave reviews about them last year! <br />
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Home made yoghurt is not only cheap (all you need is milk and a live bacteria culture), it's so good for you! Most supermarket brands contain gelatin or setting agents, preservatives and added sugars, colours and flavours to make them either cheaper to make, or more appealing to taste. Organic yoghurts are now readily available but can be expensive to buy. Making it yourself means you have absolute control over what goes in once you've made a first batch, you can use that yoghurt as a 'starter' (live culture) to make subsequent batches. <br />
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Yoghurt is a great baby food- it's smooth, nutritious and good for intestinal flora. Though doctors recommend against dairy under the age of one, this really only refers to milk, and is to discourage replacing a breast or formula feed with a glass of milk, which is not as nutritious. <br />
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Making yoghurt at home means you can also experiment with Goat or Sheep's milk, both of which are cleaner, less processed and less allergenic than cow's milk dairy. My little man can't tolerate even organic cow yoghurt so we are planning to try him on goat yoghurt this weekend- I'll let you know how he goes!<br />
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Plain organic yoghurt can taste a bit gamey, so adding fruit will improve the flavour and add a bit of variety. Unfortunately fresh, quality fruit is pretty limited at the moment. I have just made a batches of Apricot and Fig puree from dried fruit, and some frozen blueberries. Frozen fruits are often more nutritious and 'fresher' than fresh fruit as they are frozen immediately, not left sitting in a truck or on a shelf for a weeks. Dry fruits mean we have access to a bigger variety or fruits all year round and are fine to use, as long as they are sulphite free, with no added preservatives, sugar or salt. You can always pick naturally dried apricots- they are dark brown rather than fluorescent orange! Of course organic is best and you can sometimes get this in the supermarket, but more likely from your local health food store. To use dried fruit, cover with water and simmer gently until it's plump and soft. Then, mash or puree into the desired consistency. Most frozen fruits need to be cooked as well- because of the higher water content, you can boil or steam these.<br />
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Check out <a href="http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/index.htm">Wholesome Baby Food</a> for great recipes! They've got sections on yoghurt, kids smoothies and various fruits, including the more exotic ones.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-82790907768509860912011-05-23T16:10:00.000-07:002011-05-23T16:11:24.959-07:00Home Birth Video<a href="http://vimeo.com/22765005">Born At Home by Kat Small...</a><br />
Check out the link above for a beautiful, amazing video of a home birth. It's presented with style and class and accompanied by a perfect soundtrack. Watching it bought a tear to my eye- I would have loved to have the courage to have a home birth and I really think it should be made easier for those who choose to do so.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-25981848464046167232011-05-23T00:57:00.000-07:002011-05-23T00:57:20.648-07:00Nappy Rash (or A Pain in the Baby's Bum)The little man is finally teething and among the long nights, grizzly morning, copious snot and revolting nappies, he developed the WORST case of nappy rash I have ever seen! It appeared overnight and with a bit of TLC it disappeared pretty quickly too, but I have new sympathy for bubba's with a nappy rash, and the mums trying to combat this pervasive problem.<br />
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The first thing you can do is swap to cloth nappies if you are not already using them. Back in the day it was the other way around- the old cotton towelling nappies held moisture close to the skin while the more absorbant disposable sucked it away, keeping the area drier. Now the multiple layers of Modern Cloth Nappies act more effectively (and are so much more absorbent), while the multitude of chemicals in disposable nappies can severely irritate sensitive skin. If cloth is not an option, there are brands of chemical free <a href="http://www.eenee.com/contents/en-us/d50_compostable_nappies.html">Eenee </a>compostables and <a href="http://www.eenee.com/contents/en-us/d50_compostable_nappies.html">Bamboo Natur</a>e nappies are disposable, chemical free alternatives. Where possible, adopt a nudist lifestyle for bub to air out the nether regions!<br />
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Other nasty chemicals lurk in baby wipes, bath products, lotions and washing powder, so make those as natural as you can. You can replace wipes with a spray bottle containing just water (or steep some chamomile tea and use cold for it's soothing properties, or lavender tea for antiseptic healing) and cotton or bamboo cloths, or use organic cotton balls or tissues for a squeaky clean, irritant free behind.<br />
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I personally love the Akin Bottom Balm. It has natural ingredients with Zinc to provide a soothing barrier to stop nasty acids eating away the skin. <a href="http://www.pawpawsalve.biz/simmons.html">Paw Paw Salve</a> (get the yellow label one, or the <a href="http://www.naturalalternative.com.au/SP_Pawpaw.asp">Natural Alternative</a> brand- stay away from petrochemical based products) will also protect but is better for use as a preventative. To treat bad rash, <a href="http://www.botani.com.au/ProductContainer/phytoseptic">Botani Phytoseptic</a> is a TGA registered anti-fungal based on an olive extract- in severe nappy rash there is usually a fungal infection present and this will get on top of it quickly. <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?ecompage=viewdetails&stockcode=F915&stk_group=&stk_category=Dermaheal&keywords=&page=1">Fusion Dermaheal</a> contains Golden Seal which kills a broad range of bugs. It will heal and protect the area while treating or preventing any infection.<br />
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Talcum powder has long gone out of fashion for babies- it can do serious damage to the lungs if inhaled. Cornstarch powder is a great alternative to keep the area dry, but it has to be applied frequently.<br />
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Internally, supplementing with a quality probiotic will help to balance intestinal flora, helping the body to fight yeast or fungal infections from the inside and regulating digestion to prevent overacidity. Avoid acidic citrus juices and tomato, and go easy on spicy foods for kids who are on solids.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-90697655310667747702011-05-14T00:06:00.000-07:002011-05-14T00:06:53.949-07:00Homeopathy for Mother and Baby<div class="MsoNormal">I was sent this article by Donna Lee, a friend of mine who is a Naturopath, Homeopath and Registered Nurse. I myself use homeopathic medicines- when I first looked into it I was a huge sceptic but the amazing results I get every time I treat my hayfever (so much faster and more effective than clinical medicines and even herbs I've used in the past) have made me a convert. Homeopathics have been used for many years on humans, animals and even plants! Many doctors pass off the benefits as placebo, but I've seen or heard of these amazing remedies treat skin rashes, liver conditions, vomiting, colds, hayfever, insomnia, anxiety, bed wetting, infections and dozens of other ailments... in adults, kids, babies and even animals. Now you can't tell me horses, cats and dogs are prone to 'false positives from a placebo effect'! The best story I heard was back when I worked in Pharmacy. A first time Mum and Dad came in for advice on their infants temperature. They were already using panadol and nurofen consecutively and bub had been into hospital twice. If they couldn't get the fever down, they would be back again that night. Of course there was nothing we could offer pharmaceutically, but I gave them a bottle of Brauer Pain and Fever to try. They were waiting outside the next morning to get another bottle (in case they ran out) and to thank us- within 10 minutes of administering the first dose the temperature had started to drop and by the fourth dose, was less than half a degree above normal. Here's Donna's article- her contact details are at the bottom if you would like any more info!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 20.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Homeopathy For Mother And Baby </span><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A growing number of parents are concerned about the side effects of conventional drugs especially in the treatment of babies and young children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Homeopathy is growing in popularity in Australia due mainly to the success of commercial preparations sold in pharmacies such as the Brauer baby range. <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">One third of the French population uses homeopathic medicines, and 32 percent of French family physicians prescribe them. One fifth of all German physicians use homeopathic medicines, 42 percent of British physicians refer patients to homeopathic physicians, and 45 percent of Dutch physicians consider homeopathic medicines effective. <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Englands</st1:country-region></st1:place> Royal Family has been under homeopathic care since the 1930s.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The majority of the Australian population does not know what homeopathy is, however those that do use homeopathy consider it a godsend to their children as well as themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Homeopathy was first described by Hippocrates 2,500 years ago, the word comes from Greek and means similar. This refers to the central philosophy that a substance that can produce symptoms in a healthy person can cure those symptoms in a sick person. For example, a person suffering from hayfever might be given a remedy prepared from onion, because in a healthy person onion usually produces watering eyes and irritation. However the substances are given in minute doses prepared in homeopathic pharmacies <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>avoiding <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>unwanted side effects making them safe to use even in situations where conventional drugs would be dangerous or inadvisable (e.g. during pregnancy, treating babies, infants and the elderly).<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Orthodox medicine often seeks to suppress symptoms by covering them over with strong medication for a quick fix this often drives illness deeper into the body. Homeopathic medicine seeks to gently bring the disease or illness to the surface so as to achieve lasting permanent cure. Homeopathy can be used to treat both physical and emotional disorders.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Before you begin to prescribe at home there are two important laws that you need to follow to use homeopathic medicines successfully:<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>THE LAW OF SIMILARS</u> states that we must match the symptom picture to the illness or injury to the symptom picture of the medicine<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>THE LAW OF THE MINIMUM DOSE</u> states that we must only use as little of the medicine as possible to stimulate the body’s own natural healing mechanism. <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Homeopathic medicines are delicate and need careful handling. Touch them as little as possible. Shake 1 pill directly into the lid of the bottle and put it directly under the tongue of the person taking the medicine. Put the dose into a clean mouth , if possible 15 minutes before or after having anything to drink, obviously this does not apply in an emergency where it should be given as soon as possible. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can crush and dissolve remedies in water and sip them (babies), but do not swallow pill down with water, tea or coffee. Avoid mint (notably in toothpaste) camphor, menthol, eucalyptus (often found in vapour rubs and cold remedies) when taking homeopathic remedies as these may antidote certain homeopathic medicines.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Store remedies in a cool dark place away from strong smells and small children.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Before repeating a remedy please consider the law of minimum dose carefully.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Serious injuries and illnesses should never be treated without seeking expert advice. Use your instincts and common sense, if you are worried call for help first, then give the appropriate remedy whilst you are waiting for help to arrive. If symptoms show no improvement or return after initial improvement, always seek professional help. A qualified homeopath may be needed to treat the underlying weakness in the patients constitution. If you already see a homeopath regularly, please discuss self prescribing with them.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The following are common remedies for use in pregnancy, labour and baby’s<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>first year. <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><u>PREGNANCY<o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Exhaustion: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arnica 200c , Kali Phos 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Breach position</i>: Pulsatilla 200c (take in 36<sup>th</sup> week)<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Induction: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(alternative to) Caulophyllum 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Flu</i>: (just before due date) Gelsenium 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Malposition of baby: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(at 36<sup>th</sup> week) Breech Pulsatilla 200c, Transverse Pulsatilla 200c, Arnica 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Nausea: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>during pregnancy Ipecac 30c repeat as necessary<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Panic: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>about birth Aconite 200c, after previous bad experience Cimicifuga 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Premature labour: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(to prevent/stop) after fall Arnica 200c, fright Aconite 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Sciatica: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(caused by position of baby) Bellis Perennis 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Wind: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>trapped with pain Carbo veg 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><u>DURING CHILDBIRTH<o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Many midwives are now trained in homeopathy, ask your hospital if they have trained staff alternatively ask your homeopath to attend your birth or <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>train your partner in the use of homeopathic medicines before your due date. Homeopathy can be used safely alongside or instead of any pain relief offered by your medical team.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Back pain during labour: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gelsenium 200c, Kali Carb 200c, Pulsatilla 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bladder:</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(labour pains around) Caulophyllum 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bleeding: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>during labour ( bright red, profuse) Ipecac 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cervix:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>fails to dilate Caulophyllum 200c or Cimicifuga 200c, half open or hard Sepia 200c, wide open but contractions stop Gelsenium 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Contractions</i> : atonic (flabby) weak Caulophyllum 200c or Gelsenium 200c, slow or stop Caulophyllum<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>200c or Gelsenium 200c, lack expulsive power (especially in second stage) Pulsatilla 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Exhaustion: </i>during long difficult labours Kali Phos 200c <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Despair</i>: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>gloom during labour Cimicifuga 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Impatience/Irritability</i>: Chamomilla 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Labour Slow:</i> Caulophyllum 200c (speeds up labour). <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">To Fast:</i> or violent Aconite 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Oxygen starvation</i>: of mother or baby Carbo Veg 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Posterior presentation: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kali Carb 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shoulder of baby gets stuck:</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arnica 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Stillborn baby</i>: give mother Cimicifuga 200c (gloom) Aconite 200c (shock) Ignatia 200c (grief).<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Straining excessively</i>: Arnica 200c (repeat often)<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Vagina: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>hot, dry ,tender ,won’t dilate Aconite 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 16.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><u>AFTER CHILDBIRTH<o:p></o:p></u></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">After Pains</i>: after many children Secale 200c, groin area intense Cimicifuga 200c, long lasting Secale 200c, extending to hips buttocks legs Kali Carb 200c, worse if baby feeds Arnica 200c,Chamomilla<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>200c, Pulsatilla 200c, Secale 200c.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Anger</i> : (often suppressed) about the birth Staphisagria 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Back Pain: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kali Carb 200c, After epidural Hypericum 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Breasts</i>: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>painful radiating pain from nipple phytolacca 200c, Red, hot, throbbing Belladonna 200c; Pale, hot, worse from moving Bryonia 200c.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Bruising</i>: Arnica 200c or<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bellis perenis 200c <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Caesarean</i>: after effects of, Arnica 200c, Bellis Perenis200c, Calendula 200c, Hypericum 200c <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Catheter:</i> after effects of Staphisagria 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cracked nipples:</i> Phytolacca 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Epidural: </i>after effects of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Arnica 200c, Hypericum 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Episiotomy</i>: Calendula 200c, Hypericum 200c Staphisagria 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Forceps delivery</i>: after effects of Arnica 200c, Bellis Perennis 200c, Calendula 200c, Staphisagria 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Inflammation of penis in newborn</i> : Arnica 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Irritability: </i>Chamomilla 200c or Sepia 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Milk</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to much Pulsatilla 200c, to little milk : Dulcamara 200c.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Milk filled breast lump</i>: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Silica 30c & massage lump regularly with warm flannel. <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Placenta:</i> retained with bearing down sensation Secale 200c, Sepia 200c; <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Prolapse:</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sepia 200c; after forceps delivery, Secale 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Syntometrine:</i> antidote Secale 200c give asap<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Teething/ irritable baby: </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chamomilla 30c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Thrush</i> : Borax 30c give to mother and baby<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Urine retention</i>: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>mother Arnica 200c baby Aconite 200c<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Vaccinations: </i>Give baby Brauer pain and fever relief 1 dose 2hrs before vaccination 1 dose an hour after. <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Wounds: </i>Hypericum 200c or Calendula 200c.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Creams and Ointments <o:p></o:p></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Arnica: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>can be used externally on unbroken skin, reduces bruising and swelling.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Calendula: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use on cut broken or sore skin. The ‘homeopaths antiseptic’. A wonderful healing balm. Calendula tincture can be added to bath water(20 drops) or diluted to make a compress.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Remedies </i>The<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>majority of the above remedies are available in a handy 18 remedy childbirth kit from <a href="https://www.helios.co.uk/mother&baby.html">Helios Homeopathics</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>other stockists of homeopathic remedies available via mail order include <a href="http://www.newtonspharmacy.com.au/">Newtons Pharmacy Sydney</a> and <a href="http://simillimum.co.nz/index.php/sale">Simillimum homeopathic pharmacy</a> in new Zealand.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Some useful books</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">for further reading include</i>: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Homeopathy for Pregnancy, Birth and Your Baby’s First Year by Miranda Castro. </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Homeopathic Medicine For Children And Infants by Dana Ullman. </b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Homeopathy & Child Care by Dr Sashi Kant Tiwari.<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">If any further questions or concerns please contact a professional homeopath<o:p></o:p></i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br />
</i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: green;">Donna Lee</span></b><span style="color: green;"> </span><span style="color: green; font-size: 10.0pt;">ND, RN</span><span style="color: green;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: green;">Naturopath, Homeopath, Registered Nurse.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: green;">Bachelor of Health Science (Complementary Medicine)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: green; font-size: 10.0pt;">EMAIL: </span><span style="color: green;">aurumhomeopathy@gmail.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-7068358955302302322011-05-08T16:52:00.000-07:002011-05-08T16:52:13.481-07:00Constipation and KidsMaybe it's due to the large amount of processed foods kids at these days... maybe it's the lack of water during the day... maybe this is an issue that's been around forever and I'm only finding out about it now... whatever the reason, kids seem to increasingly suffer from constipation. <br />
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For little bubba's, watching water intake (if they are on formula or starting solids) and minimising big changes to diet seems to do the trick in most cases. Because their digestive systems are still growing, they can find it hard to deal with any sort of change- breast to formula, formula brand changes and the introduction of solids can all cause constipation diarrhoea or fluctuations between the two. In hotter weather breast milk is produced with a higher water content to prevent dehydration in the baby- formula of course doesn't have this ability. Some health nurses will recommend giving small amount of water through the day to keep baby hydrated and keep bowels in top shape. Same goes for the introduction of solids- giving a little water once bub is up to a couple of feeds a day makes sure stools don't dry out and become hard to pass. Make sure to include plenty of fruit when introducing solids- pears are great, and you can even steam and puree organic, pitted prunes. Yoghurt that contains acidophilus will also help to ensure bacteria in the gut stays healthy.<br />
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If water isn't working, you can try a little diluted (50/50) pear or prune juice from the age of about 4 months- but go easy on the prune, it can work a little too well if you give too much! Some nurses will recommend sugar water for small babies. Brown sugar in boiled water is apparently safe when used in the right ratios, but call a health nurse (in Australia, 13HEALTH will put you on the phone to a qualified Child Health Nurse) to get exact amounts for your baby. If you see a Naturopath, they can prescribe a strain of infant specific flora supplement that can be mixed into water or milk and can be used from birth to regulate the gut, as well as provide immunity and help allergy or skin conditions.<br />
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Once kids get a bit older it does become easier. Increasing fruit in the diet, making sure they are drinking plenty of water (not juice or soft drinks) and keeping them active will all help to keep the digestive system healthy. Excess sugar, lack of fibre and good fats, too much processed food or not enough fresh fruit and veg will all contribute to bowel trouble. Make sure kids are getting a varied diet and include fats from oily fish, wholegrains, nuts (where age appropriate) and seeds- these will not only provide excellent food for growing brains, but lubricate the bowels and promote regularity.<br />
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Be really careful about giving kids fibre supplements- if given too much or with not enough water, they can actually worsen constipation or cause blockages in the bowel. It's better to make sure they are getting enough fibre through general dietary sources like good quality breakfast cereal (be wary of claims on commercial cereal), fresh produce and brown, grainy bread. Sugary treats and processed foods including white bread should be kept to a minimum as should drinks other than water. Natural yoghurts are great as mentioned above, or consider using a probiotic suitable for the child's age. <br />
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For kids over the age of four with ongoing issues, you can use a bit of flaxseed oil to soften stools and lubricate the bowel- this is very safe and doesn't present dependency issues like a lot of pharmaceutical options. Magnesium powders are usually pleasantly flavoured and work really well in most cases- these draw water into the bowel to soften and provide bulk (softening can reduce the pain associated with a hard, dry bowel movement) and also relax muscles that may be tensed and preventing bowel evacuation. Some kids get magnesium deficient very quickly- signs include muscle cramps or twitches, insomnia, irritability and constipation. These kids may need to take magnesium on and off all their lives. See a Naturopath for an appropriate recommendation.<br />
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Of course, it's always important for severe constipation to be checked out by a doctor. There may be a blockage in the bowel and that will mean some treatments cannot be used. These can be very severe and must be dealt with quickly. Symptoms include pain, vomiting and abdominal distension or bloating. If in doubt, see you doctor as soon as you can.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-34520501140771517482011-04-17T16:10:00.000-07:002011-04-17T16:10:29.473-07:00Fusion Chinese Medicine<div class="MsoNormal">You may have noticed I recommend <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/index.php">Fusion </a>formulas a lot. It’s a brand I use myself and for my family and it’s one of the first I recommend at work. The feedback I get on products I sell is always good and sometimes downright amazing. I’d like to share some info on the brand as a whole and some particular products they make.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Fusion is Australian made and owned- the parent company, Global Therapeutics, is based in Byron Bay and the manufacturing facility is in Sydney. The manufacturing stands they adhere to are quite high- they test all raw materials for purity and potency and use cutting edge technology to ensure the products they make are of the highest possible quality. To see if a tablet will easily digest, you can leave it in a glass of room temperature water and see if it dissolves. If after about 45 minutes there is no action, you know the tablet will be one that’s hard to digest. I tried this with a Fusion tablet once, it was completely dispersed in about 15-20 minutes. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.acupuncture.org.au/chinese_herbal_medicine.cfm">Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) </a>is perhaps the most holistic form of medicinal practise in existence. Herbal formulas will treat an ailment by targeting the cause, addressing the symptoms, and nourishing the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Qi</i> (life force) and balancing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Yin</i> and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Yang</i>, the regulating forces of the body. You will often find that a formula for one specific thing will treat or nourish other organs- The Kidney tonic increases pelvic blood flow and so nourishes all the pelvic organs. It helps fatigue, low libido, menopausal flushes, andropause (male menopause), menstrual irregularity and bone health- not bad for something designed as a tonic for a single organ! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Dosage within the range is quite flexible, with indications ranging from one to six tablets per day. This is so a higher dose can be taken initially to provide fast relief of symptoms and later reduced to a maintenance dose. Many of the products are also suitable for children from the age of six (you can dissolve them in water or snap them in half). The safety of these herbs is such that a two year old can take the liquid formulas (Cold Flu Cough and Astra 8) and most of them are safe while breastfeeding. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Here are some of my favourite products within the range:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Colds, Flu, Immunity:<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Fusion <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Cold%20Flu%20Cough">Cold Flu Cough</a> and <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Astra%208%20Immune%20Tonic">Astra 8 </a>make a great winter combo to prevent or treat illness. </div><div class="MsoNormal">The CFC can be taken at a high dose to knock over most infections (any types- includes gastro) in a couple of days. It acts as an analgesic, expectorant and decongestant as well as anti-infective, antiviral, antifungal and immune stimulator. I usually take 2 tabs up to 5 times per day- I’ve never had it take longer than 12-24 hours to work!</div><div class="MsoNormal">Astra 8 is taken when well, or after 7 or more days of symptoms. Great for general immunity or for treating long term infections like glandular fever or Chronic fatigue syndrome. Contains adaptogens to nourish the adrenals and help to increase energy while convalescing and some symptomatic relief for fevers, pain, coughing, fatigue, stomach upset.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Stress and Anxiety:</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">This is a formula I have given to my whole family. My daughter used it when she was having some school related anxiety, my hubby takes it regularly for stress, mood swings and what I call 'cranky man syndrome' and I take it intermittently- I am too scattterbrained to be consistent with it but I find it great for those days that life just overwhelms me. It starts working after the first dose and the effect builds over a period of a couple of days. Prescribed for anxiety, mild depression, mood swings, irritability, nerves and chronic stress, it's a gentle formula that is very well tolerated and very effective. Safe from 6 years, it's a good one for kids who are anxious, or experience things like separation anxiety, angry outbursts or are having adjustment issues. A great formula for short term use after a stressful period such as moving house, bereavement, divorce or for long term supplementation.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Tienchi%20Ginseng">Tienchi Ginseng:</a></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">This is one of the very few single ingredient products they make. Tienchi is a soft tissue healer- I used it from the day I gave birth for about 3 weeks. I couldn't believe how quickly I recovered! Not only from the obvious damage (big baby, fast labour... you get the picture) I had also pulled a few muscles when I was lying on my side, having contractions. Within a matter of days I was feeling well enough to go for short walks, the bleeding stopped very quickly and everything healed up without an issue. I went back on it after about 2 months for back pain- probably caused by bad posture while feeding and picking up bub. Again, I could feel it start to work in a couple of days (I had been sore for 2 weeks before starting it). You can use it after surgery, injury or just to help muscle recovery after working out.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Tienchi also works as a fat mobiliser, breaking down fat cells to be burnt more quickly. This not only helps weight loss but it's great for conditions like fatty liver.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Menopause:</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Ok, I can't say I've tried this formula myself... but my customers love it. whether coming off HRT or avoiding it all together, women are raving about the efficacy of the Fusion Menopause range. There is the original <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Menopause">Menopause</a>, the <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Menopause%20Free">Menopause Free </a>(this one contains no Black Cohosh) and Women's Balance, which can also be used for PMS. The combination of lower dose ingredients is quite different from other products on the market, which tend to focus on one or two single herbs. It has a hormone balancing effect as well as symptomatic relief for things like flushes, stress and irritability, insomnia and dryness.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>Alopecia:</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">This recent <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ckfinder/userfiles/files/New%20Idea%20article(2).JPG">New Idea</a> article tells the story of Willow, a ten year old girl with Alopecia. She lost all her hair (including her eyebrows and eyelashes) and was told by a dermatologist there was no treatment or cure. Prescribed a <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ckfinder/userfiles/files/ManageAlopeciawithChineseMedicine.pdf">combination </a>of Fusion Women's Balance (this encourages the flow of energy to the head while cleansing the blood), Fusion Multivitamins and a Silica supplement, it only took two weeks for fine dark hairs to start appearing on Willow's head!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If there isn't a formula that addresses your needs or you have a condition that you just can't find help for, I would highly suggest a consultation with a Chinese Herbalist. I've had customers say they've gone through the medical merry-go-round with little or no success only to find a few visits with a TCM practitioner has made an amazing difference!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-25831872745243629622011-04-10T18:11:00.000-07:002011-04-10T18:11:59.799-07:00Colic Cures'Colic' is a heart wrenching yet common condition defined by long periods of screaming (3 hours or more) on a regular basis, with no apparent cause. Theories range from tummy pain to anxiety (it's a big change going from womb to world) and everyone has their own 'magic cure'. Her are a couple of natural remedies that may help:<div><br />
</div><div><b>Probiotics:</b> Infant probiotics help baby's gut flora, enhancing digestions and hopefully alleviating tummy pain. Very important for c-section babies as some of these good bacteria are picked up while passing through the birth canal. See a naturopath for one specific for infants. </div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Digestive Tonics: </b>Fusion Digestion, taken by the mother, can pass through breastmilk to help alleviate wind and griping pain.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Calmatives: F</b>usion Stress and Anxiety (taken by Mum) or Bush Flowers Emergency Essence, Brauer Calm, or Bach Rescue Remedy given to baby can help anxiety, fear, restlessness and insomnia that causes colic in some babies. Check with a naturopath for other herbs or formulas that can be taken by Mum to relax and calm the baby (and help Mum to cope too!)</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Blackmores Celloids: </b>Prescribed by a naturopath, these can work on digestion, muscle relaxation and other possible causes of distress in babies.</div><div><br />
</div><div><b>Reiki Practitioners, Chiropractors and Baby Massage </b>can also be successful in treating colic in babies.</div><div><br />
</div><div>There is a wealth of online advice on managing colic- don't let baby get overtired, use slings or cuddles to maintain closeness, use bedtime routines and baby massage to relax baby during the 'witching hour' and try a warm bath. We found that without fail, a warm shower did the trick- Bub never cried in the shower, and if we could get him dry, dressed and in bed quickly enough that was the end of his hysterical crying. Unfortunately (due to water wastage issues) this wasn't always a viable option, though it did gives us a break when desperate!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-37158446683781324592011-04-07T18:49:00.000-07:002011-04-07T18:49:01.075-07:00Goodbye Tony!Tony Sfeir, founder of Designer Physique passed away the other day, 15 years later than he was supposed to. This is Tony's story :<br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">"After suffering a debilitating disorder at age 23, I was unable to digest and absorb foods properly or lead a normal life. I was desperate for answers.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">I tried many brands of supplements on the market unaware they were loaded with artificial sweeteners, gluten and other well known suspect artificial additives currently under investigation by health professionals.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">Because of this, I was driven to research naturopathic and integrative medicine solutions for my worsening condition.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">I sourced premium 100% natural proteins and other quality ingredients (now available in our product range). I am now healthy, can enjoy and digest foods properly and have recovered my quality of life"</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"></span><br />
<div style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">For those who are aware of his work in the protein/weight loss/sports industries, a service will be held on Monday 11th April at Tony's home church, Dream Centre Christian Church, 1 Chisholm Rd Carrara. You can check out the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/designerphysique?sk=wall">Facebook page</a> for more details.</div><div style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The Designer Physique range includes a selection of beautifully created pure protein supplements, from various sources including egg, rice, pea and carob as well as the traditional whey and soy. The range is invaluable to vegans, allergy sufferers and those looking for plain, high quality protein minus the sweeteners and flavourings that most companies ass. You can find more about the range at <a href="http://www.tonysfeir.com.au/">www.tonysfeir.com.au</a> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
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</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-72427240893323410572011-04-07T18:36:00.000-07:002011-04-07T18:36:33.629-07:00Stress BustersStress is bad for you. We all know that right? We hear it all the time- stress raises our blood pressure, mucks around with our 'happy' hormones and shortens our life expectancy (and our fuses). So to live longer and feel better... Don't stress!<br />
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Um. Right. Ok. Don't stress? Stress affects pretty much everyone, everywhere, most of the time. Even those very serene looking Tibetan monks that live in mountains and pray or meditate all day probably have moments of stress. It's one of the most common afflictions yet everyone will experience and respond to stress differently. And it's our response to stress that counts.<br />
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When stress gets out of control it can turn into anxiety or depression, so it's important to deal with it appropriately. You can employ relaxation techniques, lifestyle changes and diet in your stress-reducing quest, or in worse cases, use herbs or supplements until things are under control. <br />
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<b>Relaxation</b><br />
There are lots of different relaxation techniques and not all of them involve twisting yourself into a pretzel and chanting an Indian mantra. Meditation can be as simple as sitting on the porch watching the trees. My favourite is 'Mindful Meditation', where instead of having to think about nothing, you concentrate 100% on what you are doing at any given time. Instead of washing the dishes while listening to TV, having a conversation and keeping an eye one dinner, you focus on one single task. Concentrate on the feel of the hot water on your skin, the smell of the dish soap, the actions of your muscles as they move. I love to do this while running on the treadmill- as you don't need to see where you are going you can pay more attention to the movement of your body, your breathing and your circulation. Mindful Meditation can be done anywhere, any time so it's really easy to fit in. For more info on Stress relieving relaxation, try <a href="http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_relief_meditation_yoga_relaxation.htm">Helpguide </a>for some great ideas.<br />
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<b>Lifestyle</b><br />
Exercise releases endorphins and if you go outside, it gives you a dose of Vitamin D- both are essential for mental and emotional wellbeing. It reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels in the body and gives you a great opportunity to focus on yourself and de-stress. Try doing something solo like walking, running or cycling for an alternative to meditation; boxing to relieve tension and frustration; team sports to lift the spirits and socialise. Physical fitness allows your body to better cope with the physical demands of stress and makes you feel great. <br />
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Eating right is also essential. Certain foods increase feel-good hormones and chemicals and increase the central nervous system's ability to cope with stress. Protein, B vitamins and Magnesium are extremely important here. Coffee, alcohol and too much sugar has the opposite effect- they increase anxiety and heart rate and exhaust your adrenals. Some foods like chamomile tea have a specific use in stress.<br />
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Make sure you talk it out, too. Call your mum, your best friend, or a counselling service if you'd prefer the confidentiality.<br />
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<b>Supplements</b><br />
Magnesium- relaxes muscles (great for tight shoulders), helps insomnia, essential for wellbeing. Make sure it's organic magnesium (not mag oxide) for good absorption. <a href="http://www.herbsofgold.com.au/products/product/1546">Herbs of Gold Muscle Resus</a> is a great one or <a href="http://www.martinandpleasance.com/_webapp_125001/Mag_Phos_Schuessler_Tissue_Salts">Martin and Pleasance Mag Phos</a> for kids/instant relief<br />
Protein- important for energy and balancing hormones and the brain chemicals responsible for mood. Best to get it from food but you can use protein shakes like <a href="http://tonysfeir.com.au/products/naturel-healthy-proteins/whey-protein-isolate/">Designer Physique</a> to up your intake.<br />
B complex- helps the CNS cope with stress, increases energy and digestion. Look for about 50-100mg dose. 'Executive B' formulas have herbs added to help specifically with stress.<br />
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Ginsengs- adrenal tonics that nourish and support the body in times of stress. Great for exhaustions. Good formulas include <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Energy">Fusion Energy</a> and <a href="http://ethicalnutrients.com.au/content/products/ginseng-5-exhaustion-relief">Ethical Nutrients Ginseng 5</a><br />
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Lactium- derived from milk, good for those who get 'wired' when stressed. Try <a href="http://ethicalnutrients.com.au/content/products/stress-and-anxiety-relief">Ethical Nutrients Stress & Anxiety</a><br />
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St. John's Wort- great from chronic stress but check for medical interactions. Takes 4 weeks to kick in.<br />
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My favourite formula: <a href="http://www.fusionhealth.com.au/ecommerce.php?action=search&stk_group=&stk_category=Stress%20and%20Anxiety">Fusion Stress and Anxiety</a>. It's great for acute or chronic stress, low mood and milk depression. Suitable from the age of 6 or while breastfeeding. It's a Chinese herbal formula so it works very holistically and very quickly. It's safe to take long term and the dose is flexible so you can increase/decrease as needed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-6247521357742760862011-04-06T18:27:00.000-07:002011-04-06T18:27:33.962-07:00My International Guest Post!<a href="http://crunchydomesticgoddess.com/">Crunchy Domestic Goddess</a><div>Have a peek and tell me what you think :)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-37494860505813860542011-03-26T22:49:00.000-07:002011-03-26T22:49:43.352-07:00Winner Announced!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Congrats to our lucky winner of the Evohe Repair Intensive giveaway. She will be using it on her acne-prone skin caused by Ehlers <span class="ecxSpellE" style="text-indent: 0px !important;">Danlos</span> Syndrome, a condition that causes poor skin integrity, among other things. Good luck, make sure you let us know if it works!</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In other news, my favourite international blog, Crunchydomesticgoddess.com will be featuring an article written by yours truly! I can't wait to see it and will let you know when it's posted so you can check it out.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">If you ever want to see a particular topic covered, or if you have something you'd like to share make sure you let me know! Just post a comment or throw an email to naturalaussiemum@live.com.au</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Otherwise, enjoy your weekend- Eat Well, Live Well, Be Well.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Amy</span><br />
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</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6483182935020701707.post-41400104091571637182011-03-23T23:17:00.000-07:002011-03-23T23:17:10.960-07:00What Have You Done Today?It's an easy question- I've gone shopping, went for a walk, changed/fed/played with the baby... but what have I really DONE? Have I changed the world? Made a difference? Those things are all so hard....<br />
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Or are they? In this world of technological advancement, we can make a difference without getting out of our chairs. <br />
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<ul><li>'Like' a charity page on Facebook to help spread awareness</li>
<li>Donate online </li>
<li>Email a company who uses unethical manufacturing practises or harms the environment. </li>
<li>Contact your state MP about improving your local area. </li>
<li>Champion a local cause or create your own. My daughter and I are discussing how to make her school more environmentally aware, through things like the nude food policy- more on that later! </li>
<li>Research ways to live more sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint. </li>
<li>Learn- you can sign up to newsletters and follow topics or websites so you can be more informed about the world around you. </li>
<li>Find a charity- use the amazing resource in front of you (your computer) to find a charitable organization that reflects your passions and beliefs, and promote them where you can- use Facebook and other social networks, email friends to raise awareness and research ways to get involved with the work they do. You might even find yourself inspired to hold a fund raising event!</li>
</ul><br />
You never know- sometimes the smallest thing can make its way around the world and make the biggest difference!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1