A study just came out and as I thought, organic food is really more nutritious!

Organic frut and vegetables contain up to 40% more nutrients.

Organic foods contain more beneficial minerals like iron and zinc.

Milk from organic herds contain up to 90% more antioxidents.

I always suggest that moms start feeding their baby organic foods when they start introducing solids.  I always like to start with organic banana.  It is easily digested and organic is always best for them.  I also try to have our children eat as much organic foods as possible at home. 

This study also showed that even if you are not receiving the suggested amount of servings per day of fruits and vegetables, you are getting the best in nutrient uptake by eating organic foods.

For the full report, please see the following link:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article2753446.ece

It’s very upsetting as a parent to keep hearing the news about lead tainted toys and wondering if our children have been exposed to any or if we have any in our home.  Even as an organic/natural family, we have been given plastic toys over the years.  I have never been one to endorse purchasing them, but our children have been given gifts from family and friends and I am certain some have been made in China. I am now ready to get rid of all of our plastic toys in the home!  It really concerns me as a parent.

Lead can cuase brain damage and learning disabilities in children.  It is a neurotoxic heavy metal.

What can you do as a parent?

Purchase toys domestically made here in the USA and avoid the cheap plastic and metal ones.

Check for recalls by going to www.recalls.gov  or www.cpsc.gov

Purchase natural, unfinished wooden toys.  I still love the old fashioned wood toys the best.  For babies, the wooden rattles are always the best.  I really dislike any plastic ones.  Plastic ittself is unhealthy.  Also purchase organic toys that contain only organic cotton.

Many moms can rebuild their milk supply by taking a few simple steps. 

Use herbs to increase milk supply.  A very good one that we recommend is More Milk by Motherlove: http://www.mommasbaby.com/item–Motherlove-More-Milk-Plus-Capsules–mlmmp.html

Put your baby to your breast to suck at each feeding and as often as you can.  Comfort nursing is also important.  Try to never use a pacifier.  That often takes place of sucking from the breast and will reduce the amount of time your baby will nurse.

If using herbs to increase your milk supply, make certain to nurse frequently.  This will help to avoid breast infections or plugged ducts.

Use a breast pump or try hand expression.  This is especially helpful for times when you must be away from your baby.

Be patient and determine that you will be able to nurse your baby.  Breastmilk is the best thing you can give your baby!

If you need encouragement or help, please call your local La Leche League leader.  They are truly wonderful and a big help!  They helped me many times in the past when I first started nursing my children.   You can find a leader by going to their web site:  www.llli.org

One additional note, if your baby is 6 months old or younger, the baby will often go back to nursing even once they are weaned. They will be able to stimulate the breast enough to make milk.  The baby will need supplemental food until your milk supply has fully come back, but your once weaned baby can begin to nurse again!  I think this is wonderful.