A powerful new film about babies, fathers, and new beginnings:
http://www.theothersideoftheglassthefilm.blogspot.com/
Friday, February 4, 2011
Holistic Moms Network & Nursing
"A newborn baby has only three demands. They are warmth in the arms of its mother, food from her breasts, and security in the knowledge of her presence. Breastfeeding satisfies all three." ~Grantly Dick-Read
Above is a video made by the Holistic Moms Network about nursing.
The powerful messages retrieved from this study indicate how important it is to spread the word about just how vital breastfeeding is for our futures. Many women aren't aware of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for themselves AND for their babies. More info below about the study...
"a recent article published in Australia's Herald Sun indicated that many Generation-Y women polled would not nurse their babies because of fear of embarrassment over public breastfeeding. As much as 75 percent of these young women felt that nursing in public was uncomfortable and few understood the benefits of breastfeeding for themselves or their babies.
Inspired by the article in the Herald Sun (Australia), the Holistic Moms Network has launched a new project to highlight the beauty and confidence of breastfeeding women. HMN members from across North America submitted photos of themselves proudly breastfeeding their children - everywhere from the Eiffel Tower to the Brooklyn Bridge - for the Nursing Our Future video.
Empowering mothers is a cornerstone of the Holistic Moms Network's mission and through the non-profit organization's Chapters, parents gather to offer one another support and advice while also learning about holistic living options from local practitioners and guest speakers.
"One of the barriers for many young mothers is a lack of awareness about breastfeeding as well as a culture that is not particularly breastfeeding friendly," argues Dr. Massotto. The Holistic Moms Network hopes to raise awareness by showing young women images of breastfeeding and to help them find the support and encouragement they need to continue."
Above is a video made by the Holistic Moms Network about nursing.
The powerful messages retrieved from this study indicate how important it is to spread the word about just how vital breastfeeding is for our futures. Many women aren't aware of the amazing benefits of breastfeeding for themselves AND for their babies. More info below about the study...
"a recent article published in Australia's Herald Sun indicated that many Generation-Y women polled would not nurse their babies because of fear of embarrassment over public breastfeeding. As much as 75 percent of these young women felt that nursing in public was uncomfortable and few understood the benefits of breastfeeding for themselves or their babies.
Inspired by the article in the Herald Sun (Australia), the Holistic Moms Network has launched a new project to highlight the beauty and confidence of breastfeeding women. HMN members from across North America submitted photos of themselves proudly breastfeeding their children - everywhere from the Eiffel Tower to the Brooklyn Bridge - for the Nursing Our Future video.
Empowering mothers is a cornerstone of the Holistic Moms Network's mission and through the non-profit organization's Chapters, parents gather to offer one another support and advice while also learning about holistic living options from local practitioners and guest speakers.
"One of the barriers for many young mothers is a lack of awareness about breastfeeding as well as a culture that is not particularly breastfeeding friendly," argues Dr. Massotto. The Holistic Moms Network hopes to raise awareness by showing young women images of breastfeeding and to help them find the support and encouragement they need to continue."
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Nutrition While Breastfeeding
Many new mothers worry about what to eat especially if they are breastfeeding their new babies. A simple thing to remember is that there is nothing you can't eat/drink during breastfeeding as long as you are consuming everything in balance. Similar to most things in life everything is okay in moderation. But there ARE specific foods, herbs and drinks that are said to help with milk supply and nutrition while breastfeeding.
Some of my favorites are:
-Quinoa
-Barley
-Kale
-Cabbage
-Carrots/Carrot Juice
-Proteins such as eggs, nuts, raisins & lean meats
It is important to eat as much natural food (foods that have not been processed) as possible. Try going shopping and cooking food such as a nice soup or quinoa dish to last the week. Ask for help from family members if necessary as to try to avoid pulling things out of the freezer for meals.
Listen to your body and watch to see if you notice a change in your baby's mood after you eat or drink certain items such as dairy, or caffeine.
Remember: It's all about balance!
Happy Breastfeeding!
See below for a website with good recipes:
http://www.nursingmomrecipes.com/
Sources:
Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding by Ina May Gaskin, 2009
Some of my favorites are:
-Quinoa
-Barley
-Kale
-Cabbage
-Carrots/Carrot Juice
-Proteins such as eggs, nuts, raisins & lean meats
It is important to eat as much natural food (foods that have not been processed) as possible. Try going shopping and cooking food such as a nice soup or quinoa dish to last the week. Ask for help from family members if necessary as to try to avoid pulling things out of the freezer for meals.
Listen to your body and watch to see if you notice a change in your baby's mood after you eat or drink certain items such as dairy, or caffeine.
Remember: It's all about balance!
Happy Breastfeeding!
See below for a website with good recipes:
http://www.nursingmomrecipes.com/
Sources:
Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding by Ina May Gaskin, 2009
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Nursing Mothers & Dept of Labor
US Department of Labor is looking for stories and input about breastfeeding while working. Submit your stuff:
http://www.dol.gov/whd/nursingmothers/
http://www.dol.gov/whd/nursingmothers/
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Pushing for First-Time Moms by Gloria Lemay
http://www.midwiferytoday.com/articles/pushing.asp
A wonderful article in Midwifery Today by Gloria Lemay about Pushing for First-Time Moms
A wonderful article in Midwifery Today by Gloria Lemay about Pushing for First-Time Moms
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Blog Featured
My blog is featured on one of my favorite Wise Women's website: http://www.susunweed.com/Links_new.htm
How exciting!
Susun Weed is the best!
How exciting!
Susun Weed is the best!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Nausea? Morning Sickness?
Nausea is a common problem associated with pregnancy. Here are some natural ways you can prevent and treat it!
-get adequate rest
-avoid pungent odors that cause nausea, especially odors that cause nausea for even those who aren't pregnant
-take vitamins with food because taking vitamins on an empty stomach can cause nausea
-keep yourself hydrated
-try acupressure or acupuncture or SeaBands: click here
-try 50mg of vitamin B6 daily
-eat healthily, and be sure to get adequate protein
-avoid greasy foods
-drink TEA! parsley, chamomile, and peppermint tea are all great options
-try drinking 1 glass of milk before bed if milk sits okay with you
-have a bite to eat before bed
-eat some ginger chews: click here
-try wild yam root *USE WITH CAUTION*
-try preggie pops: click here
-take gingera: click here
-take liquid chlorophyll supplement
And, of course, you can read more about Herbal Allies for Pregnancy Problems from Susun Weed: http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Pregnancy_Problems.htm
*CHECK WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BEFORE TAKING ANY HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS*
blessings!
Laura
-get adequate rest
-avoid pungent odors that cause nausea, especially odors that cause nausea for even those who aren't pregnant
-take vitamins with food because taking vitamins on an empty stomach can cause nausea
-keep yourself hydrated
-try acupressure or acupuncture or SeaBands: click here
-try 50mg of vitamin B6 daily
-eat healthily, and be sure to get adequate protein
-avoid greasy foods
-drink TEA! parsley, chamomile, and peppermint tea are all great options
-try drinking 1 glass of milk before bed if milk sits okay with you
-have a bite to eat before bed
-eat some ginger chews: click here
-try wild yam root *USE WITH CAUTION*
-try preggie pops: click here
-take gingera: click here
-take liquid chlorophyll supplement
And, of course, you can read more about Herbal Allies for Pregnancy Problems from Susun Weed: http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Pregnancy_Problems.htm
*CHECK WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER BEFORE TAKING ANY HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS*
blessings!
Laura
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
What's a cervix?
This past semester I took Anatomy & Physiology 2 at a local community college. The first day of class back in September, I remember looking at the syllabus and having a little party in my head when I saw we were going to do a unit on Human Reproduction.
Our professor was very ill for 2 weeks of the semester so we ended up rushing through the only unit I was excited for. We did a "crash course" in Human Reproduction. Since it was the end of the semester I had become friendly with many of my classmates. While studying for the test with them, I could not believe how many of the women in my class did not know ANYTHING - I mean NOTHING - about their anatomy. This had me thinking...
I then realized that I didn't know much about the reproductive system until I became a doula. Perhaps this is a sign that we, as women, need to educate ourselves and one another because quite frankly, no one else will.
Get out a mirror and figure out whats going on down there!
This site is a also amazing: Beautiful Cervix
And of course, I must include some of Susun Weed's insight: http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/May08/childbearing.htm
And an article relating to birth: What You Don’t Know About Your Cervix Can Ruin Your Birth
Here are some helpful pictures as well:
Our professor was very ill for 2 weeks of the semester so we ended up rushing through the only unit I was excited for. We did a "crash course" in Human Reproduction. Since it was the end of the semester I had become friendly with many of my classmates. While studying for the test with them, I could not believe how many of the women in my class did not know ANYTHING - I mean NOTHING - about their anatomy. This had me thinking...
I then realized that I didn't know much about the reproductive system until I became a doula. Perhaps this is a sign that we, as women, need to educate ourselves and one another because quite frankly, no one else will.
Get out a mirror and figure out whats going on down there!
This site is a also amazing: Beautiful Cervix
And of course, I must include some of Susun Weed's insight: http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/May08/childbearing.htm
And an article relating to birth: What You Don’t Know About Your Cervix Can Ruin Your Birth
Here are some helpful pictures as well:
Monday, December 27, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
In a recent article about the rising c-section rate, I quite enjoyed this quote:
"Any woman having a baby should care about the cesarean rate,” says Desirre Andrews, president of the International Cesarean Awareness Network, an advocacy group that promotes vaginal birth. “They should be concerned about the likelihood of ending up in the OR because we know what is healthiest is unfettered birth. Women are starting to believe they can't have babies. It's becoming the cultural norm for women to believe they're broken.”
Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2010/12/20/c-sections-on-the-rise-especially-for-black-moms/#ixzz18ytPiTMX
"Any woman having a baby should care about the cesarean rate,” says Desirre Andrews, president of the International Cesarean Awareness Network, an advocacy group that promotes vaginal birth. “They should be concerned about the likelihood of ending up in the OR because we know what is healthiest is unfettered birth. Women are starting to believe they can't have babies. It's becoming the cultural norm for women to believe they're broken.”
Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2010/12/20/c-sections-on-the-rise-especially-for-black-moms/#ixzz18ytPiTMX
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Ellie’s Birth
Ellie’s Birth
November 18, 2010
Ellie decided she wanted to make her big appearance on her due date – how punctual. She had been teasing her mommy for weeks with all sorts of Braxton hicks and contractions so I was quite excited to get the call that mommy thought this was the real thing!
Although we had planned to labor at home and only go to the hospital when things were really heating up, Mary thought it would be best to head to the hospital to labor so that we didn’t have to worry about making the trip when things were really close. So, I met the lovely Mary and Todd at the hospital around 3:30pm. Mary was doing a fabulous job managing her contractions – breathing through each one and relaxing in between. She and Todd were stunned, but very excited, to hear that Mary was 7cm dilated. Naturally, they kept comparing this labor to their first experience, but it was far from similar.
When we finally got into a labor & delivery room, we were able to set up. Todd and I tried everything we could think of to keep Mary comfortable. We talked her through contractions, helped her into different positions, reminded her to breathe and believed in her. Mary did a wonderful job during each contraction which were short, but visibly increasing in strength. Mary used her voice to get through some of the contractions. The first time the nurses heard what I consider a beautiful labor noise, they all rushed in to see what was going on. After all, it’s not every day that they see a mom give birth without any drugs. When they left, we all giggled at their reaction, and at how quiet the L&D floor is. But they were all very supportive of Mary’s decision to birth her baby naturally.
By 6:30pm, only 3 hours after we arrived, Mary’s doctor checked her and said she was progressing nicely and that soon she would push her baby into the world. So around 7:00, Mary did just that. She birthed her beautiful, healthy baby girl. Ellie went almost immediately to the breast where she nursed peacefully. Mom and Dad were thrilled to meet their new daughter while the doctor, nurses and doula were lucky enough to witness this miracle. Joy filled the room as Mary and Todd looked into each other eyes and then at their baby girl, back and forth.
November 18, 2010
Ellie decided she wanted to make her big appearance on her due date – how punctual. She had been teasing her mommy for weeks with all sorts of Braxton hicks and contractions so I was quite excited to get the call that mommy thought this was the real thing!
Although we had planned to labor at home and only go to the hospital when things were really heating up, Mary thought it would be best to head to the hospital to labor so that we didn’t have to worry about making the trip when things were really close. So, I met the lovely Mary and Todd at the hospital around 3:30pm. Mary was doing a fabulous job managing her contractions – breathing through each one and relaxing in between. She and Todd were stunned, but very excited, to hear that Mary was 7cm dilated. Naturally, they kept comparing this labor to their first experience, but it was far from similar.
When we finally got into a labor & delivery room, we were able to set up. Todd and I tried everything we could think of to keep Mary comfortable. We talked her through contractions, helped her into different positions, reminded her to breathe and believed in her. Mary did a wonderful job during each contraction which were short, but visibly increasing in strength. Mary used her voice to get through some of the contractions. The first time the nurses heard what I consider a beautiful labor noise, they all rushed in to see what was going on. After all, it’s not every day that they see a mom give birth without any drugs. When they left, we all giggled at their reaction, and at how quiet the L&D floor is. But they were all very supportive of Mary’s decision to birth her baby naturally.
By 6:30pm, only 3 hours after we arrived, Mary’s doctor checked her and said she was progressing nicely and that soon she would push her baby into the world. So around 7:00, Mary did just that. She birthed her beautiful, healthy baby girl. Ellie went almost immediately to the breast where she nursed peacefully. Mom and Dad were thrilled to meet their new daughter while the doctor, nurses and doula were lucky enough to witness this miracle. Joy filled the room as Mary and Todd looked into each other eyes and then at their baby girl, back and forth.
Born at the Right Time
Dear Edward:
You were right on time – born on your due date! But the road was not an easy one for your Mom and Dad. From the back and forth’s during the pregnancy to the extended labor process, you had your own plans for how you wanted to enter this world.
When your mom went into labor on November 3rd, she and your daddy labored at home for a good 10 hours before I even arrived. When I got there, your mom was doing a lovely job managing the contractions. She felt a lot of pressure in her back so your daddy and I spent most of our time with our fists in her back! This provided some relief for her during the contractions. I kept urging your mommy to drink her Thyme tea – which she did like a trooper! At 2am, about 17 hours after her labor began, we made the trip to the hospital. When we arrived, we found out not only was your mommy 3 cms, but her water had broken also! We were proud of her hard work but knew we had a long way to go.
Your mom remained calm and maintained a beautiful breathing pattern throughout the entire process. The position you were in wasn’t making it easy for you to come down or for your mom to stay comfortable. Mommy and daddy were hanging in there but were very anxious to meet you and see your cute little face. Not to mention your 4 anxious grandparents waiting for you in the lobby since 5am!
Finally around 6pm on your due date – November 4th, we got the good news that you’d be making your appearance soon! As we geared up for the Second Stage of labor, your mom and dad were clearly excited about the idea of meeting their little one. The mystery of your sex would be revealed, and they could soon revel in the joy and love for their new child.
During this stage, Dad had a few moments of queasiness but he hung in there! Your strong mommy pushed you out very efficiently! After all, she was very ready to meet you. Before we knew it, you were being plopped on your mommy’s chest.
A beautiful, healthy boy you were. Your parents rejoiced, smiled and showered you with love and kisses. Your grandparents rushed in to meet you and fell in love right away. You are a special boy, Edward Jacob, and I feel honored to have been a part of your birth.
You were right on time – born on your due date! But the road was not an easy one for your Mom and Dad. From the back and forth’s during the pregnancy to the extended labor process, you had your own plans for how you wanted to enter this world.
When your mom went into labor on November 3rd, she and your daddy labored at home for a good 10 hours before I even arrived. When I got there, your mom was doing a lovely job managing the contractions. She felt a lot of pressure in her back so your daddy and I spent most of our time with our fists in her back! This provided some relief for her during the contractions. I kept urging your mommy to drink her Thyme tea – which she did like a trooper! At 2am, about 17 hours after her labor began, we made the trip to the hospital. When we arrived, we found out not only was your mommy 3 cms, but her water had broken also! We were proud of her hard work but knew we had a long way to go.
Your mom remained calm and maintained a beautiful breathing pattern throughout the entire process. The position you were in wasn’t making it easy for you to come down or for your mom to stay comfortable. Mommy and daddy were hanging in there but were very anxious to meet you and see your cute little face. Not to mention your 4 anxious grandparents waiting for you in the lobby since 5am!
Finally around 6pm on your due date – November 4th, we got the good news that you’d be making your appearance soon! As we geared up for the Second Stage of labor, your mom and dad were clearly excited about the idea of meeting their little one. The mystery of your sex would be revealed, and they could soon revel in the joy and love for their new child.
During this stage, Dad had a few moments of queasiness but he hung in there! Your strong mommy pushed you out very efficiently! After all, she was very ready to meet you. Before we knew it, you were being plopped on your mommy’s chest.
A beautiful, healthy boy you were. Your parents rejoiced, smiled and showered you with love and kisses. Your grandparents rushed in to meet you and fell in love right away. You are a special boy, Edward Jacob, and I feel honored to have been a part of your birth.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
"It's better for the baby..."
I just got home for a local bar where I ran into an old elementary school friend. I had heard that his brother just had a baby - his 1st - so naturally I wanted to say congratulations and hear how they were doing. We talked briefly and he didn't give many details because after all it was his sister-in-law who gave birth. He said they were elated and that all was well. So I asked, "is she breastfeeding?", and he said "No...they are formula/bottle-feeding" and I said, "Oh, really? Do you know why?" and he said "I don't really know...I think because it's better for the baby."
At that point I kind of just laughed. I didn't really know how to respond to that. After my momentary laughter, I said "Better for the baby?, how?" and he said "well I don't really know." I proceeded to throw a few questions at him to see why he thought or "learned" formula might be better than breast milk. After a few q&a's he finally confessed that he had no clue, and that he was just playing devil's advocate and that it did make sense that breast milk might be healthier for a newborn but that it wasn't "his place" to say anything to his brother or sister-in-law.
Is it ever our place? I don't know. All I know is that our job is to educate each other and if that means talking about why it is SO important to understand that breast milk is healthier for an infant than formula, than so be it. I feel it is my duty, whether it makes an immediate difference or not, to teach other what I have been so lucky to learn.
So finally, if we are talking about what is BEST for baby...I think we can all agree that breast milk wins.
See how it compares for yourself by clicking this link!
"(American Academy of Pediatrics, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, World Health Organization, American Dietetic Association) recommend breast milk as the best infant nutrition for the first year of life."
Monday, November 15, 2010
After the Birth, what a family needs From Gloria Lemay's Blog
After the Birth, what a family needs
From Gloria Lemay's Blog
http://www.glorialemay.com/blog/?p=34
“Let me know if I can help you in any way when the baby is born.” … “Just let me know if you need a hand.” … “Anything I can do, just give me a call.”
Most pregnant women get these statements from friends and family but shy away from making requests when they are up to their ears in dirty laundry, unmade beds, dust bunnies and countertops crowded with dirty dishes. The myth of “I’m fine, I’m doing great, new motherhood is wonderful, I can cope and my husband is the Rock of Gibraltar” is pervasive in postpartum land. If you’re too shy to ask for help and make straight requests of people, I suggest sending the following list out to your friends and family. These are the things I have found to be missing in every house with a new baby. It’s actually easy and fun for outsiders to remedy these problems for the new parents but there seems to be a lot of confusion about what’s wanted and needed…
1. Buy us toilet paper, milk and beautiful whole grain bread.
2. Buy us a new garbage can with a swing top lid and 6 pairs of black cotton underpants (women’s size____).
3. Make us a big supper salad with feta cheese, black Kalamata olives, toasted almonds, organic green crispy things and a nice homemade dressing on the side. Drop it off and leave right away. Or, buy us frozen lasagna, garlic bread, a bag of salad, a big jug of juice, and maybe some cookies to have for dessert. Drop it off and leave right away.
4. Come over about 2 in the afternoon, hold the baby while I have a hot shower, put me to bed with the baby and then fold all the piles of laundry that have been dumped on the couch, beds or in the room corners. If there’s no laundry to fold yet, do some.
5. Come over at l0 a.m., make me eggs, toast and a 1/2 grapefruit. Clean my fridge and throw out everything you are in doubt about. Don’t ask me about anything; just use your best judgment.
6. Put a sign on my door saying “Dear Friends and Family, Mom and baby need extra rest right now. Please come back in 7 days but phone first. All donations of casserole dinners would be most welcome. Thank you for caring about this family.”
7. Come over in your work clothes and vacuum and dust my house and then leave quietly. It’s tiring for me to chat and have tea with visitors but it will renew my soul to get some rest knowing I will wake up to clean, organized space.
8. Take my older kids for a really fun-filled afternoon to a park, zoo or Science World and feed them healthy food.
9. Come over and give my husband a two hour break so he can go to a coffee shop, pub, hockey rink or some other r & r that will delight him. Fold more laundry.
10. Make me a giant pot of vegetable soup and clean the kitchen completely afterwards. Take a big garbage bag and empty every trash basket in the house and reline with fresh bags.
These are the kindnesses that new families remember and appreciate forever. It’s easy to spend money on gifts but the things that really make a difference are the services for the body and soul described above. Most of your friends and family members don’t know what they can do that won’t be an intrusion. They also can’t devote 40 hours to supporting you but they would be thrilled to devote 4 hours. If you let 10 people help you out for 4 hours, you will have the 40 hours of rested, adult support you really need with a newborn in the house. There’s magic in the little prayer “I need help.”
From Gloria Lemay's Blog
http://www.glorialemay.com/blog/?p=34
“Let me know if I can help you in any way when the baby is born.” … “Just let me know if you need a hand.” … “Anything I can do, just give me a call.”
Most pregnant women get these statements from friends and family but shy away from making requests when they are up to their ears in dirty laundry, unmade beds, dust bunnies and countertops crowded with dirty dishes. The myth of “I’m fine, I’m doing great, new motherhood is wonderful, I can cope and my husband is the Rock of Gibraltar” is pervasive in postpartum land. If you’re too shy to ask for help and make straight requests of people, I suggest sending the following list out to your friends and family. These are the things I have found to be missing in every house with a new baby. It’s actually easy and fun for outsiders to remedy these problems for the new parents but there seems to be a lot of confusion about what’s wanted and needed…
1. Buy us toilet paper, milk and beautiful whole grain bread.
2. Buy us a new garbage can with a swing top lid and 6 pairs of black cotton underpants (women’s size____).
3. Make us a big supper salad with feta cheese, black Kalamata olives, toasted almonds, organic green crispy things and a nice homemade dressing on the side. Drop it off and leave right away. Or, buy us frozen lasagna, garlic bread, a bag of salad, a big jug of juice, and maybe some cookies to have for dessert. Drop it off and leave right away.
4. Come over about 2 in the afternoon, hold the baby while I have a hot shower, put me to bed with the baby and then fold all the piles of laundry that have been dumped on the couch, beds or in the room corners. If there’s no laundry to fold yet, do some.
5. Come over at l0 a.m., make me eggs, toast and a 1/2 grapefruit. Clean my fridge and throw out everything you are in doubt about. Don’t ask me about anything; just use your best judgment.
6. Put a sign on my door saying “Dear Friends and Family, Mom and baby need extra rest right now. Please come back in 7 days but phone first. All donations of casserole dinners would be most welcome. Thank you for caring about this family.”
7. Come over in your work clothes and vacuum and dust my house and then leave quietly. It’s tiring for me to chat and have tea with visitors but it will renew my soul to get some rest knowing I will wake up to clean, organized space.
8. Take my older kids for a really fun-filled afternoon to a park, zoo or Science World and feed them healthy food.
9. Come over and give my husband a two hour break so he can go to a coffee shop, pub, hockey rink or some other r & r that will delight him. Fold more laundry.
10. Make me a giant pot of vegetable soup and clean the kitchen completely afterwards. Take a big garbage bag and empty every trash basket in the house and reline with fresh bags.
These are the kindnesses that new families remember and appreciate forever. It’s easy to spend money on gifts but the things that really make a difference are the services for the body and soul described above. Most of your friends and family members don’t know what they can do that won’t be an intrusion. They also can’t devote 40 hours to supporting you but they would be thrilled to devote 4 hours. If you let 10 people help you out for 4 hours, you will have the 40 hours of rested, adult support you really need with a newborn in the house. There’s magic in the little prayer “I need help.”
Sunday, November 14, 2010
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR PROBLEMS IN BREASTFEEDING by Susun Weed
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR PROBLEMS IN BREASTFEEDING
PART 1
Susun S Weed
With the resurgence of interest in breastfeeding, there is increasing demand for natural remedies for the minor problems that accompany nursing. These remedies, taken from my book Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, offer simple, safe ways for nursing women and their infants to counter problems and stay healthy. This information has been collected from wise women, old wives, and granny midwives. May you benefit from their wisdom.
INCREASING AND MAINTAINING MILK FLOW
One of the easiest problems to remedy is lack of sufficient milk. First, it is important to see to it that nursing takes place in a safe, inviting space where both mom and babe can be relaxed. Second, try to include one or more of these herbs and foods that are well known galactagogues, that is, able to encourage abundant breast milk.
Nourishing herbs, such as raspberry leaves, stinging nettle, oatstraw, and red clover blossoms - prepared as strong infusions*, not taken in pills, capsules, tinctures, or teas - not only encourage a plentiful supply of breast milk, they support the overall health of mother and child. The minerals in these herbs are amazingly abundant, so they counter mineral loss from nursing, and help keep mom calm and alert during those first few weeks of round-the-clock infant care. I don't combine the herbs, but use them individually, to derive the unique benefit of each.
*To make an infusion:
Place one ounce, by weight, of dried herb in a quart canning jar.
Fill to the top with boiling water.
Lid tightly and let steep for at least four hours or overnight.
Then strain.
Drink liquid portion hot, cold, or in between.
Refrigerate what you don't consume at once; use within 48 hours. (Water houseplants with old or excess infusion.)
Foods rich in carotenes, such as cooked apricots, asparagus, green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peas, and all cooked leafy greens - including kale, collards, mustard greens, beet greens, parsley, watercress, and dandelion leaves - are considered critical for women wishing to increase or sustain lactation. Carotenes are most available when foods are well cooked: tomato sauce has over 2000 times more of them than a fresh tomato. And carotenes are more easily utilized in the body when consumed with plenty of fat. (Olive or butter are my favorite fats.)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is famed for its ability to increase milk supply. As the tea is very bitter, this herb is best used as a tincture. A dose is 10 - 20 drops, two to four times daily. Blessed thistle is said to lift postpartum depression and relieve suicidal feelings, too.
Borage leaves (Borago officinalis) are highly respected for their ability to increase milk flow. But because they contain compounds that may have a harmful effect on an infant's liver, it is best to drink borage only as a weak tea, and to take it after, rather than before nursing. Half a cupful of borage leaf tea, made by steeping a spoonful of herb in a cup of water for a few minutes, taken two or three times a day will ensure an abundant supply of milk, act as a mild laxative, and soothe jangled nerves.
Comfrey roots (Symphytum uplandica x) contain the same liver-damaging compounds sometimes found in borage. But comfrey leaves do not. That's a relief, because comfrey leaf infusion is one of the most treasured of all remedies. Comfrey leaf infusion (*”To make an infusion” above) not only to increase the amount and richness of the breast milk, but also to build strong bones and teeth for mother and child, to improve digestion, to check allergies, and to repair ligaments, muscles, or other tissues traumatized during the birth. I love comfrey leaf infusion and drink it freely.
Fennel/barley water is a tried-and-true classic. Soak one half cup pearled (regular) barley in three cups cold water overnight, or boil the barley and water for 25 minutes. Strain out barley. (You may save it and add it to a soup.) Store barley water in refrigerator or cool place until needed. Then heat a cup or two to boiling and add fennel seeds - one teaspoon per cup of barley water. Steep for no longer than 30 minutes. This combination not only increases the breast milk, but eases afterpains and settles the digestion of mom and babe.
Hops (Humulus lupulus) is another old remedy. It is especially for mothers of twins who need lots more milk. Hops tea is a suitable accompaniment to nighttime feedings, as it brings sleep along with increased milk flow. Hops is also used in beer, which tastes better than the tea. No more than one high-quality, additive free beer, such as Guiness Stout, per day is fine. For those who wish to avoid alcohol, there are alcohol-free brews rich in hops and malt available.
Aromatic seeds, such as anise, cumin, fennel, caraway, coriander, and dill increase milk production and tone the digestive system. Their powers are carried through the breast milk, curtailing colic and indigestion. To brew, simply put a heaping spoonful of dried seeds in a cup and fill to the top with boiling water. Let steep for 5-10 minutes. Drink warm with honey. Up to two quarts a day can be consumed.
Triple Blessing Brew. Combine 1/2 ounce dried blessed thistle leaves with 1/2 ounce dried oatstraw or nettle. Place in a quart jar. Add boiling water until the jar is full. Cap tightly and let steep overnight or for at least four hours. Strain out herbs. Refrigerate liquid until needed. Before nursing, pour off one cupful of the brew and heat it nearly to a boil. Pour it over a teaspoon of anise, cumin, fennel, caraway, coriander, or dill seeds (not a spoonful of each). Let it brew for five minutes before drinking. Blessed thistle stimulates the milk flow and helps restore vitality to weary mothers. Both oatstraw and nettle are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, notably calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The aromatic seeds improve the quality and quantity of milk and ease digestion.
PART 1
Susun S Weed
With the resurgence of interest in breastfeeding, there is increasing demand for natural remedies for the minor problems that accompany nursing. These remedies, taken from my book Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, offer simple, safe ways for nursing women and their infants to counter problems and stay healthy. This information has been collected from wise women, old wives, and granny midwives. May you benefit from their wisdom.
INCREASING AND MAINTAINING MILK FLOW
One of the easiest problems to remedy is lack of sufficient milk. First, it is important to see to it that nursing takes place in a safe, inviting space where both mom and babe can be relaxed. Second, try to include one or more of these herbs and foods that are well known galactagogues, that is, able to encourage abundant breast milk.
Nourishing herbs, such as raspberry leaves, stinging nettle, oatstraw, and red clover blossoms - prepared as strong infusions*, not taken in pills, capsules, tinctures, or teas - not only encourage a plentiful supply of breast milk, they support the overall health of mother and child. The minerals in these herbs are amazingly abundant, so they counter mineral loss from nursing, and help keep mom calm and alert during those first few weeks of round-the-clock infant care. I don't combine the herbs, but use them individually, to derive the unique benefit of each.
*To make an infusion:
Place one ounce, by weight, of dried herb in a quart canning jar.
Fill to the top with boiling water.
Lid tightly and let steep for at least four hours or overnight.
Then strain.
Drink liquid portion hot, cold, or in between.
Refrigerate what you don't consume at once; use within 48 hours. (Water houseplants with old or excess infusion.)
Foods rich in carotenes, such as cooked apricots, asparagus, green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peas, and all cooked leafy greens - including kale, collards, mustard greens, beet greens, parsley, watercress, and dandelion leaves - are considered critical for women wishing to increase or sustain lactation. Carotenes are most available when foods are well cooked: tomato sauce has over 2000 times more of them than a fresh tomato. And carotenes are more easily utilized in the body when consumed with plenty of fat. (Olive or butter are my favorite fats.)
Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is famed for its ability to increase milk supply. As the tea is very bitter, this herb is best used as a tincture. A dose is 10 - 20 drops, two to four times daily. Blessed thistle is said to lift postpartum depression and relieve suicidal feelings, too.
Borage leaves (Borago officinalis) are highly respected for their ability to increase milk flow. But because they contain compounds that may have a harmful effect on an infant's liver, it is best to drink borage only as a weak tea, and to take it after, rather than before nursing. Half a cupful of borage leaf tea, made by steeping a spoonful of herb in a cup of water for a few minutes, taken two or three times a day will ensure an abundant supply of milk, act as a mild laxative, and soothe jangled nerves.
Comfrey roots (Symphytum uplandica x) contain the same liver-damaging compounds sometimes found in borage. But comfrey leaves do not. That's a relief, because comfrey leaf infusion is one of the most treasured of all remedies. Comfrey leaf infusion (*”To make an infusion” above) not only to increase the amount and richness of the breast milk, but also to build strong bones and teeth for mother and child, to improve digestion, to check allergies, and to repair ligaments, muscles, or other tissues traumatized during the birth. I love comfrey leaf infusion and drink it freely.
Fennel/barley water is a tried-and-true classic. Soak one half cup pearled (regular) barley in three cups cold water overnight, or boil the barley and water for 25 minutes. Strain out barley. (You may save it and add it to a soup.) Store barley water in refrigerator or cool place until needed. Then heat a cup or two to boiling and add fennel seeds - one teaspoon per cup of barley water. Steep for no longer than 30 minutes. This combination not only increases the breast milk, but eases afterpains and settles the digestion of mom and babe.
Hops (Humulus lupulus) is another old remedy. It is especially for mothers of twins who need lots more milk. Hops tea is a suitable accompaniment to nighttime feedings, as it brings sleep along with increased milk flow. Hops is also used in beer, which tastes better than the tea. No more than one high-quality, additive free beer, such as Guiness Stout, per day is fine. For those who wish to avoid alcohol, there are alcohol-free brews rich in hops and malt available.
Aromatic seeds, such as anise, cumin, fennel, caraway, coriander, and dill increase milk production and tone the digestive system. Their powers are carried through the breast milk, curtailing colic and indigestion. To brew, simply put a heaping spoonful of dried seeds in a cup and fill to the top with boiling water. Let steep for 5-10 minutes. Drink warm with honey. Up to two quarts a day can be consumed.
Triple Blessing Brew. Combine 1/2 ounce dried blessed thistle leaves with 1/2 ounce dried oatstraw or nettle. Place in a quart jar. Add boiling water until the jar is full. Cap tightly and let steep overnight or for at least four hours. Strain out herbs. Refrigerate liquid until needed. Before nursing, pour off one cupful of the brew and heat it nearly to a boil. Pour it over a teaspoon of anise, cumin, fennel, caraway, coriander, or dill seeds (not a spoonful of each). Let it brew for five minutes before drinking. Blessed thistle stimulates the milk flow and helps restore vitality to weary mothers. Both oatstraw and nettle are rich sources of vitamins and minerals, notably calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The aromatic seeds improve the quality and quantity of milk and ease digestion.
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