Having Healthy Babies
In the past 10 years, scientific research has uncovered new and exciting information about some of the possible causes of developmental problems, including speech-language delays, autism, attention deficits and learning disabilities. Many organizations and researchers are now focusing on educating prospective and new parents about the roles of hormones, stress, environmental toxins, vaccines, nutrition and reflexes in developmental delays.
Here is a summary of some of the things you should consider:
Before Conception: To increase fertility, assure the viability of a fetus and the health of a baby:
Screen thyroid function – Low levels of T4 or marginally elevated levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) can affect the unborn baby. Environmental toxins are endocrine disrupters. Insufficient levels, or even a mild drop, of thyroid hormone in the mother, at critical stages of brain development, can affect a baby’s cognitive function. Talk with your doctor. Once you know your levels, take natural measures to normalize thyroid function.
Remove any mercury-containing amalgams – Even one or two “silver” fillings off-gas into the mouth with tooth brushing, chewing and drinking hot liquids. Mother’s mercury load crosses the placenta, landing in the liver and kidneys of the fetus. Infants’ levels correlate with the number of amalgams in the mother. Later, mercury may show up in the breast milk, which could provide better absorption of mercury in the nursing infant. Consider having amalgams removed safely by a biological dentist.
Eat organic foods and take supplements – Contraceptives and medications deplete minerals. Even with healthy food choices, eating adequate amounts of required pre-natal nutrients is simply impossible. Calcium, essential fats, iron, folate and B vitamins are vital now and for growing babies. Work with a health care professional to determine the right amounts for you.
Detoxify the body – Mothers dump a good part of their “body burden” into their unborn babies. Consider a homeopathic detox program that clears out chemicals, metals, parasites, bacteria, viruses and radiation. The lower your toxic load, the lower the baby’s.
Check for retained reflexes – The Spinal Gallant and asymmetric tonic neck reflex (ATNR) assist the baby in maneuvering through the birth canal. Mothers who retain either or both of these reflexes may have difficulty giving birth naturally. The baby may not “drop,” be breech, or require a Cesarean section. Simple reflex integration activities for a month prior to birth can help the birth be smoother.
While Pregnant: Carrying
a healthy baby requires:
Eating healthy food – Remember the old adage, “You’re eating for two.” Make nutrient rich, not high caloric choices. Say “yes” to 75-100 grams of protein, organic fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, asparagus, spinach, nuts and free-range, antibiotic-free animals. Say “no” to sugar and its substitutes, wheat, dairy and hydrogenated fats. Say “once-in-a-while” to small, cold water fish and soy products. Take the time to sit down and eat slowly, chewing well.
Watching what you drink – At least eight cups of good quality water. No alcohol, sodas (especially diet), caffeinated tea or coffee.
Deep relaxation & sleep – Learn meditation. Take a yoga class for expectant mothers. Practice daily, breathing deeply. Oxygenation of cells enhances their function. Releasing stress allows the body to put its energy into growing a healthy baby. Turn in before 10:00 p.m. and sleep at least nine hours.
Exercise – Stretch to increase flexibility. Walk or attend a class two or three times a week.
Avoiding toxic exposures – Now is not the time to paint the baby’s room, install new carpet or spray for termites. Spruce up the house only with “green” products. Do you work with hazards such as chemicals, pesticides, textiles, beauty products or radiation? No vaccines with thimerosal, including the flu shot. Use organic cosmetics.
Being conscientious before and during your pregnancy can pay off. Healthy babies are the goal!