Parenting Health
by gleefulblogger

6 Innovative Ideas to Make Tasty & Healthy Meals For Kids

July 24, 2019
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If there is one thing that all moms universally dread is their children complaining – “Ma, I don’t want to eat what you have put on my plate!”. Life as a mom is indeed beautiful – there are plenty of cuddles, sweet baby talks, free hugs, kisses, and more. Then, there’s the other side – feeding a picky eater, especially during early morning rush hours. As a mom, I keep hunting for easy ideas of making tasty and healthy meals for kids.

healthy meal for kids ideas for picky eaters

Nothing is as frustrating as watching your child throw yet another tantrum for eating, or opening the barely-touched lunch boxes when your child comes home from school. So, is there any way to handle picky eaters without losing your sanity? How to ensure that your child’s meal is tasty as well as nutrition-rich?

Guys, we’ve got some excellent tips for you right here. This is the REAL deal – ingenious tips on how to make your child’s meals tastier and healthier, from other mommies just like you and me. We hope you enjoy this as much as we did and pick a tip or two that works for your family.

1. Fun Shapes and Creative Presentation – Healthy Meals for Kids

Kids love colors. If you’ve got a picky eater who runs a mile on seeing veggies, curries, and gravies on their plate, then this one’s for you. Instead of serving veggies and fruits as regular salads or curries, present it in new ways – you can give them popsicle sticks made of fresh fruit juice, veggie kebabs (raw cubed vegetables on a stick and drizzled with seasoning), fruits and veggies cut in fun shapes (use cookie cutters) and so on.

2. Load your Pantry with Nutritious, Kid-Approved Brands

You’ve got to rush to work, the kid has to get ready for school/day-care, and who has the time to arrange food meticulously, especially during the morning rush? We get you. It’s not possible to create a beautiful masterpiece in the kitchen all the time.

This is where kid-approved brands like PediaSure, the No.1 Toddler Health Drink, can come to your rescue. Filled with essential nutrients and minerals, adding a couple of scoops of PediaSure to your child’s milk not only makes the drink tastier but also healthier and filling. Serve them chilled PediaSure milk as a milkshake. You can even mix it up by using different flavors like vanilla, chocolate or even Kesar badam.

It’s a win-win for all. No more food strikes, as PediaSure is kids-liked taste, and you can feel happy knowing that your child has got their fill of daily nutrients.

3. Healthy meals for Kids – Switch the Ingredients of their Favorite Dishes –

Let’s say that your child loves pasta. Then, instead of giving them pasta made with refined flour, you can opt for whole-wheat pasta. This way, you can add an extra dose of nutrients to your child’s favorite meals. Other ideas include making Rotis with beetroot flour, pancakes with millet flour, etc.

Look for different ways to recreate your child’s favorite dishes with healthier ingredients.

4. Get Your Child Involved in the Healthy Meal Planning and Cooking

When your children are involved in the kitchen like – stirring, picking ingredients, plucking greens – then they are more likely to eat the meals you have prepared. However, make sure that you don’t give knives or let children unsupervised in the kitchen. Keep an eye on them at all times. Remember, they are not cooking, but just getting involved.

5. Extraordinary Eggs are Best wholesome and healthy meals for Kids

easy ideas for make tasty and healthy meals for kids

Eggs are a great source of protein. Most kids don’t like eggs. Here’s a way to get your kids to finish off their eggs – place a few large cookie cutters on the frying pan. Crack open an egg into it, load it up with veggies and cheese. Cook for a few minutes, remove the cookie cutter, toss and cook on the other side. The most delicious healthy meal in itself for anyone.

6. Draw a Face on It

This works for pancakes, dosa, rotis, and even waffles. Make a round pancake, dosa, or roti. Decorate it like a face – with olives or cut grapes for the eyes, carrot sticks for the nose, a peeled banana for the mouth. Your kid will love the funny face, and you get to sneak in veggies and fruits as well.

Use one or all of these ideas, and make mealtimes fun and healthy. So what are some of the ways that you use to make foods fun and healthier? Tell us in the comments below!

COPYRIGHT NOTICE –

© Dipika Singh. Unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Dipika Singh (Gleefulblogger). With the right and specific direction to the original content.

DISCLAIMER –The content is not for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Related Posts
handling teenage aggression

Teenage Aggression: How to Deal With Angry Pre-Teens & Teens

August 28, 2021
1

Parenting a teenager or pre-teens is not easy. You may even think they are savages or aliens from outer space, but the fact remains that they are just wired differently at that age! Think about how you were as a teen?

I remember the grief I put my parents through (especially my mom!!) when I was a teen. Thinking back on that brings a smile to my face (and despair on my mom’s) Even after all this time… LOL!!

“Mothers of Teenagers Know Why Animals Eat Their Young.”

– Anonymous

Like all parents, my mum spent days and nights worrying about where I am, what I am doing, and who I am with. All because I failed to communicate properly with her because I was too angry or upset about something she said or did. Not to mention the external stressors, like falling expectations, peer pressure, friend issues, and what not!

Are you a parent to an aggressive and rebellious teen? Believe me when I say that it’s just a phase, and you will get through, eventually!!

Why are teenagers or this age is so aggressive?

Parenting a teen can be just as hard as being a teen…

You may wonder how your happy, obedient, and thoughtful baby has suddenly started arguing, screaming, and slamming doors at your face. Not only that, they have grown physically too. I get it… it is stressful. But you need to consider all things they are going through as well.

A teenager goes through a lot of changes, both physical and chemical. Their bodies are changing, and they are going through a lot of hormonal changes.

Moreover, this is the stage, teenagers begin to reassess their role both within society and their families. They seek to find out who they are and establish their separate identities. In the process, they get influenced by their surroundings, be it friends, acquaintances, or even their parents.

These factors put together result in a confused and flustered teen, and they are more prone to anger or aggressive outbursts as that is the only way to vent out or channelize their frustration. To top it all, teenagers also find themselves under intense pressure to do well in school too.

It’s no wonder teenagers are so cranky and moody!

Anger Vs. Aggression

Anger is a very normal, healthy emotion. We all feel anger at some point in our lives, but how different are anger and aggression? Simply put, anger is a feeling or emotion, and aggression is the behavior or action taken in anger. It could be hostile, destructive, or violent.

So, it is perfectly okay to get angry; however, aggressive behavior is not.

As a parent, you need to teach your child the difference between angry feelings and aggressive behavior. Teenagers need to understand that it is not alright to break objects, slam doors, or make threats just to get their way. As these could lead to severe consequences later on.

Teenage Aggression: A phase or a problem?

handling teenage aggression
Photo by Isaiah Rustad on Unsplash

As a teen, I used to feel like I was carrying the entire world’s burden on my shoulders. My parent’s expectations for me to do well in my studies, the biological and chemical changes, the constant need to establish an identity for myself, and the need to keep up with my friends had me reeling at times! Leading me to be rebellious and defiant with the only person I could vent to… my mom!

There was a lot of shouting, eye-rolls, slamming doors, and whatnot… but years later, I understand that it’s just a phase (although a lot of arguments and eye-rolls happen even now!)

Back to the topic in hand…

With so much pressure around teens, it is only natural that they lash out with anger and defiance. And if this is not kept in check, these anger issues can lead to self-harm, violence, illegal activities like taking drugs or alcohol. Like all people are different, even teenagers have different emotional regulation capacities and maturity levels.

Let us look at some of the possible reasons why teenagers feel angry:

  • Low self-esteem
  • Peer pressure and constant bullying
  • Familial conflicts
  • Oppression
  • Puberty
  • Trauma
  • Addiction or abuse
  • Death of a loved one
  • Mental health issues

Coping with Adolescent Aggression

Did you know that one in five teens has anger management issues?

While anger is a normal emotion and it is okay to be angry but the issue here the how teens choose to vent it out — they can either assertively express their anger in a productive way without making threats or causing any harm or resort to more aggressive or passive methods.

If left unchecked, aggression (both active and passive) can lead to serious health issues.

Teenagers who tend to keep their anger holed up within them can suffer from constant headaches, shaking or trembling, stomach aches, sleeping issues, and more.

The others who vent out their anger in a more aggressive way may end up getting into physical fights, vandalism, and drugs. All these can eventually lead to legal issues and severe mental issues. Depression is the leading cause of teenage suicide; if it is left untreated.

Thankfully, there are many ways to effectively manage and control teenage aggression.

1. Seek out help from a professional

It would be best to consult a counselor, therapist, or other mental health professionals if you see any red flags.

Focus on your child’s needs rather than playing the blame game, as this will help them connect with you on a more emotional and social level.

And you need to offer constant support and care to improve the relationship between the two of you. It may be difficult at first but certainly not an impossible task if you keep at it!

2. Establish stronger connections

As a parent, you need to start a healthy conversation around the age and its complications well in advance. No, waiting the last moment of addressing the issue in hand. Start well in advance, when you see the changes have started showing up in the body as well as the psyche.

Your teenager will make an effort to understand where you are coming from only if you try from your end. Listen to them without any judgment and be a friend to them to realize that you value them and understand them.

Try and find common ground between the two of you — something that both of you will enjoy doing together.

3. Give them the space they require

If you are angry, the first thing your mind and body seek would be some me-time aka space.

Your teenager is angry, it would be best to let them cool off rather than demanding apologies or getting angry yourself or nagging as it would only anger them further. Do not push them to the end and create a mountain out of the mole, wait till the things are cooled down, and then start the most needed conversation.

4. Set out some basic rules and consequences

As a parent, you can set up some basic rules and discipline, also the punitive actions for following them. Let your teenager know what can happen if these rules are not followed.

Also, give them rewards and appreciate them if they do well. After all, every teenager seeks acceptance and attention from their parents. Remember, they are still babies seeking your attention, love, understanding inside their growing bodies.

5. Introduce meditation and other relaxation techniques

Yoga, meditation, and several relaxation techniques can help teenagers cope with stress and anger. Performing these techniques with your teen can help you connect with them and manage your feelings more effectively.

handling teenage aggression

Parting Thought: Teenage Aggression would not last forever

Speak to your child and support them in their endeavors. It is important that they understand that you would be there for them no matter what. Encourage them to speak to you and come to you for any trouble, and do not hesitate to take professional help should the need arise.

Eventually, your teen will overcome their problems and mature into a happy and healthy young adult.

This post is part of the CauseAChatter Initiative by BlogChatter.‘

To read the previous posts from the challenge, click here.

Copyright

©Dipika Singh. This article is the property of the site’s author. Any unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links are used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Dipika Singh (Gleefulblogger). With the right and specific direction to the original content.

Chances of Pregnancy during perimenopause

Chances of Pregnancy for Premenopausal Women: Expert Dietitian Answers

June 17, 2024
0

Chances of Pregnancy during perimenopause – Are you struggling with irregularities in your menstrual cycle? Are sudden hot flashes or night sweats disrupting your sleep? These can be the few signs you might be entering the premenopause phase. The journey of premenopause or peri-menopause is the natural phase that makes the gradual transition towards menopause, and it can be enlightening and challenging at the same time.

Picture a phase in your life when your body changes in noticeable ways, marking the end of your ability to have children and preparing you for a new part of life. This time typically begins in your 40s, although it can start at different times for different women. It raises many questions and makes you curious about what’s happening to you.

It is crucial to understand the concept of menopause, which goes beyond just recognizing symptoms and involves empowerment through knowledge. It is a phase of physical changes and the time when your body adjusts to declining levels and affects various aspects of your health. Along with it, we will also learn about the chances of pregnancy during perimenopause.

But the most common question asked here is, can women still conceive during premenopause? The answer might surprise you. While fertility naturally decreases with age, pregnancy remains possible until menopause is confirmed. This raises essential questions about family planning, health considerations, and how to navigate this transitional period confidently.

With this comprehensive article, you will find everything you need to enhance your overall knowledge with accurate, authentic information and practical advice from experts.

What is Perimenopause?

Premenopause or perimenopause, is a transitional phase in a woman’s reproductive life that precedes menopause. Perimenopause is a natural shift in a woman’s life as she nears menopause. It is a period of hormonal fluctuation that can extend from a few months to several years. As perimenopause progresses, the ovaries’ production of estrogen declines, resulting in irregular menstruation periods and a decrease in fertility. It typically begins in a woman’s 40s but can start earlier for some individuals. Understanding premenopause is crucial for women as it affects their reproductive health and overall well-being. However, many women question if there are any chances of pregnancy during perimenopause.

Premenopause affects a woman’s fertility during pregnancy. Fertility gradually declines as a woman gets older and enters premenopause because the ovaries produce fewer eggs, and hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably. However, it’s important to note that chances of pregnancy during premenopause are still possible until menopause is confirmed.

The ability to get pregnant during perimenopause depends on whether ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries) still occurs. Ovulation can be irregular during this phase, but it can still happen. Therefore, women in premenopause should continue to use contraception if they do not want to become pregnant.

The most common question is – Can I get pregnant during perimenopause? Hence, understanding premenopause and its relation to pregnancy is essential for women who are planning their reproductive health. It involves recognizing the signs and symptoms of premenopause, staying informed about fertility changes, and making informed decisions about family planning based on individual health and circumstances. Consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance on managing premenopause symptoms and navigating fertility considerations.

Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause:

Identifying perimenopause involves recognizing signs and symptoms that indicate hormonal changes within the body. These symptoms can vary widely among women but commonly include:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats

Hot flashes are most commonly associated with menopause, but they can also occur during perimenopause. 35 to 50 percent of people going through perimenopause experience hot flashes, which can last up to 10 minutes. The strength of heat flashes varies. Some people feel a small warmth, while others may end up drenched in perspiration due to the heat sensation.

Hot flashes usually begin in the face, neck, scalp, and chest and extend to the rest of the body. They are also more common at night, which may result in nocturnal sweats. This can cause sleep disturbances and insomnia, affecting general health and awake behavior.

  • Heavy periods

Many people experience irregular periods during perimenopause. There is less progesterone, a hormone that regulates the uterine lining, which causes the uterine lining to thicken during the menstrual cycle. A thick uterine lining sheds more blood and tissue, resulting in heavier menstrual cycles.

  • Dryness of Vagina:

Vaginal dryness, also known as vaginal atrophy, is caused by low estrogen levels, which govern vaginal tissue health. With decreased estrogen, the vaginal tissues weaken and dry. This can lead to itching, inflammation, and overall discomfort. Sex can be painful without lubricant.

  • Urinary Problems

Regarding the foregoing, after menopause, women produce less estrogen, a hormone that aids in maintaining the bladder and urethral linings. The deterioration of these tissues might exacerbate incontinence.

Understanding the Risk and Chances of Pregnancy During Perimenopause!

Perimenopause is distinguished by irregular menstrual cycles, which indicates that ovulation may not take place every month. Even with an irregular cycle, the ovaries can still release an egg. This is because hormonal changes during perimenopause can lead the ovaries to produce an egg unexpectedly.

Furthermore, the quality of eggs generated during perimenopause diminishes, increasing the chance of chromosomal abnormalities and miscarriage. Nonetheless, a viable egg may be released, resulting in a successful pregnancy.

As women enter perimenopause, their fertility begins to fall, and the chances of becoming pregnant gradually decrease with age. However, those who desire to conceive still have options, including fertility treatments like In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or the use of donor eggs. The chances of becoming pregnant during perimenopause vary from woman to woman, but the general risk is low.

According to a study, the likelihood of falling pregnant during perimenopause is predicted to be around 1 in 20 for women aged 40 to 44. Still, it declines to roughly 1 in 50 for women above 44.5. However, it is essential to emphasize that the possibility of conception during perimenopause is not negligible. Women who do not want to conceive during this stage should utilize contraception consistently and correctly.

Chances of pregnancy during perimenopause come with specific risks. As previously stated, the quality of eggs generated during this stage diminishes, increasing the risk of genetic disorders and miscarriage.

Furthermore, women who get pregnant during perimenopause may struggle to manage the physical and mental demands of pregnancy and childbirth. This is because perimenopause is frequently accompanied by additional symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, and exhaustion, which might complicate pregnancy.

Debunking the common myths related to perimenopause:

The subject of perimenopause comes with a lot of misconceptions about age and fertility. Here, we clear up some of the most common ones. In short, fertility declines with age, but chances of pregnancy during perimenopause are possible.

  • Myth: Your chances of getting pregnant during perimenopause are so low that you don’t need to use birth control.

Fact: While pregnancy becomes less likely as you get older, it is still possible until you’ve gone 12 months without a period (and menopause has been confirmed by your doctor). In addition, The Menopause Society doesn’t recommend relying solely on natural family planning for perimenopausal women because it can be difficult to predict when you’re ovulating and when your periods are irregular. Your healthcare professional can recommend the best contraceptive options for you during perimenopause.

  • Myth: If you have symptoms of perimenopause but want to have a baby, it’s hopeless.

Fact: If you think you’re experiencing perimenopause and want to have a baby, talk to your healthcare professional. Depending on your age, health history, and a whole slew of other factors, your symptoms may not be from perimenopause at all. As long as your ovaries produce a viable egg (which is still possible while experiencing perimenopause), you can get pregnant. But as you get older, getting pregnant naturally does become more complex.

  • Myth: It’s possible to have a perimenopause fertility surge.

Fact: There is no evidence that this exists. Remember, most women cannot conceive by reaching their mid-40s.9 While there is a slight chance of pregnancy during perimenopause (less than 5% per menstrual cycle), there’s no surge.

  • Myth: Every woman will go through perimenopause. Right? Because if not, why do so many of us go through it?

Fact: Some women experience induced menopause, which is when they no longer can ovulate and their periods stop due to the surgical removal of ovaries or permanent changes from specific cancer treatments.

If you haven’t gone through perimenopause yet, know this: Your experience will be unique to you. If you have questions about perimenopause and fertility, talk to your healthcare professional.

Chances of Pregnancy during perimenopause

Dietitian’s Guide to Increase Your Chances of Pregnancy During Perimenopause

Entering the premenopause phase can bring about a variety of changes in a woman’s body, including shifts in fertility. Optimizing diet and nutrition is crucial for women looking to conceive during this transitional period. A dietitian can be pivotal in guiding you toward a healthy, balanced diet that supports fertility and overall well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how diet and lifestyle adjustments can help you get pregnant during premenopause.

Essential Nutrients to Boost Fertility and Hence Your Chances of Pregnancy During Perimenopause

  • Folate and Folic Acid: Essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, folate is crucial for preconception health. It reduces the risk of neural tube defects in the developing baby. Sources include leafy greens, beans, and fortified cereals. A daily supplement of 400-800 mcg of folic acid is often recommended.
  • Iron: Iron deficiency can affect ovulation. Include iron-rich foods such as lean meats, spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals. Pairing iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits) can enhance absorption.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats support hormone regulation and improve egg quality. Incorporate sources like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts into your meals.
  • Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium help protect eggs from oxidative stress. To boost antioxidant intake, consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
  • Calcium and Vitamin D are essential for bone health and hormonal balance. Dairy products, fortified plant milks, and leafy greens are good sources of calcium, while vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight exposure and supplements.

Balanced Diet and Meal Planning

A balanced diet that supports overall health and fertility should include:

  • Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for various colours to ensure a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants.
  • Whole Grains: For sustained energy and fiber, choose whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, oats, and whole-wheat products.
  • Lean Proteins: Include sources like poultry, fish, beans, and tofu to support muscle health and repair.
  • Healthy Fats: Incorporate avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil for hormonal balance and energy.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Enhanced Fertility

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Both underweight and overweight can impact fertility. Aim for a BMI within the normal range. A dietitian can help you develop a personalized plan to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise Regularly: Moderate exercise supports overall health and can improve fertility. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, and yoga are excellent choices.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports all bodily functions, including reproductive health.
  • Reduce Stress: High stress levels can negatively impact fertility. Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies you enjoy.
  • Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption can affect fertility. Limit caffeine intake to 200-300 mg per day (about one to two cups of coffee) and avoid alcohol when trying to conceive.

In conclusion, chances of pregnancy during perimenopause may come with challenges, but with the proper dietary and lifestyle changes, you can enhance your fertility and increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy. Key components are prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress. Working with a dietitian and healthcare experts can provide personalized support and guidance, making your journey to motherhood during premenopause a positive and empowered experience.

Disclaimer

The content is not for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Copyright

©Dipika Singh. This article is the property of the site’s author. Any unauthorized use or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links are used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Dipika Singh (Gleefulblogger). With the right and specific direction to the original content.

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