Melamine-contaminated powdered infant formula in China

September 30th, 2008
  • 54,000 over sought for medical treatment.
  • 13,000 hospitalized.
  • 3 deaths

Recently parents all over the world shocked by the news of melamine-contaminated powdered infant formula in China.

This is updated news from WHO (World Health Organization) website.

29 September 2008 – More than 54,000 infants and young children have sought medical treatment in relation to the melamine-contaminated dairy products in China, causing kidney stone. Three deaths among infants have been confirmed, more than 13,000 infants are in hospital. Kidney stones in infants are normally very rare.

The World Health Organization has published “Melamine and Cyanuric acid: Toxicity, Preliminary Risk Assessment and Guidance on Levels in Food”. This preliminary guidance was developed to assist national authorities in the decision-making process on deciding possible health concern of melamine levels in food.

This preliminary guidance is proposed as a first pragmatic approach until more data become available which would allow a more detailed assessment.

For quick info about melamine, here are Q&A also taken from WHO website.

Q1. What is melamine?
A1. Melamine is an organic base chemical most commonly found in the form of white crystals rich in nitrogen

Read the rest of this entry »

Happy Birthday!

September 9th, 2008

Hi!

Today is September, 9th 2008. Its a special day… Why? coz I’m back to blog after over a year since the last post. And most important… its my 2 year-old birthday… yeaa..

10 Month Old Baby!

July 9th, 2007

Hi!

Today, July 9th 2007, I’m 10 month old… see how happy am I today… :)

Babbling

April 25th, 2007

Hi!

Quite long time no post here. The reason is…
see my video below.. :)

Bye!

See my video at YouTube.

March 9th, 2007

Hi!

I’ve added my video at YouTube. You can see it at
http://www.youtube.com/malikisaad

Here is one of the video… enjoy!

Baby Strollers – Frequently Asked Questions.

December 27th, 2006

Here are another tips about baby strollers by Martin Smith..

Baby Strollers are one of the major purchases you will make for your baby. There are different types of strollers and in each category there are a variety of models. This may leave you with a variety of questions. Some frequent questions along with their respective answers are listed below. They deal with everything from the handlebars to the wheels and what is appropriate for newborns to older children. Your needs, how and where you will use the stroller as well as your budget will determine the strollers you will have to choose from.

Q. What are the different types of baby strollers available?

There are single, double, and triple strollers. Jogging strollers also have single and multi-seating strollers. Strollers with
multiple seats come in Tandem where one seat is directly behind the other. Stadium baby strollers have the rear seat
slightly higher than the front enabling both children a view of the scenery. Some strollers actually allow you to place your
children in different positions such as facing one another. Another Tandem stroller is the double-decker where the rear seat is significantly higher than the front seat.

Q. What is a height adjustable handle bar?

A height adjustable handlebar on the stroller is one that can be adjusted to the height of the parent or caregiver. This helps prevent bending while pushing the stroller and as a result there are fewer issues with your lower back.

Q. Is this stroller appropriate for a newborn?

When choosing a stroller particularly for newborns, you have to be certain that it is appropriate for your baby. The seat
must recline enough to allow your baby to lie flat. A stroller that converts from a stroller, to an infant carrier, to an infant
car seat might be an option. It would at least provide you with the knowledge it is good for your newborn.

Q. Are the restraint straps and buckles safe?

When purchasing your stroller make sure the straps are secure. The buckles or fasteners should be easily manipulated but not so easy that your baby could open them and risk injury.

Q. Is a second hand stroller acceptable for my baby?

For the most part yes, a second-hand stroller is acceptable for use. Before you purchase the stroller be sure to inspect all belts, straps, and fasteners. There should be no fraying or tears in the belts or straps and they should be securely in place. All fasteners should be free of cracks and still be easily used. Be sure though your baby won’t be able open it. Check the
seat and make sure that the back is stable and that it won’t collapse under his weight. The reclining positions should also
hold your baby’s weight. Make sure there are no sharp edges or places where little fingers can be pinched.

Q. Does this stroller come with a parent organizer?

Many newer model strollers come with a detachable tray that has a cup holder, and spaces to hold your keys, your cell
phone, and a wallet.

Q, Is this a convertible stroller?

You may want to consider a stroller that has a detachable seat that becomes an infant carrier and/or a baby car seat. This
would reduce the continual removal from the car seat to the stroller or to a carrier. This is a travel system and comes with
a base that remains in the car.

Q. Will this stroller maneuver on any terrain?

Most strollers are made for the street or for mall walking. There are some models that have different kinds of wheels for
different terrain. If you are going to use it hiking, you will want to look for a specific type of wheel. For general walking
whether in the street or a mall, a simple stroller like the inexpensive umbrella types strollers.

Q. What kind of brakes does the stroller have?

The preferred type of brake is the brake that is attached to both rear wheels with a bar. This type of brake is preferred
because it can be applied or released with one foot reducing the chance that one brake would not be applied and causes
the stroller to roll or tip over. Some strollers come with a strap that is called a wrist brake which is worn by the parent to
prevent the stroller from rolling when you are stopped for a long period of time.

Q. Where can I find out about recalls on my stroller?

The store where you purchased your stroller should have recall information. You can contact the manufacturer or search
the Internet for information. You can contact the Consumer Protection Safety Commission or check consumer magazines
dedicated to informing consumers on the ratings of many products.

Q. Are replacement or extra parts available for the model of baby stroller I have chosen?

When you purchase your stroller you might want to ask specifically if the stroller you have chosen has extra parts (i.e.
wheels) or replacement parts. This could be helpful if you need to replace the seat liner or an extra stay in the car base for
your stroller. The best source for this information would probably be the manufacturer. Check the owner’s manual to see if there is information in there on replacement parts and where you can get them.

Q. What can I do to keep my stroller in good condition?

Some of the things you can do to maintain your stroller in good condition includes not leaving it outside in bad weather.
Keep the wheels in good shape, check all the belts and fasteners periodically to be sure they are not worn or broken. It is
important to keep the seat cover clean. Apply the brake and make sure it holding when fully applied.
In Conclusion.

Buying a stroller is very important and must be appropriate for you and your baby. Keeping your baby safe is of the utmost importance and to that end be sure that your baby never exceeds the maximum weight it is meant to hold. The
manufacturer is a good source for any questions or concerns you might have about choosing a baby stroller.

About The Author

Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Nursery Bedding
which includes Baby strollers, Baby car seats, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource
of interesting and relevant information. For more information vist http://www.1st-babies.com

Baby Strollers Tips and Advice.

December 26th, 2006

By: Martin Smith
You have just learned that you are expecting a bundle of joy and now you need to begin getting the things your baby will
need. If this is your first baby all the decisions you need to make may seem overwhelming at first. One of the biggest purchases you will need to make is about the type of stroller you will use for your baby.

There are so many different types of strollers to choose from and one of the first things you need to do is determine your budget. There are strollers that can cost as little as $10.00 or as much as $400 and up. The lower end strollers are generally the very light weight umbrella strollers. The advantage to these strollers is the fold nicely and can store almost
anywhere. As the price gets higher the features and quality of the stroller may increase.

Strollers can come with a variety of features. What is important to you? Do you want a convertible travel system or a
stroller that is just that and a car seat? There are travel systems that include a stay in the car base, an infant carrier/car safety seat, and a stroller frame for the infant seat which it is attached. These are great especially when your baby is newly born.

Strollers have a play tray that has insets for a bottle or juice cup. Many have canopies with a vinyl window so you can keep an eye on the baby. The brake on most strollers now are attached to both rear wheels and is easily applied with your foot
and some also have a wrist strap brake that is used in conjunction with the foot break. It gives extra safety when you are
stopped and the stroller won’t ‘roll away’ while you have the strap.

There is usually a large storage basket under the seat(s) of the strollers and many strollers now are coming with a parent
tray that is place over the handle bar. It has a spot for a cup of coffee or a soda, a place for your cell phone, your keys and a place to hold a snack.

Handlebars are now height adjustable on most strollers and are reversible moving from either the front to back or vice
versa. The height adjustable feature is a great saver on the back the reversible handle can help you see your baby while he
rides if necessary.

The seat is the next consideration. Does the seat recline and if so will it recline enough so that your newborn can lie almost
flat? Is the seat well padded and will it be comfortable for your baby? Is the seat padding removable for washing?

Most upper end strollers come with blankets that can attach to the seat with snaps. These blankets make your baby’s
stroller like a bunting on wheels. Rain hoods are also detachable and can be used to protect your baby from harsh sunlight and winds.

Here’s another twist your decision about a baby stroller. Your friend has an almost brand new stroller that you can have for free. She agrees to have it cleaned and ready for you. Is a used baby stroller a safe choice for your baby? It can be a very good choice for you and your baby, however there are some things you really need to look over before you place your
precious one in it.

The frame – there should be no dents, cracks, or gaps in the frame. All bolts and screws must be in place. Anything less
could cause an accident and seriously hurt your baby. Are there sharp spots on the frame? Are there any screws loose or
sticking out that could cut your baby? Is the handle bar joined properly to the frame?
The wheels – are they solid or do you need to look for leaks in air pressure in them? Are the wheels worn? Do they need
replacing? Do the wheels turn, as they should? Are the axels straight? Does the brake operate properly; that is, do they
hold when applied?

The seat – does the seat hold its position whether straight or in the reclining position? A seat that does not hold the
position well could seriously injure your baby. Is the lining clean or does it fit the frame properly.

There are all kinds of options styles and types of strollers. There are multiple seat strollers for twins, or more children.
There are a variety of seating arrangements side by side seating, tandem seating with one seat behind the other, and
stadium seating (tandem seating with rear seat raised above the front) allowing the second child to be able to see more
than the back of a head. There are jogging strollers (one wheel out in front and two rear wheels). The jogging strollers also come with multiple seating.

Used or new enjoy your outings with your baby or children.

About the Author

Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of
Baby strollers and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

Brain Food for Baby

December 25th, 2006

by: Andrew Loh

This article shows you the brain food that can make your child smarter.
Brain development is affected greatly by a baby’s nutrition intake. Children who are malnourished will resulted an inadequate brain growth that showing lower IQ, slower language and fine moter development. Before we talk about the kind of food that we need to ‘feed’ the brain. We probably want to ask ourselves, what is our brain made of?

~ The Building Block of the Brain ~

Our brain is primarily fat, 60% by dry weight! Few people realize how important fat is to a healthy brain. And DHA, the most plentiful fatty acid in the brain, is crucial to brain health, from infancy to old age.

~ DHA ~

Many parents today already heard about the brain food – DHA. If you have not, you may want to pay attention to this.

DHA is shorthand for docosahexaenoic acid. This omega-3 long chain fatty acid is the primary building block of the brain and retina of the eye. The brain is 60% fat, and DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain, comprising 25-35%. DHA is found in even greater concentrations – 50-60% – in the retina. DHA is critical for infant development. Compelling research links DHA to the rapid cerebral cortex and eye development that occurs during pregnancy and in the first few months after birth.

DHA passes through the placenta to the fetus during pregnancy, and to the nursing baby through breast milk. Optimal levels of DHA in the bloodstream of pregnant women and the breast milk of nursing mothers are crucial to babies. In fact, DHA’s presence in breast milk may explain why breast-fed babies have demonstrable IQ advantages over babies fed formula without DHA. This is proved by the 21-year study by a research team at Brisbane’s University of Queensland. They found that the breastfed children ended up with an intellectual advantage of eight IQ points. One of the explanation by Prof. Najman, the research team leader was “that omega fatty acids found in breast milk may be giving breastfed children an intellectual advantage.”

Once we understood the important of DHA presence in breastmilk, one must also realises that the level of DHA vary widely from mother to mother. In fact, the DHA levels in the breastmilk of American women rank among the lowest in the world. Why? Because the level of DHA in the breastmilk is very much depending upon the food intake of the mother. To produce high level of DHA in the breastmilk, the mothers should try to eat as much seafood as possible on the regular basis. And try to breast-feed their children if at all possible.

With the finding of the importance of DHA in brain development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended that DHA be included in infant formulas at levels comparable to those of mothers’ milk. Today, you can find many infant formulas are fortified with DHA such as: Frisogrow, Anmum Essential, Enfapro, Dumex … and many more! Just look for DHA next time when you are buying infant formula. In addition, you can find DHA packaged in the softgel for older children. You can find these products in major pharmacies and there are three products that I’ve come across: Champs, Kordel’s Tuna Oil, Red Sun – BrainMax

You can also ensure your children (and yourself) obtain DHA from the diets. The richest sources of DHA are red meats, animal organs, and eggs. Deep-water fish obtain their DHA from microalgae like salmon, striped bass, rainbow trout, halibut, tuna, sardines, mackerel or fish oil supplements for those whose fish intake is very low. You can also find DHA in plants like green leafy vegetables, soybeans, walnuts, flaxseed and canola oil.

~ DMAE ~

DMAE normally found in small amounts in our brains, DMAE (dimetheyaminoethanol) has been shown to remarkably enhance improvement in learning, mental alertness and clarity of thinking. A study conducted by Dr. Carl Pfeiffer of Princeton, N.J. showed significant improvements in behavior, learning ability, and attention span with 108 boys and girls. Irritability was decreased, scholastic ability was improved and intelligence was actually elevated in some cases. With its ability to improve attention span, DMAE is also alleviates behavior problems and hyperactivity such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder).

DMAE is often given credit for having to elevate mood and improve memory and learning. People who have taken DMAE for a period of a few weeks often report an increase in physical energy and less of a need for sleep. Occurring naturally in fish (sardines), you can also find DMAE in tablets/capsule form in major pharmacies. Why is DMAE important? Because, it also increases the levels of the neurotransmitter ‘acetylcholine’ in the brain. Next…

~ Acetylcholine ~

‘Acetylocholine’ was the very first neurotransmitter to be identified back in the early 1900s. Acetylcholine is found in the brain and the peripheral nervous system and is an critical element in brain development and it proved to enhance spatial memory and mental focus. Choline is the usual pre- cursor of acetylocholine and Choline influences levels of acetylcholine. One of the infant formula that contains choline is ‘ABBOTT GROW’.

~ Ginkgo biloba ~

The last food for brain in this article (there are many others, make sure you follow the subscription to receive more information in the future) is Ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba is the oldest species of tree native to China. Extracts from the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree has been used medicinally for centuries. Studies showed that ginkgo works by increasing blood flow thoughout the body and brain. Especially, ginkgo biloba improves circulation and oxygen supply to the brain. Thereby improves mental alertness by increasing the brain’s alpha wave rhythms and overall brain functioning. You can find Ginkgo biloba tablets in major pharmacies.

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I'm 1 month old…

October 9th, 2006

Hi!

Today, 9/Oct/2006… It’s 1 month already since I arrived to this Wonderful Life… wanna know my development now?
Physically, my arms and legs movement are reflexes… my head still flops if not supported… Now I can see things about 10 inches away… I like to stares at object, but does not reach it.. and you know, I loves skin-to-skin contact very much…

Now I can responds to voices… and I’m begins make small cooing… mommy & daddy are very excited now when I start to smile and cooing when they talk to me..

Here… my latest photo… I’m smiling and cooing on mommy laps…

baby 1 month development

Ya.. I’m almost forgot to tell you.. yesterday, I went to local clinic for my monthly scheduled visit.. you know, I’m already 4.7 kg.. wow! it’s 1 kg up in a month…

OK.. see ya!

The Baby Bedding Challenge

September 28th, 2006

Having a baby is the most wonderful experience a woman can have as it is a fulfillment of the biological function of the female species. After the giving birth process, the real work begins. Feeding bottles, diaper changes, immunization records are just a few of the things the new mom have to learn quickly. And one important thing to consider in the arrival of the baby is the kind of baby bedding he or she will use.

According to Dr. Mark Brandenburg (http://www.baby-place.com/crib_safety.html), the number one rule to follow in choosing the right baby bedding for your precious infant is safety. The second rule says safety and the third rule emphasizes safety. We are to conclude that it is not enough to say it, it must be emphasized that baby bedding is critical for the comfort of the baby.

In his article on how to find the perfect baby bedding, it must be neither too hard nor too soft. In the past, sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS was attributed to very soft baby bedding. This happened when the baby’s mattress is too soft that his nose and mouth gets covered and the air he exhales is the air he breathes. This is dangerous for him since he would breath carbon dioxide rather than oxygen and the effects could lead to drowsiness, coma or even death.

There are a lot of styles and makes in choosing the baby’s bed. And with that, it follows that the baby bedding must be a perfect fit with the chosen equipment. The three major selections are: a bassinet, a crib or a cradle. What differentiates one from the other? A bassinet is an oblong-shaped basket that serves as a bed for an infant. But sometimes, round bassinets are also available. A crib is a bed that is flanked with high side bars for a baby or young child’s safety. Cribs are usually more economical since the baby can use it from infancy to two years. While a cradle is a small low bed that an infant uses that has rockers on its stand. In all these, the material used to make the equipment should alert and signal to the mom how much safety precautions are needed.

Bassinets are usually lacey and full of trimmings. The baby bedding must fit the bassinet so that the baby’s space is enough for him or her to be able to roll from side to side. The crib is usually square, thus, mattresses can be fitted to the size of the crib. The baby bedding usually is a set of coverlet and small pillows. Hotdog pillows can also be placed inside. However, the pillows should not be more than two or three lest the baby can stand on them and could fall over. The cradle can come in various sizes and shapes. Some moms prefer cradles so that when the baby is cranky, he or she can be rocked to be calmed down. The baby bedding for a cradle should follow the shape of it. Not much can be placed inside it since it is used mainly to rock the baby to sleep. However, one need not the three to keep the baby safe, warm and secure. One will do and this would depend on the parent’s preference. The most preferred would be the crib since it can be used for a long time.

Now that we’ve covered the basic equipment, how do we furnish it with baby bedding? We have already established that the baby bedding should fit the sleeping equipment to avoid accidents and other untoward incidents. The most suitable material to use is cotton as it is absorbent and cool to the baby’s skin. Different designs must be used to stimulate the baby’s color and pattern recognition. Therefore, the baby bedding is a crucial factor in keeping the baby happy and healthy.