Mum-Mum's Blog Report: A Closer Look At Fish Consumption & Pregnancy, How Food Effects Infant Brain
After a review of current research, Mum Mum's sheds light on the ongoing discussion of how much fish pregnant women should consume. The benefits of fish oils on infant development continue to be proven in study, but the research leaves expectant mothers wondering just how much fish they can eat.
The FDA advises pregnant women not to consume more than 12 ounces of fish per week, yet a recent public advisory from the Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition (HMHB) states women should eat more than 12 ounces. It is well documented that the essential fatty acids found in fish, mainly omega-3, are crucial for infant brain development. However, fish contains high levels of mercury and environmental toxins that may cause damage to developing brains and nervous systems of fetuses. Some experts feel the public advisory made by the HMHM coalition was tainted by funds from the fishing industry. All experts do agree that pregnant and nursing women benefit from eating fish. To reduce risk, however, it is advised that pregnant or nursing women eat less than 12 ounces per weeks, try to consume low-mercury fish, and discuss the supplementation of fish oils with a physician.
Food Affects Infants' Brain Development Right from the Start
This post discusses a new, ongoing study by Agriculture Research Service examining how diet and nutrition affect an infant’s central nervous system development right from birth. Hundreds of toddlers, infants, and school-aged children will be assessed for neurological and physiological development throughout early childhood.
This study hopes to discover the best feeding practices that foster brain development in infants. Brain development is rapid during infancy and proper nutrition is imperative for continued growth. Physical growth, brain activity, and behavior will be measured against 3 common newborn diets: breast milk, soy-based formula, and cow’s milk formula. Although initial results are speculative, breastfed babies are showing signs of having an edge over formula fed babies. As brain development continues, so will the research.
New Confusion About Vaccinating Children
Two very different articles released in the same week, as Mum Mum’s reports, provide conflicting information about vaccinating children. A recent study found that immunizations have provided vast improvements on the health of US children, yet today, more and more parents are opting out of vaccines.
Immunizations have decreased the number of hospitalizations, deaths, and illness in the US, according to a recent comparison study. However, there has been a 3-fold increase in the number of parents opting out of vaccines due to concerns over safety. Proposed health risks of vaccines include ADHD, autism, allergic responses, and shingles. Many parents are also concerned over mercury, a common preservative found in vaccines that has been associated with neurological symptoms. There is, however, no conclusive evidence to support these claims. In order to help prevent or reduce possible reactions, it is recommended to consider administering vaccines 1 at a time to allow ample time to isolate and observe any side effects.
Collecting Data on the Health of Family Members May Help Kid's Futures
A recent post discusses the benefits of not just knowing, but recording your family’s health history. It is consider so beneficial in fact, that the US Surgeon General, Dr. Steven Galson, has dedicated an annual National Family History Day to encourage family’s to discuss and identify any health issues that may be in their genes. Dr. Galson states: "Having a conversation about your family health history may help ensure a longer, healthier future together”.
Surveys conducted by the US Department of Health and Human Services revealed only 1/3 of Americans have recorded family health data, yet 96% feel it is important. Taking action now can help reduce disease risk for your child's future, especially if there is a strong familial history. Being aware of risks can also encourage healthy habits, lifestyle changes, and regular screenings before problems arise. The Surgeon General has even created an online tool to help Americans create their own family health database. With regards to children’s health, starting healthy habits as early as possible can make a big impact later in their lives. In addition, one can help prevent or delay the onset of food allergies and symptoms of celiac disease in children by being aware of familial allergies.