Misis Blog – For Moms and Dads: HOME AND LIVING

Nutrition in pregnancy

Nutrition in pregnancy is a very important topic we must discuss . You will have a baby soon, congrats! But now you must be aware of your health, your baby will grow up from your health, so you must eat well.

But what should I eat when I am pregnant?!

To maintain a healthy pregnancy, approximately 300 extra calories are needed each day. These calories must come from vegetables, fruits, protein, carbohydrates and sweets.

A well balanced diet can help to reduce the symptoms of pregnancy like constipation and nausea.

Definition of nutrition in pregnancy

In the context of pregnancy, nutrition refers to the consumption and utilization of food and nutrients that directly impact the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. It encompasses the intake of essential dietary components like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water, and how these components are used by the body.

Important of nutrition during pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body undergoes significant changes to support the growth and development of your baby.

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby. Here's why nutrition is so important:

Benefits for the baby:

Healthy fetal development:Proper nutrition provides the essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats necessary for your baby's organ development, brain growth, and overall health. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to birth defects, low birth weight, and other complications.

Reduces the risk of chronic diseases: Good nutrition during pregnancy can help reduce the baby's risk of developing chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease later in life.

Stronger immune system: A balanced diet supports the development of your baby's immune system, making them less susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Benefits for the mother:

Reduces pregnancy complications: Proper nutrition can help reduce the risk of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.

Increased energy levels: Eating a healthy diet provides your body with the energy it needs to cope with the physical demands of pregnancy.

Improved mood and well-being: Balanced nutrition can contribute to better emotional well-being, reducing the risk of pregnancy-related depression and anxiety.

Easier postpartum recovery: Proper nutrition during pregnancy can help you recover faster and regain your strength after childbirth.

What is the most important food for pregnant woman

The following foods are beneficial to your health and fetal development during pregnancy:

Vegetables: carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, cooked greens, tomatoes and red sweet peppers (for vitamin A and potassium)

Fruits: cantaloupe, honeydew, mangoes, prunes, bananas, apricots, oranges, and red or pink grapefruit (for potassium)

Dairy: fat-free or low-fat yogurt, skim or 1% milk, soymilk (for calcium, potassium, vitamins A and D)

Grains: ready-to-eat cereals/cooked cereals (for iron and folic acid)

Proteins: beans and peas; nuts and seeds; lean beef, lamb and pork; salmon, trout, herring, sardines and pollock.

What to drink during pregnancy

During pregnancy, staying hydrated is crucial for both your health and your baby's development. But what exactly should you be drinking? Here's a breakdown of the best and worst choices:

Best Drinks for Pregnant Women:

Water: The clear winner, water is essential for hydration, nutrient absorption, and overall well-being. Aim for 8-10 glasses per day.

Milk and fortified plant-based milks: Provide calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients for you and your baby. Opt for low-fat or fat-free options.

Unsweetened herbal teas: Can offer relaxation and additional nutrients depending on the tea. Choose pregnancy-safe options like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint.

Freshly squeezed fruit juices in moderation: Provide vitamins and antioxidants, but limit intake due to their high sugar content. Dilute with water if desired.

Clear broths: Can be hydrating and provide some electrolytes, especially helpful if you're feeling unwell.

Drinks to Limit or Avoid:

Sugary drinks: Including sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks. High in sugar and calories, offering little nutritional value.

Caffeine-containing drinks: Limit coffee and tea to 200mg of caffeine per day (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee). Avoid energy drinks and limit other sources like chocolate.

Alcohol: No amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy. It can harm your baby's development.

Unpasteurized milk and juices: Can carry harmful bacteria that can be dangerous for you and your baby.

Herbal supplements and teas: Some herbs can be unsafe during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before consuming them.

Which fruit is best during pregnancy

There isn't a single "best" fruit for pregnancy, as each fruit offers unique vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients. The key is to incorporate a variety of fruits into your diet to ensure you and your baby receive a wide range of essential nutrients. Here are some fruits particularly beneficial during pregnancy:

Fruits rich in folic acid:

Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes

Tropical fruits: Mangoes, papayas, kiwis

Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries

Leafy green vegetables: Spinach, kale, collard greens (can be eaten cooked or in smoothies)

Fruits rich in vitamin C:

Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes

Kiwis
Papayas
Strawberries
Cantaloupe

Fruits rich in fiber:

Berries: Raspberries, blackberries

Pears
Apples
Guava
Figs

Fruits rich in potassium:

Bananas
Cantaloupe
Honeydew melon
Oranges
Grapefruit

Is coffee good for a pregnant woman

The safety of coffee during pregnancy is a complex issue with no single definitive answer. While moderate amounts of coffee may be considered safe for some, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits and ultimately make an informed decision with your doctor's guidance.

Here's a breakdown of what you need to consider:

Potential Risks:

Caffeine can cross the placenta and reach the developing baby. High caffeine intake has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and other complications.

Caffeine can also affect sleep patterns and anxiety levels in both the mother and the baby.

Potential Benefits

Some studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption (less than 200mg per day) may not significantly increase the risk of pregnancy complications.

Coffee can provide beneficial antioxidants and nutrients.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends limiting caffeine intake to less than 200mg per day during pregnancy.** This is roughly equivalent to one 12-ounce cup of coffee, two 8-ounce cups of tea, or a 16-ounce caffeinated soda.

It's important to listen to your body.** If you experience any negative side effects like anxiety, insomnia, or heartburn after consuming caffeine, it's best to avoid it or reduce your intake.

Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Which protein is best for pregnancy

Rather than focusing on a single "best" protein for pregnancy, it's important to incorporate a variety of protein sources into your diet to ensure you and your baby receive a broad spectrum of essential amino acids needed for optimal development. Here are some excellent protein options for pregnant women:

Animal Sources:

Lean meats: Chicken breast, turkey breast, lean beef cuts, pork tenderloin. Good sources of iron, zinc, and B vitamins.

Fish and seafood: Salmon, tuna, sardines, shrimp, oysters. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain development.

Eggs: Provide complete protein, choline, and other beneficial nutrients. Choose pasteurized options.

Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, cheese. Offer calcium, vitamin D, and protein. Opt for low-fat or fat-free choices.

Plant-Based Sources

Beans and lentils: Excellent sources of fiber, protein, and folate. Kidney beans, chickpeas, black beans, and lentils are popular choices.

Tofu and tempeh: Soy-based products providing complete protein, iron, and calcium. Choose minimally processed options.

Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and hemp seeds. Offer healthy fats, protein, and various micronutrients. Practice moderation due to calorie content.

Whole grains: Quinoa, brown rice, oats. Provide protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Choose whole grains over refined options.

January 26, 2024 No comments

Article written by Danny Knight

For many parents who are living with a disability, it can be difficult to take everyone’s needs into consideration in regard to living in a safe, comfortable home.

You may be worried about your ability to maneuver through the home while carrying a baby, or you might be thinking about how you’ll give your child a bath while respecting your mobility issues.

There are so many things to consider that it can easily become overwhelming.

The key is to think about what will make your life easier, especially if your child is very young.

You want to ensure that each room in your home has safety features that will also allow your family to live comfortably.

Fortunately, there are several simple modifications that can be made around the house that will help you reach your goals.

From installing handrails in the bathroom to replacing all the door and faucet knobs with easy-to-grasp handles, you can make daily activities much simpler for yourself while also ensuring that your safety is a priority.

Keep reading for some great tips on how to get started.

Tackle the Projects That Will Benefit Everyone First

If you have an infant or toddler, there are several things you can do to make your home safer for them that will also benefit you.

Installing handrails, a grab bar, a shower seat, a faucet cover, and non-slip rubber mats in the bathroom is a great start.

Not only will these modifications ensure that your child won’t fall and injure themselves, but it will also help you bathe them much more easily.

You can also add foam bumpers to sharp corners on cabinets, fireplace hearths, and countertops.

Remove Clutter

No matter how clean a home is, there’s still the potential for some clutter now and then.

The kitchen counter can become a catch-all and the foyer becomes a place for hastily thrown backpacks and shoes.

Getting organized and removing this clutter from such spaces will help your family get a mental health boost and prevent trips and falls at the same time.

This is especially important if you have a mobility issue.

Keep the Kitchen in Good Shape

Along with the bathroom, the kitchen is an area that often sees accidents, so it’s a good place to get started with safety modifications.

Raising or lowering countertops, good lighting, and easy access to appliances and storage are just the start; you can also make sure the flooring is non-slip.

Don’t Forget the Exterior

The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior when it comes to safety.

You might add lighting to the walkways, install surveillance cameras that help you keep an eye on things via your smartphone, or add a ramp that will help you easily traverse the steps.

Make sure the ramp is made of a material that won’t be slippery when it rains or snows, and that it doesn’t have a lip that will cause an issue with equipment such as a wheelchair or walker.

___

Making your home safer can be a big job if your home is a good size, but it’s an important one when you have kids.

Not only will these modifications help you stay healthy, they’ll ensure that you’ll have no worries when it comes to parenting or handling daily activities and chores.

___

About the Author: Danny Knight

Danny is a dad living in Philadelphia. He enjoys DIY projects almost as much as raising his two children. He is the co-creator of FixItDads.com, which offers tips for home improvement projects.

December 10, 2019 No comments

Article written by Danny Knight

A child’s bedroom is their safe haven. It’s the only place in the house that belongs to them.

Having personal space is important for people of all ages, and for children, it’s just as important to have this area as they develop autonomously and grow into independent young adults.

Children on the autism spectrum have different needs to address, such as sensory considerations.

As you begin to design the room that will become their personal space and comfort zone, these considerations should influence the choices that you make.

If your child has autism, talk to their doctor about how you can focus on their particular needs, and check out these practical suggestions to help you design the perfect bedroom.

Choose Serene Colors

Picking a color for a bedroom can mean the difference between creating a relaxing environment or a noisy one.

It goes without saying that you’ll want to go with the former.

Bright colors or patterns can easily overstimulate the senses of children on the autism spectrum, and it can cause irritation or discomfort.

When selecting a color, try to opt for lighter shades of your child’s favorite colors, and look into neutral colors such as beige and tan, or peaceful shades of blue and green.

Neutral and calming colors are also more conducive to a better night’s sleep.

Think About Insulation

While the sound of a distant television set or a tumbling dryer can create a soothing background hum for many people, these noises can feel amplified for those with autism.

Children with ASD are sensitive to sound, so be sure to address these concerns when designing your child’s bedroom.

To help better handle unwanted noises, look into installing thick, sound-dampening carpets and sound-absorbing accessories, like soft blankets, rugs, and oversized pillows.

Remember to also check the doors, windows, and floors for irritating creaks that might not be noticeable to you, but could become bothersome to your child.

Create a Soothing, Safe Environment

When decorating your child’s room, it’s important to create a safe room with a calm environment.

The room should be situated in a way to reduce clutter, while maintaining a comfortable setting that will prevent overstimulation.

For example, people with Autism Spectrum Disorder can be sensitive to light, so it’s good to be mindful of the amount of light that comes into the room.

Avoid bright, fluorescent bulbs, and invest in heavy curtains to keep the sunlight out in the morning while they’re asleep.

Safety should always be a priority for parents of all children, but common safety concerns for young neurotypical children can extend into the older years for children with autism.

Here are some safety features to keep in mind:

Furnishings that are sturdy and do not have sharp or overly-pointed edges (add padding if it does).
Covered-up electrical outlets to prevent accidents fueled by curiosity.
Furniture secured to the wall to prevent it from toppling over.
Toys and other belongings in easy-to-reach places so that your child doesn’t have to climb to get them.

Create Distinct Spaces

Sudden changes can be a massive hurdle for those with autism, and it’s often easier for them to focus when things are set in a distinct and familiar place.

By setting established zones within your child’s room—for playtime, learning, and sleeping—you’ll help make basic tasks easier and more predictable for them.

Consider integrating a “special interests” area for them to escape and express their creativity, and include activities that fulfil their sensory needs.

___

Autism is a spectrum that covers a large range of conditions, and every person with autism is unique and different from the next person.

Not everything will work perfectly at home, but the key is to let your child’s needs become present and address them accordingly.

While it might take time and some trial and error to perfect the ideal room for your child, don’t lose sight or forget to let your child be a part of the process.

They will ultimately be the best judge in determining the environment that they will be most comfortable in and spend most of their time.

At the heart of it, it’s important to remember that every child is different.

November 03, 2019 No comments

Thanks to flexible working practices, home offices are becoming increasingly popular.

Many people mistakenly believe that they don’t have the room or budget to create their own home office, but this is not the case.

With a bit of creative thinking and some clever design solutions, you can create a fantastic office in even the smallest of spaces.

Layout Ideas

A well-thought-out layout can make even the smallest space seem like a roomy office.

One way to create the illusion of space is to paint ceilings and walls in light colors, pale pinks, or lilacs, for example.

The right color can also improve your productivity, and research suggests that blue shades can help to make us more productive.

While color is fine if you’re making video calls, a neutral background will look more professional.

Letting in lots of natural light is also a great way of making a room feel “airy” and spacious.

A piece of statement wallpaper, even if it is just a small square behind your desk, can add interest and create the illusion of space without being too distracting.

A plant, even something small like a cactus, can add greenery to the room and gives it a natural feel.

Research also suggests that even a small plant can have a positive impact on our health and well-being.

Alternatively, you can use lighting to create the illusion of natural light and space. A colorful, statement lamp is not only functional but can add interest to an otherwise dull space.

If you’re creating an alcove office, or re-purposing a corner of the hallway, try using paint and flooring changes to zone the space.

Wherever you’re planning on placing your home office, pay attention to outlets. You don’t want to have to climb through a sea of cables to get to your desk.

De-Clutter

Work out what you’ll need, such as a desk, computer, and chair. Including only essential items on this list will help to minimalize clutter.

Research conducted by Harvard shows that a minimalist office can help you to focus for longer.

Make the Most of What You’ve Got

Repurposing items that you already own can save you money.

If you need to purchase new items, look for them in-store discounts. Signing up for store newsletters is also a good idea.

Sometimes, they’ll enclose a handy discount voucher code.

Design Solutions Can Save Space

When looking for furniture, consider how much space you actually need.

If you’re only using a laptop, you’ll be fine with a small desk.

Today, home office desks are available in a range of styles. This means you’ll find something that fits perfectly into your home.

Built-in desks and furniture are great, space-saving solutions.

For example, a drop-down or pull-out desk can be concealed within kitchen joinery.

Not only can this be cleared away when it isn’t in use, but you can also use it to supervise the kids as they do their homework.

Of course, you’ll also need an office chair.

While you’ll want something small enough to fit into your office space, it should also be comfortable.

Many home office chairs are now foldable, meaning that you can tidy them away at the end of the day.

Dual function items, such as a printer with a built-in scanner, will take up far less room than having both a printer and a scanner.

Shelving units with built-in organizers can also help you save space, as well as money, in the long run. Shelving is also a great way to make the most of any vertical space.

Tall bookcases and wall mounted storage can also help to keep the floor clutter-free. This helps create an illusion of space.

October 09, 2019 No comments

Article written by Danny Knight

Selling your family home? In a perfect world, you’d be able to keep your home spotless in every moment of every day, ready to be shown to each prospective buyer.

But in reality, life is busy, and kids are messy.

Depending on how long your home is on the market, you may find it impossible to keep your home perfectly clean and tidy.

Instead of going crazy trying to keep your kids from touching anything and spending every waking moment cleaning the trail behind them, let’s focus on the few details that matter most when showing your house.

What’s That Smell?

One of the first things that you notice when you enter a room is the smell.

Unfortunately, because you live in your home every day, you may have become accustomed to a smell in your house that others would find off-putting.

You can combat this phenomenon by just simply seeking out smells in your house. When you are aware and looking for odor, you are more likely to notice it.

Be sure to check obvious places of odor like trash cans, garbage disposals, and toilet areas.

When preparing for a showing, take the extra step to light a candle, turn on the diffuser, or simmer some citrus and cinnamon on the stovetop.

According to Reader’s Digest, the right smell can immediately trigger a sense of happiness, which is exactly what you want your prospective buyers to feel in your home.

No Crumbs Left Behind

An easily overlooked detail by a homeowner that is an immediate turnoff to a buyer is a dirty countertop.

In addition to keeping your counters clear of clutter, it’s important to keep them sparkling clean.

Whether it’s the remnants of the toast you made for breakfast, or it’s a week-old cereal that your toddler has secretly shoved behind the banana stand, you need to take the time to thoroughly wipe down every counter and surface.

Get in the habit of wiping off your kitchen counters after every meal and snack.

You can leave cleaners in each room so that you can quickly wipe off bathroom counters or tabletops every time you leave.

Take the 60 seconds to wipe down surfaces as you pass them, and your potential buyers won’t be put off by mystery crumbs and debris.

Let There Be Light

Have you ever noticed that scary movies seem to always be set in dark lighting? Or that when you see commercials for beautiful homes and vacations, sunlight is always pouring in?

Lighting sets the mood of a space.

When showing your home, you want to highlight the beauty of your home and create a sense of joy and peace.

Natural light is the best choice as it invokes warmth and happiness, so open up your curtains and blinds to let the light shine in.

HomeLight points out that lighting on the outside of your home is also important.

Make sure that your exterior is well-lit and the bulbs are new and bright.

Fake It 'Till You Make It

Lastly, fake it ‘till you make it. Even if your home isn’t tidy all day, you need to make it look as though it is.

If you have young kids that are constantly leaving toys all over, consider keeping an empty bin in each room.

When you have a last-minute showing, you can quickly gather all clutter into the bin and store it neatly in the garage.

If laundry is your nemesis and your baskets are caught overflowing when a showing is minutes away, cleverly store that laundry in empty suitcases before you leave (just don’t forget about them!).

The ultimate goal is to keep your home clean and spotless, but with these tips, you will be able to focus on the details that matter most when the time comes to show your home.

By checking for odors, wiping the countertops, opening the blinds, and hiding away the clutter, you will sell your home in no time!

About the Author: Danny Knight

Danny is a dad living in Philadelphia. He enjoys DIY projects almost as much as raising his two children. He is the co-creator of FixItDads.com, which offers tips for home improvement projects.

May 08, 2019 No comments

There are so many great things about living in a small home — the ease of maintenance, the cozy feel, the cheap utilities. However, small spaces have one big downside:

It’s hard to find places to store all your stuff! If you’re sick of living in a home that feels cramped and cluttered, you need to try these small-space organizing tips.

Give Everything a Place

If you don’t have a designated home for your stuff, it inevitably ends up scattered around the house.

Organize each room in your home so everything has a place that makes sense.

If you use something frequently, store it in a convenient spot — you’re more likely to put things away if it’s easy.

Items that you use only a couple times a year can go in harder-to-reach places, such as in the attic or under the bed.

Need more guidance to get your home organized? Family Handyman has eight organizing rules every home should follow.

Use Vertical Space

You already don’t have a lot of square footage in your home. And if you store stuff on the floor, you’ll shrink your home’s livable space even further.

Instead of using horizontal space to store your stuff, look vertical.

Narrow shelving units make great use of corners and other awkward spaces, floating shelves add storage without impacting your floor space, and hooks keep frequently used items in arm’s reach.

Add Built-In Storage

If you need to add a lot of storage, built-ins are your best bet.

Built-ins like shelves and cabinets dramatically increase your home’s storage capacity without affecting its square footage.

Built-ins are also ideal for utilizing dead spaces or adding storage in rooms where freestanding shelves look out of place, like the kitchen and bathroom.

A cabinet maker is your best bet for custom built-ins that match your home’s design.

You can find a cabinet maker in your area by scanning online reviews and using apps that connect you with local companies.

Buy Furniture That Does Double-Duty

If your bed and coffee table are just a bed and coffee table, you’re not making the most of your space.

Rather than buying furniture that does one job, choose pieces that pull double-duty.

Furniture with built-in storage is one space-saving option, but you can also buy couches that double as guest beds, turn a shelving unit into a stylish room divider, or use an end table to hide your cat’s litter box, which is always a good idea when you have guests over.

Maximize Closet Space

You’re not limited to the one rod and shelf that came standard in your closets.

Increase your closet space by hanging a second rod, adding a second layer of shelving, or using the back of the door to hang small items.

(Speaking of hanging stuff on doors, check out One Good Thing by Jillee’s ideas for back-of-door storage).

Keep Storage Areas Tidy with Containers

When you’re trying to store a lot in a small space, it doesn’t take long for your closets and cabinets to turn into a jumbled mess.

Keep things organized and easy to find with storage containers. You can buy storage containers to fit every space and purpose, from your pantry and kitchen to your sock drawer.

___

When you don’t have a lot of space to work with, you have to be smart and crafty about how you use it. Otherwise, your cozy home ends up looking cramped — and no one wants that!

Now that you’re armed with these space-savvy tips, you’re ready to start organizing your small home so it feels bigger than ever.

December 05, 2018 No comments

Nutrition in pregnancy

Definition of nutrition in pregnancy

Important of nutrition during pregnancy

Benefits for the baby:

Benefits for the mother:

What is the most important food for pregnant woman

What to drink during pregnancy

Which fruit is best during pregnancy

Is coffee good for a pregnant woman

Potential Risks:

Potential Benefits

Which protein is best for pregnancy

Animal Sources:

Plant-Based Sources

Tackle the Projects That Will Benefit Everyone First

Remove Clutter

Keep the Kitchen in Good Shape

Don’t Forget the Exterior

Choose Serene Colors

Think About Insulation

Create a Soothing, Safe Environment

Create Distinct Spaces

Layout Ideas

De-Clutter

Make the Most of What You’ve Got

Design Solutions Can Save Space

What’s That Smell?

No Crumbs Left Behind

Let There Be Light

Fake It 'Till You Make It

Give Everything a Place

Use Vertical Space

Add Built-In Storage

Buy Furniture That Does Double-Duty

Maximize Closet Space

Keep Storage Areas Tidy with Containers

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Follow Us

INTERESTING TOPICS

recent posts