During pregnancy, many common foods and beverages can cause unanticipated problems for the expectant mother or her unborn baby. The American Pregnancy Association advises pregnant women to avoid undercooked meats, undercooked eggs, caffeine, soft cheeses, raw shellfish and many potentially hazardous seafood dishes.
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Melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone secreted in the human brain, is sold as an over-the-counter nutritional supplement and as a treatment for sleep disorders.
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During the first several months of life, many babies experience mild, transient changes in the pace and depth of breathing. According to Dr. William Sears, a renowned pediatrician, rapid breathing and panting are extremely common in newborns and only rarely a cause for concern.
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Most toddlers experience occasional, mild breathing problems. In most cases, breathing difficulties in toddlers are caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or viral bronchitis. Several home remedies can treat these problems with few side effects or risks.
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The richly fragrant bark of the cinnamon tree has been used for centuries as a culinary seasoning and botanical medicine.
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Ginger tea, made from the steeped roots of the ginger plant, has been used extensively throughout history for its many healing properties. Historically, herbalists have used ginger primarily as a treatment for common digestive complaints such as nausea, vomiting, motion sickness, intestinal pain, flatulence and colic.
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Babies should not drink cow milk until at least 12 months of age, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Newborns given unaltered cow's milk can develop serious illnesses, including diarrhea, anemia and electrolyte imbalance.
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Castor oil is an extremely powerful laxative, functioning as both a bowel irritant and a stool lubricant. Used primarily as a treatment for severe, persistent constipation, castor oil is notorious for causing serious and uncomfortable side effects.
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Fennel tea, a fragrant beverage made from the leaves or seeds of the fennel plant, has been used extensively in naturopathic medicine for hundreds of years. Historically, midwives and herbalists recommended the herb as a holistic intervention for disorders affecting the female reproductive system.
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Supplements containing probiotics--"friendly" bacteria that promote digestive health and immunity--are increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), sales of probiotics nearly tripled between 1994 and 2003.
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A wealth of controlled studies have found fish oil to be one of the most versatile, useful supplements for improving a person's overall state of health and well being. Unfortunately, many consumers stop taking fish oil supplements because of unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects like reflux and diarrhea. The U.S.
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According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, fish oil is among the most popular dietary supplements sold in the United States. These supplements are packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and are associated with few serious side effects. In fact, the U.S.
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The aromatic root of the turmeric plant has been used for centuries as a treatment for digestive disorders, inflammation, arthritis and infection. Many of turmeric's historic uses are not necessarily supported by scientific evidence.
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Several factors can influence the number of calories that a person requires each day. A person's height, weight, medical condition and level of activity directly influence his nutritional needs. Consult a dietitian for help determining your daily ideal calorie intake.
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The amino acid L-arginine performs several essential functions within the human body. Critical for the construction of living protein, arginine also acts as a natural precursor to nitric oxide, which expands blood vessels and improves circulation.
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L-arginine is an essential amino acid the body uses to make protein. Although L-arginine supplements are generally not necessary, they may provide some health benefits to people with certain medical conditions.
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Vitamin K is an essential micronutrient found in certain foods and nutritional supplements. Best known for its critical role in blood platelet function, this compound owes its common name to the German term, “Koagulationsvitamin.” Two basic forms of vitamin K -- K1 and K2 -- are used in medicine and human nutrition.
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Gallbladder disease is common in the United States and can occur regardless of diet. The gallbladder, a smal,l sac-like organ under the liver, stores bile and aids in the digestion of fats. Foods rich in soy and whey protein may affect the health or function of the gallbladder.
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A 200-lb. adult's calorie needs can vary tremendously depending on his medical condition, level of activity, height and gender. Consult a physician or dietitian for expert advice on managing your personal calorie needs.
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The calorie needs of a 100-lb. adult vary depending on the person's age, gender, health and level of physical activity. Consult a nutritionist or physician for help when determining the number of calories you need to maintain your weight.
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