It’s D lovely
Been hearing the buzz about vitamin D lately? Quick summary: You need more. Now, it turns out, your baby probably does, too. New vitamin D recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics are for infants to get 400 IU of vitamin D per day; new research finds that fewer than one-quarter of breastfed infants meet that standard. Formula-fed babies do get vitamin D from the formula, but researchers say maybe not enough. Talk to your pediatrician about an oral vitamin D supplement; read the full study.
Soap opera
New questions are bubbling up about a chemical used in soaps and sanitizers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking a fresh look at triclosan, an antibacterial chemical found in liquid soaps, sanitizers, toothpaste — even some toys. Use of triclosan is so widespread, it’s found in the urine of 75 percent of the population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But recent FDA studies raise concerns that the chemical may interfere with the endocrine system, which regulates the body’s growth and development. Triclosan has already been banned or restricted in many other countries, including several in Europe. Read more about this story.
Tri again
Fewer than one in four pregnant women are exercising enough, according to new research. Know this story? Many pregnant women keep up with the recommended 20–30 minutes of moderate exercise a day — for the first trimester or so. But as the baby grows, the motivation shrinks, and it’s now believed that only about 23 percent of pregnant women are moving enough. Why bother, when the couch and Cheez Doodles are calling you? To help ward off gestational diabetes, keep weight gain under control — and improve mommy’s mental health!
Babble on!
Like to ramble at your baby when no one’s around? A new study says: Keep it up! We’ve known for a while that talking to babies promotes healthy bonding. Now, scientist say, babies as young as 3 months old recognize words in a cognitive way — and this helps their brains develop and learn to form categories. Learn more about this study's findings.
Marriage 911
Is your mini-me making mincemeat of your marriage? Did your romance fizzle somewhere between the breast pump and the poopy pants? Do something! Now! An evening with John Gottman can help you recommit to making your marriage a priority. His talk, “Making Marriage Last,” is on May 4, 7–9 p.m. at Seattle’s Town Hall. Tickets will sell out! Get yours — quick!