LITTLE BITS “ Once you have kids you never pee by yourself again.” —Jennifer Garner
Vitamin D: Boosting Baby’s Brain A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that higher maternal vitamin D levels during early pregnancy may boost cognitive performance in children. Researchers found that adequate vitamin D intake could support fetal brain development, potentially enhancing memory, attention, and learning skills. While more research is needed to confirm long- term effects, the findings highlight the importance of monitor- ing and maintaining sufficient vitamin D during pregnancy for both maternal health and infant development. ajcn.nutrition.org
What’s Trending in Baby Names Baby name trends are evolving fast, shaped by social media, global cultures, and personal meaning. Parents are embracing Fast Fashion names: cre- ative blends that mix surname-names, international flair, and updated spellings, resulting in one-of-a-kind options like Banx or Scottlynn. The Global Americana trend brings names rooted in various cultures (Nahuatl, Scottish, etc.), reflecting heritage and transnational identity. “Baby Names, Literally” favors names that feel playful and youthful: nicknames, sing-song rhythms, and whimsical choices are on the rise. Meanwhile, the Country Rebrand reimagines rustic or regional names, adding diversity, non-English influences, and fresh cultural depth. nameberry.com
The Comfiest Birthing Positions Choosing the right birthing position can enhance comfort, aid in labor progression, and support optimal fetal positioning. Common positions include: Hands and Knees: Helps alleviate back pain and may improve baby’s oxygen levels. Sitting: Provides rest and can be used with fetal monitoring. Birthing Ball: Encourages hip movement and supports the back. Squatting: Opens the pelvis and utilizes gravity. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable position for your labor.
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Breastmilk Changes During the Day? A recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition examined how breast milk composition varies throughout the day. Researchers analyzed samples from 38 lactating parents and found that melatonin levels peaked in milk pumped at night, while cortisol levels were highest in morning milk. These fluctuations align with the body’s natural circadian rhythms and may support the develop- ment of infants’ sleep-wake cycles and immune systems. Experts emphasize that breast milk is not only a source of nutrition but also delivers time-sensitive biological cues. However, there’s no clinical data suggesting that these hor- monal variations significantly affect infant behavior or development. Therefore, while labeling pumped milk by time of day is optional, it is interesting to see the research. frontiersin.org
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