Special Features

Are you looking for a birthing experience that nurtures your baby and body and celebrates your natural self?

A number of natural birthing centres have come up in several Indian cities to cater to a growing brigade of mums who want a mix of the traditional and the new age. M&B explores…

Natural birth is oft spoken about in mothering circles and likened to the Holy Grail. But when it comes to actually having a home or water birth, away from the hospital’s sights and smells, many women develop cold feet. Even so, there is a slow but sure growth in the number of women who are taking the plunge (sometimes literally, in the case of a water birth!) towards having a natural birthing experience. Such a woman wants to birth her baby in a way and in a place that makes her feel comfortable, connected to herself and her loved ones and at peace with her body and her baby. The recent rise in the number of natural birth centres aimed at reducing medical interventions and checking the C-section rates in India, is a sign of the changing times.

So, what exactly does a natural birthing centre offer? Well, fi rst and foremost, most of them swear by the Midwifery Model of Care which has been adopted by countries like the UK. This model is based on the fact that pregnancy and birth are normal life events. It includes monitoring the physical, psychological and social well-being of the mother throughout the childbearing cycle; providing the mother with individualised education, counselling, and prenatal care, continuous hands-on assistance during labour and delivery, and postpartum support; minimising technological interventions and; identifying and referring women who require obstetrical attention. The application of this model has been proven to reduce the incidence of birth injury, trauma, and Caesarean section. To ensure that they give a woman support in all these ways, these centres have specially trained staff, beautifully  esigned birthing spaces, and, most of all, a very positive and patient attitude. Think doulas and  midwives, birthing stools and pools, pleasantly appointed rooms with music and fragrances that help you have the best birthing experience possible. Of course, the good birthing centres also recommend that you consider practical requirements such as ensuring that a hospital or medical centre is in the vicinity, easily reachable in about three minutes. They say that it may be wise to register with a regular gynaecologist in advance so that in the case of an emergency, the doctor will not refuse care.

What started as a drop in the ocean at Goa – the now-defunct, first-of-its-kind Birthing Centre in Assagao which was run by German midwife Corrina and her husband – has now gained momentum as a move towards treating birthing as a healthy natural process and the woman as a mother, not a patient. Here are some specialised birthing centres in India that are doing a wonderful job with making birthing a natural process that looks after the well-being of mother and baby…

BE A GODDESS
WHAT: BIRTHING SANCTUARY
WHERE: Salcete, Goa
WHO: Kasia Wierzbicka, a doula, spiritual midwife and Hypnobirthing practitioner, originally from Poland, is the woman behind The Birthing Sanctuary. She has been supporting women in achieving their natural pregnancies and births since 2006. Her practice is an integrated approach merging the wisdom of East and West and her goal is to raise the collective consciousness through conscious birth.
HOW: According to Kasia, her Birthing Sanctuary is a sacred space created for pregnant women, their partners and families to prepare themselves to receive their fruit of love and to transform themselves into more aware parents and beings. What can you expect? A beautiful property by the river, with specially decorated rooms designed for natural birth with a water birth option. The Sanctuary also has a holistic healing centre where they conduct their workshops. You will have the opportunity to fully celebrate your pregnancy through laughter, dance, music, arts, being with nature and like-minded people, and indulging in playful games on land and water. You can be part of women’s circles, swim with dolphins in the sea in the months of November-March, relax and unwind, learn how to heal your own birth trauma, to trust your body completely on the journey of natural pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding, become more aware of your inner self, and take charge of your life, to improve your relationship with the father of your baby, to create your own birthing experience, and give birth in water, nature, safety and love along with your partner, midwife and birth support person of your choice. Besides, you can meditate, do yoga, take massages and swimming classes, watch inspirational movies and have easy access to books, DVDs and other material on natural pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and parenting. You can also use their health café and boutique. Since fathers are honoured and welcomed here too, your husband can be part of birth preparation and the birth itself, take Watsu (water Shiatsu session), take massage, and read, participate in workshops/playshops, meet like-minded dads, play music around a fi re, watch inspirational movies on the projector, meditate and do yoga, etc.
CONTACT: House number 64, Dongorim, Nuvem, Salcete, Goa 403713. Tel: +91 9833244823; Website: birthingsanctuary.com

SECURE SPACE
WHAT: THE HEALTHY MOTHER SANCTUM NATURAL BIRTH CENTRE
WHERE: Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
WHO: Director Dr Vijaya Krishnan is a Lamaze Certifi ed Childbirth Educator and the only Indian to be a Fellow of the Academy of Certifi ed Childbirth Educators (FACCE). She is committed to spreading the message of safe, healthy and empowering normal birth to expecting mothers and their families. Her husband, Krishnan Sakotai, who is CEO of Healthy Mother, supports her endeavours whole-heartedly.
HOW: With 200 successful natural births at last count and a very high normal birth rate of 85 per cent as well as successful Vaginal Births After C-Sections (VBACs), they are certainly well on their way to countering the ‘C-section mentality’. Founded in 2008, Healthy Mother is one of the pioneers in bringing the Scientifi c Midwifery Model of Care to India. Here, you will receive holistic, individualised, unlimited and empathetic care and freedom to labour on your own terms without having to submit to hospital or doctor pressures to undergo unnecessary interventions like C-sections. The cosy-looking Sanctum’s birth centre, with cheery curtains, plants, a birthing ball and a hi-tech hydrotherapy room, is equipped with emergency back-up infrastructure and staff should the need arise, giving mothers the best of all worlds. Their expertise includes water births, helping high-risk mothers (such as those with Gestational diabetes, Hypertension) try for normal delivery. Healthy Mother has been recognised as being one of only nine birth centres across the world to follow Mother-Baby friendly birth practices by the International MotherBaby Childbirth Initiative (IMBCI). They also offer extended breastfeeding support and are also training Lamaze Childbirth Educators in order to increase the prevalence of birth practices which are Mother-Baby friendly, evidencebased, and recommended by the World Health Organisation.
CONTACT: #303, Plot No. 57, Kalyan Nagar 1st Phase, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh 500038. Tel: +91 7893068666; +91 9704368666; Website: www.healthymother.com

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WHAT: BIRTH VILLAGE NATURAL BIRTHING CENTRE
WHERE: Kochi, Kerala
WHO: Director Priyanka Idicula is a Lamaze Certifi ed Childbirth Educator who has trained extensively in prenatal and postnatal care and childbirth education in the United States. Red Miller, also a Director of Birth Village, has been supporting women and families through birth for more than a decade in six different countries.
HOW: The most important thing that the Birth Village does is offer you emotional and mental support. They answer ALL your questions at the prenatal stage and well beyond. A woman is bound to feel at ease in this atmosphere of trust and communication. And then there’s the look and feel of the place itself. Think bright colours, pretty interiors and an atmosphere of absolute calm. Not quite what you’d expect for a birthing space after watching Hindi fi lms, right?! But that’s exactly what this place offers. A space where you will feel at home, where you can share your birthing experience with a supportive doula or midwife as well as your family or a close friend. You can choose from a natural birth in water, lotus birthing, and enjoy the care they lavish on you from pregnancy to post-partum.
CONTACT: 52 Maplachery Rd, Vytilla, Kochi, Kerala 682019. Tel: +91 4844043189; Website: www.birthvillage.in

TRADITIONAL MEETS TECH
WHAT: DAIMAA’S NATURAL BIRTH AND WELLNESS CENTRE
WHERE: Mumbai, Maharashtra
WHO: Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Veda Simons is Medical Director of this facility. She is driven by the motto, ‘The Dignity To Choose The Way You Wish To Birth’. Her husband, Pravin Simons, is CEO and ably and actively supports her in her vision.

HOW: The ISO-certifi ed Daimaa’s presents a long list of services that include natural birthing, water birthing, HynoBirthing, orgasmic birthing, lotus birthing, Lamaze classes, yoga classes, nutritional guidance, etc. Their biggest USP is that they operate within a full-fl edged maternity hospital (Dr Sherekar’s Hospital, which was started by Dr Veda’s mum, also a gynaecologist) and yet support natural births. All their rooms are deluxe suites with cheerful prints on the blinds, wall art, fully motorised beds, wardrobes, split A/Cs, fl at screen LCD TVs, music systems and 24×7 Internet connectivity. These suites are designed with the woman in mind and the atmosphere is unlike any hospital with a large open terrace with plenty of greenery. They even provide midwifery training to young women and midwifery services that include services of an internationally-qualifi ed midwife including antenatal home visits every month for up to six months, fortnightly till the eighth month and every week during the ninth month. You will be checked by a gynaecologist if any parameters that may hinder the birth are noticed. Postnatal visits are also included.
CONTACT: 1st Floor, Anne’s Apartment, Kalina-Kurla Road, Santacruz (E), Mumbai, Maharashtra 400029. Tel.: +91 2226654444; Website: www.drsherekarshospital.com

BEST PRACTICES
Here are six care practices based on the Midwifery Model of Care that these birthing centres advocate…
* Labour begins on its own
* Freedom of movement throughout labour
* Continuous labour support
* No routine interventions
* Spontaneous pushing in upright or gravity-neutral position
* No separation of mother and baby after birth with unlimited opportunities for breastfeeding

COMING UP…
Even the bigger hospital chains are waking up to this change in what mums need. Fortis Healthcare at Gurgaon now has a section called Mamma Mia, which offers prenatal counselling, yoga, Lamaze and breastfeeding support in a programme which has been specifi cally developed for them by Lamaze, USA, and Oeuf, College of Holistic Reproductive Health, UK. Their professionals have been certifi ed by Lamaze International, Breastfeeding Promotional Network of India, Childbirth International and UNICEF. And, starting this month, they are also equipped to handle water births. With childbirth educators and doulas such as Anika Puri and Shruti Saxena on board, they are defi nitely doing it right. Contact: Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Sector 44 (Opposite HUDA City Centre Metro Station), Gurgaon, Haryana 122002. Tel: +91 1244386666. Website: www.fortishealthcare.com/india/gurgaon/

Words Priya Pathiyan

 

 

Seema Hingorrany, clinical psychologist and child expert, is releasing her book, Beating the Blues: A Complete Guide to Overcoming Depression, this month.

M&B got her to share some insights that will help you spot the signs of depression in your tot in time…

HOW COMMON, IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, IS THE INCIDENCE OF DEPRESSION AMONG KIDS IN INDIA?

Depression is very commonly seen in kids these days in India, more so because of the awareness that parents have about depression and other associated disorders. Say a decade ago, we never had cases of childhood depression, but now, I see atleast three to four cases of child depression or emotional disturbances every day. I have treated children as young as two and three years for this.

WHAT, ACCORDING TO YOU, ARE THE REASONS FOR THIS INCREASING INCIDENCE OF DEPRESSION AMONGST KIDS?
Reasons for depression vary from separation of the parents, leading to attachment issues with parents, divorce, serious emotional crisis in the child’s life, neglect, sexual or physical abuse, death of a loved one or anxiety stemming from unrealistic expectation from family members. Genetic background or chemical disturbance can also make some children prone to depression. It is also often seen in consonance with severe medical problems like asthma, head injury, juvenile diabetes and epilepsy. It is likely that a child with learning disability, hyperactivity, anxiety and autism will suffer from depression. Also, if one of the parents is suffering from depression, this can cause depression in the child. Too much information over-loading in the brain due to over-exposure, for example, too much time online and on gadgets can also lead to severe emotional disturbances. When you’re

COULD YOU PLEASE GIVE US A CHECKLIST OF SYMPTOMS THAT PARENTS CAN WATCH OUT FOR IN THEIR OWN CHILDREN?
* Frequent bouts of crying spells which is very often
* Feeling of helplessness and hopelessness
* Frequent (almost daily) fatigue and loss of energy
* Missed school or drop in school performance
* Lack of concentration in school and other activities
* Sudden academic decline
* Talking about fear of the unknown or the dark
* Irritability, temper tantrums, getting easily agitated
* Repeated physical complaints without medical cause (headache, stomachache,etc)
* Signifi cant increase or decrease in appetite
* Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities
* Withdrawal from friends
* Suicidal thoughts, feeling or selfharming behaviour
Exhibiting just one symptom cannot be classifi ed as childhood depression. But if you spot more than six symptoms, and the symptoms of depression in your child have lasted for at least two weeks, it is important to seek help.

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IS SUCH DEPRESSION CURABLE? WHAT ARE THE MEASURES THAT PARENTS MUST TAKE?
Depression is curable. Children who manifest symptoms of depression should be referred to and evaluated by a professional and qualifi ed psychologist. It must be considered that inadequately treated childhood depression raises risk of recurrent episodes of depression throughout life. Treatment differs according to the age of the child. With younger children, play therapy work the best, as children can communicate and express themselves openly to the therapist via the play way method. Therapy allows children to internalise this nurturing message and learn healthy self-care skills that carry into adulthood. It is always a privilege to be alongside children in the therapy room while they play out their innermost diffi culties, things that could not be put into words even perhaps by adults, and to support them in the process of healing from depression. It is thrilling when the parents tell me, “Yes, he is sleeping better,” or, “She is chirpier than before, and she can connect much more”. For older children and adolescents, cognitive therapy helps, as it focuses on changing the negative perceptions into positive self-talk. Medication may be also necessary, depending upon the nature of the case. Family therapy may be required if the root cause of the problem lies somewhere in the family.

ARE THERE ANY LIFESTYLE CHANGES THAT ARE REQUIRED TO PREVENT DEPRESSION FROM AFFECTING YOUNG CHILDREN?
In my clinical observation and experience in this fi eld, I feel that diet plays a very important role in combating depression in children. I usually also sometimes play the role of a dietitian doling out advice on how parents should make children eat breakfast and feed them healthy food. Other resources which need to be developed is giving children a healthy and safe environment, removing the volatile atmosphere from home, if any. Also, inculcating a positive attitude in the child by focusing on positive things about the environment and the people around. You should encourage your child’s friends to come home for spending time or pyjama parties. You must keep your marital discord in the bedroom, your child should not be privy to it. Also, make sure that he indulges in a lot of outdoor activities and activity such as swimming or sports are incorporated into the child’s current lifestyle.

HOW DID YOUR BOOK ON THIS SUBJECT COME ABOUT?
Depression is not a sign of personal flaw, it is not something you can just snap out of, it is not something to be ashamed of, it is treatable and everyone has a right to live in a healthy state of mind. And that is what I want to offer to my readers through this book. From understanding what it really means, its signs, causes, symptoms, to fi nding ways of getting cured, I will talk about it all. The book has examples, statistics, case studies, and workbooks that I use for my clients as well as therapies for treatment. Depression affects so many people that it is often referred to as the ‘common cold’ of mental illness. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has predicted that by 2020, depression will be the second biggest health problem worldwide and the leading cause of disability and death, second only to heart disease. I think it’s the right time for us to have a book on the subject, so that we get our facts clear. I have used my vast experience over the years as a clinical psychologist, play therapist and trauma expert to write this user-friendly and extremely practical book with the aim of helping depression sufferers. I believe it is the right time to come out with such a book in India where people have slowly started recognising that depression is a condition that cannot be treated lightly as it can go on to have serious life-threatening repercussions if left neglected, especially in children. My research includes all my collection of drawings done by children pre- and posttreatment in the therapy room. Also, my clinical observation as an expert, and track of all the symptoms which have been cured after the treatment plan. I realised that parents didn’t even know what childhood depression is. Also, many were not aware that the child is chronically depressed due to sexual abuse in the family. In my experience as a psychologist, many things surprisingly came up and were unfolded during the processing of the mind via these structured therapies. It was thus important to give psycho-education to parents and teachers on how to deal with childhood depression and take timely help if need be. The book is a compilation of all my experiences which will surely help parents deal with their own depression as well as that of their child. M&B

Words Priya Pathiyan

In a child’s universe, a visit to Disney World is the epitome of excitement. Where else can all his favourite characters come to life? M&B

flies you on a magic carpet to Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA, to see the 25,000- acre plus Walt Disney World, the biggest and best one in, well, the world…

Walt Disney World, the world’s most visited entertainment destination, is literally a world in itself. Built on the marshy reaches of Florida on the East Coast of the USA, it has grown from strength to strength since the Disney ‘imagineers’ fi rst created magic here in 1971. It is now home to four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT centre, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios in chronological order), two water parks, 24 themed Disney resorts, two spas and fitness centers, fi ve golf courses, and other recreational and entertainment venues. Here’s your own VIP tour of the entire area, specially custom-designed to suit your tot’s tastes…

Tot Tip:
The Baby Care Centre at Magic Kingdom is next to The Crystal Palace, while you can rent a stroller from under the Main Street Train Station.

MAGIC KINGDOM
This is the one place that ALL the little ones just HAVE to visit. How can they not, when it has everything from Mickey Mouse in Sorcerer’s Apprentice robes outside to Cinderella’s Castle to fabulous daily parades that feature all the familiar Disney characters? In fact, the June 2011 AECOM Theme Park Attendance report for the year of 2010, said that Magic Kingdom, with 16.97 million visits per year, is the number one theme park worldwide!

SEE: The Magic Kingdom is divided into seven themed areas arranged in a circular, clockwise layout centered around Cinderella’s Castle.

Main Street, USA: As you enter the park, you are immediately on Main Street, USA. This is like a slice of typical American life, but peppered with a humongous dash of Disney. Your little one can have the time of her life, doing meets and greets with Mickey Mouse and all her favourite princesses at the Town Square Theatre. You can also do a lot of shopping here. From here, if you go in a clockwise direction, you can visit the remaining themed areas of Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, Mickey’s Toontown Fair, and Tomorrowland. Each has its own special attractions, eateries and gift shops, all fi tting perfectly into the theme.

Adventureland: Check out the exciting Pirates of the Carribean boat ride with Captain Jack Sparrow or climb the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House in Adventureland. Younger tots will be fascinated by Tinkerbell’s Magical Nook where all the Disney fairies live.

Frontierland: Older kids will love Frontierland, with its risky ride in Brer Bear’s dangerous world on Splash Mountain and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Liberty Square: The most hauntingly beautiful ride is the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square, where the ghosts, though scary for little ones, are actually really endearingly funny for older revellers.

Fantasyland: This is one of the most popular places in all of Disney World. Where else but at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique can a girl get to get all dressed up as a Disney princess and then have a fancy meal with the princesses at Cinderella’s Royal Table? There are also several lovely ‘dark rides’, where you get into a little car and get whisked away into a story-telling adventure. These are perfect for young kids, with themes such as the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Then there’s a fabulous carousel, spinning teacup ride called (what else?) the Mad Tea Party, and a Fairytale Garden where you can meet Rapunzel. The 3D show called Mickey’s Philharmagic is truly fun. We thought that the newest ride, a new improved Dumbo the Flying Elephant which will soon have a mirror image ride next to it, is a great fi rst ride, which you can enjoy along with your little one.

Tomorrowland: This one has a futuristic theme and has a lot of attractions for the older child. Space M untain is an indoor roller-coaster and, in our opinion, one of the scariest rides we’ve ever experienced. Kids can enjoy the Astro Orbiter, which is a lot tamer than Space Mountain! EAT: Burgers, sandwiches and salads at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, Waffle Sandwiches at Sleepy Hollow, and softserve ice-cream at the Sunshine Tree Terrace.

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Tot Tip:
Make sure you get a map of the park you’re in and mark out all the attractions that you want to experience. A little bit of planning will ensure that you don’t miss out on anything and don’t end up with a tired and cranky child on your hands either!

BREAKING NEWS!
Deep in the depths of Magic Kingdom park lies a legendary world – New Fantasyland – that’s been long hidden from our view. As story has it, this is a place where mermaids sing, beauties tell tales, beasts roar and elephants fl y. Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort, recently announced the new additions to Fantasyland and the experiences guests will see when the expansion opens on December 6, 2012. While the themed area named Storybook Circus is already open and welcoming young guests to partake of its rides (The Barnstormer, a spiralling stunt plane adventure; the twin Dumbo The Flying Elephant, and the Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station, a circus-themed water play area), the Enchanted Forest, a lush landscape with roaring waterfalls and royal castles, will combine the traditional Disney Meet & Greets with characters and its spectacular shows to present Enchanted Tales with Belle. This will be a one-of-its-kind storytelling experience where the audience helps re-tell the story of Beauty and the Beast with Belle, and the guests get to play some of the characters’ parts! Another exciting attraction called Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid will also open on December 6. Besides these, you can look forward to attractions such as the Princess Fairytale Hall and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train which will come up in 2013 and 2014 respectively.

EPCOT
Epcot, the second of the four parks, opened in 1982. It’s short for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, which was Walt Disney’s vision for a futuristic planned city, with actual citizens living actual dayto-day lives. Today, it’s more like a permanent World’s Fair, dedicated to the celebration of human achievement, namely technological innovation and international culture. Divided into two sections – Future World and World Culture – and featuring annual exhibitions like the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival and the the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, this hourglass-shaped park holds more interest for adults than tiny tots. Future World consists of a variety of pavilions that explore innovative aspects and applications of technology which might be hard for a young child to understand and appreciate.

SEE: But we do think that the geodesic sphere that is its symbol, and the various countries and landmarks of the world showcased here, may be of interest to older kids.

EAT: We’re still waiting for an Indian theme attraction and restaurant here, but meanwhile, we think you’d enjoy a glimpse at world cuisine, from the pricey wood-fi red Italian pizza at Via Napoli to the more affordable Mexican at Cantina San Angel.

Tot Tip:
Grab a Times Guide from shops and guide booths anywhere in Walt Disney World to get the day’s timings for Character Meet & Greets and Parade schedules so you and your littleone can get in position early.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
Hollywood Studios, which opened in 1989, is wholly dedicated to show business. While a lot of the best attractions are for older revellers (the Rock’n’RollerCoaster Starring Aerosmith, the Indian Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, the Lights Motors Action Extreme Stunt Show, the 3D Star Tours adventures, the Great Movie Ride, the Studio Backlot Tour, the American Idol Experience, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, etc), there are a few that the younger lot will love.

SEE: Kids go bananas for the live on-stage shows – from Disney Junior to Voyage of the Little Mermaid to Beauty and the Beast to the Muppet*Vision 3D show. Then there’s the larger than life playground that’s called the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure, and a 4D game-playing adventure called the Toy Story Midway Mania.

EAT: The Disney Junior Play’n’Dine at Hollywood’n’Vine lets the tots have fun with their favourite Disney Junior characters and enjoy a family buffet too!

Tot Tip:
As a special treat for your little one, you can made an advance reservation for a Character Meal at specifi c venues in each park, where one or more of the beautiful Disney princesses and other assorted characters come and meet the kids at the meal, pose for photographs and autographs and sometimes even present the kids with special gifts.

ANIMAL KINGDOM
If you thought Disney was just about cartoon characters, think again. This park, which opened most recently (in 1998) is all about an all-natural experience centred around animals, birds and reptiles. Even the Oasis at the entrance has many exotic species.

SEE: Start with the 145-foot tall Tree of Life, with 325 different animals carved into its bark, which is the iconic centrepiece for the Animal Kingdom. It’s set bang in the middle of Discovery Island, which has several walking trails where you can see creatures like Galapagos tortoises, African crested porcupines lemurs and cotton-top tamarins. Your kid will enjoy the eightminute 3D movie and multi-media show called It’s Tough to be a Bug! featuring Flik, everybody’s favourite ant, and his
grasshopper friend, Hopper, from the Disney·Pixar fi lm A Bug’s Life, along with a supporting cast of insects and arachnids who provide a surprising look into the animal kingdom. Next, catch a show of the Festival of the Lion King in the Camp Minnie-Mickey section.Your tot will have a blast, clapping and stomping to this highenergy tribal celebration which has all her fave characters from the Disney film. Young kids love dinosaurs, so it might be tough for you to drag your little darling away from DinoLand USA, which is a 100 per cent dinosaur-themed park! Younger kids love scarabbling through The Boneyard, a play maze where kids can dig up mammoth bones.

EAT: Pizza at Pizzafari and corn dogs at the Beastly Kiosk.

Tot Tip:
Buy a Fast Pass at the ticket counter of any park you’re visiting to avoid waiting in long queues for your favourite rides. This allows you to clock in and get a fi xed time that you can come back for your turn at.

WHERE TO STAY
Of the 33 resorts and hotels on the Walt Disney World property, 24 are owned and operated by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. They say that if you want to enjoy the Disney experience from start to finish, a Disney resort should be your choice. Guests with a Disney Resort reservation arriving at Orlando International Airport can be transported to their resort from the airport using the complimentary Disney Magical Express service, and have their bags picked up and transported for them. This is just the start of a fantastic Disney vacay! I was at the Disney Yacht Club Resort, close to the lake and the accompanying Board Walk. Each resort, like the parks, has its own theme. This ensures that every time you visit Disney World, you can have a completely unique living experience too. From luxury villas in African-style lodges to Polynesianthemed hotels to the value stays in All-Star themes such as Music, Sports or Movies, there’s something on offer for every wishlist and wallet.

JUST LAUNCHED…
Disney’s newest Art of Animation Resort is designed with families in mind. It features four of Disney’s popular character themes: Cars, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid. Much like the other Disney Value Resorts, giant versions of various items are built around the hotel on each of the 10 wings, such as a 35-foot model of King Triton. In total, there are 1,984 rooms. 1,120 of them are family suites capable of housing up to six people, featuring living rooms and bedrooms. The Finding Nemo section of the resort,w hich opened in May this year, is themed with the ocean setting featured in the fi lm, with underwater plant and animal decorations throughout the buildings. The Cars section of the resort, which opened in June this year, is themed like the Cozy Cone Motel that was featured in the fi lm. Resort buildings are themed with the movie’s characters, including Lightning McQueen, Sally, Mater, and Luigi and Guido. The Lion King section of the resort features a ‘natural’ setting and opened in August. Last to open (in September) was the Little Mermaid section with 600 cutout objects on resort balconies.

GETTING AROUND
If you’re staying at a Disney resort, getting around is really as simple as getting out of your hotel and heading to the right bus or mono-rail stop and waiting for your ride. A fl eet of Disney-operated buses, branded Disney Transport, is complimentary for guests. The Walt Disney World Monorail System also provides transportation at Walt Disney World. This operates on three routes that interconnect at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), adjacent to the Magic Kingdom’s parking lot. One line provides an express non-stop link from the TTC to the Magic Kingdom, while a second line provides a link from the TTC to Epcot. The third line links the TTC and the Magic Kingdom to the Contemporary, Polynesian,and Grand Floridian resorts. Disney Transport also operates a fl eet of watercraft, ranging in size from water taxis up to the ferries that connect the Magic Kingdom to the TTC. You usually have to wait for a transportation vehicle for only about 20 minutes. All the transport starts early in the morning (an hour before the parks open) and goes on until about an hour after the parks close. You also have the option of renting a car which could help save you some time if you want to see Disney World in a hurry. But who wants to rush through the Happiest Place in the World, right? M&B

Tot Tip:
You can use the ferry between some resorts and parks. It’s like a novel ride in itself and will keep your excited tot pepped until you get to your chosen destination.

Words & Visuals Priya Pathiyan

Home is the safest environment we can provide our children with. But sometimes, due to lack of awareness, our home can expose our children to environmental hazards;

the least likely suspect being the paint we use to decorate our home. M&B investigates…

COLOUR CONSCIOUS
Festivals and the arrival of a newborn in the family call for a change in our surrounding. It is often noticed that families want to change the look and feel of their homes to welcome the new arrival. While we spend good amount of time selecting colour shades for indi-vidual rooms, we are most concerned about getting the baby’s room perfect.

Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to paints can cause health hazards for adults and children alike. Exposure to lead, a toxic ingredient in paint is known to cause damage to the brain and ner-vous system, behaviour and learning problems, such as hyperactivity, slowed growth, anemia, hearing problems and headaches in children. A research study conducted by New Delhi based environmental advocacy organisation Toxics Link and International POPs Elimina-tion Network has concluded that lead paint is a signi? cant source of lead poisoning.

Rajeev Betne, senior programme coordinator at Toxics Link explains, “Lead (Pb) is the most toxic ingredient the paints could have. Lead is a neurotoxin and it has been proved that there is no safe lead level in human blood/ body. From reduced IQ levels to internal organ failure could happen due to it. Children are more susceptible. Lead could come out of the household paint coatings during direct contact, refurbishment or event through paint dust.” However, in terms of bringing all paint manufactures under the purview of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to regulate and monitor the levels of toxic substances and ensure chemical safety is still a distant goal.

“Paints are chemicals and they could in? ict health. However, water based and lead free is considered safest. While there are standards on VOCs in different products, the enforcement of standards is not strict, majorly because BIS standards are largely non-mandatory,” he says. Betne also points to other toxic materials that can endanger health. “Besides lead, Volatile Organic Compounds are other toxic compounds often used in paints – for better performance and quick drying. They are organic compounds (having carbon in their mo-lecular structure) having the potential to quickly evaporate at even room temperature and remain in the form of vapour for an extended period of time,” he says.

TOXIC ELIMINATION
The permissible level of VOC is 50 grams per litre. However, it has been found that certain paint manufactures are not following these standards. The VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short – and long term adverse health effects. It could range from normal irritation in the external organs to damaging internal organs such as the respiratory impairment, damage to liver and nervous system. Some are known to cause cancers. Children, espe-cially up to age six, are usually much more susceptible to toxins than adults. Staying in a freshly painted room or being present while the room is being painted with no proper ventilation can result in exposure to VOC. The pungent odour can cause re-spiratory problems, dif? culty in breathing, bronchial asthma and irritation to the eyes.

The reason for us being unaware of these toxins invading our home is due to lack of information. As Rajeev states, it’s a collective failure, especially in this part of the world. “There is a lack of proper understanding of the issue of chemicals and health amongst a large number of stake-holders, including the manufacturer and the policy makers. Hence there are several rea-sons: lack of appropriate information about the chemical toxicity, absence of adequate public information, lack of good regulation and implementation of them etc. And espe-cially in this part of the world, we are not a health conscious society,” he opines.

 

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Sukhpreet Singh, general manager, market-ing and sales at Kansai Nerolac, however, believes that someone needs to address this issue. “Fortunately, as a brand, our thought and the company’s vision centres around the idea that it’s not about the beauti? cation of the walls but about better and healthy living. So, we actually were the ? rst company to talk about lead free paint. Though in our country, the government is not stipulating any regulation, we have taken steps to provide safe and healthy products to our consumers. What’s more, we have also eliminated the use of other heavy metals like arsenic, chromium and mercury. The ? nal and next logical step was to reduce VOC levels,” he af? rms.

Singh states, “It takes technical experts to ? nd substitutes to eliminate the use of toxins. Since about one and a half years, we are running all our advertising campaigns to encourage use of safe and healthier paint. We provide water based decorative paints which are healthier products as they contain zero VOC. All paint manufacturers should take responsible steps. There doesn’t have to be a regulation in place for them to act,” he insists.

Jotun India is another leading paint manu-facturer that promotes use of low VOC paints. Percy Jijina, Director – Decorative, Jotun India adds, “The global paint and coatings industry, in association with other environmental bodies, are doing their bit to promote a sustainable and greener environ-ment and have also awakened to the need for addressing health issues pertaining to toxic chemicals used in paint products. This awareness is being spread in India slowly and gradually, but is still at a very nascent stage. Eco-friendly paints have been gaining a lot of signi? cance world over as today’s consumers understand most components used in non-eco-friendly paints can cause health hazards. Paint companies in the country have to understand the signi? -cance of abiding with green norms with a bid to deliver eco-friendly products that are sustainable and have invested largely in research and development of the same. Regulatory reforms by environmental bod-ies, in association with the government, pertaining to low-VOC products will help promote low or zero VOC products and educate consumers,” he assures.

So dear mamma, next time you decide to decorate your home, know what harm the colour can do to you and your baby. Make sure that along with the right colour, you choose the right paint too! M&B

TAKE PREVENTIVE STEPS TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF YOUR HOME AND LOVED ONES:
• Read the logo of the paint.
• Lead free and low VOC paints are the best.
• Keep yourself and children away from the spot of refurbishment, painting.
• Go inside only when the coatings are dry.
• Traditional water based coatings are much safer.
• Asian Paints, Nerolac, ICI Dulux are lead free. They claim that VOC has been reduced in their products, especially waterbased ones. Paint manufacturing company – Shalimar paints are soon going to launch a low VOC range of paints.

Words: Poornima Nair Iyer

 

The Health Writers’ Workshop, organised by the HEAL Foundation, in Pune, concluded one thing without doubt – that milk is the unsung hero of the food chain! However,

there are many factors and variables that determine that the goodness of milk remains intact. What are these? M&B gives you the low-down…

Milk is nature’s gift to life. All mammals, without exception, feed on mother’s milk as soon as they are born. And because humans are a more evolved species – we have the capacity for R&D – we have been able to process the idea that milk is a wholesome food for all ages. That’s why traditionally, milk is the single most popular food that mothers have struggled to push down their toddlers’ throats in good measure. And rightfully so, perhaps.

NUTRITIVE VALUE
Dr Sanjeev Bagai, Padmashree and BC Roy National Award winner, is an eminent paediatrician and is presently serving as the CEO & Dean of Radiant Life Care Pvt Ltd, Delhi, and CMD, Nephron Clinics & EdMed Health Care Pvt Ltd. “How we care for children today will impact their well-being in adulthood. Many of the insults leading to disease in later life begin in the paediatric age-group,” feels Dr Bagai. Therefore, it is very important to ensure good nutrition from an early age. Undoubtedly, all experts agree that mother’s milk is the best nutrition that a child can have till six months of age. But as soon as weaning begins at six months, it becomes critical to watch the quality of food that your child eats. Milk, for one, should form a major portion of the baby’s diet, say many doctors.

MILK IS A SOURCE OF:
Calcium – for healthy bones and teethPhosphorous – for energy releaseMagnesium – for muscle functionProtein – for growth and repairVitamin B12 – for production of healthy cells
Vitamin A – for good eyesight and immune function
Zinc – for immune function
Ribofl avin – for healthy skin
Folate – for production of healthy cells
Vitamin C – for formation of healthy connective tissues.
Iodine – for regulation of the body’s rate of metabolism (how quickly the body burns energy and the rate of growth)

Dr Bagai states, “One glass of milk alone can make a contribution to the daily recommended intake of many important nutrients for children.” He adds that Calcium cannot be made by the body so the dairy foods (milk, cheese, etc) that children eat and drink every day are important. “Most children under ? ve years get 70 per cent of their calcium from milk, 20 per cent from milk products such as cheese, yoghurt, custard, and 10 per cent from breakfast cereals,” he reveals.

IMPORTANCE OF GOOD QUALITY MILK
According to Dr Bagai, “The growing years, ie, birth till six years, are fundamentally important years of life and nutrition plays a major role in this. This is the foundation that shapes a child’s future health, happiness, growth, development and learning achievement at school, in the family and community, and in life in general. Thus, assurance of quality nutrition, especially in those foods which form the base of their diet, like milk, is very important.”

Dr Jagmeet Madan, principal and professor of the Department of Food & Nutrition at SVT College of Home Science, SNDT Women’s University (Juhu), Mumbai, goes a step further when she says, “Nourishing an expectant mother is equally important for a healthy upcoming generation.” She feels that the consumption of good quality milk should begin even before a child is conceived, should continue through pregnancy and till the lactation phase, for a child to reap full bene? t of the miracle food!

“Healthy nutrition during childhood is the foundation for a healthy body. It not only reinforces healthy eating habits but also prevents under-nutrition and over-nutrition. In a cross-sectional study on preschool children, it was found that under-nutrition persisting through childhood may have signi? cant effects on cognitive development, school achievement, and later health,” she suggests, adding that obesity, even in young children, confers increased risk of short and longer term morbidity and is particularly strongly associated with development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes later in life.

She shares the ? ndings of a study on nutritional bone disease in the Indian population, published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research:
*  Under-nutrition in childhood leads to  a skeletal de? cit that cannot be repaired during adolescent life.
* During growth, an adequate supply of calories, protein, mineral and vitamin D is a prerequisite for the attainment of peak bone mass.
*  Osteopaenia or osteoporosis was the uniform observation in skeletal radiographs of 1,300 protein-energy malnourished children

Dr Madan reiterates, however, that for a would-be mother as well as for the child, the quality of nutrients are as important as the quantity. “The completeness of proteins is important so as to be assimilated into the body. The quality of fats is important. They have to be Omega 3 monosaturated fats, which milk contains. Moreover, milk contains lactose – exclusive milk sugar, which is a good carb that helps in the absorption of calcium. Then, there are vitamins, folic acid and other essential minerals. In a nutshell, if I am looking at nutrient density in a de? ned quantity, milk is the best choice,” she stresses.

When asked what are the attributes of good quality milk, Dr Madan goes on to list the following:
* Safe to drink
* Retains all nutrients
* Free from contamination and adulteration
* Escapes the practice of boiling which causes loss of nutrients
* Does not require maintenance of cold chain thus reducing the chances of spoilage

 

 

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WHAT COMPROMISES MILK QUALITY?
1. Adulteration
Dr Bagai explains that high quality milk needs to be pure. “Procurement from animal to ingestion is very important. Milk in the open form, no matter how well you know the source, is always viable to contamination,” he avers. He goes on to state that the quality of milk can only be secure if it is in packed form. When milk is adulterated, diluted or tampered with in any way, it causes reactions like gastroenteritis. This, reveals Dr Bagai, is often linked to milk tolerance or allergy, called lactose intolerance. “Actually, lactose intolerance is very rare. Milk is by far, a safe and secure nutritive source only compromised by improper handling.”

2. Boiling practices
According to Dr Bagai, most Indian women feel that boiling milk kills germs. Many feel the need to boil more than once to attain better thickness and nutrition in the form of milk cream. Nothing can be further from the truth than this. Boiling milk beyond a certain temperature and for longer duration actually kills its nutritive value. The ideal temperature to heat milk would be at 100 degrees for two minutes. Reheating is not required unless you want to drink it warm. Even then, avoid boiling. Dr Madan suggests cooling milk instantly after boiling to retain its nutritive value. “Keep the milk in a plate of cold water, or keep under a fan, cool immediately and then put in the refrigerator.”

3. Storage practices
Proper storage of milk is an important variable in maintaining its goodness. Dr Bagai reveals that around the 1970s, there was a spurt in the cases of jaundice and renal failure in Indian children, mainly boys. When researches went to depth to ? nd out the reason, it emerged that in these areas where it was rampant, like in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and northern India, milk was stored and boiled in copper vessels. Dr Bagai goes on to disclose that what these favoured male children were suffering was a severe form of copper toxicity from being fed copious amounts of milk improperly heated and stored. Similarly, there have been cases of lead toxicity as a result of small, ongoing daily consumption, which though not fatal, can lead to poor cognitive ability, among other things.

SHELF-LIFE AND TECHNOLOGY
As milk adulteration cases continue to make news, and age-old customs and rituals continue to be followed without question, there is need to understand the science behind the white liquid we all take for granted. “Mothers need to be sensitised regarding improper boiling practices, as it is a key act which depletes milk of its nutrients. And at the same time, they should also be aware about technologies that best protect milk in this context,” says Dr Bagai.

The shelf-life of pure milk is barely a few hours. Pasteurised milk can stay for about two days in a refrigerated temperature, whereas packaged milk has a shelf-life of about a month, without added preservatives.

Dr AK Singh, dairy technologist from the National Dairy Research Institute of India, Karnal, Haryana, states that the tradition of preserving milk is considered as old as cows and ? re! He says, “The introduction of pasteurisation is one of the most important milestones in the development of dairying. Through this process of heating milk up to a certain temperature and holding the temperature for a certain period of time, pasteurisation ensures that pathogenic bacteria are destroyed and the milk is rendered safe for consumption. However, its keeping time for extended periods can be compromised as its storage and transit is dependent on availability of an ef? cient and unbroken cold chain.”

Now, we have another advancement in technology. Dr Singh details the bene? t of Ultra-heat Treatment (UHT) in retaining the goodness of milk. It be de? ned as thermal processing of milk by heating it for an extremely short period (one-two seconds) at a temperature not less than 1,350 C, required to kill spores. “UHT creates minimal changes in the chemical and nutritional quality of milk. Only good quality of milk can undergo UHT treatment, which is then packaged in six-layer protective packaging. This is an important attribute in the Indian setting, as this makes retention of highest quality and nutrition of milk possible from start to consumption point,” says Dr Singh. M&B

ADVANTAGES OF UHT MILK
* Elimination of refrigerated transportation and storage
* Product has a longer shelf-life
* Product is safe for consumption
* Minimum change in product quality
* Longer delivery frequency
* Cost of storage and distribution reduced

IT’S ALL IN THE PACKAGING…
Tetra Pak India commenced packaging material production in early 1997 from its plant at Takwe, near Pune, Maharashtra. The packaging mate-rial production process involves ‘conversion’ of the raw materials ie, paper, aluminum foil and polyethylene, into a printed and laminated reel. This creates a six-layered pack, which is leak-proof and tamper-proof. ‘A pack-age should save more than it costs’ was the tenet of the founder of Tetra Pak, Dr Ruben Rausing. He was devoted towards fi nding a newer, better and cheaper alternative milk-packaging solution that would replace glass bottles and loose milk. The benefi ts of the package would outweigh the costs if the package helped maintain product quality, minimise waste and reduce distribution costs. Tetra Pak’s aseptic processing ensures that everything in the production chain is commercially sterile, including the food, packag-ing materials, machinery and the environment in which the packaging takes place. It removes all micro-organisms from milk, including bacterial spores. Ultra Heat Treatment (UHT) is given to milk and the heating period is so brief, it causes less damage to nutrients and fl avour compounds. It involves transferring the UHT-treated milk into pre-sterilised packages in a sterile environment. Because of the sterile packaging, there is no risk of contami-nation. Aseptic packaged milk has unparalleled hygienic quality, offering intact nutrients necessary for a child’s growth and development.

1 GLASS (250 ML) OF WHOLE MILK GIVES…
292.5 kcal
10.75 g Protein
525mg Calcium
325 mg Phosphorus
120 mcg Carotene
0.25 mg Ribofl avin
0.1 mg Thiamine
0.25 mg Niacin

KINDS OF MILK
In India, we have three types of milk available. These are…
Raw milk: Local vendors distribute milk to the consumers in aluminum cans, which are not safe due to poor hygiene practices among vendors. This milk is also more prone to adulteration and dilution.
Milk pouches: These are readily available in local dairy outlets. Quality and hygiene is maintained up to some extent, but maintenance of cold chain is a challenge.
Aseptic packaged milk: It is hygienic as it is packed under sterile conditions and has been lauded as one of the most important food science advancements of the 20th century.
Words Swati Chopra Vikamsey

Losing sleep over not losing the pregnancy weight ? Well, before you blame it on, well, the pregnancy,
read up to find out what could be wrong…

The apple of Bollywood’s eye and former Miss World, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has received a lot of flak
for not getting back to her enviable figure even six months after childbirth. With half the expectations, even less of the fl ak, and a very very poor body image, many women go through similar mental and social traumas, when they are unable to shed all that ‘baby’ fat. But is it really as easy to get back into shape as all the celeb mums like to pretend? Let’s find out…

WEIGHT GAIN DURING PREGNANCY
According to Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, consultant obstetrician, gynaecologist, fertility & IVF expert at The Nurture Clinic, Delhi, “When a woman is pregnant, the body weight is of the child and of the fluid around it along with water retention, fat and due to the hormonal changes during pregnancy.” In that sense, it is pretty normal – even healthy – to put on a reasonable amount of weight during pregnancy.

Most doctors base their recommendation of weight gain on the weight of the woman before pregnancy. Women with a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) should gain anywhere between 11 and 15 kg, and up to 20 for twins. Overweight women may be able to safely gain between six and 11 kg. “Though one can gain weight by 20-25 kg in rare cases, the normal weight gain is of around seven-11 kg. To maintain the required amount of weight during pregnancy, one must have a balanced diet, visit the doctor regularly, have supervised exercises and walk daily,” advises Dr Bajaj.

ONCE THE BABY IS BORN…
You may be very surprised by the way your tummy looks after birth. Your baby is out, but there it is, right around the navel: a big, round, squishy puffball that makes you look like you’re still six months pregnant! It takes time for your body – and especially your belly – to fully recover from pregnancy. Imagine your abdomen as a balloon, slowly infl ating as your baby grows. Childbirth doesn’t pop the balloon, it just starts a slow leak, albeit a steady one.

From the moment your baby is born, hormonal changes cause your midsection to defl ate, shrinking it back to something closer to its pre-pregnancy state. It takes about four weeks for your uterus to contract to its normal size. All the cells in your body that swelled during pregnancy will begin releasing their fluids in the form of urine,vaginal secretions, and sweat. And the extra fat you put on to nourish the baby will start burning off (especially if you’re nursing and exercising). But it takes at least a few weeks to see noticeable results. We’ve all heard stories of new mums whose tummies are tight and flat immediately after giving birth. Although this does happen, it’s rare. For most women, it takes months to get rid of the ‘pregnancy pouch’ – and sometimes it never goes away. Patience is key. It took nine months for your abdomen to stretch to accommodate a full-term baby, so it makes sense that it would take that long or longer to tighten back up.

BACK TO NORMAL
The speed and degree of this transition depends largely on your normal body size, how much weight you gained during pregnancy, how active you are, and your genes. Women who gain less than 13 kg
and exercise regularly during pregnancy, who breastfeed, and who have had only one child, are more likely to get slimmer quickly.

Breastfeeding helps, especially in the early months after childbirth. Women who breastfeed burn extra calories to make milk, so they usually lose pregnancy weight more quickly than their non-nursing counterparts. Nursing also triggers contractions that help shrink the uterus, making it a workout for the whole body.

Exercise also helps. Whether it’s a stroll around the block or a postpartum yoga class, physical activity tones stomach muscles and burns calories. A rigorous exercise regimen that includes an aerobic workout and movements that focus on the abdomen can work wonders. (But before starting an exercise routine, make sure your body is ready. Check with your doc.)

low-calorie diet can help you lose weight, but give nature and exercise time to work first. Be warned, for, as Dr Bajaj says, “While lactating, one should not go for aggressive diet or exercise.” Something moderate like walking and swimming should be good enough. Wait at least six weeks (preferably several months, especially if you’re nursing) before cutting back on calories. Dieting too soon after giving birth may reduce your milk supply and can make you feel more tired. Ask Dr Bajaj what is the best way to lose weight the natural way, and she sums it up, “To begin with, do not over eat. While lactating, your body needs just 500 calories over and above a non-lactating woman, so focus on a nutritious diet that meets this requirement. If required, take a supervised diet planned by an expert
dietitian, do exercises under the supervision of a qualifi ed trainer or a physiotherapist. Instead of fried and sweet dishes, have a lot of water, fresh fruits and vegetables.”

CAUSE FOR WORRY
Dr Bajaj states that, “One should ideally lose weight with proper diet and exercise in the first three-six months. However, if you do not lose weight in the next nine months, then you should consult a gynaec.” In short, it’s time for warning bells to ring!

Your doctor may suspect alternative explanations for weight gain after pregnancy or an inability to lose weight: STRESS: Becoming a mum can be an exciting yet stressful situation. Many new mums and even mothers having subsequent children find themselves under a great deal of stress just caring for their children. Stress triggers a chemical reaction in the body hardwired from ancient times when stress
usually meant mortal peril. The response releases certain hormones including cortisol that can increase appetite and cause the body to store more fat around the midsection, which also happens to be where most postpartum mothers have that pouch! Many people also have formed a behaviour tendency to eat in reaction to stress and may not even notice they are doing so. Dealing with stress can be as simple as taking a few minutes a day to relax, scheduling a massage as often as you can or cutting down on work hours and increasing play time.

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SLEEPLESSNESS:
Lack of sleep can contribute to weight gain. In her article, Sleep More to Lose Weight, Mary Shomon discusses a recent study that found that women who slept fi ve hours a night were more likely to
gain weight than women who slept seven hours a night. The reasons? Some studies have shown that losing sleep could affect metabolism by making you feel hungry, even if you’re not. Sleep deprivation may affect the secretion of cortisol. There’s also a theory that we move around less when we don’t get enough sleep, which means we burn less calories. Make sleep a priority by trying to get to bed at the same time each night, shooting for about eight hours, if you can manage it. Having some bedtime rituals such as a hot bath or sometimes writing down your worries can help you unwind before bed. You can also try power napping, which can be a great way to reduce stress and increase your productivity.

DEPRESSION:
Nearly half the women across the globe experience some form of depression after pregnancy. Postpartum depression can range anywhere from a little case of the baby blues, to a more serious
form of postpartum depression to even psychosis. This may have have a number of causes including hormonal changes, brain chemistry changes, lifestyle infl uences, stress, and genetics.

Why depression often leads to weight gain or an inability to lose weight is not clear. Some studies suggest the same hormone linking stress to weight gain cortisol may be responsible. Others feel that depression often causes a lack of motivation and drive, which can lead to less or less than properly
performed exercise. Depression may also lead to emotional eating.

THYROID PROBLEMS:
According to experts, many women experience thyroid problems after pregnancy. Called postpartum thyroiditis, this condition causes unstable levels of hormone production by the thyroid ranging from too much (hyperthyroidism) to too little (hypothyroidism). While an overactive thyroid will result in weight loss, an underactive thyroid will result in weight gain. The overall instability of the thyroid in women
with this condition can cause simply no weight change even with exercise and diet. Thyroid problems will sometimes resolve themselves after a pregnancy and sometimes require treatment.

HORMONAL AFTERMATH:
Pregnancy, labour and what follows all have a dramatic effect on the body’s hormone balance. These
fluctuations can wreak all sorts of havoc, including weight gain or an inability to lose weight. As many women consider a birth control method after pregnancy, this can also increase hormonal imbalances.
Hormones affect a woman’s metabolism, when they are not balanced and working correctly weight gain, loss, or inability to change ones weight can result.

MEDICAL SYNDROMES:
There are several syndromes that can cause weight loss issues that are not pregnancy related but
may become more prevalent during or after pregnancy, including:
Cushing’s syndrome, which also releases cortisol.
Polycystic ovary syndrome, which causes severe hormone imbalance.
Sydrome X or insulin resistance, which causes hormone ineffi ciency.

TACKLE IT HEAD-ON
As Dr Bajaj says, “Very often, the reasons for not being able to lose pregnancy weight are lifestyle related, which include wrong eating habits, lack of exercise and excess of fatty food. To tackle this, one should have a balanced diet and exercise.” But be vary if all else fails. If you have come to the conclusion that you are doing everything right, (including getting a nutritionist, a qualified trainer AND nursing your baby) and still not losing weight, or putting on more weight instead, it is time to see a doctor to rule out any other medical condition.

In a nutshell then, cut yourself some slack (and poor Ash too!), hit the gym, eat well, feed your soul and most importantly, enjoy your new motherhood. If all’s well with you, you could fi t into those denims from last year very soon again! M&B

Words Swati Chopra Vikamsey
Visuals Mother & Baby Picture Library