Did you know that breastmilk contains the exact perfect nutrition for a baby, no matter what the mother eats? You could eat at a fast food chain 3 times a day (not that we recommend it), and your body will take from your nutrient stores to make breastmilk that is still 100% perfect for your baby. Making healthy food choices … Read More
Aunt Nan says: “Formula is just easier.”
Feeding a baby with formula means boiling water, preparing formula, and cleaning and sterilizing bottles multiple times a day. Since some formula can contain dangerous bacteria for the baby, it is very important that it is prepared properly to lessen the risk for the baby. It can also be a hassle to lug around a diaper bag with formula, water, … Read More
Aunt Nan says: “Formula-fed babies sleep longer.”
Babies are not supposed to sleep for long periods – and certainly are not supposed to sleep through the night right away. New studies show that babies who have longer periods of deep sleep may be more at risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. There is no need to give a baby formula (or rice cereal) before bed to encourage … Read More
Aunt Nan says: “Breastfeeding means that only Mommy can have special time with Baby.”
Breastfeeding can be a very special time for a mother and her baby to bond by smiling, snuggling, and interacting with each other. But fathers, grandparents, and other important people in a baby’s life can have special time with the baby without feeding him. Any time can be special time if you smile, sing, talk, or play with the baby. … Read More
Aunt Nan says: “Breastfed babies are too clingy.”
Babies need to feel safe and loved in order to have confidence to explore their world around them. During breastfeeding, a mother and her baby have an opportunity to bond. The mother’s body releases oxytocin, which is sometimes called the “love hormone” – it gives her feelings of attachment to her baby. As she smiles, sings, coos, strokes, and nourishes … Read More
Are you protected against HPV?
Have you received the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine? In September 2007, we began offering grade 8 girls the HPV vaccination as a part of our free school-based immunization programs. Beginning September 2012, this program is expanding to include eligible girls who did not receive their shots in grade 8. Girls – are you entering grade 9-12 and did not receive the HPV … Read More
Sweet (but not too sweet!) Dreams
It is a beautiful sunny day; you’re walking down the street when you suddenly catch a glimpse of your reflection in a shop window. You are horrified to discover that all of your teeth are falling out! That’s when you awake in a cold sweat, relieved that it was all just a bad dream. Teeth are one of the most … Read More
Blue W – Find Tap Water Anywhere
Instead of buying bottled drinks, why not carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with free municipal tap water whenever you need to? Have you heard about the Blue W campaign? Blue W is a community-based program that promotes municipal tap water as a healthy, easily accessible alternative to purchasing bottled drinks. Participating businesses are willing to let visitors … Read More
Everything you wanted to know about bedbugs!
Bed bugs are small, oval-shaped insects about the size of an apple seed. They usually bite at night when people are sleeping. Bites can be found all over the body but often they are around the face, neck, upper torso, arms and hands. Some people don’t react to bedbug bites while others have allergic reactions with welts and itching. Who … Read More
Summer Food Safety
Have an enjoyable and food safe summer. The risk of food borne illness increases during summer months as warmer temperature and high level of moisture in air help bacteria to grow and multiply at higher rate. Don’t worry, here are some tips to handle food safely to prevent these food borne illnesses: Clean – Always wash hands before handling food. Use … Read More
Consent to sex should always be clear
While alcohol may lower inhibitions or create romantic moods, it should not be used as an excuse for neglecting responsible sexual behaviour. It is your responsibility to make sure your partner is sober enough to give sexual consent. If they pass out, have trouble walking, talking or focusing and are not entirely aware of their environment, then they are too … Read More
Your Voice Could Make a Difference for Adults Living with Dental Pain
Thousands of adults live with pain and infection because they cannot afford dental care. OHIP pays to treat pain and infection in every part of the body except the mouth. You can show your support of extending provincial programs to include adults who need, and cannot afford, emergency dental treatment by contacting your MPP. Stop by the Chatham Kent … Read More