Books, Prevention, Reviews

Organically Raised

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Lately I’ve been in a rut with the food I’ve been serving my toddler, so when I was asked to review Organically Raised: Conscious Cooking for Babies and Toddlers by Anni Daulter, the timing was perfect. This book is exactly what I needed to reinvigorate my excitement for cooking.

It opens with reasons to buy organic, locally grown and seasonal food.  No matter how many times we read or hear those concepts it’s always great to be reminded, and Daulter nudges us in a graceful way. 

There are also inspiring Mama Mantras throughout the book, such as “Preparing healthy, delicious food is my gift to my family,” and “I am learning and growing with my baby, and every day I see the world with new eyes.”  These paired with the beautiful photos of both children and food add such a refreshing touch and  make the pages stand out from the monotony of most other cookbooks.

Organically Raised is filled with simple, delicious recipes that are easy to follow and incredibly nourishing. Each recipe clearly recommends the season it is best for, and the ingredients that will support your child’s health throughout the year.  There are also tips on what to keep in your kitchen, appliances you will need, how to start solids and the best way to expand your baby’s palate.

I have a 23 month old toddler, and he has loved every recipe I’ve made for him.  His favorite so far is the “Enlightenment” Eggplant and Red Bell Pepper Puree with Red Lentils.  Even though he has tried a very wide range of foods, flavors and spices, Daulter recommends some that I hadn’t thought to serve him- such as Cold Watermelon Soup and Sweet Potato Fries with Ponzu Dipping Sauce, as well as healthy “mix-ins” as she calls them, like goji and acai berries.

I urge you to get a copy of Organically Raised, whether you are pregnant, have a baby, or are past the baby food making stage.  These are recipes the whole family can enjoy (so you won’t be cooking two separate meals!). 

Perhaps the most important reason I recommend this book is because too often I rush to get my son’s food on the table. Organically Raised reminds me that the most important ingredient I put in his food is love.

Prevention

AAP Releases Most Dangerous Household Chemicals List

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The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released a study showing that even though injuries to children from household chemicals have decreased in recent years, they are still high.  The most recent data collected shows 11,964 injuries were sustained by 1-3 year olds from chemicals used in the home.

The biggest culprits are spray bottles. They pose a two-fold risk; children can easily unscrew the cap and drink from the bottle or spray themselves directly in the face.

While it’s wise to lock all chemical away from babies and toddlers, this is a perfect example of why we should not use toxic chemicals in our homes.

Your baby crawls on the floor you just mopped, pulls up on the table you just polished, eats off the dishes you just washed, and wears the clothes you just laundered.

Wouldn’t you feel better knowing your baby isn’t coming into contact with toxic chemicals as he innocently goes about every part of his day?

I would- and I do.  In fact, just last week my toddler grabbed the spray bottle I keep under the sink and before I could take it from him he sprayed himself in the face. It’s a good thing it was just vinegar and water.

There are countless books and blogs devoted to do-it-yourself natural cleaners, but really the 3 main ingredients you need are white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Grab a few spray bottles you can clearly label, some sponges, and work your magic-without a magic eraser.

Breastfeeding, Products, Recommendations

Best Breastfeeding Pillow!

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I can’t let World Breastfeeding week go by without mentioning my absolute favorite breastfeeding “accessory.”

The Nesting Pillow – Organic Nursing Pillow with Washable Slip Cover

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The Nesting Pillow by The Blessed Nest.

This is THE BEST nursing pillow on the market. I say this for many reasons, and here are my top 3:

  • It’s made of organic cotton, and filled with organic buckwheat. Need I say more? No, but I will: most nursing pillows are doused in flame-retardant chemicals and made with synthetic fillers and materials. Your newborn baby will be nestled up to this many times per day, with her nose mere centimeters from the toxins. Have you considered that?
  • It does not have to strap on or “clip on” to your body. Great for moms of all sizes, and those who don’t want to feel restricted while breastfeeding. This non-rigid design also means you can use it before the baby comes as a body pillow, can use it to nurse your baby long past the newborn stage, and a toddler can use it to lounge on…
  • It is great for travel! I take mine on the plane, and it serves as a great “bed” for my baby to nap on (on my lap) during the flight. Hmm, laying on a blissfully comfortable organic, eco-friendly and familiar pillow, or laying on the metal seatbelt??? What would your baby choose?