Winter is here! Nothing beats the winter months like a warm bowl of homemade soup. One of the things I love about soups are the variety of flavours and textures they offer, from spicy to creamy and chunky ones. You can add or substitute meat or poultry with plant-based sources of protein like beans, lentils and… Continue reading Hearty Lentil, Tomato & Tofu Soup
Chronic hypertension and planning for a baby
Several families have asked me how high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) can affect their plan to have a baby. When a person has higher than normal blood pressure for a long period of time, it is known as chronic hypertension. Planning the best time to have a baby can be different for each… Continue reading Chronic hypertension and planning for a baby
Healthy holiday tips: It’s more than the foods we eat
The "most wonderful time of the year" often comes with the most wonderful foods to eat. One of my favourite foods to eat during the holidays is my mother's pepperpot. It's a traditional beef stew cooked with spices like cinnamon, thyme and hot pepper. My grandmother taught my mother how to make this dish. This… Continue reading Healthy holiday tips: It’s more than the foods we eat
Baby poop in the first year
As a Public Health Nurse, these are some of the very common questions and concerns I hear from clients: "I have a 2.5 month-old. He hasn't had a poop in 4 days. Should I be concerned?" "My 4 month-old seems to be constipated. She only passed a tiny bit and she looks like she is… Continue reading Baby poop in the first year
Alcohol use in pregnancy: Is it safe?
As the holiday season approaches, you may be involved in social gatherings where alcoholic drinks may be served. If pregnant or planning a pregnancy, the safest choice is to avoid drinking any alcohol. There is no known safe time, type or amount of alcohol when pregnant or planning to be pregnant. Try making mocktails for… Continue reading Alcohol use in pregnancy: Is it safe?
Postpartum Depression – it’s not your fault!
Most of us think that having a baby will be the happiest time in our lives; however not everyone feels joy or that "love at first sight" feeling. Feelings of guilt, sadness, stress, or anxiety can affect the early weeks and months of parenthood which can make it hard to enjoy a new baby. I've… Continue reading Postpartum Depression – it’s not your fault!
Can I get enough Calcium if I don’t drink milk?
With the update of Canada's Food Guide earlier this year, there may be some confusion as to the importance of calcium, especially during pregnancy. Calcium-rich foods help to build strong bones and teeth, healthy muscles and maintain normal blood pressure – all of which is important for your growing baby. Pregnant women over 19 years… Continue reading Can I get enough Calcium if I don’t drink milk?
Skin-to-skin: The healthiest place to begin
What is skin-to-skin? Skin-to-skin contact means holding your baby against your bare chest or tummy. It has many health benefits for both you and your baby. Babies: breastfeed better cry less and are calmer stay warmer have better blood sugar levels Mothers*: breastfeed more easily learn when your baby is getting hungry bond more with… Continue reading Skin-to-skin: The healthiest place to begin
Gender stereotypes & toys: The impact on children
The holidays are approaching and if there are children on your gift-giving list, there's a chance you are going to be visiting a toy store – where gender stereotypes rule the layout of the store! Here are some tips from our sexual health nurse, Jennifer Katz, RN, to help us navigate through those kids' lists.… Continue reading Gender stereotypes & toys: The impact on children
People games: Peek-a-Boo, I see you!
As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I provide families with practical tips on how they can bond with their child and create fun opportunities to teach their child new language. I often recommend people games! People games are play routines that you have created with your child that do not involve any toys. Keep in mind that… Continue reading People games: Peek-a-Boo, I see you!