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At all stages of pregnancy, the ability to make informed dietary and lifestyle choices can have a positive influence on the health and wellbeing of mother and child. Under normal circumstances, the developing foetus depends upon placental efficiency to absorb a rich supply of nutrients from the maternal bloodstream. Because of this close dependence, there are certain situations which can potentially disrupt the normal course of foetal development. For example, there are a number of maternal illnesses and infections which must be avoided or treated promptly to reduce the risk of developmental abnormalities. Because several of these conditions exhibit minimal symptoms, it is beneficial for most pregnant women to undertake a periodic health assessment...

While the majority of babies manage to avoid complicated health concerns during their early months of life, all newborns are susceptible to a range of preventable illnesses, environmental hazards, sleeping difficulties, and issues related to feeding and nutrition. For the sake of their long term wellbeing, newborn infants should be assessed by a paediatrician and screened for congenital and inherited indicators. Hospitals will usually provide this service as a routine component of their care delivery; however they may be required to seek exclusive permission from the infant’s parent or primary caregiver. In those instances where problems are detected, early treatments and counselling can alleviate many of the complications which might...

The introduction of solid foods is an exciting period for caregivers and children alike. For a variety of reasons this venture should be approached in a methodical and investigative manner, with an underlying emphasis on the quality and purity of the foods being offered. There is a considerable body of scientific literature examining the optimum age for introducing solid foods. A preliminary review of this material will reveal many inconsistent conclusions and recommendations as provided to caregivers and health professionals over the years. Current opinion indicates that babies should be given only breast milk or infant formula for the first six months of life. This period of time allows the digestive system to develop to a level where starches...