Recent research published in the journal *Brain Medicine* has spurred renewed interest in understanding the interplay between environmental factors and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In particular, this study highlights the detrimental impact of air pollution, specifically emissions from vehicles, on fetal brain development during crucial stages of pregnancy. Professor Haitham Amal, the study’s lead author,
Children’s Health
Recent research spearheaded by University College London (UCL) has unveiled significant insights into the profound connection between maternal communication and infant emotional development. Central to this exploration is oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” This hormone is not just a facilitator of maternal-infant bonding; it plays an essential role in social interactions, trust,
On frigid winter evenings, the comfort of a baby’s sleep can quickly turn into concern for many parents when congestion disrupts their precious slumber. The soft sounds of breathing can be replaced by uncomfortable sniffles and snorts, causing distress for both baby and caregiver alike. Babies are particularly susceptible to nasal congestion due to their
The infant formula crisis of early 2022 deepened the national conversation surrounding food supply vulnerabilities, particularly the delicate web of nutrition that American families depend on for their youngest members. With an alarming wave of shortages, a staggering 3 million parents were thrust into a crisis, forced to make desperate decisions often fraught with risk.
It’s a familiar refrain for parents: after serving up a healthy and well-balanced dinner to your eager little diner, the reaction can often flip on a dime. “I’m full!” they declare dramatically after a mere few bites of food, only to be followed by an enthusiastic request for snacks a few moments later. This perplexing
As the H5 bird flu continues to make headlines, parents are understandably anxious about the potential impact on their families. Speculations and concern can often lead to misinformation, so it’s essential to sift through alarming news to find factual guidance. Fortunately, health experts emphasize that the threat of H5 bird flu to humans remains minimal.
Raising a toddler can often feel like navigating a minefield, especially when it comes to sleep. Parents frequently find themselves wrestling with their little ones, who are filled with boundless energy and an intense desire to explore. As a pediatrician who has dedicated a career to child development and parenting strategies, I understand the hurdles
The world of parenting can often lure new parents into a false sense of security, particularly with information from experts flooding their inboxes. This was my experience as I stepped confidently into a local mother’s group, six months pregnant with my first child. Armed with nutritional knowledge as a dietitian, I passionately presented theories on
The legalization and acceptance of cannabis across various states in the U.S. have sparked discussions on its use in different demographics, including expectant mothers. A recent study conducted by the University of Georgia surveyed over 4,300 pregnant women, revealing that 5.7% admitted to using marijuana during pregnancy. This growing trend is often related to the
The arrival of a child’s first word is a moment of joy and achievement that resonates deeply with both parents and caregivers. This phase in a child’s development brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, particularly when comparing milestones to peers. Questions such as “When should my baby start speaking?” or “Is my child developing