World Breastfeeding Week 2011 (Day 3)

Wondering how to get all of the nutrients you need while breastfeeding? WebMD has some tips for you!

12 Foods for New Moms

As a new mom, one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby is to eat a healthy diet.
Even though you may be in a hurry to lose those pregnancy pounds, regularly eating foods that boost energy for new moms will give you the stamina you need to be the best mom you can be. That's because eating nutrient-rich foods at regular intervals throughout the day can maximize the little energy you probably have as a new mom.
For nursing moms, it's important to know that the quality of your breast milk stays pretty much the same no matter what you choose to eat. If you aren't getting the needed nutrients from your diet, your body will provide them from your own stores. But for your own well-being, it's best to make sure you're obtaining the nutrients your baby needs by incorporating a variety of healthy breastfeeding foods in your nursing mom food plan.
If you make sure the following 12 foods for new moms are a regular part of your diet, your body - and your baby - will thank you.

1. Salmon
There's no such thing as a perfect food, but salmon is pretty close when it comes to a nutritional powerhouse for new moms. The DHA in salmon is crucial to the development of your baby's nervous system, and studies suggest it may play a role in preventing postpartum depression. One caution: FDA guidelines say breastfeeding women should limit consumption of fish lower in mercury to 12 oz per week.

2. Low-Fat Dairy Products
Whether you prefer yogurt, milk, or cheese, dairy products are an important part of breastfeeding. In addition to providing protein, B vitamins, and vitamin D, dairy products are one of the best sources of calcium. Include at least three cups of dairy each day as part of your diet.

3. Lean Beef
When you're looking for foods to boost your energy as a new mom, seek out iron-rich foods, like lean beef. A deficiency of iron can drain your energy levels. Also, you need to eat extra protein and vitamin B-12 when you're nursing.

4. Legumes
Beans, especially dark-colored ones, are a great breastfeeding food, especially for vegetarians. Not only are they rich in iron, they're a budget-friendly source of high quality, non-animal protein.

5. Blueberries
Breastfeeding moms should be sure to get two or more servings of fruit or juice each day. These satisfying berries are filled with good-for-you vitamins and minerals and will give you a healthy dose of carbohydrates to keep your energy levels high.

6. Brown Rice
If you're attempting to lose the baby weight, you might be tempted to drastically cut back on your carbohydrate consumption. But losing weight too quickly may cause you to produce less milk for the baby and leave you feeling lethargic and sluggish. Foods like brown rice provide your body the calories it needs to produce the best quality milk for your baby.

7. Oranges
Portable and nutritious, oranges are a great food to boost energy for new moms. Because nursing moms need even more vitamin C than pregnant women, oranges and other citrus fruits are an excellent breastfeeding food.

8. Eggs
Egg yolk is one of the few natural sources of vitamin D - an essential nutrient to keep your bones strong and help your baby's bones grow. Beyond that, eggs are a versatile way to meet your daily protein needs.

9. Whole-Wheat Bread
Folic acid is crucial to your baby's development in the early stages of pregnancy. But its importance doesn't end there. Folic acid is an important nutrient in your breast milk that your baby needs for good health. Whole-grain breads and pastas also give you a healthy dose of fiber and iron.

10. Leafy Greens
The list of benefits you get from eating leafy green vegetables such as spinach, Swiss chard, and broccoli goes on and on. They're filled with vitamin A; they're a non-dairy source of dietary calcium; they've got vitamin C and iron; and on top of that, green veggies are filled with heart-healthy antioxidants, they're low calorie, and they're tasty to boot.

11. Whole-Grain Cereal
After yet another sleepless night, one of the best foods to boost energy for new moms in the morning is a healthy breakfast of whole-grain cereal. Many cold cereals are available that are fortified with essential vitamins and nutrients to help you meet your daily needs. Or, whip up a healthy hot breakfast by stirring blueberries and skim milk into a delicious serving of oatmeal.

12. Water
Dehydration is one of the biggest energy drains there is. And new moms who are breastfeeding are especially at risk. To keep your energy levels and milk production up, make sure you stay well hydrated. You can vary your options and meet some of your fluid requirements by drinking juice and milk, but be careful when it comes to caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea. Keep your intake to no more tahn 2-3 cups a day or switch to decaffeinated varieties, because caffeine enters your breast milk and can cause your baby to become irritable and sleep poorly.

Diaper Care 101

I promised updates on exciting business stuff, and boy do I have some. Today we have been approved to sell nine product brands! I want to keep them a surprise for right now, just know that Tater Tots is going to have a great selection of fun stuff that you will love {I am sure of it}.

Exciting news aside - I have some serious business to attend to this evening...
As I have spoken with friends, family memebers, and customers, I have come to realize that many people have misconceptions of what cloth diapering is. When people hear "cloth diaper" they automatically seem to think back to the time when cloth diapers were nothing but a rectangular piece of cloth that had to be put on babies while praying that you don't poke yourself {or the baby} with that awful pin! So many people don't realize how far cloth diapering has come. I am hoping to help open eyes to the joy and ease of cloth diapering.

First things first: here is a list of some cloth diaper terms that you might not know...

AIO "All-In-One" - AIOs are fitted diapers that have a waterproof outer layer usually consisting of fabric that has a PUL {PolyUrethane Laminate} backing, polar fleece, or wool. These are the easiest cloth diapers in comparison with disposables, yet they have the longest dry time and must be washed after one use.
Contour - Contours are shaped diapers with no elastic {in the legs or back}. They must be held together with a diaper fastener, pins, or diaper cover. They are not waterproof.
Covers - A diaper cover's function is to provide a waterproof outer layer for non-waterproof diapers. They often are fitted with elastic and fasten with snaps or Velcro. They are usually made from polyester, PUL, waterproof nylon, fleece, or wool.
Doublers - Doublers are pad-like absorbent soakers that can be added to a diaper to increase it's absorbency. They are especially useful for night time and travel - when you know extra protection is needed.
Flat Diapers - These are the classic cotton square which is folded to fit baby, and secured with diaper pins or a Snappi. They are one-layer {generally cotton gauze} and the most "old-fashioned" of current cloth diaper choices. They dry quickly, fit a large size range, and are the most inexpensive diaper choice. Flats do require waterproof outer covers.
Fitted Diapers - Fitted diapers are similar in look to disposables. They are contoured and fitted with elastic and fasted with Velcro or snaps. A waterproof cover must be worn over them. Fitted diapers are a step up from flat pre-fold diapers and much easier to use.
Hook & Loop - These are Velcro-like closures. Since the Velcro brand is not very soft, many diaper makers use Aplix or Touchtape brand hook and loop.
Hybrid Diaper - A diaper featuring a cloth outer layer and some form of snap-in lining. The inserts in a hybrid can be either disposable {usually flushable} or cloth, depending on personal preference. Hybrids are perfect for the family who isn't sure about going full-time cloth. 
Liners - Liners are thin layers of cloth or paper that are placed inside the diaper to aid in the cleaning of solid waste.  They also protect the actual diaper from staining.
Pre-Folds - Pre-fold diapers are rectangular shaped diapers that must be folded into the shape of a diaper. They are similar to flats, but have multiple layers with more protection in the middle. They must be used with a cover.
Pocket Diapers - Pocket diapers are similar to AIOs - they have an outer layer of waterproof material and an inner layer consisting of a stay dry material {like microfleece or suedecloth}. The closure is either hook and loop or snaps. There is a pocket opening that allows the absorbent insert to be stuffed in the cover and be removed for laundering. Some parents choose to use pre-folds or flats as a pocket insert. Pocket diapers are a popular choice because you can adjust the amount of absorbent material used, and they take less time to dry than AIOs.
Snappi - A plastic mechanism that fastens cloth diapers instead of diaper pins.
Soakers - The term soaker can be applied two ways. It often refers to the absorbent middle part of the diaper that takes in the moisture when a baby wets. Soakers may be fully sewn inside the diaper, partially sewn in, snapped in the diaper, or simply laid in the diaper. The term soaker is also used in reference to wool diaper covers.
*definitions from Diaper Jungle*

I hope these definitions help you navigate the world of cloth diapering a little easier.

Quite a few people have asked me questions in regards to the work that actually goes into cloth diapering a baby full-time. I can only speak for myself, but I am happy to go into a bit more detail on the general process.

- The first {and probably most fun} step in diapering your baby is choosing which system you will go with. This all depends on the time you have to diaper and the amount of money you wish to spend initially. If you are looking for the most economical choice, flats or pre-folds are the way to go. Fitted diapers are not only economical, but easy to use. Currently, the most popular cloth diaper choices are pocket and hybrid diapers they dry faster than AIOs and can be used more than once between washings. AIOs are the ultimate in ease...they must be washed after one use, but if you can afford to buy a large stash of them there won't be much difference between using them and using disposables.

- Once you choose which system is right for your family, you have to decide how many diapers, covers, and inserts you want in your stash - then place your order with Tater Tots :-).
It is generally recommended that you have at least 24 diapers on hand for full-time diapering {up to 36 for newborns}. If you choose to use an AIO, you will need to purchase 24-36 diapers. For pocket or hybrid diapers you will need 6-8 outer covers and 24-36 inserts {I would also recommend at least 8 doublers}. For flats or pre-folds you will need at least 36 diapers and 6-8 covers.

- When your diapers arrive, you will need to wash them. Most diaper manufacturers will have initial washing instructions in the package, but if not...here are some general washing guidelines:
First of all, only use detergent safe for cloth diapers {I highly recommend Rockin' Green - it's the only one I use for my little man} and never use fabric softener or any extras.
Cotton pre-fold, flat, and fitted diapers {if bleached} need to be washed at least 3 times before use and will reach maximum absorbency after 6-8 washes. If they are natural/unbleached they need to be washed at least 4 times before use.
Hemp or bamboo pre-fold, flat, and fitted diapers require 4 prewashes in warm water with detergent before use.
Pocket diapers, diaper covers, and microfiber inserts usually require only 1 wash before use. Sometimes a suedecloth lined diaper will need an extra wash or two.

- Personally, I prefer to have all of my little man's diapers pre-assembled and stored in lined baskets on his changing table. Trust me, this is much easier than digging through a pile of cloth diaper components when you have a squirmy little one on the table.

- If you ask me, dry diaper pails are the way to go. Once the diaper has been used to its max, if it is only wet simply throw it in the diaper pail and be on your way - if there is poo on the diaper, rinse it off {a diaper sprayer that hooks to the toilet will go a long way in making this process easier} then throw it in the pail. Some people opt to use an odor remover spray {which eliminates the odor-causing bacteria in cloth diapers}, or a deodorizing disk. If you are using a pocket or hybrid diaper and can re-use the outer cover, set it out to dry and then re-assemble it.

- Once you have a decent accumulation of diapers in your pail {two days worth is my max} it's time to wash *gasp*! Again, here I will recommend Rockin' Green detergent to anyone. They have three different formulas depending on the water you have and a ton of yummy scents! Here is my diaper washing system:
Dump your diapers into the washer and do a {cold} rinse/wash to get the nasties out. If you have a cloth pail liner throw that in, too.
Add the detergent and do a {hot} wash/rinse cycle. {Use 2-3 Tbsp Rockin' Green per load}.
Do another {cold} rinse.
I would highly recommend following your diaper manufacturer's instructions on drying - some dry on hot and some must air dry.

- Once the diapers are all dry and fluffy, admire all of your hard work, and start over again!

See...it isn't nearly as difficult as you were thinking...welcome to the world of cloth diapering!

Until next time,
Have a whimsical {spontaneously fanciful and playful} day!
Sam

Day One

I am currently sitting in the living room with my loving husband and {world's most adorable} baby boy...this is my first foray into blogging and, to be completely honest, I'm a tad bit nervous about it. I have never been one to write a journal, or to share my personal thoughts and feelings with others - but give me a 10 page research paper and I'll be done in no time.  I have dabbled in many things {music, crafting, cooking/baking, and event planning to name just a few}, yet don't consider myself an expert in any of them. I am still trying to find my niche and life - actually, I think I have found it and that's why I am starting this blog...

My little man has always had a tough time with disposable diapers - I'm talking horrible rashes that won't let up no matter what, huge {and I'm talking huge} blowouts, and the list goes on. Pretty recently I made the decision to switch him to {full-time} cloth diapers, much to the chagrin of my husband. Mind you this was something we never planned on doing. It hadn't even crossed our minds - until a friend of ours started talking it up and I just had to get my hands on those adorably colorful and fluffy booty bumpers! Then I realized this could be the answer to all of baby's diapering issues. We have been full-time for about three months now and I feel like a whole new mommy. I could go on for hours about how wonderful cloth diapers are...but I'll save that for another day.

As I started my online shopping and research I soon found out that there are hardly any cloth diapering resources in the Indianapolis area! I mean who wants to make such a huge {and initially expensive} decision without being able to examine all of the possibilities up close and personally. I ended up ordering a sample pack of a few different diapers to give them a try...once I had tried them for a few weeks and knew I had to pursue this full-time, my husband, son, and I made the 77 mile trek down south to visit a physical "green" baby store. {I know...77 miles are you crazy?!?!} Don't worry I have thought of that possibility, but I will tell you it was totally worth it!


Because of the issues I have had supplying my new cloth diaper habit, my wonderful mother and I thought up the idea to open our own store here in the Indianapolis area. We have so many ideas - honestly, I'm not sure we'll be able to pull it all off in the time frame we have set for ourselves. We have started on the official business plan and I have begun shopping for inventory {which is of course the best part of the whole thing}. Hopefully we could be in a storefront and having a grand opening celebration before the end of Fall...how fabulous is that? I cannot express to you how excited I am about this whole endeavor.

Would you like to hear a little bit more about our plan? OK well here goes...

I envision a chic boutique {with chandeliers and tea} housing the most adorable upscale and handmade baby items you can imagine. One half of the store will be focused on baby&mommy needs and cloth diapers, while the other half takes you through preschool age with fun educational items. In the back of the store there will be a wonderfully posh restroom where mothers can change and feed their babies in luxury. But, here's the kicker {and what I think I'm most excited about} - we will have a Whimsy Tots event room. That's right! The plan is to have a room set up for baby showers and training events. On top of all that we'll have a registry system for parents and teachers.

The Tater Tots blog is going to follow my journey through mommy-hood and into business ownership. Check back frequently for updates {brands we'll sell, location information, online shop details, deals, and more}!

Until then, 
Have a whimsical {spontaneously fanciful and playful} day!
Sam