All posts by Sumana Rao

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Suff - Seed Drink

Suff – Seed Drink

Seed are rich source of  vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and fiber. Seeds are excellent for cleaning the body of toxins and harmful substances, it rips blood pressure and reduces appetite. When consumed regularly seeds can give more benefit for the body. Suff is a Ethiopian drink and it a great replacement for meal and snack. This has good seeds and supply of nutrients is guaranteed. One can use sesame or flax seeds instead of sunflower seeds.  This is a vegan drink too!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or flax seeds
  • Honey (as required)
  • Small piece of fresh ginger root; peeled
  • 3 cups water

Preparation:

  • Rinse and drain seeds.
  • Rroast the seeds in a dry pan until they give a nutty aroma.
  • After roasting, grind the seeds and ginger with a little water until smooth in a blender or food processor.

Drink this once a day and you will see the good changes in your system.

Image credit: Image by Pezibear from Pixabay (free for commercial use)

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: April 15, 2016
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Activities for babies and toddlers

Activities for Babies and Toddlers

Babies can do so many things! They are so eager to learn about just about everything, they just love exploring and playing. This below list is perfect for little ones who are playing alone and for babies from newborns to around 4 or 6 months.

FEEL THE BALL

Materials:  Zip-loc bag, a soft ball

What to Do: Children learn using the sense of touch. Give your child a soft ball to feel. After a while, place the ball inside the zip-loc bag and fasten the bag securely. Let you child feel the ball, pushing it around the bag. Show your child how to stop the ball, then move it around the bag.

Variations: Put another toy in the bag and repeat the activity.

Skills Learned: Tactile stimulation

SHARING EVENTS

What to Do: Preparing your child for an event in life is important. You may think your child will not understand what you are saying, but it is still important. Maybe your in-laws are coming for a few days or a babysitter is coming for the evening. Take time to explain what is happening. This is a good habit to begin while your child is young. Your child builds trust during transition times because of these explanations.

Skills Learned: Trust, language development.

BARELY CRAWLING

Materials: Bolster pillow

What to Do: Infants love to move and stretch. Place your infant on her tummy on a pillow. See if she tries to push forward or rock back and forth. Try to hold her feet up to see if this encourages any forward movement. Use caution in order to avoid falls. She will move when she is ready.

Skills Learned: Coordination, social development, trust.

GIFT SURPRISES

Materials:  Wrapping paper

What to Do: Children love to unwrap gifts. Try wrapping your child’s favorite toys in brightly colored wrapping paper and put them in a shopping bag. Let him dig through, unwrap, and rediscover!

Skills Learned: Creative expression, tactile stimulation, upper body strength.

 PAPER SOUNDS

Materials: Wrapping paper

What to Do: Wait until you see what children can do with paper! Save used wrapping and tissue paper from gifts. Let your child play with the paper. Wad it up. Enjoy watching your child crawl on it and rip it. She’ll delight in the sounds that are created when you play together with paper.

Skills Learned:Tactile stimulation, sound discrimination, creative expression.

SWITCHING IT

Materials: Toy

What to Do: Infants love to grasp and squeeze almost anything. Place your infant on your lap and hold a toy out in front. Once he has grasped the toy with one hand, hold another toy out and offer it to him. Sometimes infants will drop the toy, but eventually they learn to switch the toy to the other hand to hold both toys at the same time.

Skills Learned: Grasp and release, tactile stimulation.

TOWER CONSTRUCTION

Materials:  Set of blocks

What to Do: Building towers with blocks develops your child’s motor skills and problem solving abilities. Sit your baby on the floor with all the blocks. Show her how you stack them, one by one, counting as you build. Once the tower is three blocks or higher, let her knock it over and say, “The tower fell down.”Continue to build, using more blocks.

Variations: As your child becomes more adept, begin to use smaller blocks to help develop dexterity.

Skills Learned: Eye-hand coordination, visual development, visual tracking.

TUMMY TIME

Materials: Blanket & toy

What to Do: It is important to give your child tummy time for short periods during the day. While your child is on his tummy, place two of his favorite toys on the floor. Cover part of one with a blanket. Place it so he can see the part that is sticking out of the blanket. Ask him, “Can you find your yellow duck?” See what he does. Do this with the other toy. If he engages in this activity, try putting both toys under the blanket and have parts of each toy showing. Ask the question and observe his response.

Skills Learned: Visual tracking, visual stimulation

 CRAWL-A-THON

Materials: Blanket, toy

What to Do: Children of all ages love to engage and have fun with their parents. Crawl with your child in a hallway or open space and see who captures a favorite toy or stuffed animal first. Place a section of the toy under a blanket at the end of the hall so it can be partially seen. On your mark, get set, go! Who reached the toy first?

Skills Learned:Emotional development, gross motor, visual tracking.

TUNNEL TRIP

Materials: Box, blanket

What to Do: Make moving around more fun for your infant with this tunneling activity. Locate a box larger than your child’s body. Cut both ends off to make a tunnel. Place your infant on one open end, while you go to the other end. As you call your child’s name, gently pull your child through the box.

Variations: Sit your infant on the floor, then place the box over your child and peek from the top. Play Peek-a-boo with child.

Skills Learned: Coordination,creative movement, gross motor, problem solving, sensory development, visual stimulation.

THAWING ICE

Materials: Ice cube tray, food coloring, small toy items

What to Do: This fun and simple activity will entertain your infant during bath time and help her experience the properties of water. In the morning, fill ice cube trays with water and put a drop of food coloring in each section. Drop a small plastic or wooden figure in each cube and freeze. During your baby’s bath time, place the ice cubes in the water and watch as he tries to pick them up, push them underwater, or simply watch them move in the water. After a while, he’ll love playing with the thawed toy items.

Variations: Use an assortment of food colors.

Skills Learned: Attention span, grasp and release, sensory development, tactile stimulation, visual discrimination.

BAG IT

Materials: Paper bag, plastic cup, block spoon

What to Do: Children love taking random things in and out of bags over and over again. Place several objects, along with a paper bag, in front of your child. Name each object. Ask your child to place the plastic cup in the bag. Next, ask her to place the block in the bag. Last, ask her to place a spoon in the bag. Have her empty the bag; repeat the activity.

Variations: Add objects if your child continues to be interested.

Skills Learned: Visual discrimination

PAINTING THE SIDEWALK

Materials: Small brush with handle

What to Do: This fun activity will help develop your child’s upper body strength. Locate a small brush with a handle. Weather permitting; take your child out to the sidewalk or in the garage. Put the brush in a small bucket of water. Show your child how to paint the sidewalk or garage floor.

Variations: Take a bucket and small brush with you the next time you go to the swimming pool. Your child will love painting the pavement!

Skills Learned: Upper body strength, eye-hand coordination, creative expression, gross motor skills.

SAYING YES

What to Do: Develop your child’s communication skills with this fun activity. Sit across from your child and ask questions that require a “yes” answer. Does mommy love you? Shake your head up and down as you reply, “Yes, she does.” Continue the activity: Did you have a good sleep? Are you a good baby? Do you love mommy?

Skills Learned: Concept development, emotional development, listening, and visual tracking.

Reference: For more activities visit www.ProductiveParenting.com

Image credit: Image by Regina Petkovic from Pixabay 

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: April 11, 2016
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ISABGOL - A WONDERFUL & FAVORITE MEDICINE OF ALL

ISABGOL – A Wonderful & Favorite Medicine of All

“A  report found that if US adults over the age of 55 with heart disease took psyllium dietary fiber daily, it could save nearly $4.4 billion a year – and more than $35 billion in cumulative health care costs between 2013 and 2020. The report estimated that it costs just 30 cents per day to take psyllium fiber at “preventive intake levels,” and noted that it helps support healthy cholesterol levels by inhibiting its absorption in your intestine”.

You would have heard a lot about Isabgol – a wonderful home remedy for people who suffer from constipation. In India Isabgol is sold in the market and many household will have bottle of isabgol handy. Elders in house definitely will like it, as they cannot withstand any kind of gastro-intestinal problem, particularly the constipation.

What exactly is Isabgol?

Isabgol is a plant product – plant name is Psyllium. It is one of the nature’s highest soluble fiber obtained from seeds of Plantago ovata (Isabgol). Seed husk of psyllium is commonly known as isabgol. It contains 70 percent soluble fiber and, as a result, acts as a bulk-forming laxative. The effectiveness of isabgol largely depends on your individual health needs and the manner in which you take it.

Apart from use in digestion problems isabgol has many other medicinal properties. Generally, isabgol works by absorbing liquid and swelling in the intestines to create a softer, bulky stool that is easier to pass.

1. Constipation: The fiber present in husk has hygroscopic property, which means it is capable of attracting and binding water molecules. This helps to facilitate the gut motility and digestive functioning.

Take a glass of warm milk or water, add 2 tbs of Isabgol, mix and drink at night before going to bed. Morning motion will be easy and clears the system.

2. Treating Diarrhea :Mixing curd and isabgol helps in controlling the diarrhea. Probiotics-rich curd or yogurt provides stomach support- probiotic nature helps in healing of stomach infections. Whereas, isabgol helps in relieving the diarrhea by adding more bulk fiber to the runny stools and makes it somewhat hard.

Take 3tbs fresh curd, add 2 tbs isabgol and mix. Take this after dinner. For effective results, take this mix twice a day till recovery period.

3. Detoxification,Weight loss: Isabgol improves the activity of gastrointestinal tract by improving the motility of the gut. This happens when the hygroscopic husk binds to the waste, which is sitting in colon. It acts as a colon cleanser and detoxifies the body. Consumed with water prior to meals, reduces consumption of fat and calories.

Add lemon juice and isabgol to warm water and drink half an hour before the meal.

4. Protecting Heart : Isabgol absorbs more water soluble fatty substances from the body. Often it attacks the cholesterol present in the body and breaks down cholesterol which later flushes out of the body. The fiber present in isabgol restricts the fat amount in the blood and protects the heart. Isabgol also helps to prevent heart attacks by regulating the serum cholesterol.

A report found that if US adults over the age of 55 with heart disease took psyllium dietary fiber daily, it could save nearly $4.4 billion a year – and more than $35 billion in cumulative health care costs between 2013 and 2020. The report estimated that it costs just 30 cents per day to take psyllium fiber at “preventive intake levels,” and noted that it helps support healthy cholesterol levels by inhibiting its absorption in your intestine.

After meal take half spoon of isabgol in warm water.

5. For Acidity : Hygroscopic effect of Isabgol helps to protect the stomach layer that usually affected by high acidity. Isabgol also increases digestion and decreases constipation and thus controls secretion of stomach acid. Isabgol helps to prevent lethargy caused by acidity and gives a feeling of well being and good health.

To half glass of cold milk add 2 tbs of isabgol. Mix and drink after lunch and dinner.

6. For Diabetics : The gelatinous structure of isabgol is due to gelatin molecules. These gelatin molecules restrict the absorption of dietary sugar (glucose). This helps in control of sugar in diabetic patients.

Take isabgol with water just after completing your meal.
For diabetic patients: Consult your physician before taking isabgol.

7. Curing Piles and Fissures : Because of its friendly effect on digestive system and gastro-intestinal system consuming isabgol once a while makes it easier to pass the stool. People who suffer from piles and fissure feels it easy to pass stool when they take isabgol.

Dissolve one tbs of isabgol in a glass of warm water and have before going to bed.

Disclaimer: Do not over-consume isabgol. Before taking isabgol talk to your physician or nutritionist. stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting; trouble swallowing; ora sudden change in bowel habits lasting longer than 2 week. It is not for pregnant women or for lactating women.

References:

http://articles.mercola.com/
http://www.wikihow.com/
http://www.enkivillage.com

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Understanding Autism

Understanding Autism

Autism is a mental condition, present from early childhood, characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts.

What may cause autism?

There is no known single cause for autism spectrum disorder, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism compared to  other children.

  • According to research findings and studies Genetics may play a significant role because ASDs occurs more frequently in certain families and in patients with other genetic problems (fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis).
  • Some toxins or drugs may play a role -research says this. For example, valproic acid, halidomide, and infection exposure during pregnancy increases ASD risk in the infant.
  • Remember: Vaccines do not cause autism.

Symptoms of Autism

Symptoms of Autism

Early detection of Autism: What parents to look for in child

Early detection of Autism

Diagnosis: Early detection by doctor

Social Skills

Evaluation of ASD children: Medical diagnosis

Evaluation of ASD children: Medical diagnosis

Treatment: School Evaluation

School Evaluation

Treatment of Autism:

Pet may help autistic kids

Living with Autism children

Living with Autism children

References:

  • http://www.autism-society.org/
  • http://www.medicinenet.com/
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on: April 1, 2016
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Pets may help autistic kids

Treatment of Autism

  • Medication: Although there is no medical treatment for ASDs, there are treatments for some ASD symptoms. Talk to your child’s pediatrician and discuss about the therapy.   Caution for parents: Close observation is required to monitor the child’s response to any medication.
  • Sensory Integration: Children with ASD may be extremely sensitive to sensory stimuli like lights, textures, taste, odors, sounds and touch. They may panic when they see blinking lights, strangers and may get excited in sharing things or  to new unfamiliar settings and disinfectants.  Some children can be trained to adapt and may show improvement in their behavior.
  • Assistive Technology: For non verbal children with autism there is technology help available. A computer tablet, a computer, or phone app with programs especially designed to engage children with ASD are available.
  • Generally, autistic kids love animals especially dogs – see whether your child is comfortable with a pet.
  • Diet for autism children: A balanced diet with proper nutrients can help to keep good stamina and health of autism children. Talk to your doctor about the good and they will be able to help you or may guide you to a good child nutrition advisor.
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Treatment of Autism: Special Evaluation

Treatment: School Evaluation

Children Act of 1975 requires free and appropriate public education for all children, regardless of the extent and severity of their handicaps while amendments to the Education of the Handicapped Act of 1986 extended the requirement for free and appropriate education to children aged 3 to 5 years. Parents are advised to check with their individual school administrators to determine what programs best fit their child. There are two ways in which a child can be evaluated under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act:

  1. The parent can request an evaluation by calling or writing the director of special education or the principal of the child’s school.
  2. The school system may determine that an evaluation is necessary. If so, they must receive written permission from the parent before conducting the evaluation. – An evaluation should be conducted by a multidisciplinary team or group, which must include at least one teacher or other specialist with specific knowledge in the area of the suspected disability.

See more about school evaluation here: http://www.autism-society.org/what-is/diagnosis/school-evaluation/

Image courtesy: http://www.kars4kids.org/

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Diagnosis: Early detection by doctor

Diagnosis: Early detection by doctor

Diagnosis: Early detection by doctor: A neurologist, behavioral pediatrician, clinical psychologist and a neuropsychologist can diagnose autism.

Diagnosis of social skills: At first glance, some people with autism may appear to have an intellectual disability, sensory processing issues, or problems with hearing or vision. To complicate matters further, these conditions can co-occur with autism. However, it is important to distinguish autism from other conditions, as an accurate and early autism diagnosis can provide the basis for an appropriate educational and treatment program (source: Autism society).

  1. Inability to look another person in the eye, even the eyes of their parents.
  2. Their communication is more like robot without much or no facial expressions or gesture.
  3. They often focus on objects and do so intently, virtually ignoring other people or other stimuli for long time periods.
Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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Evaluation of ASD children: Medical diagnosis

Evaluation of ASD children: Medical diagnosis

There are no medical tests that can help in evaluating the ASD in children. A brief observation in a single setting cannot present a true picture of someone’s abilities and behaviors. It needs many visits with specialists and helpers.

The evaluation that has been accepted and used by the specialists is the following three criteria:

  1. Impairments in social interactions
  2. Impairments in communication
  3. A restricted and repetitive range of interests, behaviors, and activities

Differential diagnosis:

Some conditions may have symptoms similar to autism; therefore, professionals must be diligent when determining a diagnosis and its treatment. There are other disorders that manifest behaviors similar to those of autism and/or are more prevalent in individuals with autism:

See more here: http://www.autism-society.org/what-is/diagnosis/differential-diagnosis/

Image courtesy: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/

Author: Sumana Rao | Posted on:
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