Keto Blogs

Author: Jim Rodriguez

  • HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC

    HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC

    “Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory herb known to be the most effective nutritional supplement on earth. Its been used for centuries to treat various issues and it also gives curry powder that yellow pigment. Also known as “Indian Saffron” due to its golden colour, turmeric is related to ginger and is native to Southeast Asia. ”

    Have you ever done a bit of research about the health benefits of this herb? Guess you were amazed at the features it possesses? Well, high-quality studies even prove that turmeric has major health benefits for our overall body and the brain. Most of these benefits are due to its major constituent, “Curcumin”. Let’s have a close look at what Turmeric and Curcumin are as well as their health benefits.

    What are Turmeric and Curcumin?

    Turmeric is a spice or rather a herb that’s been used in India for ages in treating various health ailments. It is an important part of Ayurveda medicine and is thought to have cancer-fighting properties. This herb constitutes of an active compound “Curcumin” which has been thoroughly studied for its disease-fighting properties and benefits to human health.

    What are The Health Benefits of Turmeric?

    1.      Tumeric helps boost the immune system

    The anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-oxidant properties of curcumin make it the perfect choice for boosting the immune system. Though curcumin isn’t absorbed properly into the bloodstream, regular consumption of black pepper fosters its absorption. This is due to “piperine”, a major constituent of black pepper.

    You can also prepare a cold-fighting tea with turmeric, but you’ll need a bit of ginger and black pepper. To prepare:

    • Pour 12 ounces of water and add one ounce of turmeric in it and allow it to boil.
    • Remove the water from heat and add one-quarter teaspoon of both ginger and black pepper. You can substitute the water for coconut milk to make the tea into golden milk.

    2.      Turmeric Helps The Body Fight Against Inflammation

    Inflammation is the main cause of most health conditions like cardiovascular diseases, cancer and metabolic syndrome. It also affects the efficiency of the brain which leads to cognitive decline. Consumption of turmeric helps to inhibit the secretion of pro-inflammatory genes, thereby blocking the inflammatory response pathways.

    To use it in the most effective way ever, you can add turmeric as an ingredient in your go-to salad dressing. It preserves the great taste while retaining a ton of benefits.

    3.      Turmeric combats free radical damages

    This herb (or spice) has been proven to boost the antioxidant capacity of the body and helps combat free radical damages. Doing this helps for the proper functioning of the brain, the immune system, and also the anti-cancer properties. While boosting the body’s natural antioxidant capacity, it directly boosts the immune system. The antioxidant properties also help in protecting the skin against free radical damages like environmental pollutants.

    To get an antioxidant boost, pour a teaspoon of turmeric into your favorite smoothie and drink.

    4.      It relieves Joint pain

    Remember curcumin the main constituent of turmeric? It has anti-inflammatory benefits that aid in easing joint pain. Research also shows that turmeric and curcumin can counter pain and inflammations related to arthritis.

    If you’re suffering from aches and pains, I suggest you take a smoothie choked with anti-inflammatory, soothing superfoods. You can also go for frozen wild blueberries with roasted steamed beets and turmeric. Thinking of making it a meal, then add your favorite plant protein.

    5.      Turmeric stands as a remedy for treating and preventing cancer

    Turmeric and its constituents have been studied for their role as a preferred remedy for the treatment and prevention of cancerous cells. The research proved fruitful as its results were all on the better side.

    To prepare, mix turmeric, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper with olive oil with chickpeas. Roast for about 20 minutes till it becomes crispy and eat over a veggie-rich soup.

    6.      It boosts the brain’s Efficiency

    Curcumin has been studied for its ability to boost the brain’s health by fostering and supporting healthy levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a hormone that plays an important role in long-term cognitive function.

    Turmeric looks and is very palatable with eggs. You can shake it into your scrambled eggs or even an omelet.

    7.      Turmeric Provides Protection for the Heart

    Turmeric and curcumin have been scientifically proven to protect the heart in various ways. One way includes boosting endothelial function while also reducing inflammation and free-radical damage.

    You can get these benefits in a nutritious and enticing way by incorporating turmeric into your whole-grain dishes like quinoa, barley or brown rice.

    8.      Turmeric serves as a mood changer (for good)

    In addition to its effects on the brain’s efficiency, the impact of curcumin on BDNF has been proven to have an advantage in treating depression. It does this by reversing the detrimental brain damage that happens when you’re in a state of depression. Curcumin also can boost the levels of mood-regulating neutron transmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

    In a research, 60 people with depression were randomly divided into three separate groups. One group took a gram of curcumin, the other group took Prozac while the third group took both Prozac and curcumin. 6 weeks later, it was noticed that people who took curcumin had similar improvements to those that took Prozac. However, the group that took both curcumin and Prozac had more improvements. This small study clearly shows that curcumin can be used as an anti-depressant.

    9.      Curcumin stands useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease

    In the US, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Though treatments exist for some of its symptoms, there is still no cure for it. To this effect, preventing the disease from occurring at first stands better.

    Curcumin also stands as the perfect choice for prevention. Based on research, the primary cause of Alzheimer’s disease is inflammation and oxidative damage to the brain. Well, curcumin helps the body combat inflammation and has oxidative effects. In addition, the basic feature of Alzheimer’s disease is the buildup of protein tangles known as amyloid plaques. Curcumin can help you clear these amyloid plaques.

    FINAL WORDS The health benefits of Turmeric can never be overstated. Its uses range from the world of spices to herbs. Boasting both cognitive, inflammatory, and oxidative properties, turmeric is certainly the best healthy choice you should consider today. Do you know more ways this herb is of benefit to human health? Do well as to let us know today in the comment section below.

  • GOOD FOODS TO IMPROVE DIGESTION

    GOOD FOODS TO IMPROVE DIGESTION

    “The human’s digestive system is responsible for the breakdown of food into nutrients and generating energy that the body uses. Eating certain types of foods, like vegetables and yogurt can aid the process of digestion”.

    The foods you choose to eat, and the ones you ignore can play a major role in your level of digestion which directly affects your normal health. According to research, many health outcomes like inflammations, skin conditions, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune disorders and even the brain’s health can be linked to the health and nature of the digestive system. Guess that’s why people are more concerned nowadays about the health of their gut.

    As earlier stated, when we talk about keeping the gut healthy and in a better shape, what you consume plays an important role in it. Though there isn’t any food labeled on the market as “Food for the gut”, regular consumption of plant-based foods will surely help keep both your general health and digestion in a good form. When it comes to a healthy diet for the gut, diversify your diet; add more probiotics to your diet.

    While no single food type will aid or destroy your digestive health, some are undoubtedly the best when talking about taking care of your gut. For the purpose of this article, we’ve highlighted some of the best foods that when incorporated into your diet will aid in digestion. So, leaving no stone unturned, let’s get straight into it.

    What are the Best Foods For Digestion?

    1. Foods Containing ginger

    Also known as ginger root, ginger has been used ages ago in alternative medicine to boost digestion. It has been proven to affect the enzymes trypsin and pancreatic lipase during food digestion to boost mobility and emptying of the stomach. This aids in preventing constipation, bloating, gas and also indigestion. 

    Also, ginger boasts of the ability to relieve gastrointestinal (GI) irritation, foster bile and saliva production, and also reduce the rate of gastric constrictions as food and fluids pass through the gastrointestinal tract. This however aids in relieving pain caused by hypersensitivity for people with IBS. 

    Incorporate dried ginger into your meal spices today and feel the change it provides. You can also use fresh ginger roots for your tea.

    2. Avocado

    Avocado is an amazing fruit packed with dietary fiber and other essential nutrients like potassium that promote digestion. It also contains vitamin C which helps the body produce collagen to maintain the strength of the tissues of the intestinal walls. In addition, incorporating avocados into your diet helps increase your level of vitamin B complex intake. These nutrients are highly essential as it enables your cells to gain fuel and energy from food. Note that, though the fruits are high in nutrients, they are also high in fats. So, it’s advised you consume in moderation.

    3. Low Fructose Fruits

    If you’re highly prone to gas and bloating, you’ll have to reduce your level of consumption of fructose or fruit sugar. Though some fruits like apples, mangoes, or pears are highly nutritional, they are however high in fructose. So, you should substitute these for berries and citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit as they contain less fructose. Bananas also make an excellent selection here as they are not only low in fructose but also high in fiber and contain insulin( a substance that fosters the growth of good bacteria in the gut).

    4. Oats

    Oatmeal makes a good breakfast as it contains a significant amount of dietary fiber known as beta-glucan fiber. These beta-glucan fibers aid in moving cholesterol-rich bile acids through the digestive tract and then out of the body. Also, oatmeal is known to have phenolic compounds and phytoestrogen that poses as an antioxidant. These chemicals aid in reducing the effects of inflammation resulting from cardiovascular diseases and other issues.

    5. Lean Proteins

    Are you a sufferer of IBS or bowel sensitivity? Then you are advised to stick to lean proteins and stay clear of foods rich in fat. Foods rich in fat can foster contractions of the colon. This is why you should go for healthier choices. Even red meats for instance can promote colon bacteria that secrete chemicals linked with an increased risk of clogged arteries.

    6. Unsaturated Fats

    Unsaturated fats help the body absorb vitamins like A, D, E and K. it also combines with fiber to boost bowel movements. Also, research links consuming unsaturated fats with various health benefits, like a lower risk of premature deaths and cardiovascular diseases. Omega-3s specifically is an amazing option for a healthy heart and reduced inflammation.

    7. Wholegrain Foods

    Whether whole wheat or white bread or white or brown rice, you should opt for whole grains. It’s highly recommended for optimum gut health. Research postulates that for a colon to function at high potential, it requires at least 25 grams of fiber each day. Unlike other refined carbohydrates like white bread and Granola Bars, whole grains provide lots of fiber as well as numerous nutrients like vitamin B-complex, and Omega-3 fatty acids amongst others.

    8. Leafy-Green Vegetables

    Leafy green vegetables are highly packed with fiber and other essential nutrients like vitamin C, A, K, and folate. Research even shows that these vegetables also contain sulfoquinovose( a sugar that feeds the healthy gut bacteria hence fostering digestion). Eating a subsequent amount of leafy green lets you develop an ideal gut microbe (organisms that live in the colon).

    9. Fluids

    It is essential to continue drinking (non-alcoholic), especially water and yogurt. These fluids provide the smooth passage of waste through your digestive system and also soften poo. When consumed, fiber behaves more like a sponge, collecting water. With low fluid intake, fiber cannot carry out its job and you’ll get stuck up in constipation.

    To ensure your body gets the needed amount of fluids, try drinking a glass of water with any meal you take. You should also avoid caffeine drinks as they are notable for heartburn.

    WRAP UP

    If you have a close look at the foods mentioned in this write-up, you’ll notice that most foods that foster digestion are rich in many nutrients like fiber. For a healthy gut, it doesn’t just rely on what you eat. Other factors like stress, sleep and exercise can also have a good impact on it. So, to get the best results, we recommend you eat the foods listed while carrying out the proper exercise with less stress and good sleep. 

    If you’re experiencing any difficulty in digestion, it’s best advised you consult your doctor immediately.

  • DIURETICS: Types, Effects, and Risks

    DIURETICS: Types, Effects, and Risks

    Overview

    Diuretics are medications made to boost the level of water and salt that are expelled from the body in the form of urine. Also known as water pills, diuretics help the kidneys put extra salt into your urine. These drugs are often prescribed to help treat high blood pressure and other issues as well. Diuretics make you urinate more frequently, so it’s advisable you take them in the morning. At times, you’ll have to take them twice a day at the same time for optimal results.

    What Does Diuretics Help Treat?

    Diuretics are commonly known for treating high blood pressure. They aid in reducing the level of fluid in the blood vessels which directly lowers your blood pressure. These drugs can also help in treating congestive heart failure ( a condition that prevents the heart from pumping blood throughout the whole body). This condition leads to an accumulation of fluid in your body; another condition is called edema. Diuretics can however aid in reducing the buildup of this fluid.

    What are The Different Types of Diuretics?

    There are basically three types of diuretics. They include:

    • Thiazide diuretics
    • Loop diuretics
    • Potassium-sparing diuretics

    Note that each type of diuretic has a specific part of the kidney in which it functions. The best diuretic for your system depends on your general health and the condition being treated. Let’s have quick look at the different types of diuretics.

    Thiazide Diuretics

    This type is the commonly prescribed diuretic. They aid in treating high blood pressure as they not only decrease fluids but also keep your blood vessels at a relaxed phase. These drugs are at times prescribed with other medications notable for lowering blood pressure. Examples of the thiazides taken orally include;

    • Metlazene
    • Indapamide
    • Hydrochlorothiazide
    • Chlorthalidone
    • Chlorothiazide

    Loop Diuretics

    Loop diuretics are commonly known for interfering with the passage of salt and water across various cells in the kidney. It is used for treating heart disease as it also aids in minimizing the symptoms of edema and any breathlessness caused by fluid congestion. Aside from heart failure, medical professionals also use loop diuretics to manage other conditions relating to fluid buildup. Conditions like high blood pressure and edema, even nephrotic syndrome or cirrhosis can be managed with loop diuretics. Examples of loop diuretics include:

    • Bumetanide
    • Furosemide
    • Ethacrynic acid
    • Torsemide

     

    Potassium-sparing diuretics

    Potassium-sparing diuretics are known for reducing the fluid level of the body with no loss in potassium. The other two diuretics cause a huge loss in potassium which causes various health issues like arrhythmia. Unlike other diuretics, potassium-sparing diuretics don’t reduce blood pressure. The doctor can however prescribe this medication with others that help lower blood pressure. Examples of potassium-sparing diuretics include:

    • Amiloride
    • Spironolactone
    • Eplerenone
    • Triamterene

    What are the Side Effects Of Diuretics?

    Though taking diuretics as prescribed does not pose any serious issue to your health, they are still some notable side effects attached to it. The side effects of diuretics include:

    • Dizziness
    • Weakness
    • Reduction in the level of potassium in the blood (When Thiazide or loop diuretics are used).
    • High level of potassium in the blood (when potassium-sparing diuretics are used).
    • Headache
    • Increased blood sugar
    • Consistent muscle cramps
    • Diarrhea
    • Skin rash
    • Increased cholesterol level.

    Aside from the stated symptoms, some persons may also experience more serious side effects in rare cases. These side effects include:

    • Kidney failure
    • Allergic reactions
    • Irregular heartbeat (either too fast or too slow).

    What Can I Do When I Notice These Symptoms?

    If you by any chance notice any of these symptoms while taking diuretics, you should consult your doctor immediately. Your doctor will check to know the major cause of the symptoms, and also prescribe a different medication or multiple medications to aid relieve you of the side effects. 

    Remember, a diuretic is a drug, and before taking any drug, ensure you consult your doctor for a proper prescription.

    What Are The Possible Risks of Diuretics?

    Though diuretics are considered to be generally safe, there exist certain risks attached when you’re a sufferer of certain medical ailments or take other prescriptions.

    Effects of diuretics on certain health conditions

    A person suffering from any health condition should always inform the doctor before taking any prescribed diuretics. This medication can either worsen a condition or reduce its effects. Some notable effects on various health conditions include;

    • Pancreatitis: When you’ve got Pancreatitis, you should stay clear of diuretics as they can worsen the symptoms of this condition, leaving you at a high risk of acute pancreatitis.
    • Gout: Diuretics can also increase your risk of developing gout. So, you’ll have to inform the doctor before taking any diuretic if you’ve got gout.
    • Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are advised to stay off diuretics to prevent any complications in the long run.It is important to note that some diuretics, especially thiazides play an important role in managing type 2 diabetes and hypertension. But still, consult your doctor before taking any of it.

    Aside from the stated conditions, diuretics may also worsen other conditions like menstrual problems (for women), dehydration and kidney problems.

    Interactions with other medications

    When you’re placed on a new medication, ensure you let your doctor know about other medications, herbs or supplements you’re taking. Doing so will help the doctor check for any possible interactions between the new medication and the one you’re taking already. Some drugs when interacting with diuretics might pose certain life-threatening conditions. Examples of these medications include:

    • Digoxin
    • Anti-hypertensive agents
    • Acid salts
    • Potassium
    • Cyclosporine
    • Magnesium
    • Laxatives
    • Oral anti-diabetic agents

    FINAL WORDS

    Today, medical professionals find diuretics to be the perfect match for treating a range of conditions including congestive heart failure, edema and high blood pressure. These medications can increase your level of urine production as they tend to boost the rate at which water and salt are expelled from the body in the form of urine. Though they may look all advantageous, there also come with some risks attached. So, you should always consult your doctor for a better prescription and stay healthy always! 

  • BEST BEAUTY TIPS FOR MEN’S FACIAL AND BODY SKIN

    BEST BEAUTY TIPS FOR MEN’S FACIAL AND BODY SKIN

    Today, male grooming is a buzzing topic in the beauty world. Just as women, men now take more pride in their appearance and want to have the best skin tone free from acne and other skin impurities. We all want to look good with radiant skin when going out, and this can be achieved only when you take proper care of your skin. The market is currently saturated with various products for men, and grooming services for gents are on the rise.

    In this blog, we’ll have a closer look at 5 tips for getting a pure radiant and healthy facial ad body skin as a gent. So I advise you to pay more attention to these tips and consider incorporating one or more of these tips into your daily skincare routine. So, without any further ado, let’s get to know the beauty tips.

    How Can I Take Care Of My Facial And Body Skin?

    1. Always get a shave

    Clearing off hairs helps in preventing the risk of bacteria infestation. Hair holds water and dust which tends to be a playground for bacteria. Shaving doesn’t just keep the skin looking fresh but it also gives you a much younger and less aggressive look than the full-bearded man. Today, most of the ingredients in a typical shaving cream have been related to cancer and other skin irritations. However, the razor comes in handy here, but you can also opt for safer methods like using natural ingredients. You can even create your shaving cream without spending too much.

    2. Try Preventing the Occurrence of Wrinkles

    Wrinkles occur as a result of losing skin elasticity, making you look older and weak. You need to keep your skin moisturized and exfoliated at most times. In addition, what you eat also affects the health of your skin and the occurrence of wrinkles. To prevent wrinkles on your skin, consider incorporating this food into your diet:

    Pears: Pears are a great option when treating nasolabial folds. Try eating the whole part of the pear aside from the seeds as the anti-aging nutrients are present basically in the skin of the pears. Remember to use organic pears for better results.

    Cabbage: Cabbages contain a high amount of vitamin A and C. These are ingredients known to help reduce fine lines while detoxifying the blood. Also, the fiber in cabbages aids to get rid of toxins and waste from the body.

    Watery vegetables and fruits: these veggies help the skin stay hydrated; keeping it more radiant and looking fresh.

    Some foods are considered bad for the skin as they lead to certain skin damage. These foods include:

    Meat and other dairy products: To get better skin, you’ll have to cut down your consumption of these foods as they damage the skin. Eat less of it and substitute red meats for organic meats.

    Coffee and Caffeine: This, in particular, deprives your skin of water while giving off some signs of aging. 

    Fried foods sugar and artificial sweeteners: Consider using raw honey or stevia in place of these.

    3. Heal Dry and Rough Skin

    Are you battling with overly dry and rough skin? Do not worry as there exists many ways to which you can heal that skin today in the comfort of your home. You don’t need an all-expensive skincare routine. Just with the use of unrefined jojoba oil or coconut oil, you’re good to go. Warm up the unrefined jojoba oil or coconut oil and apply directly to the dry skin areas. 

    For better results, you’ll need to clear off the top layer of dead skin cells before applying these oils. To clear these off, add some baking soda to your everyday cleanser. Do not add the baking soda directly into the bottle of your cleanser. Instead, you can pour it on your hand and use a washcloth. To keep the dry skin fresh, you’ll need to moisturize. Opt for aloe Vera’s fleshy gel as a natural moisturizer.

    4. For Men with Oily Skin

    It is more of a natural phenomenon, having to deal with oily skin. However, various products are designed specifically for men with this skin type. Desist from using harsh cleaners and overly hot water as they’ll cause other skin issues. There are different natural alternatives you can try today. The witch hazel for instance serves as a natural remedy for skin issues with oily skin. It is a natural astringent that dries up excess oils from the face. 

    You can also use tomatoes to control the oil production level of your skin. Get some slices and rub directly on oily skin. Let the tomato juice sit on the skin for at least 15 minutes so it can be absorbed into the skin. Then rinse it off with cold water.

    5. Try Natural Skin Lightening Remedies

    Instead of killing some skin cells all in the name of bleaching which causes complications in the long run, you can eat many vegetables that contain carotenoids. Foods like carrots, oranges, tomatoes, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens and pumpkins can give you a lighter skin tone making you look healthier. 

    6. Always Use Sunscreens

    For the best looks and to avoid acne breakouts, it’s advisable to use sunscreens whether you’re going out or not. While you’re out, sun rays tend to mess with your skin. Even indoors, ultraviolet rays from screens and windows can affect your skin’s health. Try applying sunscreen cream or lotion on your face and body skin. These creams or lotions should be SPF more than 20.

    7. Take Lots Of Water To Stay Hydrated

    When you cut short your level of water drinking, you might get caught up with skin issues like scaly texture, wrinkles all over your skin, and overly dry skin. All these skin issues can be prevented by just drinking a sufficient amount of water. This is by far the best tip for men to stay healthy and hydrated. All looking fresh and handsome always. So, do the right thing for the sake of your skin.

    8. Exercise and Workout Regularly

    Regular workouts help to maintain your physical shape and give off a brilliant look always. It increases the level of blood circulation which directly boosts the amount of oxygen that goes to all internal organs with the skin included. Remember that hydrated skin is healthy skin that radiates freshness.

    FINAL WORDS

    Guess you now know the best skin care tips for both facial and body skin for gents. It’s time you opt for good products that will help for good skin care. There are different products out there, from body washes to face creams. All of these will give you that radiant look. Having issues picking the best for your skin? Your dermatologist can help you sort things out. Stay healthy and hydrated with fresh skin always.

  • 10 SIGNS TO KNOW WHEN YOUR CHILD IS SICK

    10 SIGNS TO KNOW WHEN YOUR CHILD IS SICK

    Caring for a baby looks more like a challenging task, especially when it’s your first time being a parent. You’re still trying to figure out ways of how to disinfect their clothes, give them medications on time, and how to make yourself available always for them. 

    As a parent, you do learn something new about your baby every day, and it’s still kinda hard to decipher whether the runny nose your baby is experiencing is normal and there’ll be relief with time, or it urgently needs a doctor’s attention. 

    The whole stress is real parents, and we’re here for you. Yes, we are, and we’ll be with you through your journey of parenting for the first time. We did put together some information on baby sickness, highlighting 10 ways in which you can identify them. Read on to understand the various ways.

    How Do I Know If My Baby is Sick?

    Unlike adults, babies have a developing immune system that needs extra care than the normal daily baby treatments. Those who are exposed to daycare environments are highly susceptible to germs which weakens their developing immune system and causes sickness. Well, any baby can fall sick at any time. This is why you need to always be on the lookout for signs. When you notice something abnormal, there might be an issue there.

    Check for the following signs in your baby. When noticed, seek medical attention immediately before the condition worsens.

    1. Jaundice

    Due to their developing organs (like the liver), all newborn tends to have a yellow trace over their skin in the first two weeks of birth. However, you need to check to see if this yellow colour shows up immediately after childbirth takes place. If you notice the colour in the palm or soles, reaching out to the doctor will do both you and your baby good. At times, the colour doesn’t just show up like that. To check to see, try pressing his soles gently for some seconds with your thumb. Check if the palm is yellow or pink, and when it is yellow, it might be a sign that your baby is sick.

    2. Trouble Breathing

    Fast or mild breathing higher than 6o breaths per minute might just be the sign you need to know when your baby is sick. When this is followed by grunting sounds and weighty movements around the abdominal region or chest, and a blue discolouration of the baby’s lips and tongue, you’ll have to seek medical attention immediately. To know the normal breathing rate for a baby, try counting their resting rate of breathing when they are asleep or immediately after feeding. 

    3. Fever 

    Did you notice a rapid change in the body temperature of your baby? Well, if it is 100 degrees Fahrenheit and higher, there’s a higher chance that it might be an infection. Take your baby to the doctor in this case, especially if he’s more than 3 months of age. 

    At times, fever is a feature when it comes to some growth milestones like teething or can be related to dehydration or persistent crying due to a reduced level of milk intake. When your baby is teething, his temperature doesn’t need to be above 101 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s less, that’s normal, but when there’s an increase, it’s fever showing you its signs.

    4. Hypothermia

    Hypothermia is a condition characterized by a reduction in temperature (below 97 degrees Fahrenheit) which is dangerous for infants in all climates. 

    To know if your baby is feeling cold, try comparing the temperature of his sole or palm with that of his belly and back. Use the back of your hand to touch the baby’s body to feel the temperature. If the sole is cooler than the belly, that might be a sign of mild hypothermia. If both the sole and the belly seem cold to touch, then it’s severe hypothermia. This increases the risk of developing cold damage that leads to other complications.

    5. Languor and High Floppiness

    A baby will have a high response to external stimuli. When touched gently, that alone is enough to arouse the baby from a restful state. Also, the cry of a healthy baby is always loud and clear. If the crying becomes weak or the baby finds it difficult to suckle, then your baby needs urgent help.

    6. Vomiting

    Drooling or spitting up is normal for babies. This is because their esophageal sphincter is still developing and allows for the reflux of milk. At times, spitting up can be caused by overfeeding. But if the condition persists or vomiting is forceful with green or brown colour, and the baby tends t be hungry or finds it hard to sleep, you’ll have to visit the doctor immediately.

    7. Delayed Excretion

    During the first 24 hours of birth, a newborn is expected to excrete a sticky stool known as “meconium”. He also has to pass out gas and urine in the first two days. A healthy infant can defecate between 8-12 times per day after every feed. This is normal, but when the stools are watery or green or comes out with blood and mucus, there’s a problem there.

    Also, healthy infants pass urine around 6-8 times in 24 hours. So, when you notice a reduction in this frequency or the level of urine passed out is low, your baby might be sick and requires medical attention.

    8. Abnormal movements

    If you notice some changes in the movement of your baby like rolling the eyes upward, crying unusually, poor response to touches or sounds, or tightening of the arms and legs, then that might be a sign of seizure or convulsion. Seizures at times require urgent medical attention, especially when delayed for more than five minutes. It may lead to the sudden death of your child. So, take no chances and do the right thing on time.

    9. Abnormal weight loss

    When a baby is born, he experiences weight loss. That’s about 8-10% of his birth weight which he gains back over 7-14 days on earth. If your baby losses more weight than usual and has no signs of regaining it, that might be a sign he is sick and may need urgent medical attention. It might be that the body isn’t getting enough milk.

    10. Change in Soft Spot

    The fontanels of an infant need to Be firm to touch. But when the fontanels become bulging and sunken, that is a sign that the baby is sick. Sunken fontanels are related to dehydration.

    Wrapping Up

    As a mother to a newborn, you’re just getting to know many things about your baby. To ensure they’re 100% safe, you need to monitor them. They can’t tell you how they feel inside since they’re still so young. To this effect, it’s left for you to check for signs and symptoms. When you notice anything unusual, try visiting the doctor immediately.