There are several challenges that come along with parenthood. One of those challenges is making sure that your baby stays healthy, especially this coming cold and flu season. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to help your child stay away from illness. Below are six tips that will help keep your baby healthy:
Breastfeed
Breastfeeding your baby is one of the best things you can do to help prevent illness. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for your growing baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you breastfeed for at least one year. Breast milk contains antibodies that helps protect your baby from illness. Regardless of how long you breastfeed, it will always be more beneficial for your child.
Avoid Crowded Places And People Who Are Sick
Babies can very easily contact illnesses because their immune systems are weaker. You should try to keep your baby away from crowded places because germs and bacteria can very easily spread in places where there are a lot of people. If you need to go to mall or the store, consider having someone watch your baby at home to avoid exposing them to more germs. If you know someone that is sick, it is best not to be around them, even if it’s a close family member that wants to see your baby. Make sure they aren’t contagious any more before being around them with your child.
Wash Your Hands
Hand washing is one of the best defenses against infectious illnesses. You will need to wash your hands before feeding, touching or holding your baby and encourage others to do the same. In order for hand washing to be effective, you must wash your hands in warm water with soap for at least 20 seconds. If you are in a area where you can’t wash your hands, keep hand sanitizer with you to use instead.
Avoid Smokers
Secondhand smoke is dangerous for everyone, but it is even more dangerous for a baby. Babies who are exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to develop asthma and ear infections. They are also more likely to die in their first year of life. If you know someone close to you who smokes, encourage them to do so away from you home and car, because smoke is very difficult to get rid of. The smoke can still be harmful to your baby long after someone has smoked there.
Use Organic Products
The chemicals and other material inside of bedding, clothing and blankets can cause allergies. Consider using organic baby bedding that is free of harmful materials. Using organic lotions and shampoos will also decrease the risk of allergies and irritation. If you can’t find skin products that are organic, look for items that are for sensitive skin and gentle, because it will contain less harmful chemicals.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Babies should not be exposed to direct sunlight because their skin is very sensitive. The sun is strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When you are outside with your baby, you should make sure that he or she wears sunscreen. Also make sure that your child is wearing protective clothing, or use the cover on strollers to avoid sunlight at all, even if they are wearing sunscreen.
Keeping a newborn baby healthy can be challenging, but the good news is that you can make this task easier. By following these tips, you can put your mind at east and know that your child is getting the best protection possible.
