Studies show that babies breastfed exclusively for the first six months are less prone to developing allergies later on in life than babies who aren't. In fact, there is mounting evidence that the longer you breastfeed, the greater the benefits in terms of health and development.

Similarly, the variety of food that a baby is exposed to in the first few years of life may well set the tone of his dietary preferences in later years.

A good weaning diet is one that can provide the baby with the essential nutrients as well as variety. It should be balanced and food should be offered in moderation. Baby's first foods should also be easy to digest. It is recommended that iron-fortified rice cereal as the first solid food as rice is one of the least allergenic foods.  The baby's iron stores will run out at around six months and it is therefore crucial to provide him with an adequate amount of iron to prevent iron deficiency.

Once the baby shows no adverse reaction to the rice cereal, you may proceed to feeding him other single ingredient foods such as pureed fruit, vegetables or other grains, then follow with other protein-rich foods such as meat and chicken.

Purees are a good way to start as their smooth and runny texture will give the baby a comfortable first-food experience. Breast milk or formula can be added to the puree to modify the consistency if needed, especially for babies who have just started on their first solid food adventure.

One key piece of advice about feeding: 'Do not cook too much and do not push the baby to finish the food. One or two spoonfuls may be all your baby will be able to take at the beginning.'

Most children who eat a wide variety of food will not need additional supplementation. But for fussy eaters, growing-up milks which comprise special formulas may help. These can act as a safety net which provides them with energy and nutrients needed for growth.

Tags: Baby, Weaning

As the epilepsy seizures person may be unconscious or drowsy, it is important that the family member or caregiver knows what to do:

-  Keep the person safe from injury - for example, remove surrounding objects especially those with sharp corners and protect him from falling to the ground

-  If unconscious, make sure he/she is still breathing before placing in the recovery position

-  Do not place any object in his/her mouth.  This may cause injuries like chipped teeth or even a broken jaw

-  Call for an ambulance if the epileptic fit:
    a.  lasts more than 5 minutes
    b. repeated seizures occur one after another
    c.  occurs in a pregnant woman or a person with diabetes

-  Otherwise, allow him to recover/regain consciousness and bring him to his family doctor for a check up

-  Try to remember the events you have witnessed.  This will be very helpful to the doctor

What measures can be taken to reduce the risk of another epileptic fit attack?
It is important that you do the following:

-  take your anti-epileptic medicine exactly as prescribed; avoid stopping the medicine or altering the dosage unless instructed to do so by your doctor

-  strive for general well being with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and effective stress management

-  limit your intake of alcohol

-  make sure you get enough sleep and rest, as lack of sleep can trigger a epileptic fit attack

-  when you fall ill, please see your family doctor for early treatment as another illness can increase your risk of having another epileptic fit attack

How to improve safety during a epileptic attack?
The following measures can be adopted to help improve workplace and home safety:
-  minimise exposure to open fires and sharp objects as well as consider minimising or avoiding the sue of microwave ovens and blenders

-  do not lock toliet doors and avoid lying in bathtubs for prolonged periods; showers are safer

-  avoid operation of heavy machinery

-  carry a card stating your condition and your medicines.  This will be helpful in an emergency.  Your doctor will be able to help you apply for one.

Tags: Epilepsy