Pregnant moms have to face many important decisions, one of which is what milk to feed their child during the first months of life: “Should I breastfeed or should I use formula?” Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so let’s take a look at them.

Nature’s Own Mix

Human breast milk is made for the needs of the baby. The content of the milk changes as time passes to adapt to the changing needs of the infant.

After a woman gives birth, breast milk contains a lot of colostrum, a thin yellowish fluid rich in protein and antibodies that help boost the immune system of the infant. It also helps in the development of the newborn’s digestive system.

Later on, the content changes and begins to contain more fats and carbohydrates. This change becomes obvious as the milk goes from watery, thin, and sweet to thick and creamy. This increase in fat and carbs help the baby’s brain to develop, and the additional protein and antibodies satisfy their hunger and other developmental needs.

But What If I Can’t Breastfeed?

That’s totally fine, as you can always turn your attention to baby formula. Just remember that other milk such as animal, condensed, and evaporated milk are not made to feed a human baby and will NOT be enough to satisfy their needs.

Baby formula may not be as nutritious as breast milk, but it can be more convenient. It takes longer for the baby to digest, which means that baby’s fuller for a longer period of time, and you won’t have to insert further pumpings into your schedule.

So What Should I Do?

It is highly recommended that you breastfeed an infant especially during the first month, as breast milk will help prepare the baby’s digestive system for other kinds of food. Though it’s okay to offer baby formula to your infant, it’s really hard to beat Mother Nature’s own making.

Photo from: http://quiizu.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/004-1024x6821-1024x682.jpg

Easy and convenient bond with your babies? Take a walk, have fun and enjoy every moment!

For all parents out there, strollers are commonly used as a gear for babies that is needed from the very start of infancy until the child is able to walk on his own. Many parents nowadays are using strollers for them not to carry their children on a long distance walking. At about 3 to 4 years of age, the child can still use strollers until they reach 7 or 8 depending on the child’s performance.
 
With different types of strollers, the parents can choose depending on their preferences for their child’s comfortability and safety. Strollers comes in different designs, styles and colors. There are types in which the parents can choose from: For 0-6 months.Parents need to look for something comfortable and supported—a standard stroller, to keep the baby stable. At this stage, babies’ condition is at stake so they need to find a good and structured stroller to prevent the baby from bounces and uneven forces.  
 
The stroller also needs to have a comfy reclining seat so the baby can lie down flat on his back.

• Car-seat stroller frames are also available with lightweight metal frames that is designed to carry a specific types of infant car seats. Frames can be removed, put in a stroller frame, and viola!—you can now stroll and enjoy the walk. It can be easily fold up and don’t take too much space.
• For larger, heavier, and more expensive than a stroller frame, but can used after your baby has grown too big for his infant car seat, travel systems are available which is a standard or jogging strollers for it can also carry an infant car seat.
• Strollers that can be easily fold up compactly, lightweight strollers are there which usually weighs 12 pounds or less. This type of stroller called umbrella stroller have not much padding and not very adjustable. It is not suitable for infants for it doesn’t have much head support and don’t fully recline. Some used these stroller as a backup for travelling.
• Having twins or triplets? No worries! Double and triple strollers are there to bring you the convenience and comfortability that you needed. There are options where you can choose to add a platform behind or have a side-by-side model of stroller.

Of course, our baby’s safety always comes first.  Be sure to always keep an eye to your baby and as it says “never leave your valuable (baby) unattended!” If you choose to hang toys from a stroller bumper bar then double check if the toys are well fastened. The “fasten your seatbelt” reminder will never get outdated, too! Check brakes and engage stroller brakes when you decide to be at bay. Do not place strollers under the heat of the mighty sun for a couple of hours. The stroller material can be heated enough to cause  burns on your baby’s skin. And lastly, always put a hold for the warranty for when you need a recall and checking for your baby’s stroller.

After having been said all these things and presenting options to you, the ultimate question is: Are you now ready to have a walk with your little ones?  

Good and proper hygiene makes your baby happy and healthy!

Bath time can be a lot of fun for your little one and it can also give you an idealquality time to spend for you and your child. When it comes to making your baby clean, it should be a priority to choose what’s the best product for them. As a mom, you just want to give what’s best for your child’s needs. Knowing the type of shampoo, what are the ingredients and why should you choose that certain baby shampo oare probably the most challenging part that moms do because, we know it, there are tons of baby shampoos out in the market today!

When you choose a baby shampoo for your baby, you shouldn’t just grab any random shampoo and use it. Be aware of the chemicals that it might have. Choose the baby shampoo that is all natural, organic and allergenic. With that, you can just use a small amount to get your baby smelling clean and fresh without risking the health of their scalp.

These are the list of ingredients in baby shampoos that can cause of potential hazards:

•  Fragrances​. Its purpose is to make sure that the chemical smell is not present. The companies are not required to reveal what fragrance they are using so there might be unsafe and hazardous chemicals in them that is concealed as “fragrance”. It might cause rashes to your baby’s skin, eye irritations and in some cases respiratory problems. The best way to do is to choose a shampoo that is fragrance-free.
• 1,4 dioxane and Ethoxylated Surfactants. This is never listed as an ingredient but according to the studies done by Environmental Working Group, there are 57 percent of the baby soaps containing it. So, just a little reminder that if you see the letters “eth” in your baby’s shampoo, it is certain that there is 1,4 dioxine in it. If exposed high level of 1,4 dioxane, it can irritate the eyes, nose, lungs and skin. Not to make you worrysome mommies ,this content actually evaporates very quickly also dilute easier in water.
• Parabens. ​It can be seen everywhere including soap, shampoo, body wash, moisturizers and more. They are linked to health issues including skin irritation, hormone disruption and reproductive toxicity.

What type of baby shampoo should I use for my baby? The answer is: it depends. Baby’s skin is really sensitive especially the newborn. As for them, taking a bath everyday is not necessary at all because they don’t get dirty as much as the toddlers does. You could just put them to a sponge bath to cool them down and to make them feel relaxed.

Is your baby ready to take a bath daily? If so, you should choose the right shampoo for them. You can use mild shampoo for your baby’s sensitive skin which doesn’t contain synthetic fragrances, artificial colors or irritating preservatives that might irritate your baby’s scalp. You can also use natural baby shampoos that is made by natural ingredients so as you can keep chemicals be exposed to your baby

Looking for these kind of baby shampoos? Checkout South Star Drug products and get what’s best for you and your baby every bathy time!

Baby powder has been every mom’s best friend when it comes to nursing their child. It is used by applying directly on a child’s body; from the front torso to the back, either to avoid heavy sweats or just about give some comfort to the child. Baby powders have very tiny particles, are almost formless and effectively absorb sweats that lasts for more than 24 hours.

Although there are no incessant negative views over baby powders, parents must be aware that there are baby powders that do not pass the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) standard. These kinds of baby powder must be avoided as they might cause skin allergies and other diseases to your child. 

What’s a Safe Baby Powder and What’s Not?
As what was mentioned above, all baby powders that had passed the FDA standards are safe to use. All the other baby powder products that are not approved by the FDA should not be patronized and used.

Corn-starch​ baby powder is the best types of baby powders that must be used. It is organic and are viewed as very safe for your child. Whereas you must avoid ​talc baby powders​ as they are known to ignite allergies and other breathing problems once inhaled.

Special note mommies, even if the baby powder is approved by the FDA, how you use it and how much you use it are crucial factors that may affect your baby’s health. Too much application and application to the baby’s face will cause an inevitable inhalation of the product. The tiny particles of the baby powder might be absorbed by the lungs and will stay there until it will cause discomfort on the baby.

How to Use Corn-starch Baby Powders?
Use a very small amount of baby powder and cautiously direct the product on the surface of your baby’s skin, preferably at his/her back and upper torso. It is a given that you should apply the product gently and with much care, you should also be aware that a very brisk and coarse movement along your baby’s skin will cause further irritation on your baby.

Additional Tips on Choosing the Best Baby Powders

• Make sure that the baby powder is approved by the FDA.
• Your baby powder should not be made with talc powder
• Corn starch baby powder is the most preferred baby powder
• Prior to the above mentioned, make sure that your baby is not allergic to this product and the brands you are using.
•  When applying, make sure to be extra gentle because all  baby’s skin is thin and sensitive.

Things to Remember Before Using Baby Powder on your Baby’s Skin

• Make sure that no eating utensils or baby bottles are near the place when you opt to apply baby powder.
• Use a small amount of baby powder on your baby’s skin.
• When pouring the product on your hands, make sure that it won’t be inhaled by your baby.
• Lastly, keep away the product from the prying eyes of your baby once done.

For your baby powder needs or your over-all baby needs, be sure to check out South Star Drug products!

Feeding your baby the right food is one of the most important things you’ll ever do as a first-time parent. It can be frightening and confusing at times. With all the variations of mashed baby products, you may be unable to make the best decisions on your own. So here’s a guide on what’s the best thing to feed your baby.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade

A common debate is whether or not you should make your own baby food. Homemade baby food does have its advantages: you’ll know exactly what’s going into your baby’s tummy, it’s (usually) more economical, and you can customize the flavor to what your baby likes best. (Some flavors aren’t commonly sold in stores, like melon and avocado.)

However, it does take more time to prepare, and doesn’t come in pre-packaged portions that are already measured out in servings. Also, sometimes commercial baby food can be cheaper than individually buying ingredients to mash.

Arguably, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. Making homemade baby food can also be more environmentally friendly if you make them in big batches. It helps you cut down on waste, and is more convenient than having to buy packages of commercially prepared baby food in bulk.

Making your own baby food is simple. You just steam your vegetables until they’re soft, then mash it with a fork, or a potato masher if you’re doing it in batches. Wait until they cool and store until feeding.

The Best Food To Mash

After transitioning from a liquid diet to a soft food diet, the best foods to turn into baby mash include:

• Bananas - these fruits are easy to mash, and are rich in potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins B6 and C.
• Camote - otherwise known as the sweet potato, it’s popular for its sweetness and texture. It’s also packed with vitamin C, beta-carotene, and minerals like iron and copper.
• Avocado - this soft fruit is full of unsaturated fat, which helps boost brain development in babies. Studies have shown that the fat composition in avocados is actually similar to that of breast milk.[1]

Transitioning From Milk To Mash

The easiest way to transition from milk to mash is to slowly add solid food to their milk. Slowly add more and more food into the mix until they can tolerate solid food on its own.

Be sure to follow your pediatrician’s advice on when and how to start feeding your baby solid food. Make sure that every time you try a new kind of food, you leave a few days in between different kinds to watch for any allergies.

Photo from: http://700childrens.nationwidechildrens.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/baby-food-pt2-770x420.jpg

------------------------------

[1] https://www.babycenter.com/0_the-10-best-foods-for-babies_10320505.bc

Feeding your baby the right food is one of the most important things you’ll ever do as a first-time parent. It can be frightening and confusing at times. With all the variations of mashed baby products, you may be unable to make the best decisions on your own. So here’s a guide on what’s the best thing to feed your baby.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade

A common debate is whether or not you should make your own baby food. Homemade baby food does have its advantages: you’ll know exactly what’s going into your baby’s tummy, it’s (usually) more economical, and you can customize the flavor to what your baby likes best. (Some flavors aren’t commonly sold in stores, like melon and avocado.)

However, it does take more time to prepare, and doesn’t come in pre-packaged portions that are already measured out in servings. Also, sometimes commercial baby food can be cheaper than individually buying ingredients to mash.

Arguably, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. Making homemade baby food can also be more environmentally friendly if you make them in big batches. It helps you cut down on waste, and is more convenient than having to buy packages of commercially prepared baby food in bulk.

Making your own baby food is simple. You just steam your vegetables until they’re soft, then mash it with a fork, or a potato masher if you’re doing it in batches. Wait until they cool and store until feeding.

The Best Food To Mash

After transitioning from a liquid diet to a soft food diet, the best foods to turn into baby mash include:

• Bananas - these fruits are easy to mash, and are rich in potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins B6 and C.
• Camote - otherwise known as the sweet potato, it’s popular for its sweetness and texture. It’s also packed with vitamin C, beta-carotene, and minerals like iron and copper.
• Avocado - this soft fruit is full of unsaturated fat, which helps boost brain development in babies. Studies have shown that the fat composition in avocados is actually similar to that of breast milk.[1]

Transitioning From Milk To Mash

The easiest way to transition from milk to mash is to slowly add solid food to their milk. Slowly add more and more food into the mix until they can tolerate solid food on its own.

Be sure to follow your pediatrician’s advice on when and how to start feeding your baby solid food. Make sure that every time you try a new kind of food, you leave a few days in between different kinds to watch for any allergies.

Photo from: http://700childrens.nationwidechildrens.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/baby-food-pt2-770x420.jpg

[1] https://www.babycenter.com/0_the-10-best-foods-for-babies_10320505.bc

Hi Mommy!
Congratulations! You’ve just gotten past the newborn phase! In this second month, you’ll get to notice the reason behind your baby’s giggles and grunts. This is the stage where your baby’s personality is kind of showing off and how much of an active communicator she is! 
Compared to last month, her actions now are more definite and conveys meaning.
Here are some cues that your baby is saying “I’m interested” 

• Looking at your face
• Smooth movements of arms and legs
• Reaching out to you
• Turning eyes or head towards you
• Smiling, cooing, and having general bright, happy expressions

Or “I need a break”

• Turning head and eyes away
• Crying, fussing
• Coughing
• Back arching, squirming, and pulling away
• Blushing of skin
• Yawning, frowning. Hiccups

Aside from those cues, your baby continues to show off different motor skills. It means that she already has more control over her body. They could hold their head a little steadier while lying on their tummy which means stronger neck! Sucking would be very prevalent on the second month of life, too. You may notice that she sucks her own thumb, or your thumb, the blanket or the pillow case more often than not. You may wonder why but that’s your baby’s way to sooth and comfort herself. She also loves to grasp a toy near her and watch colorful, moving objects hanging in front of her. 
What better way to reward yourself than to witness a toothless, innocent smile from your little one! Yes, this time marks the beginning of smiles and more smiles from her! What a momentous milestone that really deserve a photo op! So grab those cameras and take a photo while those gums are showing off for free. 
Most of all, sob stories wouldn’t be her only way to communicate to you! Finally, here comes a few giggles, grunts and sweet coos and other various sounds that correspond whether she is hungry, sleepy, gassy or lonely and in need of some attention. But of course, teary tales would still be the number one way she would communicate his likes and dislikes. 
Often before the end of the second month, baby likes to be carried upright, facing out; she’d be demanding this way of being held. Baby’s vision is becoming clearer and she can now see interesting and exciting sights around.  Mommy, a carrier is your best friend (aside from wipes)! Baby loves to be inside a carrier while taking a stroll in parks or open spaces. As her senses develop, it would be a good opportunity to take her out into the world with you. She is seeking ways to adapt and respond to this bigger world and pay attention on how little and how much stimulation she could handle. 

Hope our lists ticked off some of those that are written on your development book!
Source: 

Your Baby’s 2nd Month.Baby Development:http://goo.gl/HlFKUt

Your 2 month old. http://goo.gl/HlFKUthttp://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/baby-development-2-month-old?page=2

Baby’s Second Month: A guide to development and Milestones
https://www.parentmap.com/article/babys-second-month-a-guide-to-development-and-milestone

Are you planning to shift to formula milk but find it confusing because there are different and various brands with corresponding claims and ingredients in the market? With all the brands in the market shelf, it could be overwhelming what to choose best for your baby. Always read the packaging for more information especially when you can’t distinguished which is which.

Not all milk is suitable for feeding babies. Below are the milks you shouldn’t give your babies:

• Condensed, evaporated, dried milk

• Sheep'’s and goat’s milk

• rice, oats or almond

Here are the formula milk options you can give your baby:

1. Cow’s Milk Based Formula:

The main ingredient for baby’s formula milk is based on modified cow’s milk. The manufacturers alter the protein of the milk to make it easier for children to digest

2. Soy-Based Formula:

Soy-based formulas made for soybeans are modified with vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to help ease its digestion. It is recommendable if you’re a vegan and is allergic to cow based difficulty in digesting cow based milk formula

3. Lactose-Free Formula:

This is a formula that has corn syrup. Lactose-free formula are for babies who are lactose intolerant (although a rare case.)

4. Hydrolyzed Formula:

This type of formula milk is made completely from whey protein. The doctors recommend this type of formula for babies who face difficulty absorbing nutrients or babies with multiple allergies. However, there's no firm evidence that this milk is easier to digest.

5. Metabolic Formula:

Metabolic formula is recommended only when your baby is ill and requires specific nutrition.

Most babies easily digest formula milk. But some have an allergic reaction to the cow's milk protein in the formula so when this happens, call your pedia immediately. Your child's doctor can help you choose the formula that best fits your baby's needs. You can also compare notes with other parents in our formula-feeding community group.

Just like the old times, parents were advised to stick to a single formula milk brand. However, there’s no good evidence that changing does any harm. You can try different formulas to see which your baby might prefer in case the small variations between them have an effect. A few babies may do better with a special formula instead of the regular kind but this needs medical advice.

If you are still undecided then know that all formulas are created equal as it have to meet the same legal requirements to support growth and nutrition. While different brands have different names, packaging, and prices, none of them will short-change you on the required ingredients.

For your baby’s milk needs, take a look on our Formula Milk and see promos for great discounts!

As mommy you want to give your little one the utmost care that you can provide. No doubt, it’s your topmost priority. A newborn skin is very sensitive and delicate. So, try to look at these tips for your baby’s perfect skin care.

It’s bathtime
As a mom, you definitely want your baby to feel fresh and clean all throughout the day. So mommy, here’s a tip: bathe your baby two to three times a week. More than that can be harmful as that may lead to removal of your baby’s natural oils which helps protect his fragile skin. Use lukewarm water in doing so. To clean your baby’s face, slightly wet a cotton ball and gently wipe it to his face. After bathing, don’t forget to use baby lotion on his delicate skin area to keep it moisturized.

Diaper 101
Changing your baby’s diaper does not need to be a total nightmare for you and your baby. Change the diaper as frequently as needed and gently wipe your baby’s buns with soft clean cloth. Before you put on his diaper, use a diaper cream to prevent skin rashes and irritation. Avoid using diapers with fragrance and also take note, use the appropriate size because too tight or too loose size will just make your baby feel uneasy and discomforted.

Awareness on your baby’s product is the key.
All you’re aiming now is to find the perfect products for your baby’s skin. Today, we see and hear a lot of reviews regarding baby products, ranging from great, good, to nah.

Use skin-care products made for babies only. Avoid using products with fragrances. It can easily irritate your baby’s skin. Try observing your baby’s reaction after you use a product or everytime you try a new product on him. Antibacterial and deodorant soap are also a big NO because these products may trigger skin irritation.

Powder Talks
Be careful when using a baby powder. Make sure it’s kept away from your baby’s face. The powder contains talc and cornstarch which can cause breathing problems to your baby when inhaled.

Watch out for sun
By the time your baby turns 6 month old, you can now expose him in the sunlight. You may also use sunblock, but, take note that SPF 30 should be the minimum. Also look for a sunblock that has “broad-spectrum” on its label because those kinds of sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Baby garments
It is advisable to make your baby wear soft clothing or preferably cotton.

Since your baby has a very delicate and sensitive skin, it is advised to wash the brand new clothes and towel before using. If anyone from your family has a sensitive skin, there is a possibility that your baby might inherit it because basically, skin conditions are genetic. The detergent you are using might also be one of the causes of irritation or rashes on your baby’s skin. Might as well consider change your detergent into a milder detergent or use a fragrance-free laundry detergent. Be sure that the lather has been removed well.

For your baby’s delicate skin care,  roam on to the nearest Southstar Drug.

Seek an immediate attention from your baby’s pediatrician if you think there is something in your baby’s skin that makes you worry.

Breast pump is an instrument used in order to collect milk from the breast. The milk that has been collected can be used instantly or it can also be stored for latter use. Breast pumps are usually handy when mothers are out most of the time and they still want their baby to drink breast milk. It is also used when mothers want to increase their milk supply and or relieve themselves from pain due to engorgement. But regardless of whatever reason why mothers decide to use breast pump, it is important to know how the experience can be worthwhile.

Tips for a better breast pump experience

1.  Relax:
   In order to have a better milk ejection, it is advisable to stay relax before and during the pumping session. You may listen to soft music while sitting on your favorite chair. Have all your materials in arms reach so that you'll no longer have to stand up when you are finally in your relax zone.
2. Privacy:
   It would be better if you can have your pumping session in a more private and secluded area. Being in a private part of your house like your bedroom for example decreases the chance of having some unwanted disturbance. This is also a way for you to keep all those noise and unnecessary distractions at the side while you try to stay comfy and relax.
3.  Establish a routine:
   It is proven effective that having a routine during pumping because it helps in stimulation. Pumping at the same time of the day, everyday will allow your body to familiarize with the pumping.
4. Massage:
   Well, who doesn't love a massage? Massaging your breast during a pumping session does not only relaxes you but it also encourages the let-down of milk. If you feel that you are releasing little milk during one of your session then massage your breast for awhile before resuming.
5. Dress Accordingly:
   Wear clothes which are loose and comfy. A loose top like blouse or shirt is one of the best choice when you breast pump because it is easier to access.
6. Eat right and be healthy:
   It is important to take the right amount of sleep and food in order to be able to produce more milk. If you are nursing and pumping, it is important to eat healthy foods such as oatmeal, carrots, nuts, and the likes. It is also important to drink plenty of water.
7. Use the right pump:
   There are different types available on the market today such as manual pumps, battery operated pumps, electric pumps, bulb-style pumps, and many more. Women differ from each other meaning if a particular pump is good for a certain person then it does not necessarily mean that it is also good for you. One must know what pump will be more practical and better fit for herself to avoid harming ones breast and to be able to be more comfortable when breast pumping.

Be knowledgeable about the different types of breast pumps! Take note of these:

Manual Breast Pumps
Manual pumps are operated using your hands. It may require you to squeeze a trigger button to be able to squeeze out the milk. It is usually small and travel friendly. But it is not recommended if you are planning to regularly breast pump or if you will be ejecting tons of milk because it will be time consuming and cumbersome.

Battery Operated Breast Pumps
Battery operated pumps can be a substitute for manual pumps. They are not advisable if you want to breast more done once a done because it is not the powerful enough to maintain milk supply. Also since this particular pump requires batteries it can more costly.

Electric Breast Pumps
Electric breast pumps are used when you want to increase the production of your milk. If you want to save time when you breast pump then this is the pump for you. But since it is an electric breast pump, it is heavier compared to other breast pumps. Also it is the most costly one.

Bulb-Style Breast Pump
Bulb-style breast pump also known as bicycle horn pump is the least efficient among all the breast pump. This particular breast pump is not only considered as unsanitary it can also damage the breast.

Regardless if you are a busy mom, an always on-the-go mom, or a stay-at-home mom, knowing what are the things necessary for breast pumping will surely help lessen the inconvenience, pain, or problems that might be arise. Knowing the right kind of breast pump for you will surely help you out in the latter days.