I can hardly believe 2012 is upon us! Where did the year go? It seems like a couple of days ago, I was toasting in 2011 and making my New Year’s resolutions. I blinked and another year has come to an end. As I take a moment to reminisce, I feel gratitude for all the family moments shared, milestones reached and health and happiness of those around me. For me, the success of the year is measured by these.
Of course, for as long as I can remember, included among my resolutions has always been to be more health conscience in the upcoming year. Most years, this includes a goal to reduce unhealthy foods in my daily diet and to increase my physical activity during the week. My intentions begin strong and with confidence, but once goals have been reached by Spring Break, the plan tends to dwindle away slowly, leaving me back in my pre-resolution state. Changing one’s lifestyle, especially related to eating and exercise, can be difficult to maintain. This year, at the top of my list, is to finally focus on and lose those remaining post-pregnancy baby pounds.
New moms...does this sound familiar? Aside from the sleepless nights, diaper duty and endless feedings, another similarity for new moms tends to be our focus on losing the baby weight. Many mothers I talk to all tend to say the same things. They put the baby and any other children in the home first, and their own needs take to the back burner. Not only do moms have the extra pounds from pregnancy, but because they are extra fatigued and stressed, more pounds can creep up. After my last little boy was born, I made a conscious effort to count my calories during the day. To my surprise, I had unknowingly turned into the ‘toddler trash compactor’ many times throughout the day. The kids would be eating pretzels and not want to finish the last couple of bites and would hand them to me to dispose of. Instead of throwing them in the trash can, I just disposed of them by finishing them off...not even realizing I was doing it. Multiply that by four kids and around 10 times a day and you can get the picture of all those unwanted calories. In this month’s feature article, Diet Traps Every New Mom Faces, by Sandra Gordan, she suggests similar pitfalls and includes great food fix tips to help with getting back on the path to mommy health and fitness.
Healthy eating for baby is probably the top priority for all new parents. With so many options out there regarding feeding with breast milk or baby formula, it can become very confusing to know which is right for your little one. Baby Food for Thought provides a question and answer read on some of the most prevalent concerns related to the types of baby formula, safe ways to prepare bottles, when to switch to regular milk and much more. You may find the answer to one of your most pressing questions right here.
Also, don’t miss this year’s New & Expectant Parents Guide! Pediatric dentists, physicians, support groups and classes in the Auburn and Opelika area are all listed. You may find a mommy and me class that will not only get you out of the house to meet other parents in the area, but also get you and your baby moving in a healthy fitness direction.
Here’s to bringing in 2012 and wishing you and your family a year full of hope, happiness and above all-- health! Make your resolutions with purpose and make every minute of this year count. From our family to yours, Happy New Year!
Kendra
