Family health: New research on pregnancy, kids

Bullying Children

Kids who make frequent trips to the nurse may not be sick – they may simply be bullied, says recent research from the University of Kansas. In the study, the children who were bullied made the most trips to the nurse’s office. The study’s authors believe the stress of the bullying may make them get frequent headaches or stomachaches.

Pregnancy ?weight training

Want to lower your blood pressure and look fit and toned while pregnant? A new study finds that it’s now completely safe — and even beneficial — to lift weights while pregnant. Just make sure the weights aren’t too heavy, and check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

Allergy-free formula

If you or your husband have a history of food allergies, you may want to avoid regular formula, according to the FDA. It now suggests that you switch your infant to a 100 percent whey protein partially-hydrolyzed formula, such as Gerber Good Start. The FDA suggests this because the proteins in the whey protein formula are easier to digest, which can minimize your baby’s risk of atopic dermatitis.

Take a nap

Any parent knows how precious sleep is for adults and children alike. So when it comes to taking a nap, do it correctly. Researchers at Loughborough University in the United Kingdom find that sleeping for 20 minutes is the perfect length to avoid waking up drowsy. Before you slip under the covers, drink a cup of coffee. Since the caffeine will take 20 minutes to take effect, you’ll be wide awake as soon as you get out of bed.

Car seat safety

Your child may be more dexterous than you think, according to a new study from Yale University researchers. The study finds that babies and toddlers as young as 1 year old can unbuckle their own car seats. Prevent this from happening by making sure the straps are tight and the latch is secure.

Sick or scarred

Fifty-eight percent of pregnant women say they’d prefer to have morning sickness during their pregnancy than have stretch marks, according to a survey by Bio-Oil. But since you can’t entirely prevent either, you’re stuck with the symptoms and effects that you’re given.