Mommy Tidbits

from American Baby

A Cure for Peanut Allergies?

6-8% of kids under age 4 have food allergies
Researchers at Duke University and Arkansas Children’s Hospital may have found one.  In two small studies, they fed children with a peanut allergy a daily dose.  Starting at one-thousandth of a nut per day, consumption gradually increased to about 15 nuts daily, which most children started to tolerate.  While this therapy requires further study, it shows hope for all kids who aren’t able to eat foods with peanuts.

Another Reason to Nurse

Nipple time can cut your baby’s chance of SIDS by up to a half.  German scientists studied more than 1,300 kids – those exclusively breastfed had the lowest.  Experts recommend breastfeeding through at least six months.  Plus, here’s a benefit for you: more recent research shows that breastfeeding may lower a mom’s risk for both diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Must-Have Mineral

Iodine is important for baby’s brain development – when choosing a prenatal multi, check that it contains the nutrient.  According to a study of 223 prenatal vitamins (both prescription and over the counter), only about half contain it.