Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Moro Reflex: The Startling Move Every Newborn Makes; What Parents Must Know

Since the day a baby is born, his or her body is pre-programmed with survival reflexes. One of these is the <span>Moro reflex</span> or the startle reflex, one of the numerous primitive reflexes of a newborn baby to facilitate adjustment to the new environment. It is an automatic response to unexpected stimuli, and yes, it might look dramatic but is crucial in your baby's neurological development.

Pediatricians test for the Moro reflex at birth as an important marker of a newborn's nervous system function. Knowing what it is, how long it will last, and how to deal with its impact can assist new parents in helping their baby develop healthily.

Though startling for parents and infants alike, the Moro reflex is a reassuring indication of normal neurological function. As infants develop and mature into more complex nervous systems, the reflex will simply disappear. In the meantime, parents can take easy measures to make their baby feel safe and minimize unnecessary startles.

If any questions arise about the Moro reflex or if it lasts too long, parents don't need to hesitate to consult with a pediatrician. The management and understanding of this reflex can make some of the issues of newborn care a little less stressful for both babies and parents.

<h2>What Does the Moro Reflex Look Like?</h2>

The Moro reflex is simple to identify. If it is stimulated, a newborn will instantly arch their back, throw out their arms with open hands, and extend their legs. This is usually followed by bringing the arms back in, tightening the fists, and occasionally even crying. Although startling to see, the sequence is perfectly normal and a sign that your baby's spinal cord and brain are functioning properly.

Parents usually notice the reflex when their baby is sleeping or being placed down, which can interfere with sleep. The reflex is not painful or uncomfortable for the baby, though it may seem so.

In essence, the Moro reflex is an evolutionary response to survival. It is thought to be the first self-protection attempt of a baby. The reflex is activated by the sensation of falling or sudden movement, getting the baby ready to recover balance. In the past, this reflex could have aided infants in hanging on to their caregivers, thus avoiding falls.

Additionally, the reflex provides valuable insight into the infant’s neurological function. The presence and strength of the Moro reflex reassure doctors and parents that the baby's nervous system is developing correctly.

<h2>How Long Does the Moro Reflex Last?</h2>

The Moro reflex is visible at birth and normally reaches a peak during the first month. Most infants progressively lose the reflex between two to four months when their nervous system becomes more developed. By the age of six months, the reflex has typically disappeared.

In the meantime, babies start improving in head control and voluntary movement, which obviously replaces the newborn's reflex movements.

As babies are extremely sensitive to the surroundings, various stimuli may evoke the Moro reflex, such as:

<strong>Rapid movement</strong> – The baby being lifted or set down too abruptly.

<strong>A loud sound </strong>– A dog's bark, slamming of the door, or household noise.

<strong>An intense light</strong> – Flicking a switch on a light in an environment with darkness.

<strong>Sudden body movement</strong> – Position change or tilting the baby's head too abruptly.

<strong>Internal triggers</strong> – At times, babies wake up startled by their own movements.

Newborns have no control over their body parts, and thus they often end up startling themselves, and as a consequence, waking up many times through the night.

<h2>How to Soothe a Baby Who Suffers from Moro Reflex?</h2>

Although the Moro reflex is perfectly normal, it can trigger a baby and wake them up startled. The parents can resort to simple solutions to reduce its impact:

Swaddling is wrapping the baby tightly in a light blanket, replicating the womb's snug surroundings. A tight swaddle keeps the baby from making sudden arm movements that will induce the startle reflex. After a baby starts rolling over (about 3–4 months), though, swaddling must be stopped to prevent safety hazards.

When picking up or putting down your baby, ensure they feel secure by keeping their head and neck supported. Slow and controlled movements can help reduce the chances of triggering the reflex.

Sudden noises can startle babies, but consistent background sounds, such as a white noise machine, a fan, or soft music, can help mask jarring sounds, making the baby feel more at ease.

<h4>4. Make a Peaceful Sleep Environment</h4>

Maintaining a dark room and reducing loud noise can avoid unwanted startles, allowing the infant to sleep in peace.

Physicians regularly examine the Moro reflex in infants, but there are instances where an absent or unusual reflex can reflect underlying problems. Parents need to see a pediatrician if they observe:

<ul><li>No Moro reflex at birth – This can reflect neurological issues.</li><li>An asymmetric reflex – When only one side of the body reacts, it may be a sign of nerve damage or a fracture of the clavicle.</li><li>A persistent Moro reflex after six months – This can be associated with developmental delay or neurological disorders.</li><li>A very weak or exaggerated reflex – Both can be a cause for medical assessment.</li><li>Premature infants can have a weaker Moro reflex because of their immature nervous system, but this generally gets better over time.</li></ul>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

parenting

baby milestones

moro reflex

newborn development

baby startle reflex

infant reflexes

baby growth stages

early childhood development

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Since the day a baby is born, his or her body is pre-programmed with survival reflexes. One of these is the Moro reflex or the startle reflex, one of the numerous primitive reflexes of a newborn baby to facilitate adjustment to the new environment. It is an automatic response to unexpected stimuli, and yes, it might look dramatic but is crucial in your baby's neurological development.Pediatricians test for the Moro reflex at birth as an important marker of a newborn's nervous system function. Knowing what it is, how long it will last, and how to deal with its impact can assist new parents in helping their baby develop healthily.Though startling for parents and infants alike, the Moro reflex is a reassuring indication of normal neurological function. As infants develop and mature into more complex nervous systems, the reflex will simply disappear. In the meantime, parents can take easy measures to make their baby feel safe and minimize unnecessary startles.If any questions arise about the Moro reflex or if it lasts too long, parents don't need to hesitate to consult with a pediatrician. The management and understanding of this reflex can make some of the issues of newborn care a little less stressful for both babies and parents.What Does the Moro Reflex Look Like?The Moro reflex is simple to identify. If it is stimulated, a newborn will instantly arch their back, throw out their arms with open hands, and extend their legs. This is usually followed by bringing the arms back in, tightening the fists, and occasionally even crying. Although startling to see, the sequence is perfectly normal and a sign that your baby's spinal cord and brain are functioning properly.Parents usually notice the reflex when their baby is sleeping or being placed down, which can interfere with sleep. The reflex is not painful or uncomfortable for the baby, though it may seem so.Why Does Moro Reflex Occur?In essence, the Moro reflex is an evolutionary response to survival. It is thought to be the first self-protection attempt of a baby. The reflex is activated by the sensation of falling or sudden movement, getting the baby ready to recover balance. In the past, this reflex could have aided infants in hanging on to their caregivers, thus avoiding falls.Additionally, the reflex provides valuable insight into the infant’s neurological function. The presence and strength of the Moro reflex reassure doctors and parents that the baby's nervous system is developing correctly.How Long Does the Moro Reflex Last?The Moro reflex is visible at birth and normally reaches a peak during the first month. Most infants progressively lose the reflex between two to four months when their nervous system becomes more developed. By the age of six months, the reflex has typically disappeared.In the meantime, babies start improving in head control and voluntary movement, which obviously replaces the newborn's reflex movements.What causes the Moro Reflex?As babies are extremely sensitive to the surroundings, various stimuli may evoke the Moro reflex, such as:Rapid movement – The baby being lifted or set down too abruptly.A loud sound – A dog's bark, slamming of the door, or household noise.An intense light – Flicking a switch on a light in an environment with darkness.Sudden body movement – Position change or tilting the baby's head too abruptly.Internal triggers – At times, babies wake up startled by their own movements.Newborns have no control over their body parts, and thus they often end up startling themselves, and as a consequence, waking up many times through the night.How to Soothe a Baby Who Suffers from Moro Reflex?Although the Moro reflex is perfectly normal, it can trigger a baby and wake them up startled. The parents can resort to simple solutions to reduce its impact:1. Swaddle Your BabySwaddling is wrapping the baby tightly in a light blanket, replicating the womb's snug surroundings. A tight swaddle keeps the baby from making sudden arm movements that will induce the startle reflex. After a baby starts rolling over (about 3–4 months), though, swaddling must be stopped to prevent safety hazards.2. Hold Your Baby CloseWhen picking up or putting down your baby, ensure they feel secure by keeping their head and neck supported. Slow and controlled movements can help reduce the chances of triggering the reflex.3. Use White NoiseSudden noises can startle babies, but consistent background sounds, such as a white noise machine, a fan, or soft music, can help mask jarring sounds, making the baby feel more at ease.4. Make a Peaceful Sleep EnvironmentMaintaining a dark room and reducing loud noise can avoid unwanted startles, allowing the infant to sleep in peace.When to Worry?Physicians regularly examine the Moro reflex in infants, but there are instances where an absent or unusual reflex can reflect underlying problems. Parents need to see a pediatrician if they observe:No Moro reflex at birth – This can reflect neurological issues.An asymmetric reflex – When only one side of the body reacts, it may be a sign of nerve damage or a fracture of the clavicle.A persistent Moro reflex after six months – This can be associated with developmental delay or neurological disorders.A very weak or exaggerated reflex – Both can be a cause for medical assessment.Premature infants can have a weaker Moro reflex because of their immature nervous system, but this generally gets better over time.

moro reflex: the startling move every newborn makes; what parents must know

Ishita Roy

Kids’ Tongues Show Signs Of Illness, Reveals Study

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Oral health is more than just clean teeth and fresh breath—it’s a window into overall health. While most people prioritize brushing and flossing, tongue hygiene often goes ignored. This oversight can lead to problems such as bad breath (halitosis), altered taste, dry mouth, infections, and even systemic health issues. A new review published in journal Cureus, part of Springer Nature, titled <em>Importance of a Healthy Tongue: Could It Be a Reflection of Overall Health in Children? </em>highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy tongue and draws attention to its role in both pediatric and adult oral care.

<h4>Why <span rel="noindex">Tongue Health</span> Matters</h4>

The tongue is a multifunctional organ, vital for chewing, swallowing, speaking, and tasting. It’s covered with papillae that contain taste buds and serve as a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Food particles and microorganisms can get trapped, especially on the dorsum of the tongue, causing bad breath and increasing the risk of infections like oral thrush.

Children under 18 months are especially vulnerable due to underdeveloped oral routines and exposure to pacifiers and bottle nipples. In these cases, even breastfed babies can develop thrush, which may be linked to maternal factors such as poor breast hygiene or antibiotic use.

A healthy tongue is typically pink with a slightly rough surface due to papillae. Any changes in color, size, texture, or shape could signal an underlying issue. For example:

<ul><li>A yellow tongue may suggest infection.</li></ul>

<ul><li>A gray-black coating could reflect digestive disorders.</li></ul>

<ul><li>A bluish tint might indicate poor oxygen levels or heart conditions.</li></ul>

<ul><li>An enlarged (macroglossia) or undersized (microglossia) tongue could point to congenital syndromes, nutritional deficiencies, or inflammatory diseases.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Certain conditions like geographic tongue, atrophic glossitis, or hairy tongue further show how tongue health connects to systemic wellness, nutritional status, and even immunity.</li></ul>

<h4>Children vs. Adults: Different Tongues, Different Needs</h4>

In infants, tongue hygiene can start as early as feeding time—using a damp cloth to clean milk residue. As children grow, introducing tongue scraping around age 3 or 4 can help build lifelong habits. However, many children resist the sensation, and their motor skills may not yet allow for effective cleaning. Making the process fun and rewarding helps, as does school-based education.

For adults, the stakes are different. With age, taste sensitivity may diminish, and poor hygiene may go unnoticed. Lifestyle factors—smoking, diet, medications—can contribute to bacterial buildup and systemic effects. For example, research links poor <span>oral hygiene</span> to cardiovascular risks. Regular tongue cleaning, hydration, and avoiding tobacco use can mitigate such issues.

The tongue plays a central role in maintaining a healthy oral environment. A few seconds spent scraping the tongue during routine brushing can prevent several oral and systemic problems. Yet, it remains a neglected part of oral care, especially among children and older adults. Pediatricians, dentists, and caregivers must reinforce its importance from infancy through old age.

Study reveals that tongue can indicate diseases

tongue health

oral hygiene

dental hygiene

Oral health is more than just clean teeth and fresh breath—it’s a window into overall health. While most people prioritize brushing and flossing, tongue hygiene often goes ignored. This oversight can lead to problems such as bad breath (halitosis), altered taste, dry mouth, infections, and even systemic health issues. A new review published in journal Cureus, part of Springer Nature, titled Importance of a Healthy Tongue: Could It Be a Reflection of Overall Health in Children? highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy tongue and draws attention to its role in both pediatric and adult oral care.Why Tongue Health MattersThe tongue is a multifunctional organ, vital for chewing, swallowing, speaking, and tasting. It’s covered with papillae that contain taste buds and serve as a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Food particles and microorganisms can get trapped, especially on the dorsum of the tongue, causing bad breath and increasing the risk of infections like oral thrush.Children under 18 months are especially vulnerable due to underdeveloped oral routines and exposure to pacifiers and bottle nipples. In these cases, even breastfed babies can develop thrush, which may be linked to maternal factors such as poor breast hygiene or antibiotic use.Health Clues from the TongueA healthy tongue is typically pink with a slightly rough surface due to papillae. Any changes in color, size, texture, or shape could signal an underlying issue. For example:A yellow tongue may suggest infection.A gray-black coating could reflect digestive disorders.A bluish tint might indicate poor oxygen levels or heart conditions.An enlarged (macroglossia) or undersized (microglossia) tongue could point to congenital syndromes, nutritional deficiencies, or inflammatory diseases.Certain conditions like geographic tongue, atrophic glossitis, or hairy tongue further show how tongue health connects to systemic wellness, nutritional status, and even immunity.Children vs. Adults: Different Tongues, Different NeedsIn infants, tongue hygiene can start as early as feeding time—using a damp cloth to clean milk residue. As children grow, introducing tongue scraping around age 3 or 4 can help build lifelong habits. However, many children resist the sensation, and their motor skills may not yet allow for effective cleaning. Making the process fun and rewarding helps, as does school-based education.For adults, the stakes are different. With age, taste sensitivity may diminish, and poor hygiene may go unnoticed. Lifestyle factors—smoking, diet, medications—can contribute to bacterial buildup and systemic effects. For example, research links poor oral hygiene to cardiovascular risks. Regular tongue cleaning, hydration, and avoiding tobacco use can mitigate such issues.Small Step, Big ImpactThe tongue plays a central role in maintaining a healthy oral environment. A few seconds spent scraping the tongue during routine brushing can prevent several oral and systemic problems. Yet, it remains a neglected part of oral care, especially among children and older adults. Pediatricians, dentists, and caregivers must reinforce its importance from infancy through old age.

kids’ tongues show signs of illness, reveals study

Aarushi Bhadury

Can A Pregnant Woman’s Weight Increase Health Risk In Children?

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Pregnancy can be a very difficult time for women. They are not only providing for themselves but also working on building a new being. This only drains them of their energy but also costs them their health. There is a delicate balance between keeping themselves healthy, and making sure their unborn child remains unharmed. 

What many people do not know is that even small things like gaining weight during pregnancy, or being overweight before the pregnancy, could be the reason why their children could be suffering from health issues. 

A new study reveals that children born to women who are obese face a greater chance of being hospitalized due to a severe infection. This risk is particularly pronounced in early life and continues into adolescence.

Babies under one year old had a 41% higher chance of being hospitalized for an infection if their mom was very obese during pregnancy. This was reported by researchers on June 3 in the journal BMJ Medicine. The study also found that this increased risk lasts into childhood and even the teen years, with kids aged 5 to 15 being 53% more likely to need hospital care for an infection.

The research team noted that most of these extra hospital stays were for breathing issues, stomach problems, and common viral infections. They stressed that these findings show how important it is to help women get and stay at a healthy weight before they get pregnant.

<h2>Growing Problem and What the Study Found</h2>

The number of pregnant women who are obese has almost doubled in recent decades. It went from less than 9% in the 1990s to over 16% in the 2010s. To look into the possible health risks for children when moms are obese during pregnancy, researchers studied 9,540 births in Bradford, U.K., between March 2007 and December 2010. They found that about 56% of the mothers in this study were overweight or obese during their pregnancy.

The results clearly showed that moms with severe obesity (a body mass index, or BMI, of 35 or higher) had children with a higher chance of getting infections. (BMI is a way to guess how much body fat a person has based on their height and weight.)

Interestingly, some things often linked to obesity during pregnancy weren't as big of a factor as expected. For example, pre-term birth (babies born early) only explained 7% of the link between a mom's obesity and childhood infections. However, C-section birth explained a larger 21% of the risk, and the child being obese by ages 4 or 5 explained 26%. This suggests that dealing with C-section rates or childhood obesity could help lower kids' infection risk.

Researchers think that a mom's obesity during pregnancy might affect a child's inflammation, genes, how their body uses food, and their gut bacteria. Any of these could impact the child's developing immune system, making them more likely to get infections.

<h2>Why a Healthy Weight Before Pregnancy Matters</h2>

The study concludes that doctors should encourage women who are able to have children to reach and keep a healthy weight. The researchers pointed out that pregnancy is a great time to make lasting healthy changes to one's lifestyle. So, supporting women during pregnancy and after birth to make healthier food and lifestyle choices could help both the mom's health and her child's weight, possibly lowering their risk of infections. 

Weight Increase Health Risk In Children

Pregnant Woman’s Weight

how weight gain in pregnancy affects new borns

Pregnant Woman health

pregnancy complications

pregnancy issues caused by weight

Pregnancy can be a very difficult time for women. They are not only providing for themselves but also working on building a new being. This only drains them of their energy but also costs them their health. There is a delicate balance between keeping themselves healthy, and making sure their unborn child remains unharmed. What many people do not know is that even small things like gaining weight during pregnancy, or being overweight before the pregnancy, could be the reason why their children could be suffering from health issues. A new study reveals that children born to women who are obese face a greater chance of being hospitalized due to a severe infection. This risk is particularly pronounced in early life and continues into adolescence.Risk Across ChildhoodBabies under one year old had a 41% higher chance of being hospitalized for an infection if their mom was very obese during pregnancy. This was reported by researchers on June 3 in the journal BMJ Medicine. The study also found that this increased risk lasts into childhood and even the teen years, with kids aged 5 to 15 being 53% more likely to need hospital care for an infection.The research team noted that most of these extra hospital stays were for breathing issues, stomach problems, and common viral infections. They stressed that these findings show how important it is to help women get and stay at a healthy weight before they get pregnant.Growing Problem and What the Study FoundThe number of pregnant women who are obese has almost doubled in recent decades. It went from less than 9% in the 1990s to over 16% in the 2010s. To look into the possible health risks for children when moms are obese during pregnancy, researchers studied 9,540 births in Bradford, U.K., between March 2007 and December 2010. They found that about 56% of the mothers in this study were overweight or obese during their pregnancy.The results clearly showed that moms with severe obesity (a body mass index, or BMI, of 35 or higher) had children with a higher chance of getting infections. (BMI is a way to guess how much body fat a person has based on their height and weight.)What's Causing the Risk?Interestingly, some things often linked to obesity during pregnancy weren't as big of a factor as expected. For example, pre-term birth (babies born early) only explained 7% of the link between a mom's obesity and childhood infections. However, C-section birth explained a larger 21% of the risk, and the child being obese by ages 4 or 5 explained 26%. This suggests that dealing with C-section rates or childhood obesity could help lower kids' infection risk.Researchers think that a mom's obesity during pregnancy might affect a child's inflammation, genes, how their body uses food, and their gut bacteria. Any of these could impact the child's developing immune system, making them more likely to get infections.Why a Healthy Weight Before Pregnancy MattersThe study concludes that doctors should encourage women who are able to have children to reach and keep a healthy weight. The researchers pointed out that pregnancy is a great time to make lasting healthy changes to one's lifestyle. So, supporting women during pregnancy and after birth to make healthier food and lifestyle choices could help both the mom's health and her child's weight, possibly lowering their risk of infections. 

can a pregnant woman’s weight increase health risk in children?

Why Has Kennedy Ordered A Review Of Baby Formula? What Every Parent Must Know About Safety

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is conducting a comprehensive review of infant formula ingredients. It was initiated under the guidance of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as part of his "Make America Healthy Again" agenda, pledging to overhaul the U.S. food supply.

Behind this action is a mounting concern: although infant formula is still a staple for scores of American families, the science and nutritional criteria used to produce it have not materially changed since 1998. With changing worldwide research on infant nutrition and increasingly anxious parents worrying about contaminants, additives, and ingredient disclosure, this review could not be more timely.

Roughly 75% of U.S. infants are dependent on formula for the first six months, and for nearly 40%, it is the exclusive source of nutrition, as the CDC reports. In spite of world campaigns promoting exclusive breastfeeding, infant formula has emerged as a lifeline for parents who are unable—or unwilling—to breastfeed because of medical concerns, work schedules, or personal preference.

Formula is made to imitate breast milk of human women and usually comes from cow milk or soy. According to present FDA guidelines, every infant formula product is required to have 30 nutrients essential for infants in specific proportions. Yet, the technology of infants' digestion and nutrition requirements has progressed immensely, leading experts to wonder if the standards are yet sufficient.

<h2>Why Is The Government's Pushing for Nutritional Transparency?</h2>

Secretary Kennedy's call to action comes as part of a comprehensive national effort to enhance the U.S. food supply chain. The review is happening in the face of increasing parental distrust and industry trends which indicate that existing rules might not be completely in accordance with recent worldwide research on infant feeding. This effort will take into consideration an array of factors, including:

<ul><li>Nutrient content and bioavailability</li><li>Incidence of contaminants such as heavy metals</li><li>Variations in international nutritional standards</li><li>Possible threats from added sugars and seed oils</li></ul>

There is a planned roundtable discussion where scientists, manufacturers, and policymakers will engage in a debate on infant formula in the U.S. The FDA currently invites public and expert comment until the September 11 deadline.

<h2>What Are The Ingredients in Infant Formula?</h2>

Although the current formula is deemed safe, scientists insist that modern science highlights new nutritional findings not necessarily captured by existing rules. The FDA's 30-list of essential nutrients has not changed much since the 90s—even though studies on breast milk composition have dramatically changed.

Some of the main issues under consideration are:

Iron Content: American formulas generally have more iron content than European ones. Iron is crucial but, like too much of anything, could have unexpected side effects, so a rethinking may be in order.

DHA and HMOs: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are recent additions designed to make formula as much like human milk as possible. Yet these are not necessary in every product.

Added Sugars: Corn syrup solids and glucose are common in certain formulas and can be responsible for early weight gain. Lactose, the natural sugar found in breast milk, is a better option.

Seed Oils: Widely maligned by health activists, seed oils are nevertheless essential to matching the fatty acid profile of breast milk, according to experts.

Bridget Young, an infant nutritionist at the University of Rochester, pressed the point to examine beyond ingredient labels to consider bioavailability—how well the body can absorb and utilize these foods.

Kennedy's bill also seems to be in response to lessons gleaned from the 2022 formula shortage, when contamination of an Abbott plant caused a national shortage. Parents frantically sought to get safe food into their babies, demonstrating how weak and undiversified the U.S. formula supply chain really is.

More compatibility with global standards, analysts contend, would have alleviated the shortage by facilitating faster importation of safe foreign-made brands. Kennedy's proposal seeks to avoid such disruptions by increasing regulatory leeway and strengthening safety protocols.

Some parents have in the last few years opted for European infant formulas, deeming them to be more healthy because of variations in ingredient listings and the degree of labeling transparency. 

Though European and American recipes vary in iron levels or forms of sugar, neither is inherently superior. Each is constructed within a distinct regulatory and cultural context.

Rather than advocating for one over the other, Kennedy's report aims to take the best from both worlds merging U.S. regulation with evidence-driven international nutritional research.

<h2>What Parents Need to Know Before Buying Baby Formula</h2>

While no short-term changes are being implemented to the amount or type of infant formula available on retail shelves, the review is a significant departure from the manner in which the federal government plans to regulate the nutrition of babies.

The review will take a minimum of one year and will require coordination among government, industry, pediatric nutritionists, and consumers. Abrams cautions that this cannot be a cosmetic effort: "No shortcuts are possible. No one white paper or committee report will suffice."

For the moment, health professionals are assuring parents that infant formulas available today are still safe and nutritionally adequate. But the future could bring formulas that are not only safe but even more biologically relevant and designed to the most recent science regarding infant development.

baby food

infant formula safety

baby formula review

operation stork speed

kennedy fda formula

baby formula ingredients

fda infant formula regulations

baby formula nutrition

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is conducting a comprehensive review of infant formula ingredients. It was initiated under the guidance of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as part of his "Make America Healthy Again" agenda, pledging to overhaul the U.S. food supply.Behind this action is a mounting concern: although infant formula is still a staple for scores of American families, the science and nutritional criteria used to produce it have not materially changed since 1998. With changing worldwide research on infant nutrition and increasingly anxious parents worrying about contaminants, additives, and ingredient disclosure, this review could not be more timely.Roughly 75% of U.S. infants are dependent on formula for the first six months, and for nearly 40%, it is the exclusive source of nutrition, as the CDC reports. In spite of world campaigns promoting exclusive breastfeeding, infant formula has emerged as a lifeline for parents who are unable—or unwilling—to breastfeed because of medical concerns, work schedules, or personal preference.Formula is made to imitate breast milk of human women and usually comes from cow milk or soy. According to present FDA guidelines, every infant formula product is required to have 30 nutrients essential for infants in specific proportions. Yet, the technology of infants' digestion and nutrition requirements has progressed immensely, leading experts to wonder if the standards are yet sufficient.Why Is The Government's Pushing for Nutritional Transparency?Secretary Kennedy's call to action comes as part of a comprehensive national effort to enhance the U.S. food supply chain. The review is happening in the face of increasing parental distrust and industry trends which indicate that existing rules might not be completely in accordance with recent worldwide research on infant feeding. This effort will take into consideration an array of factors, including:Nutrient content and bioavailabilityIncidence of contaminants such as heavy metalsVariations in international nutritional standardsPossible threats from added sugars and seed oilsThere is a planned roundtable discussion where scientists, manufacturers, and policymakers will engage in a debate on infant formula in the U.S. The FDA currently invites public and expert comment until the September 11 deadline.What Are The Ingredients in Infant Formula?Although the current formula is deemed safe, scientists insist that modern science highlights new nutritional findings not necessarily captured by existing rules. The FDA's 30-list of essential nutrients has not changed much since the 90s—even though studies on breast milk composition have dramatically changed.Some of the main issues under consideration are:Iron Content: American formulas generally have more iron content than European ones. Iron is crucial but, like too much of anything, could have unexpected side effects, so a rethinking may be in order.DHA and HMOs: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are recent additions designed to make formula as much like human milk as possible. Yet these are not necessary in every product.Added Sugars: Corn syrup solids and glucose are common in certain formulas and can be responsible for early weight gain. Lactose, the natural sugar found in breast milk, is a better option.Seed Oils: Widely maligned by health activists, seed oils are nevertheless essential to matching the fatty acid profile of breast milk, according to experts.Bridget Young, an infant nutritionist at the University of Rochester, pressed the point to examine beyond ingredient labels to consider bioavailability—how well the body can absorb and utilize these foods.Kennedy's bill also seems to be in response to lessons gleaned from the 2022 formula shortage, when contamination of an Abbott plant caused a national shortage. Parents frantically sought to get safe food into their babies, demonstrating how weak and undiversified the U.S. formula supply chain really is.More compatibility with global standards, analysts contend, would have alleviated the shortage by facilitating faster importation of safe foreign-made brands. Kennedy's proposal seeks to avoid such disruptions by increasing regulatory leeway and strengthening safety protocols.Should Parents Be Worried?Some parents have in the last few years opted for European infant formulas, deeming them to be more healthy because of variations in ingredient listings and the degree of labeling transparency. Though European and American recipes vary in iron levels or forms of sugar, neither is inherently superior. Each is constructed within a distinct regulatory and cultural context.Rather than advocating for one over the other, Kennedy's report aims to take the best from both worlds merging U.S. regulation with evidence-driven international nutritional research.What Parents Need to Know Before Buying Baby FormulaWhile no short-term changes are being implemented to the amount or type of infant formula available on retail shelves, the review is a significant departure from the manner in which the federal government plans to regulate the nutrition of babies.The review will take a minimum of one year and will require coordination among government, industry, pediatric nutritionists, and consumers. Abrams cautions that this cannot be a cosmetic effort: "No shortcuts are possible. No one white paper or committee report will suffice."For the moment, health professionals are assuring parents that infant formulas available today are still safe and nutritionally adequate. But the future could bring formulas that are not only safe but even more biologically relevant and designed to the most recent science regarding infant development.

why has kennedy ordered a review of baby formula? what every parent must know about safety

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