Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

World Health Day 2025: Chemical Found In Plastics May Be Stunting Baby’s Brain Development

Chemical Found In Plastics May Be Stunting Baby’s Brain Development

One of the most important and profound moments of a mother’s life is when they are nurturing and protecting the baby in their womb. The reason why they are advised precautions is because both their health, the baby’s and the mother’s, could be at risk for small mistakes. This fear may seem extreme but is not unfound especially as a new study has shown how the daily usage of plastic around them may cause their baby harm. That’s why days that bring the focus on baby and the mother's health are important. 

7th of April every year is observed has World Health Day, according to <span>World Health Organization</span> (WHO), it helps draw attention to specific health concerns and this year’s focal point is “Healthy Beginning, Hopeful Futures” where they are highlighting women’s and baby health. According to WHO many women lose their lives during childbirth and many children lose their lives in the first year, and these are preventable death. So, it is very important to pay attention to your surroundings to make sure everyone is thriving. 

<h2>Concerning <span rel="noindex">Link Between Plastics And Baby Development</span></h2>

Plastic products have become a huge part of our lives. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Issues Brief 2024 edition, we generate over 460 million metric tons of plastic and 20 million metric tons every year. This not only affects the environment, but also for people’s direct health as we use plastic products every day. Many studies and health sources show us how the daily products we use are responsible for microplastics to invade our bodies and cause health issues. According to the United Nations Development Programme microplastics in our bodies could cause issues like endocrine disruption, weight gain and insulin resistance.

A new study published in the Nature Communications journal shows that even babies are not safe from the health effects of plastic. This study revealed a potential link between kids being affected by a common chemical found in plastic in their mother's womb, which may be negatively affecting their brain development. 

The reason why this is a concerning link is because these chemicals are commonly found in everyday use plastics called phthalates. They have been linked to lower levels of important brain chemicals in newborns. Specifically, the research team observed reduced amounts of serotonin and dopamine in these infants. The study showed that these babies had lower amounts of serotonin and dopamine. These are like messengers in the brain that help with mood, learning, and how a baby reacts to things. This makes scientists worry that these "everywhere chemicals" could be bad for how a baby's brain grows. 

To figure this out, the scientists followed 216 moms and their babies in a city called Atlanta. While the moms were pregnant, the scientists checked their urine samples to see how much of the phthalate chemicals was there. After the babies were born, they took a little bit of their blood to check different things. They found that the babies whose moms had more of these chemicals in their urine sample also had lower levels of specific amino acids in their blood. 

These amino acids, called tyrosine and tryptophan, are used by the body to make the good brain stuff like serotonin and dopamine. These babies didn't do as well on tests that checked how well they paid attention and how quickly they reacted to things. This careful way of checking both moms and babies help show that the chemicals might be linked to these brain differences. 

This study adds to other information that says these phthalate chemicals might cause other health problems too, like asthma and being overweight. It shows that these common chemicals might not just affect our bodies in general, but could also mess with how babies' brains grow, which is a very important time. 

<h2>How Can We Avoid These Chemicals? </h2>

The researchers and other experts suggest some easy things we can do to be around less of these chemicals. One idea is to use glass or metal things instead of plastic for food and drinks. Another is to not use pans that have a nonstick coating. When you buy things like shampoo and soap, try to find ones that say "phthalate-free." As these chemicals can get into dust in our houses, it can help to open windows to get fresh air and to clean regularly with a damp cloth. Doing these simple things might help lower how much of these chemicals get into our bodies and could be especially important for protecting pregnant women and their babies. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

World Health Day 2025

world health organization

Chemical Found In Plastics Harming Babies

Plastics May Be Stunting Baby’s Brain Development

Link Between Plastics And Baby Development

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One of the most important and profound moments of a mother’s life is when they are nurturing and protecting the baby in their womb. The reason why they are advised precautions is because both their health, the baby’s and the mother’s, could be at risk for small mistakes. This fear may seem extreme but is not unfound especially as a new study has shown how the daily usage of plastic around them may cause their baby harm. That’s why days that bring the focus on baby and the mother's health are important. 7th of April every year is observed has World Health Day, according to World Health Organization (WHO), it helps draw attention to specific health concerns and this year’s focal point is “Healthy Beginning, Hopeful Futures” where they are highlighting women’s and baby health. According to WHO many women lose their lives during childbirth and many children lose their lives in the first year, and these are preventable death. So, it is very important to pay attention to your surroundings to make sure everyone is thriving. Concerning Link Between Plastics And Baby DevelopmentPlastic products have become a huge part of our lives. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Issues Brief 2024 edition, we generate over 460 million metric tons of plastic and 20 million metric tons every year. This not only affects the environment, but also for people’s direct health as we use plastic products every day. Many studies and health sources show us how the daily products we use are responsible for microplastics to invade our bodies and cause health issues. According to the United Nations Development Programme microplastics in our bodies could cause issues like endocrine disruption, weight gain and insulin resistance.A new study published in the Nature Communications journal shows that even babies are not safe from the health effects of plastic. This study revealed a potential link between kids being affected by a common chemical found in plastic in their mother's womb, which may be negatively affecting their brain development. The reason why this is a concerning link is because these chemicals are commonly found in everyday use plastics called phthalates. They have been linked to lower levels of important brain chemicals in newborns. Specifically, the research team observed reduced amounts of serotonin and dopamine in these infants. The study showed that these babies had lower amounts of serotonin and dopamine. These are like messengers in the brain that help with mood, learning, and how a baby reacts to things. This makes scientists worry that these "everywhere chemicals" could be bad for how a baby's brain grows. How Did the Research Work? To figure this out, the scientists followed 216 moms and their babies in a city called Atlanta. While the moms were pregnant, the scientists checked their urine samples to see how much of the phthalate chemicals was there. After the babies were born, they took a little bit of their blood to check different things. They found that the babies whose moms had more of these chemicals in their urine sample also had lower levels of specific amino acids in their blood. These amino acids, called tyrosine and tryptophan, are used by the body to make the good brain stuff like serotonin and dopamine. These babies didn't do as well on tests that checked how well they paid attention and how quickly they reacted to things. This careful way of checking both moms and babies help show that the chemicals might be linked to these brain differences. This study adds to other information that says these phthalate chemicals might cause other health problems too, like asthma and being overweight. It shows that these common chemicals might not just affect our bodies in general, but could also mess with how babies' brains grow, which is a very important time. How Can We Avoid These Chemicals? The researchers and other experts suggest some easy things we can do to be around less of these chemicals. One idea is to use glass or metal things instead of plastic for food and drinks. Another is to not use pans that have a nonstick coating. When you buy things like shampoo and soap, try to find ones that say "phthalate-free." As these chemicals can get into dust in our houses, it can help to open windows to get fresh air and to clean regularly with a damp cloth. Doing these simple things might help lower how much of these chemicals get into our bodies and could be especially important for protecting pregnant women and their babies.  

world health day 2025: chemical found in plastics may be stunting baby’s brain development

Ishita Roy

“Motherhood Takes a Lot Out of You” — Kalki Koechlin Opens Up About Pregnancy, Postpartum And Water Birthing

Kalki Koechlin Opens Up About Pregnancy, Postpartum & Water Birthing

Health & Wellness

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what is normal pressure hydrocephalus? the brain disorder billy joel is diagnosed with

Actor <span>Kalki Koechlin</span> has spoken candidly about the challenges of pregnancy and early motherhood, shedding light on a topic often brushed aside. After giving birth to her daughter Sappho in February 2020 with partner Guy Hershberg, the actor described the experience as both physically and emotionally draining.

“Your body is like a slave to another person. You’re just an incubation system,” Kalki shared, recalling how pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum took a significant toll on her well-being. She spoke about feeling disoriented and emotionally lost during the first few months. “Where is my life? Who am I?” she remembered asking herself—words that resonate with many mothers navigating a dramatic shift in identity.

<h4>Sleepless Nights and Nutritional Struggles</h4>

Koechlin shared how the postpartum period was marked by sleepless nights and physical exhaustion. “The first six months were really tough. I had to stay up all night to feed her,” she said. The continuous cycle of night feeds, hormonal changes, and breastfeeding left her depleted and stressed.

She also pointed out that society often fails to acknowledge or support women during this period. While the baby becomes the focus, the mother’s needs—emotional, physical, and mental—are often sidelined. Kalki’s experience serves as a reminder that new mothers need care, too.

<h4>Water Birth Is Normal, Not A "Cult" Practice</h4>

Kalki and her partner chose a water birth for Sappho’s arrival—an experience she strongly advocates for. Speaking on Aleena Dissects, she said, “Water birthing is much easier on the body during natural birth. There’s so much research that it’s easier for the baby when it comes out because it was in the amniotic fluid already, so it’s not a big shock.”

She believes that <span>water birthing</span> should be more widely accepted and available. “I think this should be standard practice,” she said. But despite the benefits, many people still view it with suspicion. “They think it’s some weird cult or chudail practice,” she remarked, adding that lack of awareness and cost are also major barriers.

In an earlier Instagram post, Kalki shared the details of her 17-hour labour and thanked her doctors at Tulip Women’s Care for supporting her choice to have a natural water birth. “Even when I begged them to take the baby out anyway they could, they said no—you’ve come this far and you’re going to have your natural water birth. An hour later, Sappho was born.”

Through her honest reflections, Kalki Koechlin is breaking the silence around the physical, emotional, and social challenges of motherhood. Her story not only offers comfort to women going through similar journeys but also pushes for better awareness, empathy, and informed choices around birthing and postpartum care.

kalki koechlin water birthing

kalki koechlin

health and wellness

Kalki Koechlin opens up on pregnancy

post partum

water birthing

what is water birthing

Actor Kalki Koechlin has spoken candidly about the challenges of pregnancy and early motherhood, shedding light on a topic often brushed aside. After giving birth to her daughter Sappho in February 2020 with partner Guy Hershberg, the actor described the experience as both physically and emotionally draining.“Your body is like a slave to another person. You’re just an incubation system,” Kalki shared, recalling how pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum took a significant toll on her well-being. She spoke about feeling disoriented and emotionally lost during the first few months. “Where is my life? Who am I?” she remembered asking herself—words that resonate with many mothers navigating a dramatic shift in identity.Sleepless Nights and Nutritional StrugglesKoechlin shared how the postpartum period was marked by sleepless nights and physical exhaustion. “The first six months were really tough. I had to stay up all night to feed her,” she said. The continuous cycle of night feeds, hormonal changes, and breastfeeding left her depleted and stressed.She also pointed out that society often fails to acknowledge or support women during this period. While the baby becomes the focus, the mother’s needs—emotional, physical, and mental—are often sidelined. Kalki’s experience serves as a reminder that new mothers need care, too.Water Birth Is Normal, Not A "Cult" PracticeKalki and her partner chose a water birth for Sappho’s arrival—an experience she strongly advocates for. Speaking on Aleena Dissects, she said, “Water birthing is much easier on the body during natural birth. There’s so much research that it’s easier for the baby when it comes out because it was in the amniotic fluid already, so it’s not a big shock.”She believes that water birthing should be more widely accepted and available. “I think this should be standard practice,” she said. But despite the benefits, many people still view it with suspicion. “They think it’s some weird cult or chudail practice,” she remarked, adding that lack of awareness and cost are also major barriers.A Long Labour HourIn an earlier Instagram post, Kalki shared the details of her 17-hour labour and thanked her doctors at Tulip Women’s Care for supporting her choice to have a natural water birth. “Even when I begged them to take the baby out anyway they could, they said no—you’ve come this far and you’re going to have your natural water birth. An hour later, Sappho was born.”Through her honest reflections, Kalki Koechlin is breaking the silence around the physical, emotional, and social challenges of motherhood. Her story not only offers comfort to women going through similar journeys but also pushes for better awareness, empathy, and informed choices around birthing and postpartum care.

“motherhood takes a lot out of you” — kalki koechlin opens up about pregnancy, postpartum and water birthing

Tanya Dutt

'I Am A Nutritionist- These Are 4 Diet Non-Negotiables For My Son's Health'

Nutrition

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When it comes to raising children, few tasks and responsibilities seem more daunting and less achievable than getting them well-fed and well-nourished. From limiting picky eating to avoiding the allure of ultra-processed snacks, parents today have a daily conundrum: how to feed their children in a manner that sustains growth, builds immunity, and prepares them for health throughout life. But the reality is nutrition for kids is not all about keeping them away from junk. It's about intentionally assembling a diet that nourishes the brain, gut, physical energy, and emotional well-being. And in our uber-speedy world of screen time and sit-tie times, that is more important than ever.

Especially important for the early years when a child's brain is growing like mad, bones are accumulating density, and immune systems are forming. Childhood nutrition does more than fuel playground dashes or after-school games. It sets the foundation for how our children's minds and bodies will operate for decades to come. Proper intake of essential nutrients during early years lowers the risk of chronic disease later in life, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. 

One of the voices adding sense to this topic is Sakshi Lalwani—a clinical nutritionist with more than 231,000 followers on Instagram. She's also a committed mom, and this dual identity provides her with the practical expertise born of both science and life experience. In one of her much-admired Mother's Day posts, she set out her four non-negotiable rules for feeding her son. Underpinned by science, tradition, and life, these rules are more than a list—they're a code. Here's what she is committed to and why it's deserving of adoption worldwide.

<h2>1. Good Fats Are Non-Negotiable—They Feed the Brain</h2>

As adults, most of us have spent decades overcoming the fear of fats. But for kids, healthy fats aren't just safe—kids need them. In fact, kids need more fat proportionately than adults because growing brains consist of almost 60% fat. The Harvard School of Public Health says that proper fat consumption in children is directly linked to optimal brain development, hormone function, and energy metabolism.

Lalwani makes good fats a top priority in her son's daily meals. "He has ghee, nut butters, and avocados on his daily plate," she reports. These are whole, intact sources of saturated and monounsaturated fats that not only provide nutrients but also facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Ghee, specifically—a common Indian kitchen staple—is high in butyrate, which aids the gut and inflammation regulation. Nut butters provide a tasty delivery system for protein and healthy fat, and avocados deliver fiber, folate, and potassium, a triad of benefits for developing bodies.

<h2>2. Iron &amp; Zinc: Micronutrients With Macro Impact</h2>

Two minerals that tend to fly under the radar—but are central to children's health—are iron and zinc. Iron is necessary for transporting oxygen in the blood, and even mild deficiencies can cause fatigue, poor concentration, and slowed development. Zinc, meanwhile, is essential for immune function, cell growth, and even taste.

Even slight deficiencies impact concentration, immunity, and growth," Lalwani says, noting that she always adds soaked raisins, lentils, and pumpkin seeds to her son's diet. These foods provide plant-based forms of iron and zinc, which, when combined with vitamin C-rich fruit such as oranges or tomatoes, are easier for the body to absorb. Lentils are also a great source of protein and fiber, so they're a potent dietary ally when it comes to children's growth and digestive health.

Adding these minerals to your diet each day is easy enough: sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top of yogurt, add lentils to a soup, or provide soaked raisins as a snack following school. The important thing, experts say, is simplicity over consistency.

<h2>3. Gut Health Is the Silent Architect of Wellness</h2>

The saying "all health begins in the gut" is more than a wellness buzzphrase. Emerging research in pediatric nutrition shows that a healthy gut microbiome is linked to improved mood regulation, cognitive function, immune defense, and nutrient absorption. It’s no surprise, then, that gut health is one of Lalwani’s cornerstones.

“A healthy gut supports better mood, focus, and digestion,” she notes. To those ends, she incorporates foods such as curd (yogurt), bananas, garlic, and oats into her family's diet on a regular basis. Yogurt gives us probiotics, the good bacteria that ensure a balance of gut flora. Bananas are full of prebiotics—food for the good bacteria—while garlic contains antimicrobial activity and immune benefits. Oats not only have fiber to control digestion but also encourage the development of good bacteria in the colon.

Promoting a rich microbiome from birth has health benefits throughout life, such as lower allergy, eczema, and autoimmune disease risk. For parents, it can start easily—with a probiotic yogurt breakfast or banana-oat smoothie.

<h2>4. Early Habits Build Lifelong Wellness</h2>

The final pillar in Lalwani’s approach is perhaps the most holistic: building habits now that set the stage for the future. “What he eats now shapes his future metabolism, immunity, and eating habits,” she shares. Nutrition during the early years doesn't just fill tummies—it wires preferences, cravings, and emotional relationships with food.

She also stresses daily sun exposure and soaked almonds, both of which enhance the uptake of vital vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin D and magnesium. Sunlight still stands as the best and the most natural way of obtaining Vitamin D, essential to bone function and immunity. Almonds, when soaked, are easier to assimilate and are a very effective source of magnesium, a mineral that plays a role in more than 300 enzymatic processes in the body.

Establishing these routines early—eating whole foods, enjoying family meals, and spending time outdoors—can create positive associations around health that carry into adulthood.

Sakshi Lalwani’s food philosophy for her son is a timely reminder that children’s diets deserve as much attention and intention as any other aspect of parenting. Her four non-negotiables are more than just nutrition rules—they are a blueprint for nurturing resilient, well-rounded, and thriving individuals.

diet & nutrition

kids nutrition tips

healthy diet for children

child brain development foods

gut health for kids

zinc and iron for kids

parenting health advice

sakshi lalwani nutrition tips

When it comes to raising children, few tasks and responsibilities seem more daunting and less achievable than getting them well-fed and well-nourished. From limiting picky eating to avoiding the allure of ultra-processed snacks, parents today have a daily conundrum: how to feed their children in a manner that sustains growth, builds immunity, and prepares them for health throughout life. But the reality is nutrition for kids is not all about keeping them away from junk. It's about intentionally assembling a diet that nourishes the brain, gut, physical energy, and emotional well-being. And in our uber-speedy world of screen time and sit-tie times, that is more important than ever.Especially important for the early years when a child's brain is growing like mad, bones are accumulating density, and immune systems are forming. Childhood nutrition does more than fuel playground dashes or after-school games. It sets the foundation for how our children's minds and bodies will operate for decades to come. Proper intake of essential nutrients during early years lowers the risk of chronic disease later in life, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. One of the voices adding sense to this topic is Sakshi Lalwani—a clinical nutritionist with more than 231,000 followers on Instagram. She's also a committed mom, and this dual identity provides her with the practical expertise born of both science and life experience. In one of her much-admired Mother's Day posts, she set out her four non-negotiable rules for feeding her son. Underpinned by science, tradition, and life, these rules are more than a list—they're a code. Here's what she is committed to and why it's deserving of adoption worldwide.1. Good Fats Are Non-Negotiable—They Feed the BrainAs adults, most of us have spent decades overcoming the fear of fats. But for kids, healthy fats aren't just safe—kids need them. In fact, kids need more fat proportionately than adults because growing brains consist of almost 60% fat. The Harvard School of Public Health says that proper fat consumption in children is directly linked to optimal brain development, hormone function, and energy metabolism.Lalwani makes good fats a top priority in her son's daily meals. "He has ghee, nut butters, and avocados on his daily plate," she reports. These are whole, intact sources of saturated and monounsaturated fats that not only provide nutrients but also facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Ghee, specifically—a common Indian kitchen staple—is high in butyrate, which aids the gut and inflammation regulation. Nut butters provide a tasty delivery system for protein and healthy fat, and avocados deliver fiber, folate, and potassium, a triad of benefits for developing bodies.2. Iron & Zinc: Micronutrients With Macro ImpactTwo minerals that tend to fly under the radar—but are central to children's health—are iron and zinc. Iron is necessary for transporting oxygen in the blood, and even mild deficiencies can cause fatigue, poor concentration, and slowed development. Zinc, meanwhile, is essential for immune function, cell growth, and even taste.Even slight deficiencies impact concentration, immunity, and growth," Lalwani says, noting that she always adds soaked raisins, lentils, and pumpkin seeds to her son's diet. These foods provide plant-based forms of iron and zinc, which, when combined with vitamin C-rich fruit such as oranges or tomatoes, are easier for the body to absorb. Lentils are also a great source of protein and fiber, so they're a potent dietary ally when it comes to children's growth and digestive health.Adding these minerals to your diet each day is easy enough: sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top of yogurt, add lentils to a soup, or provide soaked raisins as a snack following school. The important thing, experts say, is simplicity over consistency.3. Gut Health Is the Silent Architect of WellnessThe saying "all health begins in the gut" is more than a wellness buzzphrase. Emerging research in pediatric nutrition shows that a healthy gut microbiome is linked to improved mood regulation, cognitive function, immune defense, and nutrient absorption. It’s no surprise, then, that gut health is one of Lalwani’s cornerstones.“A healthy gut supports better mood, focus, and digestion,” she notes. To those ends, she incorporates foods such as curd (yogurt), bananas, garlic, and oats into her family's diet on a regular basis. Yogurt gives us probiotics, the good bacteria that ensure a balance of gut flora. Bananas are full of prebiotics—food for the good bacteria—while garlic contains antimicrobial activity and immune benefits. Oats not only have fiber to control digestion but also encourage the development of good bacteria in the colon.Promoting a rich microbiome from birth has health benefits throughout life, such as lower allergy, eczema, and autoimmune disease risk. For parents, it can start easily—with a probiotic yogurt breakfast or banana-oat smoothie.4. Early Habits Build Lifelong WellnessThe final pillar in Lalwani’s approach is perhaps the most holistic: building habits now that set the stage for the future. “What he eats now shapes his future metabolism, immunity, and eating habits,” she shares. Nutrition during the early years doesn't just fill tummies—it wires preferences, cravings, and emotional relationships with food.She also stresses daily sun exposure and soaked almonds, both of which enhance the uptake of vital vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin D and magnesium. Sunlight still stands as the best and the most natural way of obtaining Vitamin D, essential to bone function and immunity. Almonds, when soaked, are easier to assimilate and are a very effective source of magnesium, a mineral that plays a role in more than 300 enzymatic processes in the body.Establishing these routines early—eating whole foods, enjoying family meals, and spending time outdoors—can create positive associations around health that carry into adulthood.Sakshi Lalwani’s food philosophy for her son is a timely reminder that children’s diets deserve as much attention and intention as any other aspect of parenting. Her four non-negotiables are more than just nutrition rules—they are a blueprint for nurturing resilient, well-rounded, and thriving individuals.

'i am a nutritionist- these are 4 diet non-negotiables for my son's health'

Pediatrician’s Guide To The First 1000 Days Of Motherhood For All Expecting Mom- Key Tips

Motherhood is as much a transformation as it is a tenderness. Yet whereas most parents anticipate sleepless nights and diaper changes, fewer appreciate how the first 1000 days, from conception to a child's second birthday, shape a baby's health and well-being for the rest of their life.

According to Dr. Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, “The first 1000 days represent a critical window where the brain develops faster than at any other time. Over 80% of brain development occurs by the time the child turns two. What happens during this phase quite literally shapes a child’s cognitive potential, immunity, and emotional well-being.”

This in-depth guide is based on scientific knowledge and pediatric experience to assist mothers, carers, and families in maximizing these critical 1000 days.

<h2>Why the First 1000 Days Matter Most?</h2>

The initial 1000 days—from conception up to a child's second birthday—are marked by dramatic physical, mental, and emotional development. In these years, brain cells create trillions of connections. Nutrition, love, and physical care at this time determine a child's ability to learn, their immune system, and even their resistance to chronic diseases much later in life.

As Dr. Agrawal puts it, "It's not just about having a healthy baby. It's about laying down the template for future health, behavior, and learning capacity. Every contact, every vitamin, and every cuddle matters."

The process starts even before getting pregnant. Pregnancy planning is not merely a way of life—it's a medical necessity.

"Women intending to conceive should start with a complete medical check-up to tackle underlying health conditions," Dr. Agrawal suggests. "Start folic acid supplements at least three months before. It helps decrease neural tube defects and aids in early fetal growth."

Follow a balanced diet with plenty of iron, calcium, and folate. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and all recreational drugs several months prior to conception. Being at a healthy pre-pregnancy weight and having properly controlled chronic illnesses such as diabetes or thyroid disease can avoid complications for both mother and child.

Being pregnant is a period of increased responsibility. Your baby is completely reliant on you for nutrition and emotional support.

Monthly antenatal visits are essential to monitor fetal growth and detect complications early. Hydration is equally necessary—10–12 glasses of pure water daily. Freshly prepared, nutrient-dense foods in small, frequent servings.

Light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga improves circulation and mood, while good rest—at least 8 hours of unbroken sleep—facilitates fetal growth.

Don't underestimate the power of emotional well-being," Dr. Agrawal says. "High levels of maternal stress can impact the baby's temperament and risk of developmental delays. Participate in stress-lowering activities such as reading, music, or guided meditation."

The initial hour after birth—often referred to as the "Golden Hour"—is critical. Get breastfeeding started within this timeframe to transfer antibodies and build a robust immune foundation.

Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months—no formula, no water. "Breastmilk is a complete meal. It provides antibodies, essential fats, and immune-boosting enzymes," says Dr. Agrawal.

Daily skin-to-skin contact, talking, smiling, and singing to the baby promote bonding and stimulate early brain development. Vaccines should be given on time, and frequent pediatric checkups are not negotiable.

At six months, introduce soft foods made at home in addition to continued breastfeeding. Gradually add a range of fruits, vegetables, cereals, and pulses. Processed foods, salt, sugar, and honey are to be avoided, as they can injure developing organs.

Be sure to keep feeding hygienic. "Encourage self-feeding, let your baby play with textures, and promote movement—crawling, walking, climbing stairs holding someone who can support them. All of these aid in physical and mental development," says Dr. Agrawal.

Restrict screen time. Instead, promote face-to-face interaction with storytelling, playtime, and exploration.

<h2>Why Role of the Family Is More Than Shared Responsibility?</h2>

Motherhood is not an isolated experience. Fathers, grandparents, and extended family members all help shape the baby's early life.

A supportive family can decrease maternal stress and improve mental health. Share tasks—from diaper changes to soothing at night—and make sure the mother is getting plenty of rest and healthy meals.

"A smoke-free, peaceful home environment enhances not just physical health but also emotional security for mother and baby," Dr. Agrawal stresses.

The first 1000 days are not merely about checking boxes off a list—they are about thoughtful care, emotional connection, and conscious <span>parenting</span>.

What you do today—what you feed, how you sleep, how you communicate with your baby can have a profound impact on your child's cognitive skills, emotional maturity, and physical well-being. As Dr. Agrawal says, "These aren't just days. They are opportunities. Let's make each one count."

<em>Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD of Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur in India</em>

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Motherhood is as much a transformation as it is a tenderness. Yet whereas most parents anticipate sleepless nights and diaper changes, fewer appreciate how the first 1000 days, from conception to a child's second birthday, shape a baby's health and well-being for the rest of their life.According to Dr. Kushal Agrawal, HOD, Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics, “The first 1000 days represent a critical window where the brain develops faster than at any other time. Over 80% of brain development occurs by the time the child turns two. What happens during this phase quite literally shapes a child’s cognitive potential, immunity, and emotional well-being.”This in-depth guide is based on scientific knowledge and pediatric experience to assist mothers, carers, and families in maximizing these critical 1000 days.Why the First 1000 Days Matter Most?The initial 1000 days—from conception up to a child's second birthday—are marked by dramatic physical, mental, and emotional development. In these years, brain cells create trillions of connections. Nutrition, love, and physical care at this time determine a child's ability to learn, their immune system, and even their resistance to chronic diseases much later in life.As Dr. Agrawal puts it, "It's not just about having a healthy baby. It's about laying down the template for future health, behavior, and learning capacity. Every contact, every vitamin, and every cuddle matters."Before PregnancyThe process starts even before getting pregnant. Pregnancy planning is not merely a way of life—it's a medical necessity."Women intending to conceive should start with a complete medical check-up to tackle underlying health conditions," Dr. Agrawal suggests. "Start folic acid supplements at least three months before. It helps decrease neural tube defects and aids in early fetal growth."Follow a balanced diet with plenty of iron, calcium, and folate. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and all recreational drugs several months prior to conception. Being at a healthy pre-pregnancy weight and having properly controlled chronic illnesses such as diabetes or thyroid disease can avoid complications for both mother and child.During PregnancyBeing pregnant is a period of increased responsibility. Your baby is completely reliant on you for nutrition and emotional support.Monthly antenatal visits are essential to monitor fetal growth and detect complications early. Hydration is equally necessary—10–12 glasses of pure water daily. Freshly prepared, nutrient-dense foods in small, frequent servings.Light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga improves circulation and mood, while good rest—at least 8 hours of unbroken sleep—facilitates fetal growth.Don't underestimate the power of emotional well-being," Dr. Agrawal says. "High levels of maternal stress can impact the baby's temperament and risk of developmental delays. Participate in stress-lowering activities such as reading, music, or guided meditation."Post-BirthThe initial hour after birth—often referred to as the "Golden Hour"—is critical. Get breastfeeding started within this timeframe to transfer antibodies and build a robust immune foundation.Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months—no formula, no water. "Breastmilk is a complete meal. It provides antibodies, essential fats, and immune-boosting enzymes," says Dr. Agrawal.Daily skin-to-skin contact, talking, smiling, and singing to the baby promote bonding and stimulate early brain development. Vaccines should be given on time, and frequent pediatric checkups are not negotiable.6 Months to 2 YearsAt six months, introduce soft foods made at home in addition to continued breastfeeding. Gradually add a range of fruits, vegetables, cereals, and pulses. Processed foods, salt, sugar, and honey are to be avoided, as they can injure developing organs.Be sure to keep feeding hygienic. "Encourage self-feeding, let your baby play with textures, and promote movement—crawling, walking, climbing stairs holding someone who can support them. All of these aid in physical and mental development," says Dr. Agrawal.Restrict screen time. Instead, promote face-to-face interaction with storytelling, playtime, and exploration.Why Role of the Family Is More Than Shared Responsibility?Motherhood is not an isolated experience. Fathers, grandparents, and extended family members all help shape the baby's early life.A supportive family can decrease maternal stress and improve mental health. Share tasks—from diaper changes to soothing at night—and make sure the mother is getting plenty of rest and healthy meals."A smoke-free, peaceful home environment enhances not just physical health but also emotional security for mother and baby," Dr. Agrawal stresses.The first 1000 days are not merely about checking boxes off a list—they are about thoughtful care, emotional connection, and conscious parenting.What you do today—what you feed, how you sleep, how you communicate with your baby can have a profound impact on your child's cognitive skills, emotional maturity, and physical well-being. As Dr. Agrawal says, "These aren't just days. They are opportunities. Let's make each one count."Dr Kushal Agrawal is HOD of Department of Neonatology and Paediatrics at KVR Hospital, Kashipur in India

pediatrician’s guide to the first 1000 days of motherhood for all expecting mom- key tips

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