Infant Feeding

In the focus study group about maternal feeding practices and childhood obesity, a group of mothers between the ages of 14 and 34 were questioned about their feeding practices with their children of ages 12 to 36 months of age. They all believed that a heavy baby meant a healthy baby. They all seemed to believe that a skinny child meant that they child was not receiving enough daily nutrition. They would feed the child numerous times a day, and also used feeding as a form of reward for good behavior or positive reinforcement. The mothers admitted going against feeding recommendations that they were given by pediatricians and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). Most of their children were overweight, and the mothers were then educated in infant feeding.

A study that focused on breast fed infants and formula fed infants concluded that children who are breast fed are leaner than formula fed infants. Mothers who feed their children formula at a very early age, beginning from newborn, will tend to have a heavier child. The children's  skinfolds and body fat were measured and the result clearly showed that the breast fed children where in much better health. Breast fed children also showed to be less sickly, and much more full of energy.

Healthy Eating and Exercising

I have a pretty busy and hectic lifestyle at the moment.  I work 2 jobs; 7 days a week, and take 2 online classes right now; that would include homework, and of course I have a personal life. I tend to be rushed most of the time, and eat whatever is easy and fast. I hardly ever eat breakfast because I don't have time. I rather sleep than work out when I do have time because as soon as I wake up it's back to craziness. I eat a bagel with cream cheese for breakfast; or something of that kinds with water, fast food for lunch, and fast food for dinner if I have time to stop and buy something, if not I don't eat dinner. I work ten hours daily 5 days out of 7, so when I get off work I do homework and go to bed. Everyone tells me to slow down, to take a vacation, but I don't have time to slow down. I rather sacrifice now and be able to enjoy later.