Determining Your Due Date

I always wonder how doctor count the baby date due. They will use this little chart from your last period to determine it. But you know what, I want to know ahead from them. LOL. I created an excel sheet to calculate the date due and while spring clean my files, I found this.

Directions:
1. Find the first day of your last period on the calendar.
2. Move ahead 9 more months.
3. Find the same date.
4. Add 7 days.
5. That will be your baby’s due date.

Example:
Suppose your last period began June 10. Move ahead 9 more months to March and find March 10. Add 7 days and your due date would be March 17.

Have fun counting......

Drug Safe

Do you ever wonder the medicines from GP, are they really safe to the fetus or will it get into breast milk and harm your babies?

I asked myself numerous times. I still remembered when I first got pregnant; I got pretty high fever too. Going to the GP is one thing, taking the medicine is another. I asked myself, will the medicine harm my baby or will disturb its development. I got so many questions and it brings me to see gynea.

Then, I found this website. I always check the medicines I got from GP before consumed it. I do not want to risk my baby life just because of my ignorance.

Now, I am sharing it and hope that you will find it useful.

Check it out on SafeFetus.

Rehydrating Toner

Benefits : Tighten pores, whitens skin appearance and restores skin's collagen.

Main Ingredient : Stabilized Aloe Gel, DI Water, Witch Hazel Distillate (Non-Alcoholic), Soluble Collagen, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Lemon Extract, Cucumber Extract, Horsetail Extract, Chamomile Extract, Rosemary Extract, Allantoin (Skin conditioner. Helps in healing, tissue growth stimulant, non-allergenic, anti-irritant. Appropriate for sensitive, irritated and acne skin).

Price : RM 66.00

Usage : Use together with cool mask.

Aloe Activator

Benefits : To be used in combination with our Facial Contour Mask Powder to help regenerate cells.

Main Ingredient : Stabilized Aloe Gel, Allantoin (Skin conditioner. Helps in healing, tissue growth stimulant, non-allergenic, anti-irritant. Appropriate for sensitive, irritated and acne skin).

Price : RM 66.00

Usage : Use together with Cool Mask or Collagen Mask.

Aloe Vera Gelly

Benefits : Useful as a multi-purpose moisturizing mask, helps replenish skin's collagen and retain moisture. It is a natural moisturiser, and it has anti-bacterial properties making it a good choice to soothe and clean minor wounds and burns, insect bites, and skin rashes.

Main Ingredient : Stabilized Aloe Gel, DI Water, Glycerin, Vitamin E & C (antioxidants), Allantoin (Skin conditioner. Helps in healing, tissue growth stimulant, non-allergenic, anti-irritant. Appropriate for sensitive, irritated and acne skin).

Price : RM 56.00

Usage : Cool Mask

Aloe First

Benefits : Balances skin's pH level, helps in healing of scars and blemishes, increases skin's natural resistance and minimizes skin's sensitivity.

Price : RM 72.00

Usage : Use together with Cool Mask.

Aloe Propolis Creme

Benefits : Lightens appearance of pigmentation, freckles and dark spots. Helps lighten scars. Anti-inflammatory and soothes swelling, increases skin's natural immunity.

Price : RM 72.00

Keit's experience : Aloe Propolis Creme + Aloe Vera Gelly can be use as nappy rash cream, sore nipple & moisturiser.

Aloe Lips

Benefits: Soothes, protects and moisturizes your lips.

Price : RM 13.00

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera Gel : FOREVER's high quality aloe contains over 200 nutritional compounds, providing many health and skin enhancing benefits. It helps in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system and in the effective removal of toxins, resulting in healthier skin.

Available in 3 flavours : Aloe Vera Gel, Aloe Berry Nectar, Aloe Bits n' Peaches

Price : RM 90.00

Forever Bee Pollen

Forever Bee Pollen : A treasure house of nutrients containing the complete spectrum of 22 amino acids, B-complexes and other vitamins, active enzymes and co-enzymes, organic minerals and bioflavoniods. It is an excellent supplementary source for providing your body cells with a wide range of nutrients, helping to boost metabolism and skin renewal besides nourishing your cells to give you a healthier and more radiant skin.

Cautions : In case of allergic reaction - start with 1/4 tablet a day, working up to three if necessary.

Price : RM 60.00

Walt Disney : Cars

My son loves this movie a lot. He watches it over and over and over again. I lost count how many times I watched this together with him.

When he watched it, especially the racing part he will said “car, car, fast fast”. He learned it from me. LOL.

Another part, when the movie came to the heyday and near the end of heyday. My son will said “car,car, sad, sad” + moving his finger dotted down from the eye to the cheek (sign for sad). Then I will replied “Yes, cars sad because no cars coming to visit them anymore.”

When came to the last race, the green car purposely bang the blue car. He will point at the green car and said “Bad bad”. Guilty again, I taught him that as well.

While on the road, he will say “car, boom boom”. LOL suppose to be “VROOM~~VROOM”. He is very close in getting the correct sound. One day he will get it correct.

Female Reproductive Issues

Article from Forever Newsletter December 2008

Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the condition where non-cancerous pieces of endometrial tissue (the layer of tissue that lines the uterus) are found in other parts of the body where they should not be appearing. Endometriosis is estimated to affect 10 to 15% of menstruating woman in the age range of 25 to 45 years old. The actual occurrence may be higher because this problem may be misdiagnosed. The risk factors include family history, having structural abnormality of the uterus, having the first baby after 30 years old or never having a baby. Asians are more prone to having endometriosis than Caucasians.

Causes
The causes of endometriosis are unclear although here are some possibilities:

1. Pieces of the uterus lining that shed off during the menstruation process did not flow out through the vagina. Instead, they flowed backwards towards the Fallopian tube and ovaries, and then subsequently some flowed into the abdominal cavity.


2. The cells of the uterus wall lining is not shed off properly but transported through blood or lymphatic network to other locations.

Symptoms
The endometrial cells would go to other locations, normally in the ovaries or ligament supporting the uterus, and increase in size. In some cases, the misdistributed endometrial cells are found at small and large intestines, bladder, urinary tracts and vagina, and very occasionally at some distant organs. These misdistributed cells respond to the hormones estrogen and progesterone, and may bleed when the person menstruates. The symptoms are severe pain and bleeding from the corresponding locations, most often as abdominal cramp and heavy menstruation flow. Occasionally, bleeding from the digestive tract or urinary tract can result, depending on where the misdistributed cells reside. Scar tissues that form subsequently may affect the working of the organs.

FIBROIDS
Fibroids are a commonly seen growth in the reproductive system. Fibroids are non-cancerous tumours composed of muscle and fibrous tissue. It affects around 20% of women under the 50 years old.

Cause
Although the actual reasons are not certain, high estrogen (female hormone) levels seem to stimulate fibroid growth Fibroids can appear microscopic and slowly increase in size. The growth locations are mainly at the uterus wall, either on the surface or underneath. When fibroids are found during check-up, there are usually several of them, as they are seldom found in isolation.

Symptoms
Symptoms largely depend on the size and location of the fibroids that grow on the wall of the uterus usually cause pain, pressure and possibly heaviness in the pelvic area during menstrual periods. When the fibroids become large, depending on the location, they may press on the bladder or intestine. This may lead to frequent urge for urination, lower abdominal discomfort or constipation.

Fibroids which grow under the lining of the uterus may cause bleeding. The symptoms are heavy menstrual flow that lasts longer than usual, accompanied by pain.

Products that can help:

1. Aloe Berry Nectar

• cranberry extract helps to maintain good hormonal system, thus reducing the risk of having hormone-related issues with reproductive organs.
• Aloe Vera contains Anthraquinone Complex that can help to reduce inflammation caused by bleeding.

2. Arctic Sea Omega 3 Fish Oil

• EPA and DHA from the Omega 3 family of fatty acid can help to reduce inflammation caused by bleeding.

3. Forever Bee Pollen

• source of trace minerals from the Bee Pollen such as zinc is helpful in regulating hormonal balance.
• Being rich in Vitamin B groups, Pollen is helpful in reducing the effects of stress. (Stress is believed to be a factor promoting abnormal growth in women).

Fertility Issue

Article taken from Forever Newsletter November 2008

Infertility is defined as failure to conceive after a year of regular intercourse without contraception. According to studies, there are about 350,000 couples in Malaysia who face problem in conceiving a child. According to statistics published by the Singapore General Hospital, about 15% of couples have infertility issue, and 50% of them are caused by factors related to men.

MALE
1. Problems with the Sperms
To conceive, a sperm must be able to reach the ovum (egg), penetrate the protective membrane and fertilize it. The health of the sperm is therefore important for conception. A few factors can affect this adversely:

• High temperature of testes (sperm producing organ) can kill sperms or compromise sperm quality. Reducing hot water baths or showers, less exposure to heat at lower body while cooking and avoiding wearing tight fitting pants or undergarment may help.


• Reduced sperm count can be caused by injury to the testes, exposure to industrial or environmental toxins or hormonal disturbance which may be related to stress, smoking or passive smoking.

2. Erectile Dysfuntion (ED)
ED occurs when a man fails to obtain proper erection. An erection is a complicated process that involves the hormonal system, nervous system and vascular system. Besides psychological factors, physical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, nerve disorder, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption can result in ED.

FEMALE
1. Problem with Ovulation
Ovulation occurs only once a month, and the mature egg released into the fallopian tube survives for only 24 hours, during which it must be fertilised through sexual intercourse. Irregular timing of otherwise normal ovulation is a frequent reason for infertility. This in turn is caused by disruption to the hormonal and reproductive systems that control the reproductive function. Emotional and physical stress, use of certain drugs, diabetes, obesity, questionable weight loss methods, thyroid disorder and polycystic ovary syndrome are among the causes leading to infertility.

2. Problem with Fallopian Tubes
Fertilisation happens in the fallopian tube where the sperms meet the awaiting ovum. However if there is structural or functional abnormality on the Fallopian tube, infertility can occur. Infection of the fallopian ture, endometriosis and ectopic pregnancy are some factors leading to infertility,

How good nutrition can help fertility:

1. Forever His Pack

• Aloe Vera Gel and Arctic Sea Omega 3 may help to improve vascular health. When the blood circulation is good, male reproductive health will be improved as well.


• Aloe Vera Gel and Absorbent C provide good antioxidants that can help to prevent free radical damage on sperm cells. This will improve sperm health and thus increase the chances of fertilisation.


• Bee Pollen provides Zinc and Manganese which are the essential minerals for sperm health. Naturally rich in various types of B vitamins, Pollen improves a man’s energy level.

2. Forever Her Pack

• Aloe Berry Nectar contains cranberry extract that helps in hormonal balance, thus improving the regularity of ovulation.


• Absorbent C contains Vitamin C and citrus bioflavonoids, providing antioxidants to improve the health of ovum.


• Forever Royal Jelly helps to regulate hormonal change and improve reproductive health.

3. Pomesteen / Forever Nature’s 18

• Great combination of fruits and vegetables with high and potent antioxidant power.


• These antioxidants reduce the damage from free radicals brought about by lifestyle or dietary factors, thus providing protection for the reproductive cells.

4. Forever Nature Min

• contains the major minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium) and trace elements (iron, zinc, iodine, selenium, copper, manganese, vanadium, molybdenum) essential for general and reproductive health maintenance.


• Sourced from naturally chelated mineral elements from an ancient seabed; easily absorbed by the body

Proper Diet In Breastfeeding

I came across an article from WebMD on "Your Nutritional Needs While Breastfeeding". Here is a snippet of what it saids:

During pregnancy, your appetite can soar. Your growing baby is drawing from your nutritional stores. But you're also hungry because your body is hard at work helping to prepare your milk supply.

After you give birth, good nutrition is even more important than during your pregnancy. It can make a difference in the quality of your breast milk and affect how quickly your body rebounds from childbirth.

Though doctors once routinely recommended an additional 500 calories a day for breastfeeding moms, today, experts say what you eat matters far more than your caloric intake.

"Beyond a doubt, the nutritious quality of the foods you eat is of major importance during breastfeeding. Simply adding empty calories, like those found in sugary snacks or junk food, is not going to help you or your baby," says Linda M. Hanna, IBCLC, program coordinator for Lactation and Prenatal Education Services at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

In fact, she says, if a mother isn't feeding herself with enough nutritious foods, the number of "dirty diapers" goes down, a sign that your baby may not be getting enough to eat.

"In the end we are talking about eating a balanced diet, with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats, and with as little sugar and sugary snacks as possible," says Hanna.

----------------------------------------------------------

I remembered a scenario that happens when my friend (MS) asked for advice.

MS said : JJ finishes Pediasure but does not finish breast milk.
MS said : He finished the breast milk mixed with Pediasure.

Before I can answered

MS said : Are you thinking to ask me to stop breastfeeding?
Keit said : I am actually want to ask about your diet.
MS said : What about my diet?
Keit said : You know. If you are eating rubbish, how does u expect your milk quality to be good?
MS said : Huh!! Nowadays I do not eat regular and eating junk (like pizza, McDonald).
Keit said : WHAT??!! (When I heard that, I nearly drop-off from my chair.)

I asked her to taste her own milk. She told me not nice at all. Then I asked her, how you expect JJ to drink your milk. Of course, Pediasure is nicer compare to your breast milk. I told her to change her diet to healthy and proper.

After 2 weeks, she happily informed me that JJ finished her breast milk.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

For me, I will think twice before I consumed anything because I knew whatever I consumed it will affect my son. I love chocolate very much and I knew chocolate can cause colic in babies so I really restrict myself from having it at all.

I remembered one scenario back at my mom’s place. My sister brought some chocolates and I stared at them and wish I can consume them but I did not for my son’s sake. Then mom said “I told you to gave up breastfeeding but you refused, see now so much things you cannot eat.” I replied, after my son reaches 12 months, I have my whole life to munch on them”.

For me, everything was worth even though I need to restrict myself on this and that. After all, breast milks are the best for them and it is priceless; even you have the money – you just cannot buy breast milk.

Baby Bill Of Rights

Very interesting article that I treasure very much, found it during my spring cleaning and it is from The Ohio State University Medical Center. The "Baby Bill Of Rights" article said the followings:-

Talk To Me
Sing, hum, babble, or even read the funnies to me! I do not know exactly what you are saying, but I need to hear you. And I do know what you mean, even if I may not know words. Like your voice tones mean, "I love you." Or when you yell, I hear, "You are a pest!" Unless
you communicate with me, how can I learn? I learn from you.

Hold Me
Everything is so big and new to me. I do not understand where I am. Or who I am. And I get scared. But when you hold me, I feel better. Your warmth warms me. Your breath and heartbeat make me feel I belong. Belong here. Belong to you.

Answer My Cry
I do not cry to get you upset. Or to get you mad. I cry because I can not tell you how I feel any other way. Maybe I am cold .. or wet ... or hungry ... or scared and lonely. Answer my cries. You'll soon know what each one means. You won't spoil me. You will help me to be a better baby ... and to make you happier, too.

Love Me
Like me. Love me just as I am. Do not expect me to do what I cannot do. Like being toilet-trained. My muscles are not ready yet. I know I am messy. But I am growing. Overlook my baby weaknesses. You are the most important person in my world. I cannot make it without you. So get to know me. Have fun with me. And love me ... just as I am.

Comparison Between the Compositions of Cow Milk and Human Milk

Breastfeeding their young is something that is particular to mammals only. Calves upon reaching maturity no longer drink milk. Then why do we drink at infancy, adolescence, adulthood, and even at old age?

Let us compare the differences.

1. Human milk has abundance of minerals such as iodine, iron, phosphorus and magnesium which are lacking in cow milk.


2. Human milk also contains two important substances - lecithin, a phosphoric fatty acid, and taurine, an amino acid, which help in the development of the infant's brain. Cow milk does not have them. Cow milk allows the calf to grow doubling its weight every month for the first three months. However, very little and slow growth of the calf's brain is observed. On the other hand, a newborn human baby needs six months to double its weight. However, its brain develops at a fantastic rate - out performing all other living beings.


3. Cow milk contains lactose (milk sugar) and casein (curd) which depend on specific digestive enzymes to break them down. When the infant is about 3-4 years of age, the body stops producing these two digestive agents.


4. The protein in cow milk is largely made of casein (curd) which is huge, hard, dense and difficult to digest. The protein in human milk are simple and small in structure and can be considered a kind of soft curd which can be broken down and digested easily.

Junk Food: Nutritious Treats During Pregnancy

I came across this article that I once researched during my spring cleaning. This article is from The Ohio State University Medical Center and it said:-

Junk food has little or no food value per calorie. These foods are often too high in sugar, fat, salt or artificial ingredients. You and your baby need many nutrients to be healthy. Empty calories do not provide these nutrients, they cause fat.

Avoid these foods: Do not eat more than two servings a week.

• Fast foods such as hamburgers, fried chicken, pizza, french fries, tacos
• Snack chips
• Candy, ice cream, soda pop, pastries and rich desserts
• Recipes calling for fats, white flour and sugar

Choose these foods:

Fruit Snacks

• Dried apples, dates, raisins, prunes, pineapple, apricots and peaches
• Frozen, unsweetened Bing cherries, strawberries, peaches and melon balls while icy
• Fruit "canned in its own juice"
• Ice-cold fresh fruit or juice

Desserts

• Make cookies with whole wheat flour, applesauce, raisins, nuts or oatmeal.
• Reduce sugar and fat in favorite recipes. Use 2 tablespoons less than the recipe calls for.
• Try rice, or bread puddings, or low fat ice milk, custard, pudding, flavored yogurts.
• Vanilla wafers, ginger snaps, animal crackers and graham crackers make good choices for snacking.

Nutritious Nibbles:

• Whole grain crackers
• Unbuttered popcorn
• Dry cereals, such as shredded wheat biscuits
• Unsalted pretzels
• Raw carrots, celery, radishes, zucchini, mushrooms, peppers and cherry tomatoes
• Nuts or seeds in the shell (to keep you from eating too many, too fast)
• Dips or spreads made with yogurt, cottage cheese and peanut butter

Nutritious snack recipes:

• Peanut Butter Balls
  Mix 1 cup peanut butter, ¾ cup honey, and 1½ cups powdered dry milk. Add raisins or sunflower seeds, if desired. Roll into balls.
• Yogurt Popsicles
  Freeze ¾ cup of low fat yogurt mixed with 2 tablespoons of frozen juice concentrate

Read package labels:

• The ingredients are listed by weight. The first ingredient weighs the most and is the greatest amount in the food.
• Be sure that sugar, corn syrup or any word ending in -ose (a form of sugar) is not one of the first four ingredients.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

I know it is not easy to resist your favorite’s foods and drinks during your pregnancy but you have a little one to consider before you start popping everything into the mouth.

With a stronger will + discipline, you will get through it; at least for the baby sake.

You just have to hang-on for only 9 months or 2 years (if you are breastfeeding), then you have the rest of your life to munch on your favorites.

Blood Type

According to wikipedia : There is a popular belief in Japan that a person's ABO blood type is predictive of their personality, temperament, and compatibility with others, similar to the Western world's astrology. This belief has carried over to some extent in other parts of East Asia such as South Korea.

In a separate article, it talks about blood type traits as following:-

• Type O – The Warrior
• Type A – The Farmer
• Type B – The Hunter
• Type AB – The Humanist

I came to know about this last year when having a business lunch with Korea client. She started to guess everyone blood type by just talking to you. According to her, it is accurate.

Well, it is depend on you to believe or not.

Increase Breast Milk Supply

There were times; I felt I did not produce enough milk especially when I did not get the average ounces. Thanks to “STRESS”. It is very challenging for me as I want to put my career and my baby first. Greedy me.. huh!!! LOL

I do a lot of research how to increase breast milk and found out that fenugreek (can get in Malaysia : one of spice to cook curry) and goat's rue (not available in Malaysia). Goat's rue is one of the most potent herbs known to increase breast milk, stimulating the development of mammary tissue.

Here are what I found :-
Earth-Mama : Milkmaid Tea (USDA Certified 100% Organic)

Ingredients are Trigonella foenum-graecum (organic fenugreek) seed, Foeniculum vulgare (organic fennel) seed, Rubus idaeus (organic red raspberry) leaf, Citrus sinensis (organic orange) peel, Urtica diocica (organic stinging nettle) leaf, Mentha spicata (organic spearmint) leaf, Pempinella anisum (organic anise) seed, Carum carvi (organic caraway) seed, Medicago sativa (organic alfalfa) leaf

Self-made : Mama Milk Tea

• increase your milk supply and the nutritional value of your milk.
• Ingredients are
• * 2 parts Red Raspberry leaf - cut
• * 2 parts Fennel seed - whole
• * 2 parts Nettle leaf - cut
• * 1 part Fenugreek seed - whole - not during pregnancy
• * 1 part Dandelion leaf - cut
• * 1/2 part Blessed Thistle - cut

One mother experience:-
I normally add 3 tablespoons of the premixed herbs to 2 cups of water. (This makes for a strong tea. You are welcome to use less than 3 tablespoons, if you find it too strong).

Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for no longer than 10 minutes. Strain off the herbs, and add raw honey, if desired. I found that drinking 3 - 6 cups a day increased my milk supply considerably. (I have drunk as much as 8 cups in one day with very good results). It's very important to stay hydrated while nursing by drinking lots of liquids. The tea helped in that as well.

Keit's experience : I could not get "Blessed Thistle" anyway. So I skip this herb. The taste of tea is acceptable and have to really drink a lot to see the results. Hey!! Do not expect a huge jump like extra 3 oz per express. But it will increase gradually and remember the golden rule : frequent pumping will increase the milk supply.

Motherlove Product

I tried this product and it works well for me. During my stress day, I still can get at least 7 oz per express. This product cannot be taken during pregnancy as it contains fenugreek.

If I ever get another child, I will give this product a try.

Motherlove : An alcohol free liquid concentrate in vegetarian capsules -- goat's rue is one of the most potent herbs known to increase breast milk, stimulating the development of mammary tissue. Helps adoptive mothers to successfully breastfeed, as well as women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or women who have had breast reduction surgery. Also may be used to increase breast size in non-lactating women. This product does not contain any milk, dairy, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, or gluten.

I tried 2 of the above products to gain experience and share it. LOL. Guinea-pig. LOL.

A few friends of mine asked “What do you eat to get so much milk?” I always replied “Nothing special. Normal food”. But they still insisted me to name it. Let me think, what did I took during breastfeeding (way before I tried the above mentioned products).

• Organic Soya Milk without embryos. Embryos can cause uric acid gets higher. Why do I take soya milk and not cow milk? Too much of cow milk or dairy products will lead to colic in babies.
• Proper diet.
• Plenty of soups. I love the most is double-boiled "kei chi" + DOM + chicken. I drink it before sleeps. This soup will make me slumber like baby. A good night sleep means well rested means milk production is healthy.
• My supplement : Royal Jelly : Queen bee food. Best food among all. LOL

Valentine 2009

I received this flower from my hubby for Valentine 2009 on eve. They are so beautiful. Thanks hubby. Normally we celebrate Chinese Valentine but this year our little precious was sick.

Everyone is celebrating Western Valentine Day where flowers are triple the price. :p We are celebrating Chinese Valentine Day where flowers are normal price.

Happy Valentine Day everyone!!!

Cow Milk : Myth or Must

I found this article from BIO-GREEN handbook quite interesting. Do you?

In nature, animals are born naturally male and female, the females will feed their inafct with its own milk. Each species of animal milk content different nutrients of animal milk content different nutrients that are only suitable for the babies of their own. That is what nature or god intends to provide. Therefore, we cannot say that cow milk is fit for all beings, it should be fit for calf only and not intent for human being. Therefore, we should follow the natural rule of principle, otherwise, we may face degeneration or illness more frequently.

Bitter Gourd

My nanny told me numerous times that in her country; they use bitter gourd juice to get rid of phlegm. She told me to try that on my son since his phlegm still there after several medications.

For the last couple of days, he is really not well due to his severe vomiting, severe diarrhea and fever. Seen doctor twice. Fever gone but he still inactive and make me very worry. Mild vomiting and diarrhea still on. I noticed green color phlegm in each vomit which brings me to tried on this bitter gourd juice.

I blended one bitter gourd without water. I got 2 teaspoons of bitter gourd juice. I fed him. He showed his bitter facial expression. Poor thing.

I asked him "Nice??"

He just stared at me and moves his eyes to the teaspoon.

I asked him "Want some more??".

I gave him another teaspoon. To my surprise, he opened his mouth and took the juice. Then

He said "NICE!!" and smiles away.

I smiled and dropped a kiss on his forehead and said "you're good boy".

He is only 2 years old and I really do not expect he will took that juice but he did.

Really surprised me.

I did web search about it and I found out bitter gourd is cool loosens up the hardened stool, light, bitter and does not cause the formation of the wind. It eliminates excessive wind, excessive bile and the blood impurities.It is beneficial in many diseases like jaundice, emanation of semen through urine and worms in the stomach.

In a separate article, it said oral administration of bitter gourd can relieve stomachache and pain in the eyes, and the external application of bitter gourd can treat pyogenic infections of the skin.

Whether this bitter gourd juice can get rid of phlegm or not? I really not sure but I will hope for the best and cross my finger.

Lightening Mask

I tried many scrubs before and I love the most is this one. I had combination skin and this scrub is soft enough for daily usage and what I love the most is the feeling after scrubbing. I cannot stop touching my face because it feels so soft.

Forever Aloe Scrub

Price : RM 62.00

Benefits : Helps to remove dull dead skin cells, giving a whitening effect. Suitable for the whole body.

Main Ingredients : Stabilized Aloe Gel, DI Water, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E & C, Cetyl Alcohol.

Usage :

1. Apply a thick layer of Forever Aloe Scrub and leave it on for 10 minutes.
2. Wet fingers and gently scrub in circular motion for 2 minutes.
3. Add water when it turns dry.
4. For dehydrated skin, add and mix Aloe Vera Gelly with Aloe Scrub and leave it on as a mask for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
5. For ultra sensitive skin, use once every 2 weeks.

My Story On Breastfeeding

09-02-2007 : I was admitted to the hospital

10-02-2007 : I delivered a baby boy through C-section. Within the first hour, must let baby latch to inform the breast & brain, baby needs milk.

11-02-2007 : Observation. No milk yet but colostrums is sufficient for the baby

12-02-2007 : Observation. No milk yet in AM but feeling the heaviest in PM

13-02-2007 : My baby got jaundice. I stayed another day because I want to breastfeed him.

14-02-2007 : Going home.

My Breastfeeding Records

Feb 2007: Breastfeed direct

Mar 2007: Breastfeed direct

Apr 2007: Did not keep track

May 2007: Back to work. Average 32.40 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Jun 2007: Average 29.72 oz per day with 4 extractions per day (3 days not well contribute to lower milk supplied)

Jul 2007: Average 32.13 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Aug 2007: Average 30.60 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Sep 2007: Average 31.46 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Oct 2007: Average 33.15 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Nov 2007: Average 33.72 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Dec 2007: Average 34.49 oz per day with 4 extractions per day

Jan 2008: Average of 28.08 oz per day with 3 extractions per day

Feb 2008: Did not keep track, slow down to 2 extractions per day (period started to resume)

My frozen breast milk was sufficient to feed my son till he was 13 months.

I would not said I have plenty of milk but it was sufficient for my son. From an article I read, there are moms can produce up to 96 oz of milk per day.

I started to express my milk after 1 week discharge from hospital. I will express to properly empty my breast after each feed. I will get another 2 to 3 oz of milk.

How do I know my son get enough milk? He is getting enough milk when he wet about 5 to 6 diapers per day.

I placed my son in nursery that runs by 3 nurses. They advised to continue breastfeed till my son has its teeth as it will helps him to fight the fever caused by growing teeth.

When I was back to work, I carried a cooler box with me every day to work. I made my own ice pack - filled water into 500ml mineral water and freeze it. I always put 3 ice packs into my cooler box and it can last till I reached home. I expressed two times at work and it never easy. Projects deadline, meeting, meeting clients and travelling are worst. I brought my breast pump, cooler box and milk bottles everywhere I went. Projects deadline are important and so does my baby. I got a laptop so I will fulfill any requests or project deadline while expressed milk and I found it is a good way keep my milk flowing.

At that time, one of my friends was asking me “How come you have so much milk?” She told me the most she is getting about 4 oz per express. Interesting question, I started to do research about low milk supply and etc.

I found out that the right start is important – after delivery, within the first hour, the baby must latch to inform the breast to start producing milk. It will take about 3.5 days to feel the heaviest of your breast. It is normal and remembers no milk yet but colostrums are sufficient to your baby. Even though it is little but it is enough for little one.

Get it right the first time is very important. Maintaining it is as important as getting it right at the first time.

During confinement, you feed as your baby demand. Properly empty your breast is another good reason to ask the breast to produce more milk. If you are expressing it out, make sure you do it regularly – every 2 to 3 hours to keep the milk coming.

Engorgement is normal during breastfeed specially when you are back to work but regularly engorgement will send a signal to the brain “baby does not so much milk”, therefore will decrease in production of milk.

Decrease in milk production is so easy but if you wish to increase the milk production, you have to work really hard to get it to the level you want. So, remember to express regularly to keep the milk coming.

Wish to know more about how your breast works and overview of milk production. Visit “Low Milk Supply”

If you managed to fully breastfeed (no infant formula at all) your little precious for at least 6 months, pat yourself on the shoulder because you did a GREAT job. Bravo!!!

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding sounds simple but not everyone can do it. Some decided not to breastfeed totally. Some got very painful experience with breastfeeding. Some got too much input not to fully breastfeed especially when you got confinement lady. Some did not get enough support or constant inject with discourage words. Some do not have sufficient milk for their little ones. Some do not have milk at all.

Breastfeeding takes a lot of determination, perseverance and tons of patient to succeed. I never said it going to be easy. There are times, while breastfeeding, I tears because it found it so difficult to sustain. I had very little of sleep and my back was ached but I really want to total breastfeed my son. No matter how I hard, I told myself, it will over soon.

Do you know if you fully breastfeed for at least 4 months exclusively, your chances of getting breast cancer is lower?

First key to total breastfeeding is never ever stock any infant formula at home. That was what I did. Totally no infant milk powder at my home as I was determined to total breastfeed my baby for at least 6 months.

During the pre-natal class, the following items engrave itself into my mind:-

1. Baby must latch on within an hour. This is to inform the breast, start production, baby is out.
2. Empty your breast properly before switch to another breast.
3. If your are expressing, do it frequently to ensure the production of milk keep on going.

I will share my story on breastfeeding, so stay tuned!!!

My Garbage Enzyme Exploded

My latest garbage enzyme dated 03-Feb-2009 exploded. Why???

03-Feb-2009 : Garbage enzyme created.
04-Feb-2009 : Release the gas.
05-Feb-2009 : Forgot to release the gas.
06-Feb-2009 : Forgot to release the gas.
07-Feb-2009 : Forgot to release the gas.
08-Feb-2009 : Exploded about 5 pm.

Hey, guess what? Not smelly at all. It's my fault as I really forgot about the latest garbage enzyme I created and finally it gave up on me and exploded.

Will I give up in making more garbage enzyme? Of course NOT. It was my fault for not checking on it. Among so many of them, this is the FIRST time it exploded.

I found out banana and pumpkin will make garbage enzyme release more gases.

Cool Mask or Hydration Mask

I really love this mask, it makes my skin feel supply and moisture.

Aloe Vera Gelly
Price : RM 56.00
Benefits : Useful as a multi-purpose moisturizing mask, helps replenish skin's collagen and retain moisture. It is a natural moisturiser, and it has anti-bacterial properties making it a good choice to soothe and clean minor wounds and burns, insect bites, and skin rashes.

Main Ingredient : Stabilized Aloe Gel, DI Water, Glycerin, Vitamin E & C (antioxidants), Allantoin (Skin conditioner. Helps in healing, tissue growth stimulant, non-allergenic, anti-irritant. Appropriate for sensitive, irritated and acne skin).


Aloe Activator
Price : RM 66.00
Benefits : To be used in combination with our Facial Contour Mask Powder to help regenerate cells.

Main Ingredient : Stabilized Aloe Gel, Allantoin (Skin conditioner. Helps in healing, tissue growth stimulant, non-allergenic, anti-irritant. Appropriate for sensitive, irritated and acne skin).


Rehydrating Toner
Price : RM 66.00

Benefits : Tighten pores, whitens skin appearance and restores skin's collagen.

Main Ingredient : Stabilized Aloe Gel, DI Water, Witch Hazel Distillate (Non-Alcoholic), Soluble Collagen, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Lemon Extract, Cucumber Extract, Horsetail Extract, Chamomile Extract, Rosemary Extract, Allantoin (Skin conditioner. Helps in healing, tissue growth stimulant, non-allergenic, anti-irritant. Appropriate for sensitive, irritated and acne skin).

HOW TO USE???
For Oily Skin

1. Apply a thick layer of Aloe Vera Gelly onto your face.
2. Spray Aloe First and apply Aloe Activator on a piece of mask paper.
3. Then put the mask paper onto the face
4. Remove it after about one hour.

For Sensitive & Combination to Normal Skin

1. Apply a thick layer of Aloe Vera Gelly onto your face.
2. Spray Aloe First and apply Rehydrating Toner on a piece of mask paper.
3. Then put the mask paper onto the face
4. Remove it after about one hour.

For Matured & Dry to Normal Skin

1. Apply a thick layer of Aloe Vera Gelly onto your face.
2. Then wet a face mask with Rehydrating Toner.
3. Spread the face mask on the face.
4. Leave on for 30 minutes or until dry.

Note : Make sure you fridge the tube of Aloe Vera Gelly in the fridge before using it.

Organic Baby Skin Care

Last month I went back to my mom’s house for a long holiday with my son. He was bitten by mosquitoes real bad. First day, left leg got at least 6 mosquitoes bite. Second day, right leg got at least 5 mosquitoes bite. On third day, mosquitoes bite on his cheek, forehead and ear. I was really upset. Moreover he cannot stop himself from scratching. Arrrggghhhh ~~ very frustrating.

I went to look around in baby shop to look for infant mosquitoes repellent and guess what, none of them got it. In the pharmacy, only have adult mosquitoes repellent and I dare not put it on him.

I knew about “Cherub Rubs” since breastfeeding stage. “Cherub Rubs” is organic and all ingredients are safe for infant. At that time, they are only available in Singapore. Lately, they are in Malaysia but only 2 stores in Klang Valley have it.

Once I got back from Perak, I went to buy “Scatterbugs” and “Skin Soothe”. I want to be prepared for the next trip.

The next trip, I put “Scatterbugs” all over his body include his cheek, forehead and ear as well. The next day, I did not see any mosquitoes bite but daddy complaint mosquitoes bite him. LOL

Daddy tried the “Scatterbugs” and it works well on him and he told me the “Scatterbugs” really works.

After every bathe session, my son will grab the “Scatterbugs” and told me “Bug, Bug, Mommy”. He enjoys it when I put lotion on him and massage him. I use the “Scatterbugs” the same way, put and massage for him and he loves it.

I am waiting for the “Cherub Rubs” starter pack to comes into Malaysia. Hopefully they can reach here soon.

Fortune at birth

From the Imperial Tung Shu comes this incredible poem of the four seasons ascribed to the legendary Yellow Emperor. From the poem can be obtained general indications of what life holds in store for a newborn baby. It is believed that depending on your season of birth, your life can be full of burdens or full of abundance. It all depends on which part of the Emperor's body you were born on. We present here brief predictive details of the four seasons poem for those wishing to investigate how, and at what stage of their life, they will enjoy the patronage and goodwill of the Emperor.

Thus you first need to determine the season of birth - spring, summer, autumn or winter. The season of spring would be March, April and May; the season of summer would be June, July and August; the season of autumn would be September, October and November; while the season of winter would be December, January and February.

Next, you will need to determine your hour of birth based on the 12 earthly branches. This divides a 24-hour day into twelve time segments of two hours each, with each time segment representing one of the Chinese astrological animals. With these two pieces of information, you then need to look at the illustrations of the Yellow Emperor wearing the robes of the seasons - green robes for the spring, red robes for the summer, white robes for the fall and blue robes for the winter.

Look at the Emperor that corresponds with your season of birth, then locate on which part of the Emperor you were born based on your time of birth. Note from the time chart of the twelve time segments that each two-hour period has a special name. Locate the hour name on the Emperor's body and then check against the meaning given. For example, if your hour pillar is Mao in the season of summer, you look for the illustration of the Emperor in the summer season, locate where your hour name is located on his body and then read the meaning given under summer.

Use the table and diagram here to determine on which part of the Emperor you were born, then refer to the descriptions below to find your destiny.

Born in the Spring (March, April, May)

Cher
Born on the Emperor's Head
You will hold a high position in life. You have power and great intellectual capability. You are also blessed with wisdom. This person has authority, power and responsibility. Such a person must be well brought up and properly educated.

Tze & Wei
Born on the Emperor's Hands
Your attainments will be average and it is more beneficial if you work at starting your projects as the second-in-command and not as the leader. You can rise up high being the right-hand-man of someone powerful and wealthy.

Yu & Mao
Born on the Emperor's Shoulders
You will never be short of clothes on your back, which means you will always be able to make a good living. There will be no shortage of the basic necessities of life, including owning a home and property.

Wu
Born on the Emperor's Stomach
Your serious good fortune begins only in middle age when you will enjoy great good fortune in
terms of the luxuries of life. There is plenty of food, clothing and all the material pleasures in this life.

Choh & Hai
Born on the Emperor's Girth
You will go through many changes in your life and as you get higher up the social ladder, you will transform a great deal. This transformation may be for good or bad and it is advisable that if you are in this situation, you should strive to change for the better and become more humble as you become more important in your work and life.

Shen & Shih
Born on the Emperor's Knee
You will have to travel a great deal in your life, so you can view this as good or bad depending on whether you enjoy travelling or not. Professionally, your life will be full of journeys. And like the wanderer, life is unsettled and transient.

Sen & Yiu
Born on the Emperor's Feet
This indicates that there will be two marriages in your life. This is especially true for women born into this position. For men, being born the Emperor's feet suggests a restless nature that is not easy to please.

Born in the Summer (June, July, August)

Wu
Born on the Emperor's Head
This is an auspicious indication, since anyone born on the Emperor's head in the Summer will
never have any worries. There are no obstacles and difficulties in this person's entire life. This also suggests a person who will have an excellent intellect, and who is good at strategic thinking and planning.

Tze & Choh
Born on the Emperor's Hands
This birth situation suggests that you will have more than sufficient money and business luck.
Your good fortune improves with the years you will attain great success during the later stages of your life.

Mao & Yu
Born on the Emperor's Shoulders
You are so lucky if you have this birth situation, since it brings you a lifetime of wealth and
prosperity, lacking for nothing. You will amass a fortune during your lifetime, and in your old age, you will own plenty of properties. If you live an honourable life, you will be blessed with plenty of grandchildren and live to an old age.

Cher
Born on the Emperor's Stomach
This birth situation indicates there is plenty to eat and more than sufficient clothes to wear and to enjoy. There is good fortune luck from your late forties onwards. You will not have to worry about your old age for you will be well looked after.

Wei & Hai
Born on the Emperor's Girth
This birth situation suggests that you will have loving parents and be surrounded by noblemen
and important people. What you make of your good fortune at birth will depend on your own
efforts.

Shen & Shih
Born on the Emperor's Knees
It will be hard for you to be given the recognition for the work you do. There will be obstacles that can stand in your way and unless you can overcome this lack of recognition luck, by middle age, you will be exhausted.

Yiu & Sen
Born on the Emperor's Feet
This birth situation brings an easy life where everything comes easily, especially to those born
male. Also, if you are of the male gender, it is likely you will have more than one wife. Women will find you irresistible. You will be blessed if you have a good attitude and a pure motivation.

Born in the Autumn (September, October, November)

Hai
Born on the Emperor's Head
This birth situation is especially beneficial for girls, as it indicates you will have a very comfortable and stable life with plenty of good fortune and prosperity luck. But both genders will benefit from the wonderful good fortune of being born on the emperor's head in autumn.

Tze & Choh
Born on the Emperor's Hands
This is an extremely auspicious situation of birth, as there is the promise of wealth coming from the four directions. Each time you travel, you will meet with a person of high standing who will help and assist you. You will benefit by going overseas to study or to work.

Cher & Wu
Born on the Emperor's Shoulders
This birth situation suggests that there is prosperity luck and you will become rich in your middle age. You will also have the help of your siblings, especially your brothers. You are blessed with many genuine friends.

Sen
Born on the Emperor's Stomach
This birth situation indicates that you will keep company with many clever people. They are
people who excel in their career and their study and their presence in your life will inspire you to be ambitious. Happiness brings good fortune, so you must develop a happy disposition and be smiling at all times.

Mao & Wei
Born on the Emperor's Girth
You will enjoy an abundance of food and clothing during your middle age. Your sons and
grandsons will bring you much happiness and contentment, so you have quite outstanding
descendants luck. Those with this birth situation will benefit if they get married at a young age and start a family in their twenties.

Yiu & Yu
Born on the Emperor's Knee
You will need to work very hard during your early years and there may be some setbacks, but you are blessed with good fortune in later life. Those who have this birth situation should rejoice and never feel discouraged, as their success when they are older will more than make up for setbacks they may experience in their early years.

Shih & Shen
Born on the Emperor's Feet
Your whole life will be safe and peaceful and there is nothing to fear in terms of being hurt by
others. If you are ambitious and have the determination to succeed, you can reach great heights professionally. Even if you do not reach the top, you will nevertheless be content with what you have. Therein lies the secret of your happiness.

Born in the Winter (December, January, February)

Tze
Born on the Emperor's Head
If you are born on the Emperor's head in winter, you will make a brilliant marriage. Your spouse will be a well-respected person who comes from a highly regarded family background. You will have luxury in your life with enough food and clothes.

Hai & Wu
Born on the Emperor's Hands
You will have good family surroundings and there will always be occasions for rejoicing. You will be especially successful in your old age, when you have passed your 60th birthday.

Yu & Mao
Born on the Emperor's Shoulders
You are blessed with exceptional descendants luck, so there are many sons and grandsons in
your life. You will have some problems and setbacks during your growing-up and early career
years, but you will enjoy good luck in later life. A great deal of your luck will be brought to you by your spouse and then by your sons and grandsons.

Cher
Born on the Emperor's Stomach
You are one person who is sure to enjoy singing, socializing and glamorous parties. And you
have the luck to enjoy this lifestyle, as there is both prosperity and longevity in your life. It is
however important for you to undertake some charitable work or donate to charity during your middle-aged years. This will bring you even more good fortune.

Yiu & Sen
Born on the Emperor's Girth
You will be blessed with exceptional good fortune in your old age when there is gold, asset
accumulation and a thriving business in your family. You have the luck to grow old with someone you care for and love.

Choh & Wei
Born on the Emperor's Knees
You will have enough to eat and survive on, but little left over, and during your middle-aged years, there will be some truly trying times. It is incredibly vital for you to do charity and devote some time to caring for others. This will dissolve much of the negative chi that surrounds you.

Shen & Shih
Born on the Emperor's Feet
You should live away from your parents and grandparents, as it benefits you to have your own
dwelling place. If you have your own home, you will enjoy good fortune. The further away you are from your ancestral home, the better it will be for you.

Interesting? I found it fascinating. Believe or not?! It is up to you.