Eat Your Way to Parenthood by Gabriela Rosa.

May 13, 2013 By Leave a Comment

Natural Fertility

I wish I had known about this book before I had started thinking about becoming pregnant.  Why? Because I love to eat, and generally I eat pretty healthy foods, but more so now than then!  Don’t let the subtitle of this book fool you.  It’s not only about being fertile in order to become pregnant, although that is a big part of it.

Do you know that eating well can increase your chances of healthy, natural conception by over 70%?

It’s true!  You and your partner have the power to take back charge of your own fertility!  It’s not some mysterious unattainable thing that only those with an MD after their names can help you achieve by unnatural means.  In Eat Your Way to ParentHood, Gabriela shares practical advice, as well as over 200 delicious recipes that will help you feel great, make the most of your health and fertility, get pregnant, stay pregnant, and have a healthy baby!  Here’s what you can expect from her book (from the website):

As a mother who has grieved the loss of a child by miscarriage, I wonder if a book like this one could have helped us.  Our second pregnancy started with a weak heartbeat, embedded a bit low in my uterine wall.  Could advice from a book like this have helped us back then?  There’s no way to know for sure, but I would have done everything in my power to be the healthiest that I could have been even before we conceived, if only I had known.  We are not planning on having anymore children, but if you are, I highly encourage you to read this book.  It should be on every woman’s must read list!

Eat Your Way to Parenthood retails for $35, but you can get it today as part of the Natural Fertility eBook Bundle!  The entire bundle costs $34.95 and you get this book, plus 9 other books (including Unbound Birth) and a wealth of other resources, like meal plans! You can also enter to win a giveaway valued at over $900!!!  The sale ends today, so hurry and buy your’s now! 

 

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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An Instant Library of Natural Fertility and Pregnancy eBooks!

May 6, 2013 By Leave a Comment

This sale is over.

Only a few generations ago, women had the benefit of living near mothers and grandmothers, aunts and great aunts… all of whom had a wealth of wisdom to share with a young expecting mother.  The family unit was much closer back then.  Now we are more spread out, and many women go through pregnancy and childbirth living in a completely different city, if not a different state than their mother.  Many women are seeking information, and information on pregnancy and childbirth is not hard to come by.  Good information might be a little bit harder.

When I wrote Unbound Birth to encourage women who wanted to have a natural childbirth, but weren’t quite ready to birth at home, I had never even heard of an eBook bundle sale.  Ironically, since the release of Unbound Birth, I have been invited to contribute to several of them.  Even more ironically, this is the first time that Unbound Birth has been included in an eBook bundle that is all about natural fertility and birth!  I kid you not!  I’m so excited to be a part of an eBook bundle that is directed right at you… the Unbound Birth blog reader.  You are women who want to be empowered in your pregnancy and in the birth of your child!  You want to make informed decisions!  This grouping of books is something that you will love!

What exactly is an eBook bundle, you might be wondering?  

In an eBook bundle sale you are given the opportunity to buy a whole bunch of books about a certain theme for a fraction of the cost of what you would pay for them if you were to buy them all individually.  Many times the bundles come with free bonus products and sometimes they are paired with a great big giveaway too.  Bundle sales last only one week to ten days, typically, then they are over.  That bundle of books will never be available again.  Kind of like a pop-up shop for eBooks.  The books are all electronic, so they can be downloaded to your computer, Kindle, Nook.  If you’d like to you can print them out and have them bound or stick them in a three ring binder.  The value of an eBook bundle is simply unbeatable!

This week, Unbound Birth is part of a eBook sale that bundles thirty eBooks along with audio books, other bonus materials, and seven week long meal plans.  It’s a wonderful resource for you if you are planning to get pregnant, having fertility issues, or are currently pregnant, and it only costs $34.95!  That’s 92% off of the retail value of $450!

I bet you’d like to know what is included in the bundle.  Here is what is instantly available to you upon purchasing the bundle.  Click on any of the “Buy It Now” buttons to purchase the complete collection:

9 ebooks about fertility and health

Fertilise Yourself by Natalie Kringoudis of Melbourne Natural Fertility ($19.95)

This ebook is all about priming your body for fertility, with plenty of tips and tricks for a wellness overhaul, and the ‘how to’ steps to set yourself up to win. If you’re struggling with your fertility, or even just your general health, this ebook can help you navigate your way to being fueled and fighting fertility fit!

Making Super Sperm by Bridgit Danner of Joyful Mammas ($29.00)

The genetics of your baby are 50% from the dad, and 30 – 70 % of infertility cases involve male factor. Get a strong start for your baby by Making Super Sperm from the start!

Fertility Smoothies: Elixirs for Optimal Fertility by Hethir Rodriguez of Natural Fertility Info ($19.95)

In this book Hethir shares with you how to create a wide variety of delicious superfood smoothies to help boost your fertility naturally.

Overcoming Infertility with EFT by Sarah Holland of Fertile Mindset ($20.00)

The ultimate guide and practical workbook using the cutting edge technique of EFT for emotional healing on your fertility journey. Includes detailed but simple to follow EFT instructions, and easy to use worksheets to recognize and reverse your own negative beliefs and self-talk surrounding trying for a baby, heal yourself from traumas and damaging experiences that may be harming your fertility and much much more!

Eat Your Way to Parenthood by Gabriela Rosa of Natural Fertility Breakthrough ($35.00)

Gabriela Rosa reminds us how a balanced and nutritious diet provides the building blocks for a healthy sperm, egg and baby. This book is both a guide to the process of fertility and the basics of good nutrition, as well as a manual of recipes that cleverly combine the scientific research with balanced, tasty and nutritious ingredients.

Maiden to Mother by Stephanie Brandt Cornais of Mama and Baby Love

The Mama and Baby Love Guide to a Conscious Childbearing Year, containing easy-to-understand information about everything you absolutely must know as you begin your journey to motherhood. Stephanie gives you all the juicy tidbits, and lessons she has learned from working with pregnant couples for the past decade and from her own experience with being pregnant and a new mom.

Zero in on Ovulation by Sally Moran of Get Pregnant Fast ($17.00)

Knowing when you ovulate shouldn’t be a mystery, but many women struggle to understand when their most fertile time of month is. Learn about the different methods of determining ovulation, what can delay ovulation, what herbs help promote ovulation or cervical fluid, symptoms of ovulation, problems with ovulation (including PCOS and luteal phase defect), the effects of using Clomid or Femara, and more. Bonus sections on male infertility, baby gender selection, frequently asked ovulation questions, as well as one-on-one e-mail consultation with the author.

A Modern Girl’s Guide to Natural Fertility by Marni Hotchkiss of Bridge to Baby ($15.00)

Natural fertility in today’s modern world encompasses the foods we eat, our behaviors, and our thoughts. Take a deeper look into how tools/apps as well as the right foods and other holistic approaches can positively impact pregnancy success.

Cleansing for Conception by Donielle Baker of Naturally Knocked Up ($6.95)

There are times in our life where we need to simply slow down and allow our bodies to clear out the toxins we’re exposed to on a daily basis. One of these times is when you’re thinking about becoming pregnant. This ebook will show you the many ways that you can alter your diet and lifestyle so that your body naturally and gently cleanses in preparation for conception. (pre-release copy – no one else will see it until late summer 2013!)

Three Strategies for Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Russell Davis of The Fertile Mind ($9.97)

Research shows utilizing mind-body techniques can double your chances of getting pregnant. This ebook contains practical steps to get off the emotional roller-coaster, find a sense of peace on your journey and actively utilizing your mind-body link to increase your chances of success.

 

2 ebooks that speak to the heart

Pain Redeemed by Natasha Metzler of NatashaMetzler.com ($4.95)

The author of Pain Redeemed takes you on a journey through her own walk with infertility and with honesty and raw truthfulness tells the story of God meeting her there, right in the middle.”

Celebrating Pregnancy Again by Francesca Cox of so this is love ($8.00)

This book is to encourage any bereaved mother experiencing pregnancy again, and help her embrace this bittersweet journey.

12 real food recipe ebooks

The Food Healing Recipe Book for Endometriosis by Melissa Meyer of Cure Endometriosis ($27.00)

Specifically chosen recipes to help women with Endometriosis. Having personally used these recipes and this way of eating, I decided to compile some of my favorite recipes. My partner, also happens to be a chef, so they are all tasty and nutritious!

Meal Planning Guide for Healthy Thyroid by Magdalena Wszelaki of The Thyroid Diet Coach ($17.00)

Struggling with meal ideas? No time to cook? Bored with the same menu each week? Confused what you can or cannot eat for thyroid health? Then this guide will equip you with tools to make cooking fun, easy and nourishing. Learn about evolving meals, 15-min meals, dressing ideas, get healthy snack lists and a meal plan.

Thrifty Food Plan Experience by Millie Cooper of Real Food for Less Money ($8.95)

You can enjoy traditional foods while on thrifty budget. 67 pages of thoughts, tips and ideas plus a 2 week menu plan, over 40 recipes and links to many more.

Divine Dinners: Gluten-Free, Nourishing, Family-Friendly Meals by Lydia Shatney of Divine Health From The Inside Out ($14.95)

A collection of recipes that can be paired together to make entire meals. All the recipes are lower in sugars/carbs than that of the standard American diet. Recipes are gluten free and tested time and time again on family and friends with great results.

Lacto-Fermentation by Wardee Harmon of GNOWFGLINS ($20.00)

A 155-page, 23-lesson digital book with detailed instruction on fermenting fruits, vegetables, beans, meats, dairy, and grains. The book will expose you to a variety of fermentation methods — using salt, whey, or other starter cultures. Recipes go beyond fermentation methodology and include spices and seasonings to improve the flavor of the final product.

Real Food Ingredient Guide by Kelly of Kelly the Kitchen Kop ($22.95)

Confused about which ingredients are good for you and which ones to avoid? Get a quick-reference list of what to look for at the store or farm, with many listings including a good-better-best recommendation. Also this newly REVISED edition includes bonus material: Bringing Your Family from Junk Food to Real Food!

The Everything Beans Book by Katie Kimball of Kitchen Stewardship ($8.95)

Fall in love with legumes because they’re frugal and delicious. Kimball’s recipes span everything from appetizer to dessert, and the introductory pages will help you cook dry beans like a pro, understand their health benefits, and even get ideas to reduce the…you know…flatulence often connected with beans.

Just Making Ice Cream my Marilyn Beard of Just Making Noise ($12.00)

Because we all deserve a special treat now and then – but it doesn’t mean we can’t choose to do it in a healthier way! It includes 113 pages and over 70 recipes to choose through all 4 seasons of the year… who says ice cream is only for the summer?!

Grain-free/Gluten-free Baking by Stephanie Brandt Cornais of Mama and Baby Love ($9.99)

If you can’t cook and you can’t bake – this book is for you. I taught myself how to cook, and then I taught myself how to bake. You can too. 20 easy recipes, full of tips and tricks for beginners; recipes for cookies, cakes, pies, pizza crusts and more!

Simple Food for Spring by Shannon Stonger of Nourishing Days ($10.00)

Simple Food {for spring} is a grain-free cookbook that emphasize real food and sustainable living. This 80-page edition contains all of the freshness of spring with a focus on cultured dairy salad dressings, wild edibles, and using all of those fresh greens. Each of the 28 recipes includes full-color photos.

Simple Food for Winter by Shannon Stonger of Nourishing Days ($10.00)

Simple Food {for winter} is the first of what I hope to be four seasonal cookbooks that emphasize real food and sustainable living. This 58 page book contains 30 recipes, 10 full-color photos, and three essays.

Happy Mom, Healthy Family Meal Planning Workshop and eCookbook by Lisa Byrne of Wellgrounded Life ($29.00)

A practical, flexible and enjoyable way to make peace with the task that comes every day: preparing meals. This workshop equips you with techniques to make truly family-friendly, whole-foods recipes through a webinar presentation, meal planning templates & worksheets, demo videos plus a downloadable cookbook filled with 89 tried-and-true delicious recipes. Who could want more? (Besides a personal chef perhaps!)

 

6 pregnancy and birth ebooks

Healthy Pregnancy Super Foods by Kate Tietje of Modern Alternative Mama ($8.95)

If you’re struggling with how to eat healthy to prepare for and during pregnancy, simplify it with this book. There are only two rules: avoid junk, and eat super foods. Plus 30 healthy, super-food-filled recipes!

UnBound Birth by Jenny Yarbrough of UnBound Birth ($4.99)

Unbound Birth: How to Have a Natural Birth in the Hospital is an inspiring collection of natural hospital birth stories. With determination, information, preparation, and support, Jennifer offers women hope for the beauty of a natural birth within a hospital setting.

Breast to Bib by Kate Tietje of Modern Alternative Mama ($8.95)

Make feeding babies easier with this practical guide to healthy breastfeeding, introducing solids, and handling picky toddlers. The book also includes over 30 baby and toddler-friendly recipes.

My Buttered Life: Baby Edition by Renee Harris from MadeOn Skin Care ($5.00)

This ebook includes 5 recipes, each with 5 ingredients or less. The recipes include baby massage oil, baby balm, creamy baby lotion, diaper rash cream and oatmeal milk bath. Each recipe has an accompanying video, a list of where to buy ingredients and supplies, and a cost analysis to compare with store-bought products.

Forty Weeks of Pregnancy Development by Angela England of The Untrained Housewife ($9.95)

What happens during each week of pregnancy? Now you’ll hear how each week of pregnancy brings changes to both you and your baby! Enjoy the extra information about common issues such as morning sickness, back pain, and more!

Embracing Beauty: practical style for every shape and season of motherhood by Trina Holden of trinaholden.com ($9.00)

A style guide that gets to the heart of beauty, and helps women identify and embrace their personal style through all the changes of motherhood.

 

Bonus Material

7 week long meal plans

To help you get started on a whole foods diet, we’ve also included a variety of meal plans to fit your needs!

  • Jess Pedersen CHHC of Be Mama Be Well The Be Mama Be Well Meal Planner is an alkalizing plant-based, gluten-free, dairy-free plan that excludes highly processed foods. The Be Mama Be Well Meal Planner is meant to help you detoxify your body, cleanse your liver, balance your hormones, eliminate food-induced mood swings, and boost your nutrient intake.
  • KerryAnn Foster of Cooking Traditional Foods The Cooking Traditional Foods’ Menu Mailer covers breakfast, lunch and dinner based on the guidelines in the Naturally Knocked Up Fertility Foods Checklist.
  • Mary Vance of www.MaryVanceNC.com Autoimmune plan for those who have Hashimoto’s autoimmune thyroiditis or other autoimmune conditions. Excludes the inflammatory foods most likely to aggravate autoimmune conditions: gluten, dairy, soy, grains (for the most part, at least corn), nightshades, nuts, eggs.
  • Jill Marks of Modern Alternative Pregnancy Proper nutrition plays a vital role in fertility, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. This meal plan is gluten-free with real, whole foods to optimize your health and give your baby a wonderful start!
  • Therese Asmus of Artistta This menu plan does it’s best to include a variety of meals that aren’t only pleasing to the pallet, but are also excellent sources of the many nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.
  • Amy of PCOS Diva Spring Meal Plan (includes: Getting Started Guide, Recipes and Shopping List) is a whole food based, gluten-free, processed soy-free, and low dairy (or easily can be made dairy-free) plan. You don’t need a crazy diet to increase your fertility, you just need to get in the kitchen and start cooking delicious, nutrient-dense meals.
  • Joanna Steven, author of Well-Rounded. Plant based, whole foods based, with a mix of nourishing raw and cooked recipes for the vegan or vegetarian woman.

Bonus Offerings

 

Giveaways worth $908.00!

But that’s not all – it’s $908.00 times two! There will be one grand prize winner who will receive each and every one of the following products/services.¹ All of which will help you on your way to growing your family. And then we’ll be giving away each of the products separately to individual winners as well, so you get more chances to win these fabulous products.

$25 gift certificate to MadeOn Skin Care ($25.00) – Choose from Simply Soothing Rash Cream, or Beesilk Jr for your baby. Or, shop for you and buy Beesilk hard lotion bars or a pack of tinted lip balms. All products are made with safe and natural ingredients. (includes free shipping)

Fertility Detox Cleanse Program from Bridgit Danner ($125.00) – Get your body primed for baby with this professionally-led detox program (food supplies to be purchased by recipient.)

Still Standing mug from Still Standing Magazine ($13.99) – Still Standing is an online magazine for those dealing with infertility and baby loss, offering resources and hope.

Making Babies DVDs from Bulk Herb Store ($75.00) – Three fun, informational, and colorful DVDs include deliciously healthy recipes, remedies and herbal concoctions that cover the fertility, pregnancy, and post-partum time in your life. At the Bulk Herb Store we want to teach you what we know and inspire you to learn and research beyond that with our homemade herbal remedies, our experiences, and the tested wisdom of others.

ibasal thermometer from FairHaven Health ($59.95) – The ibasal is a computerized digital basal thermometer that helps you maximize your changes of conceiving by accurately measuring your BBT and interpreting this data to produce a fertility prediction in advance of ovulation.

One bottle of FertilAid for Women from FairHaven Health ($28.95) – FertilAid for Women is a fertility enhancing supplement designed to help restore hormonal balance, support reproductive wellness, and optimize your chances of conceiving.

Femmenessence MacaHarmony from Natural Health International ($69.98) – Femmenessence MacaHarmony is a natural approach to hormone balance and supporting fertility without introducing hormones from outside of the body.

Medium Fertility Kit (LH and HCG tests) from Kisses from Above ($18.00) – Includes 30 ovulation and 10 pregnancy tests. Everything you need in one easy-to-order kit! Both the ovulation and pregnancy tests will come in the strip format, as shown in the picture.

Herbal kit from Mountain Rose Herbs ($56.20) – FecundiTea, Nurse-Me Rhyme Tea, “Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Years” by Susun Weed, Evening Embrace Aroma Spray, and 4 oz. each of Red Clover, Dandelion Leaf and Raspberry Leaf.

One bottle of cod liver oil from Green Pasture ($44.00) – Green Pastures is dedicate to providing their customers with high-quality sacred-food oils just as they were made prior to the industrialized food and farming revolution. They are committed to providing the community with nothing but pure, unadulterated, non-industrialized wild-caught fish liver oils.

Set of six essential oils from Plant Therapy ($48.68) – Romance Set Includes 100% Pure, Therapeutic Grade of: Sensual, Peppermint, Energy, Headache Relief, Tranquil, & Invigor-Aid. 10 ml each

Natural Cycle Relaxation Program from Circle and Bloom ($59.00) – Start today to feel in greater control over your fertility success with our downloadable program which includes 28 unique guided meditations to support you in communicating with your body and tapping into your innate ability to create.

Year subscription to Fertility Flower (sympto-thermal charting) ($40.00) – Fertility charting is simple, effective and teaches you about your body. When you “chart”, you learn to recognize when you’re fertile and when you’re not so that you can target your baby-making activities at the most fruitful time.

Complimentary consultation at the Metabolic Treatment Center ($100.00 value) – Dr. Schuler or another metabolic treatment specialist at Metabolic Treatment Center will review an individual’s history, medication, supplementation, diet, and symptoms and provide an initial assessment review (phone, Skype, or at the Bloomington office).

SpermCheck Kit ($39.99) – The only at-home sperm test for men! Results in 10 minutes, 98% accurate, private and convenient!

Preseed lubricant from Baby Hopes ($21.50)- Pre~Seed lubricant replenishes your natural moisture while providing an optimal environment for sperm.

A Practical Guide to Children’s Health ebook by Kate Tetje of Modern Alternative Mama ($17.95) – A well-researched ebook on raising healthy children.

The Woman Code book by Alisa Vitti ($25.99) – WomanCode by Alisa Vitti will guide you on how to Perfect Your Cycle, Amplify Your Fertility, Supercharge Your Sex Drive, and Become a Power Source.

Naturally Knocked Up book by Donielle Baker ($18.95) – Your guide to increasing the odds of conception through natural living and nourishing foods.

Rebuild from Depression book by Amanda Rose ($19.97) – This book on depression describes the research basis for the nutrient-depression link, highlighting the nutrients with the strongest basis in research. With seven specific nutrients in mind, the authors review each of the food groups recommending how to improve the diet for the long-term.

Extra discounts for bundle purchasers

 

 

Important fine print to read

1) All purchases are non-refundable due to the short duration of this sale and no late sales will be offered. 2) All giveaway products are sponsored by the individual companies, most of which are limited to shipping within the United States. The grand prize package will be shipped by Naturally Knocked Up LLC and is available to US and Canada, excluding the consultation which is available only in the US. ¹To enter the giveaway without purchase send a 3×5 postcard to Naturally Knocked Up LLC PO Box 26 Burnips, MI 49314 by May 14, 2013. 3) All products are downloadable ebooks and audio files. You will not be shipped any physical goods with your purchase of the natural fertility ebook bundle, but will be sent a link where you can download all of the material. 4) It is your responsibility to download all the files before June 1th, 2013. 5) Bonus offers are only eligible once per purchase, expire at midnight on May 31, 2013 and are the sole responsibility of the sponsor. 6) The above links are affiliate links, thank you for supporting this affiliate partner. 7) Please understand the information shared through this natural fertility ebook bundle is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, but rather to encourage perhaps a new discussion or conversation with your own physicians and health care providers and to inspire you to continue to research healthy alternatives.


Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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The Perfect Gift for Moms and Moms-To-Be!

April 29, 2013 By Leave a Comment

How would it be to have instant access to a complete library of homemaking materials? I’m talking every topic from organizing and decorating your home to budgeting for groceries and planning meals. Topics like how to plan a fabulous party… then take great pictures of it with your iPhone! From working from home and how to grow your blog to homeschooling… including curriculum!

For 6 days only, more than 75 widely-known bloggers and authors in the homemaking sphere have joined together to offer 97 of their most popular eBooks and eCourses, valued at just over $600, for the incredibly low price of $29.97!

More than anything, our goal for this sale was for it to be, well… ultimate! We firmly believe that you will not find a more comprehensive collection of homemaking resources anywhere on the web, and particularly not in this price range. For this low price, you gain access to every single one of these resources, so that you can customize your own collection to contain exactly the ones you want and know you’ll use.

This library of homemaking helps include topics such as mothering, organization and cleaning, recipes and kitchen helps, home education, spiritual growth for both moms and kids, home décor and DIY, pregnancy and baby care, frugal living, health and fitness, and even work-from-home and financial tools. I’ve been reading through some of the books and I’m completely blown away by what this bundle of books (or should I call it “bundle of awesome!?!?!) contains! There are so many great books that one post cannot do them justice… there’s just no way! So… in a weak attempt to share the awesome with you and convince you that YOU NEED THIS…

Come by The Southern Institute for the entire list of books and for a chance to win a Starbucks gift card and a copy of Pursuit of Proverbs 31.

This post includes affiliate links, and I make a portion of the sale of each ebook bundle. Thanks for your support of this site!

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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A New Breastfeeding Mother’s Dilemma.

January 19, 2013 By Leave a Comment

image source

I was texting with a good friend the other day and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about our conversation since then.  She had shared with me about a breastfeeding mom who had returned to work and was pumping full time to feed her child who was now in daycare.  Good for her!  Her supply is great, the baby is well fed and taking the bottle beautifully.  Then she takes her child to the well check up at her pediatrician’s office and what does he say?  That it’s wonderful that she’s doing this, but she has a lot on her plate, so don’t be a martyr about it.  He tells her that he is interested in everyone’s physical and mental health, soooooooo just in case…… here’s some free formula!!!  What???  I’m told that now the mother is concerned that maybe she is not making enough milk for her baby after all, when there is no indication that this is true.  The baby is perfectly healthy.  This mother’s breastfeeding relationship has been sabotaged and her confidence as a new mother has been shaken and that saddens me greatly!  I’m going to take a stab in the dark here and guess that this new mom’s mental health was not better off upon leaving the doctor’s office that day.  She walked in a confident young mother who was taking wonderful care of her child, and she left doubting her ability to adequately care for her baby.

The pediatrician in this situation claims to be concerned about the health and wellness of the child, and I’m sure that in a general sense he is, but do you care to know what the first two ingredients are in the formula that he so freely gave to the mother?  Corn Syrup and Sugar.  That’s right- Corn Syrup and Sugar, because obviously this must be better for babies than breastmilk.  Are you kidding me?  Please don’t take this the wrong way.  I know that there are mothers out there that choose not to breastfeed or who are not able to breastfeed, and I am fully supportive of their right to choose how they feed their babies, but to believe the lie that formula is equal to or superior to breastmilk in nutrition is just ridiculous.  Formula will never be equal to breastmilk in any way, shape, or form.  For a doctor to act like taking a bottle of formula is better for a baby than being fed breastmilk should raise serious red flags in a parent’s mind.  I would be seeking another doctor’s care immediately.

According to a study in Pediatrics (February 2011), formula fed babies who started solids earlier than 4 months are 6 times more likely to become obese by age three, compared to formula fed babies who started solids later.  This study followed 847 babies.  Well, you may say, babies aren’t supposed to start solids that early!  True, but although the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents not introduce solid foods into their baby’s diet until between 4 to 6 months of age, 26% start their babies on solids by four months old.

Interestingly enough, breastfed babies are at no higher risk of obesity, regardless of when solid foods are introduced into the diet, according to the same study.  In 2005 a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association estimated that the childhood obesity rate could be cut by 15-20%, simply by switching formula fed babies to breast milk.  That is amazing!  And yet medical doctors are constantly pushing formula on mothers and babies, all in the name of the health of the baby!

Pediatricians are wonderful people and we love the pediatricians who take care of our children, but I have the final say in my child’s health and well-being.  Whether you want to admit it or not, doctors are influenced by pharmaceutical companies and YES, formula companies too!  Why do you think they push the stuff on us from the moment babies are born in the hospital?

Your body was created to provide for and nourish your child.  Your breasts are not for show, they have a function and a purpose… they are amazing!  Lactating mothers were meant to be the sole source of nourishment for their children, so please do not doubt your ability to be this for your child.  

If you would like more information on breastfeeding your child, please read my Breastfeeding 101 Series.

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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The Healthy Living eBook Bundle Sale Starts Today! 5 Days Only!

October 29, 2012 By Leave a Comment

It’s finally here, and I’m so excited!  The Healthy Living eBook Bundle Sale starts today!  I have the list that you’ve been waiting for… all of the titles that you’ll find in the bundle!  The Simple Food books by Shannon at Nourishing Days are great and Kate Tietje’s pregnancy and baby books are wonderful as well.

For 5 days only, 27 prominent Healthy Living authors have joined together to bundle 34 of their most popular eBooks, valued at just over $300, for the incredibly low price of $29.

That’s only $0.87 per book to gain inspiration, encouragement, and the practical resources you need for your own healthy lifestyle. Plus, receive $49 of additional FREE Bonuses, and be entered to win one of 3 great prizes.

What’s Included in the Sale?

When you purchase the Healthy Living eBook collection, you will get instant access to each of the 34 eBooks listed below.

PLUS $49 of FREE Bonuses

Each Healthy Living eBook Bundle comes with $49 of FREE Bonuses from several of our favorite healthy living companies. Offers include a variety package from Redmond Trading ($21 Value), a FREE 3-Month subscription to Plan to Eat ($15 Value), and a FREE Sourdough Starter or Traditional Buttermilk Starter from Cultures for Health ($13 Value). Click here for more details.

PLUS get entered to win one of 3 Great Prizes

Each person who purchases a Healthy Living eBook bundle is automatically entered to win any one of the following 1 Excalibur 9-Tray Dehydrator, 1 Omega VRT350 Masticating Juicer, or a R1 Royal Berkey Water Filtration System (Click here for more details).

Click here to purchase your Healthy Living eBook collection (with FREE bonuses) today!

Please note: This collection is only available from 8 a.m. EST on October 29th to 8 a.m. EST on November 2nd. There will be no late sales offered.

 

Here’s what you’ll be getting…

 

Real Food Meals for the Whole Family

Have Your Fruits… and Veggies, Too! by Laura Coppinger @ Heavenly Homemakers ($5.95)

Real {Fast} Food by Trina Holden @ Trina Holden ($6)

20 Minute Meals by Leigh Ann Dutton @ Intentional by Grace ($4.99)

Real Food… Real Easy by various bloggers @ The Humbled Homemaker ($9.95)

Baking, Snacks and Desserts

Smart Sweets by Katie Kimball @ Kitchen Stewardship ($8.95)

Healthy Snacks To Go by Katie Kimball @ Kitchen Stewardship ($8.95)

Sourdough A to Z by Wardee Harmon @ GNOWFGLINS ($20)

Homemade “Everything” (Condiments, Pantry Basics, etc.)

Restocking the Pantry by Kresha Faber @ Nourishing Joy ($7.99)

Easy. Homemade. by Mandi Ehman @ Life Your Way ($3.99)

Grain Free and Paleo/Primal Eating

Grain Free Meal Plan Cookbook by Cara Faus @ Health, Home & Happiness ($18)

Toadally Primal Smoothies by Todd @ Primal Toad ($9.95)

Simple Food {for spring} by Shannon @ Nourishing Days ($10)

Simple Food {for winter} by Shannon @ Nourishing Days ($10)

Well Fed (Paleo Recipes) by Melissa Joulwan @ The Clothes Make The Girl ($14.95)

Saving Money on Real Food

Real Food on a Real Budget by Stephanie Langford @ Keeper of the Home ($18.99)

Plan It, Don’t Panic by Stephanie Langford @ Keeper of the Home ($4.99)

Don’t Compost It, Cook It by April Patel @ An Apple a Day Wisdom ($2.99)

Skincare and Beauty

My Buttered Life (Baby edition) by Renee Harris @ Hard Lotion ($5)

My Buttered Life (Gift edition) by Renee Harris @ Hard Lotion ($5)

My Buttered Life (Summer edition) by Renee Harris @ Hard Lotion ($5)

Simple Scrubs to Make and Give by Stacy Karen @ A Delightful Home ($3.99)

Food on Your Face for Acne and Oily Skin by Leslie @ Crunchy Betty ($7.99)

Holistic Mama’s Guide to Homemade Skincare by Roxanne King @ The Holistic Mama ($19)

Homesteading, Gardening and Preserving

Your Custom Homestead by Jill Winger @ The Prairie Homestead ($4.99)

Guide to Gardening and Preserving by Laura Coppinger @ Heavenly Homemakers ($7.95)

Apartment Gardening by Jami Leigh @ Young Wife’s Guide ($2.99)

Healthy Lifestyle

Simple Living by Lorilee Lippincott @ Loving Simple Living ($2.99)

Herbal Nurturing by Michele Augur @ Frugal Granola ($8.95)

Simple Natural Health by Nina Nelson @ Shalom Mama ($17)

Healthy Homemaking by Stephanie Langford @ Keeper of the Home ($12.95)

Music: An Essential Ingredient for Life by Resound School of Music ($6.99)

Pregnancy and Babies

Breast to Bib by Kate Tietje @ Modern Alternative Pregnancy ($8.95)

Healthy Pregnancy Super Foods by Kate Tietje @ Modern Alternative Pregnancy ($8.95)

Unbound Birth by Jenny Yarborough @ The Southern Institute ($4.99)

 

PLUS, You will receive FREE Bonuses from these awesome Healthy Living companies…

$21.00 of incredible natural products from “Earthpaste” “Real Salt” and “Redmond Clay” products for FREE.

Your choice of a FREE sourdough starter, or a FREE traditional buttermilk starter from Cultures for Health ($12.99 value)


Your choice of: a FREE 3-Month Subscription or 30% off a One Year Subscription. Plan to Eat is a simple online menu planner that organizes your recipes and creates your grocery list for you. ($15.00 value)

 

PLUS, You will also be entered to win one of the following 3 awesome prizes…

9-Tray Excalibur Dehydrator with Timer
($349.95 Value)


Omega Vert VRT350 Masticating Juicer
($379.99 Value)


Royal Berkey Water Filtration System from LPC Survival
($289.00 Value)

This collection is only available from 8 a.m. EST on October 29th to 8 a.m. EST on November 2nd. There will be no late sales offered.

This is way to good of a deal to pass up.

I hope you’ll be able to take advantage of this sale and the wealth of information that awaits you!  You will not be sorry that you invested the small amount of money and the time, I promise you that!

Haven’t purchased an eBook Bundle, but still want to be entered into the draw?  No problem.  You can enter here.


Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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The Healthy Living eBook Bundle Sale-Coming To a Blog Near You!

October 24, 2012 By 4 Comments

If you are reading this blog I think it’s safe to assume that you are a person who is trying to live a healthier and natural lifestyle.  I think you’re really going to love this post!

I am honored and humbled to be included in a group with 23 other authors who have come together to offer you over 30 real food and healthy living eBooks that you can purchase in one convenient eBook bundle-for an amazingly low price!!!

When I had my first child I became more aware than ever of the importance of the choices that I was making about the foods that we ate and the products that we were using.  I have been learning ever since!  We all want to do what we can to be the best that we can be and raise the healthiest children that we can.  This eBook bundle will help you do that!

What Types of Subjects Will These Books Cover?

  • Real Food Meals for the Whole Family
  • Baking, Snacks, and Desserts
  • Homemade “Everything” (Condiments, Pantry Basics, Etc.)
  • Grain Free and Paleo Eating
  • Saving Money on Real Food
  • Skincare and Beauty
  • Homesteading, Gardening, and Preserving
  • Healthy Lifestyle
  • Pregnancy and Babies

PLUS with each eBook bundle you’ll receive $49 worth of bonuses from well known healthy living companies AND you’ll be entered to win one of three amazing kitchen appliances!!!

Coming this Monday, October 29th at 8 a.m. eastern…
The Healthy Living eBook Bundle Sale!
$29 for 34 eBooks that have a retail value of $300!!
Don’t Miss It!

 Click here to visit Healthy Living eBook Bundle.

If you are interested in selling this eBook bundle by posting about it on your blog or sharing the link on Facebook, Twitter or by email, you can earn some extra spending money for the holidays!  As an affiliate for the Healthy Living eBook Bundle Sale you will earn 40% commission for each book bundle that you sell!  Do you think you know someone who would love to take advantage of this deal?  Then sign up to be an affiliate today!  What do you have to lose?  Leave me a comment with your email address and I will have the affiliate info sent directly to you.  

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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It’s Gluten Free For Us!

October 22, 2012 By Leave a Comment

If ever I was unsure about going gluten free, I now have my answer.  I have always know that my youngest, Levi, had a sensitivity to gluten.  It started when he was a newborn and had terrible eczema on his face.  He would scratch with his little newborn nails.  He also had terrible reflux (all of my children did).  He would spit up all of the time!  It was terrible and nothing I tried seemed to help… until I started to see a Maximized Living chiropractor and reduced the gluten in my diet for my own benefit.  I was exclusively breastfeeding Levi at the time.  Coincidentally (I think not) Levi’s complexion cleared up.  In two days it went from red and inflamed to peachy and glowing!  These photos are not two days apart, but they show the drastic difference in his skin.

Not only did his skin clear up, but his reflux stopped.  He never spit up again.  It ceased to be a problem.  That was about 3-1/2 years ago.  Since then we have flitted in and out of a reduced gluten diet.  The last year has seen us kind of slacking and Levi has been to the doctor a couple times and the emergency room twice with asthma flare ups and the croup.  This month we have gotten stricter with our gluten free lifestyle, as in completely gluten free… until this past weekend when family came into town.  We ended up eating every single meal out at restaurants and I gave up on trying to find gluten free options where ever we were.  As a result, I made terrible parenting choices and Levi consumed more wheat, and therefore gluten, in three days then he has had over the span of the entire month.  Bad idea.  Yesterday his asthma flared up big time.  Thankfully, and by God’s grace, we made it through the night without ending up in the ER, but had to go to the doctor’s office this morning for a nebulizer treatment.  We left with a new prescription that he has to take for the next two weeks until his asthma is under control again.  Now, Levi has not been diagnosed with a gluten intolerance.  He does not have celiac disease.  This may be a cold, but my gut tells me that it’s just too huge of a coincidence.  My 5 year old son also has had a little bit of a flare up and my asthma has flared up a bit as well.  We all ate out all weekend long after being gluten free for awhile.  It’s obvious to me that gluten is bad for us.  We are sensitive to it and need to stay away from it as much as we can.

 

We enjoy being gluten free!  It’s extremely easy to do so at home.  We were inspired to take the Be Free Challenge a few weeks ago and it was going really well, as long as we were eating at home.  It’s eating out that poses a problem for us.  There just aren’t many options that my kids will eat when it come to gluten free restaurant options, when we can find them.  I guess that means we will be eating out less, which is a good thing if you ask me. :)  After this weekend’s glutenpalooza, I have come to the conclusion that eating gluten free is worth it for us, and we will continue to make the effort to exclude gluten from our diet whenever humanly possible.

Why post this on the Unbound Birth blog?  I think it’s really important for new moms to be aware that their diets can affect their newborns when they are breastfeeding, and the foods that you feed your toddlers and older children have an affect on them as well.  Take note of things that might seem like a coincidence at first.  Write it down.  You may find a pattern.  Read labels and become educated on the ingredients that are in the foods that you buy.  You will be surprised at what you find.

On Wednesday I will be previewing an eBook bundle that will be for sale here at Unbound Birth all next week.  This collection of healthy living books is a wealth of information that will help you get started or continue with your goal for your family to live a healthier lifestyle.  Check back here to learn more about it and make sure to leave some room in your budget for it- you’ll be very glad that you did!

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

Filed Under: education, food, health Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Breastfeeding 101: Breast Milk Storage Guidelines.

August 3, 2012 By Leave a Comment

image source

 

Many women choose to breastfeed their babies for an extended period of time.  Chances are, if you do, you’ll find yourself pumping breast milk at some point.  It’s funny, but I always had a hard time pouring breast milk down the sink drain… it wasn’t just a waste, it was personal.  So what do you do with breast milk when you pump and don’t use it right away?  If you are planning to use the milk within 4-24 hours you can store it in a bottle (see guidelines below).  If you plan to freeze it, just about every bottle manufacturer sells breast milk storage bags that are made expressly (pun intended) for this purpose.  Make sure that you seal the bag well before putting it in the refrigerator or freezer.

 

Here are some simple breast milk storage guidelines to follow for storing your freshly expressed breast milk:

At Room Temperature: Up to 6 hours at 66-72 degrees F

In an insulated pack with ice packs: Up to 24 hours

In the refrigerator: 5-8 days at 32-39 degrees F

In the freezer compartment of your refrigerator: 3-6 months

In a deep freezer: 6-12 months 

 

To thaw frozen breastmilk, run warm (not hot) water over the bag until the milk has thawed.  Once breast milk is thawed it must be used immediately or it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.  It cannot be stored in the refrigerator or the freezer again.

 

For more posts on breastfeeding, check the Breastfeeding 101 archives!

 

 

 

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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Breastfeeding 101: Mastitis

July 23, 2012 By Leave a Comment

image source

 

Throughout the Breastfeeding 101 series we have been touching on a variety of topics.  One topic that I have to include is Mastitis.  Having had Mastitis with all three of my children, I know how terrible it can feel.

Mastitis: An infection of the breast, usually only occurring in women who are breastfeeding their babies.

“The most common bacteria causing mastitis is called Staphylococcus aureus. In 25-30% of people, this bacteria is present on the skin lining normal, uninfected nostrils. It is probably this bacteria, clinging to the baby’s nostrils, that is available to create infection when an opportunity (crack in the nipple) presents itself.” (source)

Symptoms of mastitis include:

  • pain
  • redness
  • warmth in the breast
  • swelling and/or tenderness
  • fever and flu like symptoms (chills, trembling)
  • engorgement

In some cases there will be red streaking on the breast, originating at the source of the infection.  Mastitis often will occur within the first few weeks of breastfeeding, but it can occur at any time during breastfeeding.  It usually only affects one breast, although I have had the luck of having double mastitis with my first baby.  Double whammy!

Here are some helpful suggestions that you can use if you think you might have mastitis:

  • Apply a warm compress to the affected part of the breast, especially before nursing.
  • Apply gentle massage to the affected area, while using a warm compress or while in the shower (with warm water on the breast) or in a warm bath.
  • Use cold cabbage leaves to reduce the swelling and provide a bit of relief.  This may sound like an old wive’s tale, but it really works.  While breastfeeding I always have a head of green cabbage in the fridge for this purpose.  Crunch a nice cool cabbage leaf in your hands to crackle it, then lay it on the affected area and keep it there until it is not cool anymore.  Do not leave cabbage leaves on the breast for more than a couple of hours at a time and be sure not to cover the nipple.  The cabbage leaves draw milk from the ducts to help reduce the swelling, so if you notice any reduction in milk supply discontinue use immediately.
  • Breastfeed first from the breast with the infection and let the breast drain completely.  This will help reduce the pain.
  • If symptoms do not go away after trying these suggestions, call your doctor, you may need antibiotics to treat the infection.

Do not stop breastfeeding!  It is very important to continue breastfeeding while you have the infection.  Discontinuing could worsen the problem.  Also be sure to stay hydrated.  Drink plenty of water.

Also important to note is that your baby will not catch this infection.  This is an infection of the breast tissue and cannot be passed to your child.

As I’ve said in previous Breastfeeding 101 posts, I cannot emphasis enough the importance of having a good support system.  Familiarize yourself with your local La Leche League chapter, a midwife, or a good lactation consultant.  You will be glad that you did.


 

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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Breastfeeding 101: Proper Latch

May 23, 2012 By Leave a Comment

One of the most important things that we can discuss in the Breastfeeding 101 series is proper latch.  Your baby latching on properly is the key to the start of a successful nursing relationship.  As we have discussed in previous posts, breastfeeding is a learning experience for both mother and child.  In this post we’ll talk about what the proper latch looks like and how to help your baby achieve it.

image source

When I was preparing for the birth of our first child I took at breastfeeding class, which was one of the best decisions I made.  Before going into the class, I just assumed that the proper latch involved the entire nipple and areola being taken into the baby’s mouth.  I soon learned that this was not necessarily so.

The proper latch will have the baby’s lower gum well below the nipple, on the areola (the dark area around the nipple).  You will be able to see the areola above the baby’s upper lip.  It looks a little bit like a crescent moon shape.  The baby’s lips will be flared out on both top and bottom.  They should not be tucked into the mouth.  The photo above demonstrates this beautifully.  To facilitate this:

  • Get into a comfortable and supported position for breastfeeding.
  • Start by lining the baby’s nose up with your nipple.
  • You may need to encourage your baby to open her mouth wide by brushing her upper lip with your nipple.  You want to see the baby’s mouth wide open (as if she was yawning) and the tongue covering the bottom gums (see image below).  This might take a few times of encouraging the baby to open her mouth.  If the tongue is not covering the bottom gums and the mouth is not wide open, it can result in the baby chomping down on your nipple.  A newborn can chomp down pretty hard!  Also, the baby will not be able to take the nipple in at the correct angle, which prevents let down and results in a very unhappy baby.
  • Bring the baby to the breast, chin first, then nose.
Below is an excellent rendering of what the proper latch looks like from an internal view.

image source

You’ll notice that the nipple is angled upwards and goes far back into the throat.  Did you know your breast could do that???  Don’t worry, the baby will not choke.  The baby nurses from the areola and the nipple.  The nipple should reach all the way to the baby’s soft palette.

Touch your tongue to the roof of your mouth and you will feel the hard palette of your mouth.  If you bring your baby to your breast and your nipple stops at the hard palette of baby’s mouth, when she starts to nurse it will hurt like heck!  The baby will effectively be clamping the nipple between their tongue and their hard palette, which really hurts.

Now touch your tongue farther back against the roof of your mouth until you feel the soft area in the back.  This is the soft palette and this is where your nipple needs to be for the baby to nurse efficiently.  When baby starts to nurse, they encourage the milk ducts to let down (release the milk) by massaging the areola and stimulating the release of the milk.  This cannot happen if the areola and nipple are not far enough back in the baby’s throat.

How can you tell if you have achieved proper latch?

The first 10-30 seconds of a breastfeeding session can be a little bit painful as the baby starts to massage and the milk lets down.  If you feel pain beyond that first 10-30 seconds then chances are the baby is not latched on properly.  Gently insert your pinky into the corner of the baby’s mouth to release the suction and remove the baby from the breast.  Take a look at your nipple.  You may find that it looks pinched, indicating that the nipple was being clamped between the tongue and the hard palette.  Try latching again, and keep trying until baby gets a good latch.  Many breastfeeding problems can be solved with paying careful attention to the latch.  If you are having trouble achieving the proper latch, if breastfeeding continues to be painful for you or the baby seems frustrated and hungry all of the time, seek the help of a lactation consultant.  

Tips for achieving the proper latch:

  • Make sure you are in a comfortable position.  Use pillow to support you.
  • Wait for it.  If the baby’s mouth is not wide open, with the tongue covering the bottom gums, just try again.
  • Avoid using scented body lotions.  They can be too much for the baby and cause the baby to refuse the breast.
  • If you have large breasts, support the breast with your hand, if possible.
  • Take a moment to burp the baby before nursing on each side.  If the baby has any trapped gas, they will likely refuse the breast or fuss at the breast, even though they are acting as though they are hungry.
  • Do not wait for the baby to cry to be fed before you feed him.  A frustrated baby will have a harder time latching on correctly.

What questions do you have about proper latch?

Unbound Birth can now be purchased at the new power price of $2.99! You can find it at the Unbound Birth Store.

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