January's Journey

Where do I begin? January has been a challenging month and an exciting month - back and forth. I have made a series of changes that have changed my way of living (at least for now). I know this may not interest others, and some of you will think I am crazy, but here is a glimpse into my brain and life.

My main challenge for the past few months has been trying to meet Christian's needs. He often has seemed uncomfortable (gassy) and hungry.

The solution I implemented - Giving up milk products (milk, cheese, butter, sour cream etc.) I also began herbs to increase milk supply (Fenugreek, nettle, fennel, blessed thistle, mix) I nursed on demand for long periods every day and drank a lot. This seemed to help his gas a bit and my supply was adequate off and on. More on this in a minute.

A side note is that I began using almond milk which I have really enjoyed. I also like vegan butter.

Another change is that Ivan gave us raw honey for Christmas. Yea! Because of this I started morning hot cereal- my dad's concoction (a Oatmeal, Millet, Buckwheat, Amaranth, Quinoa mix with honey) plus flax seeds, except Saturdays for a different breakfast. I really like it! - -Note: I LOVE my water pik! I have to use it each morning to clear everything, and it has helped my gums improve!

I've also tried a new idea that I had been pondering - green smoothies - (1 C almond milk, 1 cup fruit, 1 banana, a handful or 2 of greens -spinach, chard, & collard greens) every other day as a way to increase our vegetable/ fruit intake. (I help my children count servings -aiming for 5 a day- before they turn to less nutritious options. My kids enjoy them! I have been making these on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. I have a very large salad on opposite days.

One side effect has been that I feel GREAT with lots of energy. I finally feel like I have the energy to wake up at 5:30AM to nurse and then exercise. (Cardio -20+ min 6x/wk, Resistance & Flexibility 3x/wk -ideally.)

But, Christian was still fussy and seemed constantly hungry.

I tried - Lots of water (10-14 cups/day) and tracking calories to make sure I was getting 2050. I have really relied on the MyFitnessPal application on my phone and online.

It wasn't adequate and I offered formula 2 days in a row. Christian broke out in a rash. I receive formula samples for babies with milk/soy allergies, but tried not to use it. His rash cleared. I did supplement once with the new formula and I think it gave him a mild rash as well.

Christian went to his 4 month well check with the pediatrician. His head and length measurements maintained or increased but weight% had dropped. What to do?

I decided to start brewer's yeast and calcium/magnesium/zinc. I gave up most common allergens for babies - milk (already), most soy, peanuts, chocolate, and citrus.

I continued to feel frustrated and asked for a Priesthood blessing. That evening/next morning I realized that I should recheck my caloric needs. I realized that I should have more calories (2450+). I immediately increased my intake by 400-500 calories. I focused on more nuts, avacados, whole grains, and protein. I have had to find the balance in my choices so that I am maximizing my nutrients but not overloading my system with bulk.

Immediately Christian seemed more content after feedings. He seemed to be swallowing a creamier sounding milk. I have continued to nurse as often as possible and I also have a new double electric pump that I use when I can. Now he is able to nap and interact while he is awake without seeming hungry. He isn't very fussy in the evenings. He is interactive and happy to watch what is going on.

To be honest, I am so relieved! This has been a huge weight off my mind. I truly feel that I was blessed to have this insight. I honestly wouldn't have considered increasing my calories because I have always heard that your body takes what it needs for the baby. I will be taking Christian in to be weighed in a few weeks to make sure that he is gaining weight. His skin is clearing and almost perfect. Once it is clear I will begin to add back peanuts, citrus, chocolate, etc. one at a time to see if they bother him. I really don't know about milk. I will live without it while nursing and hopefully longer. I don't think it is good for me since I am sensitive to it anyway. Time will tell. For now, I feel like I am able to meet the needs of my family. I feel healthy and happy.


Here is Christian - 4 months old