Lifestyle

What to Consider When Choosing Formula Milk for Premature Babies

So, you have given birth to a preemie and now heading back home. The first thing on your mind would be to get the best preemie formula for your baby so that he may grow at a rate close to that in the womb. And without sugar-coating anything, walking down a superstore’s aisle and choosing formula milk made to meet your preemie’s nutritional needs might become the toughest task at hand at that moment.

Premature birth, as evident in the name, refers to childbirth before the estimated due date. A baby born three weeks or more before completing nine months is called a preemie. Such babies are often predisposed to several short- and long-term complications. This is because they usually have an underdeveloped immune system and, therefore, need a longer hospital stay than full-term babies.

So without a doubt, it is imperative to catch up with the baby’s nutritional requirements to keep them from harm’s way. Formula milk for preemies comes with all nutrients and ingredients that your baby would get in the womb. But choosing the suitable milk formula can be challenging because nutritional requirements vary from baby to baby.

In this article, we will describe some rules and protocols that must be kept in mind when buying formula milk for premature babies.

Nutritional Requirements for Premature Babies

Premature babies are born with nutritional deficiencies that must be addressed to help them grow optimally. Although medical experts in a hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will take care of your preemie until you leave the hospital, it is essential to continue providing your baby with specialized nutritional support after you get back home.

Some babies may require proteins, iron, calories, vitamins, and calcium in additional amounts. Therefore, a supplement called human milk fortifier may be added to their feedings. This supplement comes with the said nutrients along with vitamins A, C, and D and folic acid.
Preemies who are breastfed may still need supplements. Based on your baby’s nutritional needs, you can give them multiple servings of iron and vitamin D supplements along with fortified breast milk. This diet is particularly for babies who do not get sufficiently nursed for any reason.
As a rule of thumb, a baby should get enough nutrition supply to wet 6-8 diapers every day. When changing diapers, watch out for bloody or watery stools, as they can indicate a problem.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Formula Milk for Premature Babies

Preemie formulas come with nutrients that are vital for the baby’s growth and development, such as vitamins, proteins, and minerals. However, the type of formula and your feeding plan significantly depend on your baby’s particular dietary needs. You must also look out for the allergic reaction a baby formula product might trigger.

Moreover, you may need to change the baby’s formula after some time. This requirement generally occurs due to the baby’s changing nutritional needs as they grow. In some cases, you may notice that your baby prefers some other product over the current one. However, it is always crucial to speak to your doctor before switching the formula.

When choosing a baby formula, be sure to check whether it meets nutritional safety requirements. The best way to ensure this is to buy from well-known and well-reputed brands. And it goes without saying that you must always check the expiration date on the package.

Types of Formula Milk for Premature Babies

With some research about different products, you may realize that ‘standard’ preemie formulas are not that standard after all. This is because every baby formula comes with a different nutritional composition and is suitable for only a particular group of babies. At that point, you may think of preparing a customized preemie formula at home, but most medical experts do not recommend this due to safety concerns.

Premature babies have weaker digestive systems than full-term infants and, therefore, are more prone to developing digestive issues. For instance, most preemies have an allergy to cow’s milk, which is the primary ingredient of a majority of standard milk formulas available on the market. Medical experts generally prescribe a nondairy formula for those babies.

Preemie formulas are available in many types, but three of them are the most common.

Amino Acid-Based Formulas

Preemie formulas containing amino acids as a primary ingredient are generally suitable for preterm babies with an allergy to cow’s milk. Amino acids are simple proteins that are different from milk proteins.

Lactose-Free Formulas

Lactose is sugar in cow’s milk. Some preemies have difficulty digesting lactose and, hence, may be better candidates for lactose-free formula milk. However, please note that some lactose-free formulas may still contain milk proteins and might not be suitable for your baby. In such a scenario, you can give your preemie the soy-based formula.

Hypoallergenic Formula

Hypoallergenic preemie formulas are prescribed for babies allergic to cow and soy milk. According to research, hypoallergenic formulas can help prevent atopic diseases in infants. These formulas are also beneficial for babies with a higher predisposition to allergies than others.

Preparing and Feeding Formula Milk to a Premature Baby

Once you have found the suitable formula milk for your preemie, you must follow some preset protocols when preparing a serving and feeding your baby. Here are the instructions:

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after preparing a serving.
Make sure that the feeding bottle and its teat are properly sterilized.
Practice caution when preparing milk. The water you use should be freshly boiled and left to cool for about 30 minutes before you mix formula milk powder into it. Ideally, the water temperature should be 70 degrees Celsius, which is hot enough to eliminate bacteria in the powder. Let the prepared milk formula cool before feeding your baby.
Do not store prepared formula milk serving, even in the fridge. This is because bacteria can regrow in a serving that has been stored for future use.
Clean the bottle and teats with hot and soapy water after feeding your baby. Brush them properly to clean any milk residue. Use cold water to rinse the bottle and teats.
Store hot water in a thermos flask when going out with your baby.

Conclusion

Preemies are more vulnerable beings than full-term babies. This is why they require special care at the hospital and at home. They particularly need specialized and careful feeding so that they do not run the risk of nutritional deficiencies, which seem pretty inevitable at times. Therefore, it is crucial to pay proper attention to what and how you feed your preemie.

For more information and support, stay in contact with a qualified doctor. Not only will they instruct you about proper baby feeding, but they will also help you take good care of your preemie from all other aspects.

Lifestyle

10 Notable Street Styles For Men

Introduction

Street fashion is not started at the studios or by designers. Instead, it is the fashion that youth and individuals follow or create from the grass-root level. Moreover, street styles have recently emerged in the urban setting. And the individuals, including both men and women, are keen to follow the trends to become part of the latest clothing standards. However, street fashion men have also been increasing significantly globally. And to learn about the latest trends happening all around the world, this article will be the right fit for you.

Ten Notable Street Styles For Men

There are several street fashion men’s styles around. However, the street style fashion list is listed below to understand different types better.

1. Cuban Collar Shirts

If you want an unintentional yet stylish look, these Cuban collar shirts are the best fit for all men. Moreover, street fashion men follow according to their likes and comfort. And that is the fundamental concept of street fashion that is here to achieve stylish looks. Furthermore, the shirts usually have short sleeves that again create a sense of comfort and easy-going dressing. And to accomplish the exact essence of wearing these shirts, bright colors look wonderous like yellow, orange, blue, and green. Lastly, men can pair up some shades or sunnies to complete the cool look.

2. Flares

The cuts are becoming the latest trend in street fashion men. Moreover, the flares are not in today’s development; they have been a part of the fashion world since the early seventies. Also, people improve their fashion to get a different, unplanned, relaxed look. And in the form of bell-bottoms, the cut enhances the personality. To get the style, pair it up with slim-fitted shirts. However, the funky hoodies and T-Shirts may also enhance the style. Lastly, it will be perfect for carrying in any color you want.

3. Long Shorts

The street fashion men are now evolving with the basic idea of bringing comfort forward. And that’s what the men are following these days. Moreover, it will be an excellent option for all the men in summer. And the funky colors of long shorts are becoming the latest trends in urban settings. Furthermore, pair it up with loose shirts and T-shirts to get the desired look, enhancing the more easy-going personality of all the carefree individuals.

4. Oversized Cardigans and Blazers

Another street fashion men are following these days is oversized clothing. Moreover, going back to the ’80s, the fashion trend is not new. But street fashion has brought it back to get the most stylish and easy-going dressing. And as we know, the concept of street fashion lies in casual and comfortable clothing. And the best aspect is that the look is perfect for summer and winter clothing.

5. Monochrome Suits

The next street fashion men are following is the suits. Moreover, to achieve the look, monochrome suiting is something all men want to get a stylish street look. And as we know, suiting is referred chiefly to be part of the official settings. But they are taking it to the street level, and nailing it as a fashion is no less than a trend-setting. The best aspect is that looks perfect for all body types and shapes. And in any season, the individuals can wear it to enhance their personalities and feel comfortable at the same time.

6. Sunnies & Shades

The street fashion men are keen to follow to focus on eyewear. Moreover, all looks are nearly incomplete without the perfect eyewear. Furthermore, it is also not today’s trend that is booming. Eyewear has been part of the fashion industry since the beginning. Therefore, nailing all looks with perfect eyewear will be best to get the desirable street style look. The sunnies are lighter tones of eyewear, and shades are darker in tones. And matching it with the outfits or even neutral colors can add a notch up to a street style look.

7. Checks & Block Prints

Prints also matter a lot when it comes to pulling off any dress. Moreover, the street fashion men are looking forward to these days are the check and block prints that are taking the street fashion to another level. Furthermore, pairing them with plain white or neutral color bottom wear will be desirable. Lastly, they will look great for skinny people because such prints add more volume to the body shape. Lastly, it will look wonders in both summers and winters.

8. Bright Hues

Another Street men’s fashion is now reviving the colors that are often not wearable in men’s clothing. Moreover, the funky and bright colors are now becoming more trending. And the designers are now also referring to it as a fashion statement. And the most likable and admirable colors are the yellow, orange, green, and blue tones. Lastly, incorporating these hues may enhance the personality and the overall look.

9. Complementary Footwear

Footwear is no less another trend that will fulfill the street men fashion is looking to bring forward. Moreover, different styles are now available that ensure that they are wearable according to the types of the outfit. For example, the boots look well with flared-up pants. At the same time, a sneaker will be a great option to pair up with trousers and long shorts. Therefore, focusing on footwear will be mandatory to complement the street style look.

10. Cross-Body Bags

The last street fashion men are following these days are the cross body bags. Moreover, the men are keen to carry these bags to accessorize the look with the fashionable items. Furthermore, men globally focus on trying new and different styles and bringing up the comfort and luxurious look. Securing the items and bringing the class with them is the ultimate goal of wearing these bags. Primarily neutral color bags are preferable. But the bright hues bags with the plain neutral clothing are also seen.

Conclusion

These are the top ten notable street fashion for men. They are following these days. Moreover, from colors, prints, and cuts, the trends sum up the look of the individuals. Not all designs and outfits are preferable for everyone. Therefore, guidance will work wonders for all individuals keen to focus on street fashion. Most of the trends rely on the comfort. While keeping the stylish clothing on forward, the individuals are taking a notch up on street fashion globally. Lastly, follow what suits your nature because everyone is born with a unique personality.

Lifestyle

5 Festive Decorating Ideas for Your Flocked Christmas tree

So, you’ve decided to go ahead and get that flocked Christmas tree you’ve been eyeing for months, but you are not sure what the best way to decorate it will be? Well, worry no more! We are here with some great ideas to decorate your tree. We are sure that these decorations will bring out the beauty of your new living room addition in the best possible way!

When you first bring your flocked tree home, it might seem like there’s nothing you can do to make it look better than it already does. Well, these 5 decorating ideas will help you see your flocked tree in a whole new light. It’s time to shake up your decorating style and make your Christmas tree the talk of the town!

There are several ways to decorate a Christmas tree but we will stick to discussing only a few of our most favorite looks. You can choose these decorating styles or even add your touch for a unique and customized look. Whether you are flocking a fake Christmas tree or a real one, here are some quick and simple decoration ideas. We’ve ranked them from easiest to hardest so you can choose one depending on your skill level.

Here goes!

No Need of Decorations

Getting a Christmas tree might seem like a lot of work, but it’s quite simple. Not only does buying a flocked tree save you from having to spend time and money on ornaments, but it also serves as an easy way to bring holiday cheer into your home from the moment you set it up.

You can just leave the tree as it is and it will still look so pretty!

If you are flocking an artificial Christmas tree yourself then make sure you fully cover the tree in snow and just admire your work with this minimal look!

We recommend adding just one thing though. Place a white sheet around the tree trunk, covering the floor underneath. It will look like snow piled up under the tree and will add a perfect touch to the flocked tree.

Decorate With Only Lights

Lights are a great way to add some color and magic to your tree!

Make sure you use LED lights because incandescent ones get hot and can start fires. You can even buy a pre lit flocked Christmas tree if you don’t want the hassle of decorating the tree yourself.

When decorating yourself, all you have to do is string the lights on each branch of your flocked Christmas tree. If you find that sectioning off pieces of branches with clear tape makes placing individual light strands easier, go for it. It doesn’t matter how many bulbs come in each strand—just make sure they fit around your branches!

And if they don’t fit? String up multiple strands!

You might also want to stick to only clear bulbs; colored bulbs can make decorations look gaudy or tacky in our humble opinion.

A Candle-lit tree

A beautiful alternative to a traditional flocked tree is a candle-lit flocked tree. Just add some battery-operated candles to your favorite ornaments, and place them on your tree. It’s a stunning sight, and it won’t cost you much!

Many people are opting for a flocked artificial Christmas tree nowadays. We also got the same last year and decorated the tree with these candles. People were so inspired by this style and we heard raving comments on our choice of decoration. We will suggest piling up some extra artificial snow on the branches to enhance the look and take this decorating idea to the next level.

A Metallic Touch

Metallic decorations give your festive season decor an extra sparkle. In addition, they’re perfect for bringing out those extra rays of the winter sun. If you like to keep things simple with minimal embellishments, metallic ornaments and tinsel can be a great way to bring some life to your flocked tree.

A metallic design can bring out your tree’s natural beauty, but you don’t want to go overboard. Use caution with shiny tinsel, metal garland, and sequins; you want shimmery accents that enhance your already beautiful tree rather than overpower it. Metallic balls are an especially good choice, as they’re usually made of either paper or polyester felt—two materials that are easy on flocking.

Red and Silver look

The holidays are all about glitz and glamour. So, don’t hold back on your creativity when it comes to decorating your tree. These vibrant silver and red colors will be sure to grab some attention. Red and white candy canes, shiny red ornaments, and silver tinsel can transform a plain tree into a perfect Christmas centerpiece.

If you’re decorating your Christmas tree with flocking, there’s nothing quite like red color to add some punch. Snow flocked Christmas tree with the burst of red looks very festive and it is a must-try decoration idea if you like colors!

Our Thoughts on Flocked Christmas tree

Everyone seems to be flocking a Christmas tree with spray snow these days. Not only it gives a gorgeous snow-covered look to your tree but can save you the trouble of decorating with too many decorations. Flocked trees look way better with minimum effort so we are all up for it!

Lifestyle

How to Flock a Christmas tree for a Perfect White Christmas?

Holidays are approaching fast! Have you decided how to decorate your Christmas tree this year?!

If not then we have a perfect thing for your Christmas tree. Flock it!

Over the past few years, flocking the Christmas trees has become increasingly popular. Flocking can make your tree look more natural and festive, but there are certain things you need to keep in mind when doing it yourself or having someone else do it for you. Our tips on how to flock a Christmas tree will help ensure your tree looks great all season long!

Flocking your Christmas tree can be one of the most fun parts of decorating it. But, what exactly is flocking? Is it messy? What things do you need to flock your Christmas tree?

Here’s what you need to know about flocking your tree without stressing about it!

What is a flocked Christmas tree?

Have you ever seen those beautiful trees that look like they’re covered in snow?

They’re called flocked trees!

The artificial snow dust is a fine fiber with adhesive material. When it is dusted on the wet tree, it soaks up water and fluffs up to look like snow.

Which tree is better for flocking – Real or artificial?

Flocking real vs. artificial trees is a matter of preference, but there are some distinct advantages of going with an artificial one. Most notably, you don’t have to worry about cleaning up needles or watering the tree. Having said that, whichever tree you decide to use for flocking, make sure to follow the tips shared at the end of this article.

Let’s see if there are any differences in the flocking process of these two types of trees:

How to Flock a Fake Christmas tree?

Even if your Christmas tree isn’t real, you can still flock it to make it look like it’s straight out of the North Pole! You can also use this technique on a garland, wreaths, and much more!

To be honest, there isn’t any difference between flocking real and artificial trees. It’s just that you can keep your artificial flocked tree to be used again and again in the coming years.

How to flock a real Christmas tree?

Flock your real Christmas tree well near Christmas time so it stays in good condition for somewhat longer after Christmas. Flocking can prolong the tree life for about 4-5 weeks which is a great thing. The downside is that the tree cannot be recycled afterward because the chemicals used in flocking make it unsuitable for recycling.

The advantages of flocking a Christmas tree

Either you are flocking a real tree or an artificial one, there are several reasons to flock. Such as:

For families that have always gone artificial, flocking is just another step in getting into that holiday spirit.
Not only do flock trees look pretty, but they also last longer than trees that aren’t flocked! A real flocked tree can last up to 6 weeks instead of just 1 week if it isn’t flocked.
Flocking is easy to do! With very little time or effort, you can create an elegant tree to be proud of.
Flocking is 100% safe for your tree and home.
Flock gives trees a fresh look but more importantly helps prevent needles to drop. Needle drop is when individual needles fall off of your tree without purposely breaking. So if you have pets or small children then a flocked real tree is a better option.

Useful tips for how to flock a Christmas tree like a pro

If you haven’t flocked a tree before then you are in luck. We have some great tips to ace Christmas tree flocking in your first attempt!

There were some mistakes by us that we don’t want you to repeat. Read on to learn some very useful tips for flocking.

Safety first

Use a mask and gloves so nothing sticks or gets into your system.

Buy the right amount of flocking

It’s best to have too much than not enough, so you may want to purchase more than what the package recommends. The packaging will give you an approximate amount of flocking needed for different types of trees. For example, if you have a large tree, you will need more flocking than with a smaller tree since there is more surface area on which it can fall off or settle into ridges.

Keep fiber away from water

You don’t want to fluff up the fiber before it reaches its place on the tree. It’s better to seek help. One person can spray water on the tree using a spray bottle while the other can dust the fiber onto the wet area.

Flock outside

We recommend doing the process in the open air on a non-windy day. If the weather doesn’t permit then the next best option is a garage or basement. Don’t flock your tree in the living room as the white dust will travel everywhere which will be impossible to clean.

Work in sections

Don’t try to shower the whole tree with water and then just throw the flock on it!

Water dries up pretty quickly which will not let the fiber stick to it. Sprinkle water over small sections and use a flour sifter to dust the fiber over it. It is time-consuming but worth the effort as you will end up with a perfectly flocked tree.

Dry it completely

Let the tree dry up for a day or two before putting up the decorations. Also, shake off extra fiber outside before moving the tree inside at its display spot.

Wrap Up

If you have a perfect Christmas tree—flock it!

Flocked trees look so gorgeous and perfect without much struggle. We hope that this article on how to flock a Christmas tree will help you put up a spectacular Christmas tree this year. Try the flocking technique while keeping in mind these tips and tricks and you can do a perfect job that everyone will love!