Seek Motherhood Advice (NAPS)—Forecasts show America’s birthrate is significantly on the rise for the first time since 1990. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that nearly 4 million babies were born in 2000. At the dawn of the millennium, thou- sands of women from Maine to Montana are adopting the name “Mom”andseeking advice for juggling their own needs with those of a newborn. Tori Kropp, registered nurse and perinatal and women’s health expert, fields hundreds of questions each weekasthe authorof “Ask Tori, RN,” an advice column on Women.com (www.women.com /pregnancy). At the heart of Kropp’s advice is reas- surance that the concerns momsface are normal and shared by women throughoutthe country. TOP QUESTIONS FROM NEW MOMS How can I incorporate good nutrition into my diet? Good nutrition is essential for handling the daily emotional and physical challenges of motherhood. Between meals, try snackslike a Lunabar, which contains calcium, protein, folic acid and all natural ingredients, specifically geared toward women’s health needs. Howcan I get enoughsleep? Take a nap while your baby naps. Also,it’s O.K. to slack on household chores and take timeto rest. When can I begin exercising again? As long as you feel well, it’s fine to do light aerobic activities, swim or take the baby for a walk, but never attempt to diet or lose weight while breastfeeding. What about my ownneeds? Little things that bring you pleasure can makeall the difference. It may be as simple as enjoy- ing a healthy, satisfying snack like Luna, listening to your favorite music or reading a good book while your baby naps. How should I handle the advice of family and friends? Use your instincts! Talk to friends, family and experts but, most importantly, pay attention to your ownfeelings. As a new mother, Kropp knows that women are looking for simple, common-sense approachesfor replenishing their own bodies and souls while nurturing their babies. In short, Kropp says, “Create a personal recipe for motherhood that suits you.” New momscanfind more information on women’s nutrition needs by logging on to www.lunabar.com.
