Image: Unsplash/Henley Design Studio

We’re living in unprecedented times in the modern world. A global pandemic is something that we haven’t seen for generations. It’s naturally going to arouse anxiety, fear, and over-protectiveness from new mothers who understand how vulnerable their baby is to contracting illnesses. If you’re looking for convenient ways to feel reassured of your baby’s safety, here are five health and safety essentials for parents in 2020:

 

1. Keeping Germs At Bay

A baby bottle sterilizer is one of the easiest ways to keep germs at bay. A baby’s gut is incredibly susceptible to pathogens, so sterilizing bottles and feeding equipment after each and every use is vitally important, regardless of whether you’re using the bottles for breast milk or for baby formula. A sterilizer enables you to clean bottles and bottle equipment for a completely hygienic end result, keeping baby safe and parents reassured.

 

2. Baby Wipes For Baby Instead Of Hand Sanitizer

Babies are still adjusting to the harshness of the outside world, meaning their skin is delicate and sensitive. Using hand sanitizer on a baby’s skin is not safe and not recommended by healthcare professionals. For mothers who want reassurance that their baby is safe from germs, baby wet wipes serve as an ideal alternative. They’re gentle and won’t destroy the skin’s natural protective layers. Opt for hypoallergenic baby wipes for the safest option.

 

3. Nappy Rash Cream

This humble little product is one of the most versatile compounds a mother can have in her diaper bag. The best nappy rash cream works wonders for a variety of skin issues. It can even act as sunscreen if you run out of your usual brand. It can also act as aftersun care, drawing out the heat. Nappy rash cream is great for insect bites, burns, and stings. It can be a little bit tricky to apply because it’s a sticky consistency and doesn’t always smear effectively, but once you have it on, this product is as close as you can get to a cure-all for skin dramas.

 

4. Probiotics For Immunity: Taking Care Of Your Inner Microbiome

All of that sanitizer on your hands might be halting the spread of harmful germs and bacteria, but you’re also killing off colonies of helpful microbes that are essential to your immune system. You don’t need to stop sanitizing, especially with the pandemic being what it is.

However, if your gut lining isn’t in optimal health, you can experience mental fogginess, depression, anxiety, and reduced immune function. This means you’ll be more susceptible to harmful pathogens if your gut isn’t healthy. The remedy? Eat plenty of probiotics, including kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha tea, sourdough, and other fermented foods.

 

5. Comfort And Love: Health Boosting Emotions

Loving your baby and enjoying the rush of oxytocin that comes from close contact might be one of the most powerful ways you can protect both of you from illness. It turns out that the complex neuroendocrine system (the brain and hormones) are linked in extraordinary and dynamic ways.

A release of oxytocin can result in the production of cytokines such as IL-1?, nitric oxide, and prostaglandins. These cytokines help the brain to regulate the immune system better. How can you get a release of oxytocin for immune-boosting effects? Enjoy frequent cuddles and skin-on-skin time with your baby.

 

Feeling Prepared Is Important

If you’re an anxious mother, it’s a great idea to visit your pediatrician and get the best information available on how to protect your family. The reassurance of being prepared can help you stay calm and respond to challenges in a more constructive manner.