Bagong Nanay

Tag: breastfeeding

  • Starting from Scratch: Sew Childhood by Suzette Goc-ong

    Starting from Scratch: Sew Childhood by Suzette Goc-ong

    How a mom’s breastfeeding struggle turned into an opportunity to uplift parents and families in the most inspiring way.

    Hi, Bagong Nanay!

    Before we say goodbye to August, here’s an inspiring story of a mompreneur who turned her pain into purpose. Interestingly, I met Mommy Suzette Goc-ong, the mom behind the local brand Sew Childhood, through Mommy Jill Roylence Francia of Valianne’s Trends. Mommy Jill’s story was our featured Kuwentong Bagong Nanay this month.

    Sew Childhood is popular for its Poncho and Apron Nursing Covers, and also offers products that solve every parent’s dilemma: high chair covers, shopping cart covers, baby carrier drool pads, and more!

    After just one late-night chat with Mommy Suzette, I knew her story of starting Sew Childhood should be shared through Bagong Nanay’s new section, Bagong Nanay Biz. It aims to tell stories of mompreneurs and their businesses, with the goal to inspire other moms to start their own.

    Kaya eto na nga. Here’s the Bagong Nanay Biz story of Suzette Goc-ong, 41, from Taguig City. She has two kids, Niccolo, 10, and Patty, 5. Her husband, Neil, is her number one supporter.

    I hope her story will touch you, and more importantly, glorify God.

    How Sew Childhood started, as told by Suzette Goc-ong

    Sew Childhood was born out of one of my lowest points in motherhood. I wasn’t able to breastfeed my firstborn successfully, and by the time he turned one, I also felt degraded not earning my own income. That’s when I decided to turn a simple hobby into something meaningful. I taught myself how to sew from scratch.

    Out of my failed breastfeeding journey came the idea to help other moms feel good and comfortable through the Apron Style Nursing Covers I handcrafted. On Mother’s Day 2016, I posted my first pieces and they immediately sold out. The rest was history.

    “I truly started from scratch. I devoted myself to learning something new as a way to rise above the low esteem I felt as a first-time mom. This brand is unique because it was born from my heart and founded on God’s grace.”

    -Mommy Suzette Goc-ong

    A very inspiring part of our story is I am no longer sewing because Sew Childhood was able to open livelihood opportunities for our community where moms and even students work to support their families’ needs.

    Looking back, I held on to Psalm 30:11: “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!”

    Starting from scratch

    What makes Sew Childhood’s journey so special is that I truly started from scratch. I devoted myself to learning something new as a way to rise above the low esteem I felt as a first-time mom. This brand is unique because it was born from my heart and founded on God’s grace.

    sew-childhood
    Mommy Suzette and her son Niccolo, with the first sewing machine she used when she launched Sew Childhood.

    The product I’m most proud of will always be our Nursing Covers. They’re the foundation of Sew Childhood, created to support moms right from the start of their breastfeeding journey–helping them feel good, confident, and comfortable while nurturing their little ones.

    3 lessons for aspiring mompreneurs

    Let motherhood inspire, not limit.

    From my experience, nung naging mom ako, doon ko talaga na-discover yung inspiration ko for my brand. Kasi dati akala ko mahihirapan na ako to pursue anything kasi motherhood takes so much time and energy. Pero ang nangyari, baliktad, because it actually shaped my creativity.

    Mommy Suzette, breastfeeding her youngest child, Patty.

    Yung mga challenges like breastfeeding in public, or finding comfy clothes for my kids, yun mismo yung naging ideas ko for my products. Kaya para sa’kin, motherhood should inspire you, not limit you. Kasi yung journey mo as a mom is full of stories and solutions na puwede mong i-turn into something meaningful for others. And that’s what happened to me all our products in Sew Childhood is based on our experiences as parents.

    “I want parents, especially moms, to know that breastfeeding is an experience that will give you a fulfillment that no other job or salary can give you.”

    -Mommy Suzette Goc-ong

    Embrace slow and intentional growth.

    Hindi kailangan mabilis palagi. Ako naniniwala na slow, intentional growth is more sustainable. Kasi kapag consistent ka at sincere, dun talaga nabubuo yung trust ng mga customers. Hindi lang siya about sales, but about building relationships and showing na totoo ka sa ginagawa mo. Mas fulfilling yung journey kapag hindi minamadali, kasi mas matibay yung foundation. The lessons in waiting season is also biblical. In perseverance, trust in God’s timing, and hope during the wait.

    Andaming magagandang promises ni God for mompreneurs:

    Galatians 6:9 (“…in due season we will reap, if we do not give up”), Isaiah 40:31 (“But those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength”), Psalm 37:5 (“Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act”), and Jeremiah 29:11 (“For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future”)

    Like for Sew Childhood, I started at the bottom talaga. It’s really just me and the burning passion God has placed in my heart. No connections. Lahat inaral ko at ng husband kong si Neil through our own experiences as parents. The connections came in the latter part when Sew Childhood gained its credibility throughout the years.

    Show up where your customers are.

    Importante talaga to be present kung nasaan yung customers mo. Hindi lang online, kundi sa bazaars, fairs, at real-life events. I personally believe in building relationships with the customers. Kahit online alam mo andaming moms ang naging friends ko na dito sa business na ito. They go to me for advice, happy and sad kwentuhans as well. Through this, mas nakikilala, nakakausap, at naririnig firsthand yung feedback nila. Nakaka-build siya ng deeper connection, at dun mo rin makikita na hindi lang produkto ang binebenta mo, kundi experience at community.

    READ ALSO: How Joining Bazaars Helps Biz Owners Earn Up To Php 80K Per Day

    Mommy Suzette at a recent fair with her “very supportive husband and business partner,” Neil.

    Supporting breastfeeding moms

    I want parents, especially moms, to know that breastfeeding is an experience that will give you a fulfillment that no other job or salary can give you. It’s difficult, yes, but it’s a beautiful gift for you and your baby. I would like to keep encouraging moms to breastfeed–that’s one of the missions of Sew Childhood. You don’t have to do it alone. The more support we give each other, whether through encouragement, community, or even something as simple as a good nursing cover that helps a mom feel comfortable, the easier it becomes. Breastfeeding is not just about nourishing your baby, it’s also about nurturing yourself.

    Despite her “unsuccessful” breastfeeding journey with her firstborn, Mommy Suzette is a proud breastfeeding advocate.

    The vision for Sew Childhood

    For me, Sew Childhood is more than a clothing line. My vision is to build a brand that truly uplifts moms. To continue to be that gentle reminder that they are cared for, whether through something as simple as a Sew Childhood nursing cover or a clothing for their little one.

    I also dream of growing it in a way that gives back, especially by creating more and more livelihood opportunities in our community so that more moms can support their families without having to sacrifice being present at home.

    For this vision to come to life, I know I can’t do it alone. I pray to be surrounded by people who carry the same heart and passion. Partners or mentors who also believe in uplifting mothers and children. With God’s grace and the right team by my side, I believe Sew Childhood can reach and touch even more families.

    Follow Sew Childhood on social media:

    Instagram: @sewchildhood
    Facebook: Sew Childhood
    Tiktok: @sewchildhood

    Check out Sew Childhood products on Shopee and Lazada

  • Jilianne Roylence Francia: Normalizing Breastfeeding Everywhere

    Jilianne Roylence Francia: Normalizing Breastfeeding Everywhere

    Hi, Bagong Nanay!

    August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, that’s why sobrang honored ako to feature the Kuwentong Bagong Nanay of Mommy Jilianne Roylence Francia, the mom behind the local nursing wear brand Valianne’s Trends.

    Mommy Jill and I worked together for Smart Parenting. But before that, when I was still starting my Bagong Nanay online shop, I saw her shop and got insecure why I should start my own, when she is already thriving in the same space. Eventually, we became friends online, and now I am one of Valianne’s Trends mom ambassadors!

    There’s no better person to share about normalizing breastfeeding in public than Mommy Jill. A proud padede mom, she has two daughters, and a baby boy on the way. Here’s how she is helping more moms breastfeed in style, and persevere through the help of products that she lovingly created.

    Why we should normalize breastfeeding in public

    I was a first-time mom in 2018 and I joined breastfeeding communities to get inspiration from other mothers. I try my best to pay it forward to my new mom friends and give them the support they need in their new motherhood journey. I share how it may be hard in the beginning, but it will be worth it.

    However, a few of them still don’t persevere in breastfeeding for a number of reasons. First, they lack of confidence. Second, people around them say they don’t have enough milk. Third, and the hardest, is the societal pressure. Of course, we respect how babies are all fed and we appreciate every new mother’s effort regardless of their choice. Still, I wanted to help normalize breastfeeding because it has been the most rewarding thing I’ve done as a mom. The bond between me and my child is unlike anything else.

    Mommy Jill breastfeeding her second daughter, PV.

    At Valianne’s Trends, we want to share photos and stories of normalizing breastfeeding in public. As a breastfeeding advocate, I want to share my story because I also drew inspiration and strength from the stories of other moms. I believe that if we won’t be brave and consistent in sharing our stories, we might lose the chance to encourage a mom who just needs a spark of hope to keep going.

    How Mommy Jill’s breastfeeding experience evolved

    One thing I am so proud of myself as a mom is that I was able to breastfeed my two children, and I will breastfeed my third child, too. I remember almost giving up when I experienced cracked, bleeding, and sore nipples because of wrong latch. I even unfollowed breastfeeding groups because I thought I couldn’t bear it, but the sleepless nights of educating myself about proper latch all paid off. I’m happy that I did not give up because, right now, my story has become someone’s source of inspiration, too.

    breastfeeding mom pregnant
    Mommy Jill is pregnant with her third child, a boy, and is determined to breastfeed him.

    I want to share to our community that more than just selling clothes, Valianne’s Trends supports them in their breastfeeding journey. We tell them that moms can become confident again after going through hardest days of the postpartum period, or the fourth trimester.

    Breastfeeding is hard work. If you think you can’t, you won’t persevere. Although it’s challenging, it’s a fulfilling journey. When you’re struggling, go back to your ‘why.’

    -Jilianne Roylence Francia

    What helped Mommy Jill in her breastfeeding journey

    Nursing clothes

    Clothes with nursing access has always been a life-changer for me. I remember using nursing cover when breastfeeding in public for the first time and my baby and I weren’t so comfortable with it. It took me a lot of courage to drop the cover and practice wearing our nursing clothes confidently.

    A strong support system.

    Having my elder sister as my number one supporter helped me a lot. She was the one who told me that I have enough milk when I thought I couldn’t produce any.

    The right mindset

    Feed your mind that you can do it. Breastfeeding is hard work. If you think you can’t, you won’t persevere. Although it’s challenging, it’s a fulfilling journey. When you’re struggling, go back to your ‘why.’

    About the Bagong Nanay: I am Mommy Jilianne Roylence Francia from Bacoor, Cavite. I am the Bagong Nanay of QV, PV, and VK. Outside motherhood, I’m a writer, goal-digger, and dreamer.

    Want to share your #KuwentongBagongNanay too? Comment below or send me a DM on Instagram.

  • Why a Bagong Nanay Needs a Scalp Care Day, ASAP

    Why a Bagong Nanay Needs a Scalp Care Day, ASAP

    If you are a new mom and you haven’t tried Meinas’ 7-Step Scalp Treatment, this is your sign to make time for it.

    Hi, Bagong Nanay! Kumusta? Ako, eto, busy-busyhan. Kaka-soft launch ko lang ng bagong business namin sa social media: Laro Tayo Kids! Inflatable and mobile play space rental siya, perfect for playdates, birthday parties, o kahit walang okasyon! Check it out here.

    Speaking of bago, last week, I tried the 7-Step Professional Scalp Treatment at Meinas Scalp Solutions. Kakaopen lang nila ng bagong branch nila sa SM Mall of Asia! May branch rin sila sa SM North EDSA Annex, kaya I tried their scalp treatment for the first time. All I can say is: TRY NIYO RIN.

    Bagong Nanay Reviews: Meinas 7-Step Scalp Treatment

    So yes, I’m here to convince you to try their 7-Step Scalp Treatment for yourself because you deserve it! If you are any or all of these Bagong Nanays, then go for it!

    1. Hindi ka nakakaligo every day.

    Gets kita, Bagong Nanay. Ako rin, before my treatment with Meinas, hindi ako daily naliligo. Ang excuse ko, walang time dahil may baby. Instead na maligo ako, mag-sulat na lang ako itutulog ko nalang. Lalo naman nung first baby ko. Inaabot ako ng 3-4 days na walang liguan, kasi pandemic, nasa condo lang naman kami, at wala kaming helper. Imbis na maligo ako, aalagaan ko nalang yung baby ko.

    Pero did you know that neglecting hygiene is a sign of depression? Iyan ang kinonfirm sa aking ng aking psychologist when I first consulted a professional for my mental health. Especially nung nakita ko kung anong status ng scalp ko dahil hindi ako naliligo, nakakadiri! May fungus, microbes, at chemical residue na pala sa anit ko! Huhu.

    Avail niyo na yung FREE scalp consultation ng MEINAS, and see it for yourself.

    Meinas offers free scalp consultation in their branches, kaya talagang makikita mo yung magiging difference after the treatment. Kaya go mo na ‘yan.

    My first scalp care treatment at MEINAS SM North EDSA Annex.

    2. Grabe ka mag-hairfall.

    Normal ang 50-100 strands of hair fall per day, ayon sa Healthline. Pero kung Bagong Nanay ka, i-expect mo na na mas marami ang hair fall because of postpartum hair loss, lalo na within the first six months after mong manganak.

    Hindi sa nirerecommend ko, pero noong first baby ko, sobra akong napikon sa hair fall ko, kaya nagpakalbo ako. Shinave ni husband ang aking hair. So in short, na-reset ang aking hair, pero that doesn’t mean na healthy ang scalp ko.

    My scalp before and after MEINAS Scalp Treatment!

    After one session at Meinas, naging healthy ang scalp ko! Naglabasan din daw yung small hair na hindi makalabas dahil clogged yung pores. Nakakatuwa.

    3. Kailangan mo ng me-time.

    Well, lahat ng nanay naman need nito. Pero if you are a Bagong Nanay na wala talagang time for yourself, yung 90-minute scalp treatment na wala kang kasamang kids, sobrang nakaka-recharge siya.

    Also, lagi ko sinasabi na need ko ng full-body massage. Pero hindi ko akalain na need ko rin pala ng sobrang malupit na head and scalp massage. First time kong ma-massage ng ganun, sabi nga ng friend ko, langit yung feeling. Parang natanggal lahat ng stress ko sa buhay. Haha.

    With Ms. Jane of Meinas Scalp Solutions

    Sulit siya for its price of P2,980. Meron ding packages where you can save up to P3530 if you buy 5 sessions. I’m telling you, it’s the spa we never knew we needed. And remember: Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp.

    Visit Meinas at SM North EDSA Annex (Lower Ground), Greenhills Mall (5th Floor), and SM Mall of Asia (2F North Wing Main Mall) or their website here.

    Watch my full video review of Meinas Scalp Treatment on TikTok and Instagram.

  • Breastfeeding and Mental Health: Key Insights for Bagong Nanays

    Breastfeeding and Mental Health: Key Insights for Bagong Nanays

    Hi, Bagong Nanay!

    Kumusta? Ako, okay lang naman. Malapit na mag-1 year old ang aking baby boy. Kaninang umaga, nag-declutter ako ng mga gamit niya–mga damit na pinagliitan at mga hand-me-downs from friends na ready na akong i-pass on to another Bagong Nanay. If you are interested in hand-me-down Bagong Nanay items, send me a message on the Bagong Nanay Viber group here.

    Kahapon, August 6, nag-join ako sa isang online seminar about nurturing the mental health of breastfeeding mothers.

    Source: Facebook /Philippine Society of Newborn Medicine

    The Mother and Baby Dialogues Series 5 is spearheaded by the Philippine Society of Newborn Medicine, Inc. Council on Advocacy and Service Programs, Committee on Breastfeeding, in collaboration with Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS), Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (POGS), Perinatal Association of the Philippines, and Victoriano Luna General Hospital.

    Bilang isang breastfeeding mom and maternal mental health advocate, narito ang mga natutunan ko.

    Takeaways from Breastfeeding and Mental Health Seminar

    1. Educate yourself.

    Knowledge is power, ika nga. Kahit buntis pa lamang, mahalagang tayo ay may kusa na mag-aral tungkol sa ating papasuking buhay nanay.

    Gaya na lamang ng salitang “postpartum.” Maraming nanay ang nagsasabi na “parang may postpartum ako.” Ayon kay Dr. Bianca Katrina Villanueva, isang OB-GYN at breastfeeding specialist, lahat ng nanay na bagong panganak ay dadating sa “postpartum” period. Kaya hindi nangangahulugang may depression agad ang isang bagong nanay.

    May mnemonic para malaman kung may sintomas ang isang nanay ng postpartum depression o PPD: M-O-T-H-E-R: Mood changes, lOss of interest, Trouble sleeping, Heartache, Eating problems, and bRain fog.

    Screenshot from Zoom /Mother and Baby Dialogues Series 5

    Ayon naman kay Dr. Joffrey Sebastian Quiring, isang psychologist, mahalagang aware ang mga nanay, kahit buntis pa lamang, kung ano ang mga sintomas ng postpartum depression at kung anong kaibahan nito sa baby blues.

    Kung ang nanay ay nakakaramdam ng kalungkutan ng mahabang panahon at hindi na makapag-function gaya ng pag-aalaga sa bata o gawain sa bahay, maiging kumonsulta na sa doktor. Lalo na kung may mga sintomas na ito na nakakaalarma, gaya ng gustong saktan ang sarili o ang baby. Ito ay mga red flags na dapat maagapan at maikonsulta na sa doktor. Kung may nararamdaman na o hirap ang buong pamilya sa pag-aalaga, maaaring banggitin na ito sa OB-GYN o sa pediatrician para ma-refer sa espesyalista.

    2. Communication is key.

    Hinihikayat naman ni Dr. Abegail Joy Corro-De Pano na during the first postpartum check-up, kausapin nila ang kanilang doktor for any concerns about breastfeeding or latching. She reminds that it really takes a village to help a mom breastfeed. Dapat may support system sa bahay gaya ng asawa, kapamilya. Malaking bagay rin ang magagawa ng pagkakaroon ng me-time at pag-observe ng proper nutrition. Ika niya, kung happy ang mommy, happy ang baby.

    Ayon naman kay Dr. Rene Andrew Bucu na isa ring tatay, huwag balewalain ang tulong ng asawa bilang support system ng bagong nanay. “Communication is key. Dapat parehong magulang ay gustong mag-breastfeed,” sabi niya. Kuwento niya, kahit na mag-asawa silang doktor (OB-GYN ang kanyang misis), hindi pa rin naging madali sa kanila ang breastfeeding.

    Para naman sa mga tatay, bilin ni Dr. Bucu, “Do whatever is possible to help your wife breastfeed – change diapers, household work, masahe, o kahit ano pa. Happy mommy, happy baby, magiging happy daddy.” Inemphasize niya na ‘super worth it’ ang mag-push through with breastfeeding kaya kung may nararanasang hirap, humingi ng tulong.

    Mahalaga rin daw na naicocommunicate ng asawa ang pangangailangan ng bawat isa. Para naman kay Vickie Rushton, isang aktres, beauty queen, at bagong nanay na halos dalawang taon na sa pag-breastfeed ng kanyang anak, sapat na ang presence ng kanyang asawa at assurance na tama yung ginagawa mo.

    Diin ni Dr. Corro-De Pano, husbands really need someone to tell them what they need to do.

    3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle.

    Studies show that breastfeeding decreases the risk of depression among new mothers. Dahil nga naman sa breastfeeding, once you get the hang of it, mas makakatulog na ng mahaba ang nanay dahil imbis na gumising para magtimpla ng gatas sa gabi eh pwede naman ang side-lying.

    Pero meron ding mga pag-aaral na nagpapakita na ang pag-struggle naman sa breastfeeding ay nagiging cause ng anxiety and depression among new mothers. Dagdag pa rito, kapag raw nakararanas ng depression ang bagong nanay, nakakaapekto ito sa milk supply niya.

    Kaya mahalaga na mayroon physical and emotional support ang bagong nanay. Ayon kay Dr. Quiring, ang PPD ay masosolusyunan at hindi pang-habang buhay. Maaaring tumawag sa crisis hotlines ang mga nanay na nakakaranas ng sintomas ng depression, at maari ring magpatingin sa psychiatrist. Hindi nangangahulugan na kung may depression ay kailangan nang uminom ng medications, dahil iba-iba naman ang kaso. May mga iba pang interventions gaya ng talk therapy o family therapy.

    “Commit to the journey. The benefits outweigh all the difficulties.” Dr. Rene Andrew Bucu

    Inemphasize din niya na huwag balewalain ang healthy lifestyle, gaya ng pagkakaroon ng sapat na tulog, pahinga, at pagkakaroon ng physical activity.

    Panawagan naman ni Dr. Villanueva sa mga OB-GYN, sana raw bago pa manganak ang mga nanay ay makatanggap ito ng antenatal education and care. Kasama dito ang pag-alam kung ano ang dapat i-expect tungkol sa breastfeeding, sino ang makakasama ng ina pagkapanganak, at iba pa.

    Malaking bagay din daw kung maiwasan ang PPD lalo na kung madedetermine kung at risk ang nanay habang buntis pa lamang ito. Mahalaga rin ang pagkakaroon ng regular na screening para sa PPD ang mga bagong nanay.

    4. Use social media as a force for good.

    Tinalakay din kung paano nakakaapekto ang social media sa mga bagong nanay. May nagsabi na puro ingay lang daw ang social media dahil sa mga “perfect mom” na pinoportray ng iba sa Facebook at Instagram. Pero ayon kay Vickie, dahil buo ang loob niya na mag-breastfeed simula pa lamang, hindi siya naapektuhan ng nakikita niya sa social media. Si Dra. Villanueva din, na madalas makakita ng iba’t-ibang posts ng breastfeeding dahil sa algorithm ng social media, na-motivate daw siyang mag-breastfeed lalo na pag nakakabasa siya ng success stories about breastfeeding.

    Diin naman ni Dr. Bucu, naglipana ang mga article sa social media na may click-bait headline, dahilan minsan kung bakit ang ibang nanay ay nawawalan ng kumpiyansa sa pag-breastfeed, “Learn how to make social media a force of good,” sabi niya.

    Final words

    Para sa mga Bagong Nanay na nagpapadede, kung may nararanasan kayong hirap, ask help agad kasi may solusyon. Kapag pinatagal natin, lalong lalala.

    Sana po sa simula ng breastfeeding ay walang judgment dahil ang mga nanay ay lunod na sa paghuhusga sa sarili.

    Maigi raw na magpatuloy na magpadede up to 2 years and beyond. Huwag lang kalimutang alagaan ang sarili — our children deserve moms and dads who are healthy mentally and physically.

    Ang ina raw ay ilaw ng tahanan, pero kung may mental health problem, nagiging madilim ang bahay. Strengthen the support system. Let’s raise the children and mother together. Bukas ang mga doktor kung may kailangang tulong. Tanggalin ang stigma, at huwag mahiyang mag-ask for help.

    Dr. Bucu emphasizes, “Commit to the journey. The benefits outweigh all the difficulties.”

    Kay Dr. Quiring naman, pinaalala niya na there’s no health without mental health. “No man is an island. We are here to help families and influence systems.”

    Paalala naman ni Vickie, “just add water.” Payo niya sa mga nanay, drink lots of water at maligo.

    Finally, sabi ng mga doktor na ang village ng isang bagong nanay ay extended sa workplace. Sana mas palawakin pa ng mga kumpanya ang pag-intindi sa mga nanay na bagong panganak para mas mapagtagumpayan nila ang breastfeeding.

    Maraming salamat, doctors, sa pagbibigay halaga sa mga Bagong Nanay. Para sa mga Bagong Nanay na nangangailangan ng kausap, join kayo sa Viber group namin. If you are in crisis, call NCMH Crisis Hotlines: (02) 1553 (Luzon landline), 0917-899-8727 (Globe), or 0908-639-2672 (Smart).

    Nakaranas din ako ng postpartum depression bilang isang first-time mom sa panahon ng COVID-19 pandemic. Watch my interview with Beacon here.

  • This Malunggay Juice for Padede Moms has Collagen, Glutathione, and More!

    This Malunggay Juice for Padede Moms has Collagen, Glutathione, and More!

    Pero masarap kaya?

    Hi, Bagong Nanay!

    Kumusta? Ako, okay naman. As a full-time breastfeeding mom for 10 months now (total of almost five years), I’m always on the lookout for breastmilk boosters. Hindi kasi madali magpadede, kaya kailangan natin ng tulong.

    Nasubukan ko na ata most of the malunggay products in the market. Naging reseller din ako during the pandemic ng mga breastfeeding supplements. Fan na fan ako ng malunggay simula high school, kasi isa yan sa naging research topics namin. Haha. Studies also showed that malunggay helps increase breastmilk supply among mothers.

    Kaya when I came across a mom’s post on Threads, saying, she and her husband made their own blend of malunggay drink for postpartum recovery and lactation, talagang nag-mental note ako na itatry ko ito. Plus, it is FDA-approved, so it’s a go.

    Bagong Nanay Reviews: Cuddle and Coo Malunggay and Acai Berry Drink

    So I spoke with Mommy Ara, the mom behind Cuddle and Coo Malunggay and Acai Berry Drink on Instagram. Kuwento niya, she and her friends came up with the formulation, and she’s very happy and proud of her product. Sila ni husband niya rin ang nagpapack ng orders and nagbebenta, so super inspiring!

    I bought a sampler pack on her TikTok shop, and received it the next day. A sampler pack has two sachets, and it costs P60.

    cuddle and coo malunggay and acai berry juice
    My 6-year-old Lia poses with our Bagong Nanay haul

    Taste test

    Siyempre, family affair ang pag-try namin sa bagong malunggay drink na ito. Si Tatay Kevin kasi, natuwa na merong ingredient na collagen for his joints. Si Lia naman, gusto itry dahil mahilig siya sa juice. Tinry muna namin with cold water and ice, and it’s a treat.

    cuddle and coo malunggay and acai berry juice
    Packaging of Cuddle and Coo Malunggay and Acai Berry Juice sampler pack

    “Lasang berry,” sabi ni Tatay. “It’s so yummy,” naman ang sabi ng aking 6-year-old. For me, masarap siya! Hindi mo agad malalasahan yung malunggay, which sometimes would come off as too herby or strong at aayawan ng iba. Ito, mas berry siya than herby kaya masarap at madali siyang inumin.

    Effective ba sa padede mom?

    Before bedtime, tinry ko naman ang hot version ng drink. Dito magkakaalaman, kasi first day ng aking menstrual period. According to doctors, may effect talaga ang period sa milk supply. Dahil sa changes in hormones, naaaffect nito ang breastmilk supply kaya naman perfect timing ang pag-inom ko ng aking malunggay juice.

    mug with cuddle and coo malunggay and acai berry juice
    My padede mug with hot Cuddle and Coo Malunggay and Acai Berry Juice

    Nakailang feeds ang aking baby throughout the night, at nasatisfy ko naman siya. Though I couldn’t prove na yung isang tasa ng malunggay juice ang nakatulong, I must say I wanted to try more para maprove ko na it really helps increase breastmilk supply.

    The verdict

    For its price of P30 per serving, iisipin mo agad na medyo pricey siya compared sa competitors niya. Pero when you look at its active ingredients kasi, you’ll realize na sobrang sulit niya.

    Aside from malunggay, it has marshmallow root (rich in antioxidants), fernblock (immune system support), milk thistle (prolactin like moringa), goji berry (fiber), collagen (skin elasticity), and L-glutathione (reduced oxidative stress). It’s sweetened by Stevia!

    Dahil siksik sa nutrients with a very refreshing taste ang Cuddle and Coo Malunggay and Acai Berry Juice Drink, I highly recommend it to all Bagong Nanays!

    Buy Cuddle and Coo Malunggay and Acai Berry Juice on TikTok or chat with them on Instagram.

  • #BagongNanayReviews: Mega-Malunggay Capsules

    #BagongNanayReviews: Mega-Malunggay Capsules

    Are you also like me who is not fond of taking supplements in the form of capsules or tablets? I don’t know about you, but I don’t like the thought that I am taking medicines when I am perfectly fine. That’s why when I started breastfeeding, I prefer eating lactation treats or drinking malunggay as tea. You can read my review about my favorite malunggay tea here.

    But then there are days when I feel like my breasts are empty and my daughter’s about to feed, but I’m too tired or just too lazy to prepare a drink. That’s when – fine – these green, awkward-tasting malunggay capsules come handy.

    There are five reasons why I started taking Mega-Malunggay Capsules to help boost my breastmilk supply:

    1. It is widely used by moms.

    2. It doesn’t contain sugar.

    3. It is easy to take.

    4. It is cheap.

    5. It’s worth it.

    Not all hype

    A lot of celebrity moms and influencers have been promoting Mega-Malunggay capsules. I remember seeing a giant billboard of Bianca Gonzales promoting this VPharma product along EDSA.

    Photo credits: Bianca Gonzales’ Facebook account

    My favorite momma peg, Iya Villania-Arellano, also uses it, and promotes it on Instagram. I thought it was all hype, not until I used it myself.

    Photo from Iya Villania Arellano’s Instagram account

    Healthy option

    While it feels so good to give in to all the lactation treats available – tea, chocolate drink, coffee, cookies – name it, some moms just don’t like too much sugar. We Bagong Nanays are conscious about getting our prenatal body back. So a sugar-free lactation aid is always a good idea.

    Photo from VPharma’s Facebook page

    This is also the product preferred by pregnant moms who have been diagnosed to have gestational diabetes.

    No-frills malunggay

    Because of Mega-Malunggay, you don’t need to ask your husband to climb your malunggay tree, or ask your neighbor to spare you some leaves. You don’t need to go into the hassle of removing the malunggay leaves from the stems.

    Mega-Malunggay is made of pure malunggay leaves, and one capsule is already equivalent to 3/4 cup of malunggay leaves. You can also open the capsule up, and just sprinkle the malunggay powder to your food and drink!

    Photo from VPharma’s Facebook page

    Did you know that you can start taking Mega-Malunggay capsules on your 32nd week?

    Value for money

    For only 9.50php per capsule, it gives you the peace of mind that you can produce enough milk for your baby. Its effect varies per person, but based on my experience, taking Mega-Malunggay before bedtime gives me enough milk to put my baby to sleep. That’s of course complemented with unli-latch and enough rest and sleep.

    Mega-Malunggay has no approved therapeutic claims. But it is Halal-Certified and FDA-approved safe.

    Best in the market

    I used to take Natalac because it was readily available in drugstores. However, it only has 250g of malunggay. That’s why Mega-Malunggay is mega – it has the highest milligram available of malunggay plus 100mg of vitamin C.

    Photo: bagongnanay

    It works for me, and I hope it works for you too, Bagong Nanay. Would you like to try Mega-Malunggay? Comment below and I will give you a discount on your first order. You can also order your stocks at The Bagong Nanay Shop. Get it today.

  • #BagongNanayReviews: M2 Malunggay Tea

    #BagongNanayReviews: M2 Malunggay Tea

    As a #BagongNanay, one of our greatest concerns post-partum is our ability to feed and nourish our child.

    In my experience, I attended seminars when I was still pregnant, and I was fully committed to breastfeeding my child. But sometimes, no matter how prepared we are, we become faced with challenges that would alter our plans and test our faith.

    As for me, I gave birth six weeks earlier than expected. I didn’t know what went wrong: I had complete check-ups, took my vitamins, and ate healthy. But then it happened. My water bag broke when my baby was still 33 weeks and 5 days in my womb.

    Thus, I had to undergo an emergency C-section. This caused my first breastmilk to only come out after three days of trying and pumping. You can read the full story here.

    I’m happy that I didn’t give up, and I am still breastfeeding until today. My daughter is almost two years old. One of the things that helped me through my breastfeeding journey is the first product I would write about here in #BagongNanayReviews.

    Breastfeeding is not easy. It is wonderful, but sometimes we could use some help.

    Here’s why Bagong Nanay highly recommends the M2 Malunggay Tea:

    1. It is healthy.

    2. It is delicious.

    3. It is very convenient.

    4. It is affordable.

    5. It works.

    Healthy beverage

    First things first – M2 Malunggay Tea is FDA-approved as a nutritional beverage, unlike other supplements that have no approved therapeutic claims. Thus, you are sure that it is genuinely healthy, and not just a placebo.

    M2 Malunggay Okra Luya Tea is a product of NaturEarth Corporation. Visit their website here: naturearthph.com

    Just read up on the nutrient content of malunggay, then look up okra and ginger. You can thank me later.

    It’s not only good for lactating moms, but also for husbands and kids 1 year old and up.

    Surprisingly delicious

    I won’t judge you if at first you would hesitate to try this tea simply because you read that it’s made from malunggay, okra, and ginger.

    Okra is one of the vegetables that most people don’t like to eat because of its texture. But surprisingly, the M2 Malunggay Tea tastes like the house-blend iced tea of some popular fastfood and restaurants.

    Pro tip: Squeeze a slice of lemon or calamansi to make it more refreshing.

    I love my M2 Malunggay Tea iced and with lemon.

    Easy to prepare

    If, like me, you are not that lucky to have a malunggay tree in your backyard, you would know that malunggay is a rare item in supermarkets.

    And how many times would you cook tinolang manok just to use up all the malunggay leaves that you bought? Not to mention how daunting it is to remove the malunggay leaves (my husband is very particular, and doesn’t like to see stems in his tinola).

    Imagine the time and effort saved by just drinking M2 – pour a little of the concentrate on your tumbler, add water, pop some ice cubes, and you’re ready to go!

    Very affordable

    When you are a breastfeeding mom, there is nothing more stressful than thinking that your breastmilk supply is not enough for your child.

    If you buy a one liter concentrate of M2 Malunggay Tea at 280php, you can already use it to prepare up to 17 glasses of tea. That’s approximately 16php per serving. As for me, I drink two servings per day – one during lunch and then one during dinner.

    M2 Malunggay Iced Tea and Lumpiang Togue for merienda!

    For only 32php a day, you can already see the results. You would feel your breasts welling up milk, and you will be more confident that your child will have enough breastmilk for the day.

    Proven effective

    I can only speak from experience. I am breastfeeding my child for almost 19 months now. I attribute this success to the following factors: letting her latch whenever she wants, getting six to eight hours of sleep, and drinking M2 Malunggay Tea.

    Yes, I believe that this product has greatly helped me in my breastfeeding journey that it is as important as unli-latch and sleep. I believe in it so much that I became an authorized reseller of the product since August 2020. Since then, I’ve been helping other Bagong Nanays in their breastfeeding journey as well – all thanks to M2.

    M2 works for this mommy too! Happy to help.

    If you want to try this product, send me a message here, and tell me that you found out about it by reading this blog. I will give you a discount on your first order. :)

    So that’s it for the first of many #BagongNanayReviews! Comment down if you have anything to say about M2 Malunggay Tea too!

    Nanay Judy

  • Dudo

    Dudo

    I can still remember how hard I tried just to express breastmilk for Lia.
    Since she was born six weeks earlier than expected, she had to stay at the NICU. When the visiting hours are up, I would go back to my room, trying to pinch my breasts for any sign of milk. I asked Kevin to buy me an electric pump to help me.

    On the 3rd day of continuous trying, I produced my first ever colostrum. It was embarrassingly little – not even 1mL. I used a syringe to collect it, placed it in a bag, and went down to NICU to hand it over. It was 10PM.

    Thank God, my Ate Erin went ahead and posted on Facebook that Lia needs breastmilk donation. Thank God for Emee, who responded and shared half of her precious milk stash for Lia. I will forever be grateful.
    Time came when Kevin and I had to leave the hospital. It was the hardest part – going home without our baby.

    Whenever we reach home, I would feel the emptiness. I would religiously pump, every 2 hours, so that I can bring some bags for her the next day.

    Every day we would go to Capitol, and I would stay there to breastfeed Lia, sometimes from 9 to 9. I would hold my pee and my hunger just so I won’t have to let go of her. Just so I can feed her, so she can reach the needed weight, so we can bring her home.

    Finally, after 20 days, we brought her home. And since then, I never left her again. My boobs – which were non-essential for 29 years haha – finally had a purpose. They were Lia’s bestfriends. Haha. Every day and every night, she would look for them. For comfort, for nourishment, for security that Nanay is just here.

    There were days when I doubted my breasts when Lia doesn’t gain much weight. When we go to our monthly pedia check-ups, I would summon all the angels and saints just so the weighing scale would tip. I’ve been waiting for Lia’s pedias to say it – “You are not producing enough milk that’s why she isn’t gaining weight. It’s time for Lia to supplement.” But God is good, they never did.

    There were also nights when I would wake Kevin up and tell him that my breasts are engorged. Nothing’s coming out but they are swollen. He would tell me to pump, to take a hot shower, and our last resort: wake Lia up and let her latch. Those were the toughest nights – I would cry because of the pain, and also because of the possibility that just like that my milk’s gone.

    But we keep pushing, taking in malunggay in all its forms – leaves, powder, capsule, pasta, chocolate and tea drink. I made my own rolled oats with chia, flax seeds, and yogurt. God is so good, we are still at it. Still exclusively breastfeeding to date. Thank God for Kevin, for he never doubted me.

    I remember those days when I would sit outside the NICU, reading a tarpaulin with signatures of doctors and staff saying breastmilk is the best milk.

    I remember those days when I would patiently pump at the clinic in our office, excusing myself from meetings, just so I can bring home something for Lia.

    I remember that one day when, for the first time, Lia latched on my breast.
    It felt like I found my purpose. I felt like my life mattered.
    Someone depends on me. Someone needs me.

    More importantly, someone loves me.
    This afternoon, Lia and I were having fun while she feeds.
    She would pinch my nipple or dudo, and when milk comes out, she will squeal and laugh.

    God, I love her so much.

    #AugustisWorldBreastfeedingMonth