Between Saturdays
Research this week highlights early health risks, emotional support for parents, and the surprising science behind mindfulness.
Listen to our Podcast: Breaking Stereotypes: A Hijabi Woman’s Story
Read our Deep Dive: Plastics Inside Us – The Science of Microplastics and Human Health
There’s a lot of research out there, but not all of it feels useful for real life. This week’s highlights: what early antibiotics mean for kids’ health, the real challenges of breastfeeding support, how mindfulness changes the brain, and new data on environmental risks.
Here’s a quick roundup of what’s worth knowing.
Caught My Eye…
Early antibiotic use linked to higher obesity risk
A new study featured in The Sun highlights an unsettling trend: toddlers who receive antibiotics early in life may have twice the risk of developing obesity later on. Researchers believe this is due to the disruption antibiotics cause in the gut microbiome during critical developmental windows. These microbial communities influence everything from metabolism to inflammation—and when disturbed, the effects can be long-lasting. While antibiotics are often necessary, the study reinforces the importance of using them judiciously and seeking alternative treatments where appropriate. Parents are encouraged to ask questions and work with pediatricians to ensure antibiotics are only prescribed when truly needed.Breastfeeding struggles and maternal mental health deserve more attention
A thoughtful piece in The Guardian explores a side of breastfeeding that doesn’t often make headlines: the emotional burden many mothers carry when feeding doesn’t go as planned. Despite public health campaigns that center "breast is best," there’s often little acknowledgment of the mental health struggles that can arise when breastfeeding is difficult, painful, or impossible. Mothers may feel isolated, ashamed, or pressured to persist even at the cost of their wellbeing. This article calls for a more compassionate, flexible approach to infant feeding—one that prioritizes both the baby's and the mother's health equally, without guilt or judgment.Mindfulness can literally reshape your brain
Research shared by Boston University underscores just how powerful mindfulness can be—not just as a coping tool, but as a way to physically rewire the brain. Through neuroplasticity, consistent mindfulness practice strengthens regions linked to emotional regulation, memory retention, and stress management. Over time, these changes can enhance resilience, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental wellbeing. Even small, consistent practices like mindful breathing, gratitude journaling, or body scans can trigger these beneficial brain adaptations. For parents juggling endless responsibilities, mindfulness offers a way to build internal calm even when external chaos is unavoidable.Microplastics are now found in human blood, brains, and ovaries
In my recent Deep Dive, I explored alarming new research that shows how deeply microplastics have infiltrated the human body. These tiny plastic fragments have been found in ovarian follicular fluid, brain tissue, bloodstreams, and even placentas. Scientists are concerned about potential long-term impacts, including disruptions to reproductive health, cognitive function, and chronic inflammation. Despite growing evidence, regulation and public health policies addressing plastic exposure remain minimal. Raising awareness—and advocating for safer consumer products—has never been more critical.Short mindful pauses may improve parenting patience
A small pilot study published this month reveals that 30-second mindfulness breaks can have a surprisingly strong impact on parenting. Parents who paused briefly throughout the day to breathe deeply or center their awareness reported lower irritability and more responsive, patient interactions with their children. These tiny shifts helped them manage tantrums, sibling conflicts, and general daily stress more gracefully. The research suggests that building micro-moments of mindfulness into a busy schedule could be more practical and effective for parents than trying to carve out large blocks of "self-care" time. Sometimes, a few intentional breaths can reset an entire afternoon.Calls grow for 'antibiotic stewardship' programs in pediatric care
Following multiple studies linking antibiotic overuse to obesity, asthma, and antibiotic resistance, leading pediatricians are pushing for structured antibiotic stewardship programs. These initiatives would aim to educate both healthcare providers and parents about the risks of overprescribing, promote evidence-based prescribing habits, and encourage microbiome-protective practices. Stewardship programs could help families navigate infections thoughtfully, ensuring that when antibiotics are necessary, they're used wisely—and when they’re not, safer alternatives are explored. Experts argue that empowering parents with better information is key to shifting old prescribing norms and safeguarding children’s long-term health.