Fiber is Fun with Pedia-Lax! Review and Giveaway

If your kid is anything like mine, it's quite a challenge to get him/her to eat healthily. Nate won't touch most fruits or veggies - even though I offer them regularly - so I just know he's not getting all the daily vitamins and minerals he needs. Recently, the AAP changed their recommendations regarding fiber intake for children. The "age plus five" rule no longer applies. They now recommend kids ages 2-3 years eat 19 grams of fiber per day and kids 4-8 should eat 25 grams of fiber per day! It's no wonder that research shows 90% of children don't get enough fiber in their daily diets.

Pedia-Lax is helping to bridge the gap with their Fiber Gummies. Made for children ages 2-11, these adorable penguin-shaped gummies are:

• made with natural fruit flavors
• sugar-free
• calorie-free
• gluten-free
• dentist-approved
• parent-tested, parent-approved

Just three gummies a day provides 6 grams of fiber - that's the equivalent to 1/2 cup of broccoli!

I had the chance to review Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies last year but since Nate turned two just a few weeks ago, it is only recently that we've incorporated them into his daily diet. They are leafy greens disguised in a yummy treat! Unlike other high-fiber foods such as bran or spinach, I don't have to fight with him to eat his gummies. As a matter of fact, he sees the bottle on our kitchen counter and asks for one throughout the day! I love that they help keep his digestive tract more regular and that they're not full of sugar that will decay his teeth.

However, as much as we love our new supplement, we can't depend on it to fulfill the entire daily requirement of fiber. We still have to make sure our children get a well-rounded diet, which can be harder during back-to school season when it's nearly impossible to keep track of their eating habits. Liz Weiss, registered dietitian and co-author of The Moms' Guide to Meal Makeovers, offers six tricks for adding extra fiber to children's diets:

1. Go with Guacamole: Kids love to dunk foods, so introduce a new dip. Create a kid-friendly guacamole by combining at least 3/4 of a mashed, ripe avocado with some coarsely chopped fresh cilantro and a dash of freshly-squeezed lime juice. Offer sliced raw veggies or whole-grain tortilla chips on the side for even more fiber grams
2. Fiberlicious French Toast: Many kids shy away from “brown bread,” but if you disguise it as something else, you can easily add more fiber at the start of the day. Make French toast by switching from traditional white bread to 100% whole wheat bread, and top with ¼ cup of naturally-sweet fresh strawberries or try a sliced banana for a few more grams of fiber.
3. Penguin Power: Boost your child’s fiber (age 2-11) with Pedia-Lax® Fiber Gummies; just three delicious, penguin-shaped gummies add 6 grams of fiber to your child's daily diet. They can be taken together or given one per meal.
4. Makeover Delight: Meatloaf is a staple on most family dinner menus. Take your favorite meatloaf recipe and upgrade it with more fiber by adding 1/3 cup of ground flaxseed, one shredded carrot and a 15 oz. can of drained black beans. Your delicious meatloaf just got better!
5. An Apple a Day: Parents tend to peel apples, but leaving the skin on a medium sized apple and slicing it up for easy eating keeps it to five grams of fiber. Add a tablespoon of peanut butter on the edges (if kids balk at the peel) for an extra gram of fiber.
6. Smooth it Over: Choose a fiber-rich yogurt with at least 5 grams of fiber and blend with your favorite fruit. The enriched yogurt alone is a great fiber source, but the fruit adds even more.

For complete recipes, head on over to www.mealmakeovermoms.com.

BUY IT: You can find Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies at your local grocery or drug store, including CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid (ARV $7.99/60 ct.).

You can also visit www.fibergummies.com for recipes, tips, tricks and a fiber diary to see how your current menu fares. You'll also find a $1.00 coupon!

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win their own bottle of Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the Fiber Gummies website and tell me something you learned that I didn't mention above. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Make fiber fun with Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies for ages 2-11 @kris10chumley! Ends 9/6 http://bit.ly/ccg6gF

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Become a fan of Pedia-Lax Gummies on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 6, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I will receive a free bottle of Pedia-Lax Gummies from Laura at Robin Leedy Associates to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review and purely my own. Your experience with this product may differ. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Before using this product, you should consult your child's physician for a complete evaluation.

Review and Giveaway: Cystex

Did you know that urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect more than 60% of women and are the second most common type of infection in the body? UTIs account for 8.3 million doctor visits each year and have a recurrence rate of more than 40%. I have suffered with chronic UTIs for years so I can attest to their pain and sheer annoyance. While I try to use the old cranberry juice remedy before calling the doctor, I just can't tolerate the bitter tang so I usually wind in up in an urgent care waiting room, leaving with a prescription for antibiotics.

You may remember my review for Cystex last year. But just in case your memory is fuzzy, let me give you the skinny. Cystex Urinary Pain Relief Tablets are the only OTC medication to help manage UTIs while waiting to see a doctor. It is the only product that combines an analgesic pain-reliever and an antibacterial agent to stop the progression of the infection.

Well, Cystex has now introduced a Liquid Cranberry Complex to promote urinary health. Just one tablespoon provides the benefit of eight glasses of cranberry juice! The clinically-proven formula is lactose, gluten and sugar-free with only one calorie per tablespoon. Beat that, cranberry cocktail!

Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex is so much more than just a cranberry concentrate. Its proprietary Proantinox blend also contains D-Mannose, inulin, bromelain and vitamin C to boost bladder health. Just one convenient tablespoon daily can aid in UTI prevention. A new study, being published in the journal Urology, shows 91% of women taking daily Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex remained free of recurring UTIs.

Now, I have not yet tried the Cystex Liquid but I have used their signature tablets in the past (not daily but as a preventative after activities that tend to bring on infection) with success. Since liquid tends to enter your system faster than pills, I think this new formula a great option for those who need instant relief but can't stomach 100% cranberry juice.

BUY IT: You can find the new Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex at drug stores and retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Walgreens, Rite Aid and Duane Reade (ARV $9.95).

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win a bottle of Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Cystex and tell me something you learned on the site. Be sure to leave me your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about the contest. You may use the tweet below or come up with one of your own:

UTIs are a pain! Give your bladder a break with Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex @kris10chumley! Ends 9/4 http://bit.ly/aH5InO

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on September 4, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. U.S. residents only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

NOTE: This product does NOT take the place of a medical professional or antibiotics. All infections must be treated with antibiotics and if you suspect you have a UTI, please consult your physician.

Disclaimer: I received a free bottle of Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex from Laura at Robin Leedy & Associates to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post.

Review and Giveaway: Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine-Time Flavor Spray CLOSED

Thank you to FlavorX for participating in the Bloggy Birthday Blowout Event on Goodie Goodie Gumdrops!

There's nothing more pitiful than watching your little one as they struggle with a case of the nasties. The coughing. The runny nose. The fever and clammy skin. One look at that pouty, downtrodden face and you just want to scoop them up in your arms and take the pain away. Unfortunately, for us mommies, administering the necessary medication can be a nightmare. Flailing arms. Screaming. Gagging. We go through this just about every single time we approach Nate with a dropper.

Thankfully, the pediatric flavoring gurus at FlavorX and Yo Gabba Gabba are teaming up to take the "ick" out of sick with their new Medicine-Time Flavor Spray. This DazzleBerry-flavored liquid helps mask the bitterness of medications by covering the taste buds of the tongue. Just a few spritzes before and after taking medicine helps keep the yuck at bay. Created by a pharmacist, Yo Gabba Gabba! Medicine-Time Spray is sugar and dye-free, non-allergenic, gluten and casein-free.

Luckily, Nate has been able to avoid illness this summer but Mommy is another story. A couple of weeks ago, I caught Strep Throat and had to take Penicillin to get rid of the infection. If you're not allergic and have taken Penicillin in the past, you probably know that the pills smell and taste horrible. Plus, I had to drink a nasty liquid medicine to soothe my achy throat. I knew it was for kids but figured it was as good a time as any to test out this Medicine-Time Spray. And wow...I have to say it was pretty darn good! The taste was much better than I had expected. Two sprays were just sweet enough to make my meds more tolerable. And there was no numbing feeling or funky aftertaste. I had to summon Nate and spray some in his mouth just to see his reaction. He was a little leery at first - as he is with anything out of the ordinary - but after one squirt, he tried to chase me down to get the bottle! I'd say it was a bonafide hit in our house.

I don't ever want Nate to get sick but I am curious how he'll fare once we add medicine to the mix. I like that the spray design is easy to use so slightly older children can even use it themselves (supervised, of course). The only potential disadvantage to this product is the price. At $9.99/bottle, it may seem a little on the expensive side. But since each bottle contains over 200 sprays, it will practically last forever. It's not a necessity but it sure is nice to have when your child resists medicine tooth and nail.

Bottom line: It's about time someone took Mary Poppins seriously. A spoonful of sugar really does help the medicine go down. Well, in this case, it's a sugar-free spray. But that's better for our teeth! I think it's genius to use familiar faces from a beloved program like Yo Gabba Gabba to ease children's worries, and in turn, make the parent's job a little less stressful. In the words of the Yo Gabba Gabba gang: try it, you'll like it!

BUY IT: You can purchase the FlavorX Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine-Time Spray online at Amazon.com (ARV $9.99).

WIN IT: Break it down...one lucky reader is going to win their very own bottle of Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine-Time Spray!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Tell me how you try to comfort your little one when he/she is sick. So easy! Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. If you already follow and/or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and FlavorX on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet of come up with one of your own:

Take the "ick" out of being sick with Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine-Time Spray from @FlavorX! Win it @kris10chumley Ends 8/26 http://bit.ly/dlnqAQ

Just leave a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) "Like" Goodie Goodie Gumdrops on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of FlavorX on Facebook. (1 entry)

5.) Add my Bloggy Birthday Blowout event button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

6.) Add my blog button to your site and comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on August 26, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received a free bottle of Yo Gabba Gabba Medicine-Time Spray from Natasha at FlavorX to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in my review are purely mine. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: StaphASeptic CLOSED

Two and a half years ago, I went through an experience I care to never repeat. It all started when I came across a small, hard bump on the back of my knee. I figured it was just an ingrown hair and thought nothing of it. Soon after, it grew to the size of a quarter and started to become painful. I made an appointment to see my primary care physician but they couldn't see me for a few more weeks. In that time, it grew to the size of a silver dollar and was so red and inflamed that I limped when I walked. I couldn't stand it anymore so I had my husband take me to urgent care, where they diagnosed me with a carbuncle - likely a result of a CA-MRSA infection that I picked up from the gym. I had to have the wound lanced, drained, packed and tended to for another month. And it took even more time for the area to heal and look normal again. I was completely traumatized by the incident and vowed to do everything in my power to stop this from ever happening again.

MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) is a type of staph infection that is resistant to antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin. The staph bacteria can cause skin infections that resemble pimples, boils or ingrown hairs and can be red, swollen, painful or have pus and other drainage. In the past, MRSA occurred only among patients in hospitals and healthcare facilities. But in recent years, cases have rapidly spread to the general population. MRSA infections that occur in healthy people who have not recently been hospitalized are known as CA-MRSA, or community-acquired MRSA.

Any open wound is a potential entry point for MRSA. While most staph and MRSA infections are treatable with IV antibiotics or by draining the abscess, it is possible for the infection to return after it is cured. In addition to washing your hands, showering and avoiding sharing personal items like towels or razors, you can now use StaphASeptic First Aid Antiseptic/Pain Relieving Gel to prevent bacterial infections caused by MRSA.



Applied to minor cuts and abrasions, StaphASeptic kills 99.9% of antibiotic resistant staph. StaphASeptic is a greaseless, non-staining gel that provides soothing minor wound care without stinging or irritation. It also contains lidocaine for topical pain relief. (Note: this product is NOT a treatment or cure for an existing infection, nor should it be used on serious wounds requiring medical attention).

I received a tube of StaphASeptic to review, right after I happened to nick myself shaving. I loved the flip-top design, which makes it easy and less messy to apply. I also liked that the gel went on clear so it didn't require a lot of rubbing in. I wasn't crazy about the strong medicinal smell and it did feel sticky and tacky for a few moments until it dried. However, it didn't sting or burn and gave me peace of mind, protecting my skin from that evil bacteria.

Because MRSA can strike anyone at anytime, StaphASeptic is something that should be in every first aid kit.

BUY IT: StaphASeptic can be found at CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens and other local drugstores. It is available in 1 and 2 oz. tubes, as well as single-use packets (ARV $7.99 - 49.99).

DELICIOUS DISCOUNT: Click on the link below to receive a printable coupon for $1 off StaphASeptic!

WIN IT: I have another 2 oz. tube of StaphASeptic up for grabs for one lucky reader - a $15 value!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the StaphASeptic website and tell me something you learned. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Keep MRSA away with StaphASeptic First Aid Antiseptic Pain Relieving Gel @kris10chumley Ends 7/5 http://bit.ly/czrZce

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

4.) Become a fan of StaphASeptic on Facebook. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on July 5, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. residents 18+ only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: Thank you to the Product Review Place for this opportunity. I received a free tube of StaphASeptic ointment to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed are solely mine. Your experience may differ. The information presented does not take the place of medical advice. If you suspect you have a skin infection, please consult your physician.

Contest and Giveaway: Proactiv CLOSED

Several months ago, you may remember I reviewed the 3-Step Program from Proactiv Solution. (If you skipped over that one, you definitely want to go back and check out the amazing results.) Proactiv is the world's #1 acne treatment, and for good reason.

Proactiv uses Combination Therapy to target the root causes of acne - bacteria, oil production and dead skin cell buildup - to heal and soothe acne-prone skin. Developed by leading dermatologists, Proactiv helps to clear up existing breakouts, reduce inflammation, and prevent new breakouts from occurring.

Proactiv has had a number of celebrity spokespeople including Jessica Simpson, Avril Lavigne, Alicia Keys, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Alyssa Milano, Julianne Hough and many more. One of the latest to join the campaign for clear skin is pop star Katy Perry. You can check out her full commercial or her video for "Why Proactiv?" below:



Did you happen to catch that sweet ride in the background? You have a chance to win the retro-chic beach cruiser featured in the commercial! This white bike with aqua trim features a very special California license plate, autographed by Katy herself! All you have to do is show your "like" for the Proactiv Facebook page and register for the sweepstakes. The bike is the grand prize but four runners-up will receive a Proactiv product assortment package valued at $400!

The contest is running now through June 1. For more details or to enter, visit http://www.facebook.com/Proactiv. Joining the Proactiv Facebook community will also keep you in the know about the latest announcements, fan stories, tips, special offers and behind-the-scenes videos.

BUY IT: You don't have anything to lose but those pimples! You can purchase Proactiv products online at www.proactiv.com , by phone at 1-888-248-8444 or...

WIN IT: One lucky GGG reader is going to win their own Proactiv 3-step system, like I previously reviewed - a $20 value!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Go to Proactiv and tell me something you learned on the site. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and Proactiv on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Get rid of acne once and for all with @Proactiv! #Win a 3-step skincare system @kris10chumley ENDS 6/7 http://bit.ly/crE1ku

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of Proactiv on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on June 7, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted in my previous review, I received a Proactiv 3-Step System from Traci at Healthstar P.R. to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for my review or this giveaway post. The thoughts and opinions expressed are solely mine. Your experience may differ.

Fend Off The Flu with Triaminic *Giveaway and Coupon* CLOSED

I never realized how bad flu season was until I had my son. For the past two winters, we've been hermits, caged indoors due to never-ending coughs and colds. December was particularly nasty for us. Nate caught a double ear infection and my husband and I both developed sinus infections. Fun times...not! And since peak season lasts through March, I know we're not out of the woods yet.

While they may not be able to harness the wind and ice, Triaminic is trying to make winter a little less miserable for families. For over 50 years, Triaminic has been the go-to brand for relief of children's cough, cold, flu and allergy symptoms. Their newest product line, Triaminic Thin Strips, are pre-measured strips that dissolve instantly on the tongue. No more measuring in the dark. No more splashes and spills. And no more fighting with your child to get them to swallow a hearty dose of liquid! These Thin Strips, as with all Triaminic cough medicines, are only for children over 4 years of age so we haven't had the chance to use them yet, but we will definitely be adding this to our medicine cabinet once Nate grows a bit older.

Triaminic knows that prevention is the best medicine, so they've developed two great online tools for parents to combat influenza: the Sick Day Guidelines and Cold & Flu Tracker.

We moms have a knack for knowing when our little ones are sick. Call it instinct but we can read our babies' body language and decipher those pathetic coughs and sniffles better than anyone else. But it's not always easy to judge whether or not your child is well enough to go to school or daycare. Triaminic has teamed up with the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) to develop Sick Day Guidelines that will help you make the call. Click on the link, print out the guide and hang it on your fridge so you'll be prepared for your child's next sick day.

Triaminic also provides an interactive Cold & Flu Tracker, which allows you to view the prevalence of cold and flu symptoms nationwide. Being aware of these trends in your area - or an area to which you may be traveling - can help you to be proactive against illness. Baltimore and Washington, D.C. are both "in the red" right now, meaning incidences of cold and flu in my area are very high. Yikes! Add this resource to your online bookmarks so this information is always at your fingertips.

BUY IT: You can find Triaminic products at your local grocer or drugstore (prices vary by product). Click on the link below to visit their website for a $1.50 off coupon for your favorite product!


WIN IT: Triaminic is kindly giving away a prize pack containing 4 boxes of Triaminic Thin Strips to one lucky reader (ARV $25.00)!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Tell me about the steps you are taking to prevent the flu this season. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method(s) you chose. If you already follow and/or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Add my blog button and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on February 12, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: In exchange for spreading the word about this campaign, I will be receiving a free box of Triaminic Thin Strips. I have not been compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions and thoughts expressed in this post are purely mine.

Giveaway: ZarBee's Cough Syrup CLOSED

Remember my review of Zarbee's Cough Syrup a few months ago? No? Well, I encourage you to go take a gander at it but if you're in a hurry, allow me to refresh your memory.

Zarbee's was invented by Dr. Zak Zarbock, a pediatrician who had become frustrated by his inability to help young patients suffering from coughs. You see, traditional cough syrups like Triaminic and Children's Robitussin are restricted to children 4 and over. But what about the little guys? Don't they need comfort too? So, he created a safe yet effective, all-natural cough syrup that provides relief from throat irritation while also boosting the immune system. Using a proprietary blend of dark honeys for their antioxidant power combined with vitamin C and zinc gluconate, Zarbee's is safe for children 12 months and older. It is available in two flavors: lemon and cherry.

We received two samples from Zarbee's to test out. So far, we've only used the lemon sample during a time when Nate's runny nose was causing some post-nasal drip and a heartbreaking cough. I found the scent of the syrup to be a little strong and off-putting but it did taste better than other medicines. It reminded me of a honey tea with a hint of clove. Maybe the cherry flavor would be a bit milder. It wasn't thick and goopy like some syrups. Instead, it was thin and easy to pour and measure. I struggled to get Nate to accept the first taste - perhaps because of the smell - but after that, he gladly opened up for more. Roughly 15 minutes later, his cough had mysteriously disappeared. So, I'd say it passed the test for us!

I love that the ingredients are natural and that he won't have to suffer with annoying coughs until he's a preschooler. I also like that it was developed by a pediatrician so I'm confident that he has my childs' health and best interest at heart. And since each dose provides his total daily serving of vitamin C, I know I'm doing all I can to protect him during cold and flu season.

BUY IT: You can find Zarbee's in select grocery and drugstores including Acme, Albertson's, Shaw's, and Supervalu, as well as online (ARV $9.99/4 oz. bottle). If ZarBee's is not available near you, you can request it by emailing requestlocation@zarbees.com.

WIN IT: Zarbee's has generously offered one bottle to one lucky reader!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the Zarbee's website and tell me something you learned or what you find most appealing about this product. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count! Remember to leave one comment per entry.

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me and @Zarbees on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Add my blog button and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry)

4.) Sign up for the Zarbee's newsletter. (1 entry)

5.) Enter any of my other current giveaways and leave a comment telling me which one(s) you entered. (1 entry each)

Giveaway will end on January 21, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As stated in my review, I was sent two samples of cough syrup from Zarbee's to facilitate this candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in my review are purely my own, and your experience may differ. Please consult your child's physician for a thorough diagnosis prior to treatment and use as directed.

Review and Giveaway: Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies CLOSED

My son, like many toddlers, is a carbohydrate fiend. Bring on the chicken nuggets, Cheerios and mac 'n cheese. Hold the oatmeal and green vegetables. And just about any fruit aside from cherries and peaches. But it's only a matter of time before his crispy, crunchy diet is bound to catch up with him and wreck havoc on his digestive system.

This year, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) increased its recommended daily fiber intake standards. These updated guidelines recommend 19 grams of fiber for ages 2-3 and 25 grams of fiber per day for ages 4-8. Not an easy accomplishment with busy schedules and finicky eaters that turn their nose up at healthy, high-fiber foods.

That's why Fleet, a trusted name in digestive health for over 100 years, has recently introduced Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies. Made for kids ages 2-11, these penguin-shaped gummies are designed to bridge the gap between the AAP recommendation and the amount of fiber that children actually consume daily. Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies are:

• Sugar-free
• Calorie-free
• Gluten-free
• Contain natural fruit flavors
• Dentist-approved

The serving size of three gummies per day is the equivalent of 1/2 cup of broccoli - but without the complaints!



In addition to this new product , Pedia-Lax has launched a new website, www.fibergummies.com. Aimed at parents, the Fiber Gummies website breaks down the fundamentals of fiber, explains how to diagnose constipation and offers educational tools and activities for children. One especially useful tool from the website is the "Fiber Diary" a.k.a. Poop Journal, where parents can view recommended fiber levels, get tips for fiber-rich foods and keep track of their child's dietary and bowel habits. Parents can also find quick, easy recipes to assist with meal planning and incorporate more fiber into their diet.

I was sent a bottle of Pedia-Lax Gummies to review. Now, Nate is just under 17 months - not quite 2 - so I wasn't comfortable trying it out on him yet. But I did taste one for myself out of curiosity. It was suprisingly good! Not medicinal or chalky like some vitamin gummies I've tasted. It tasted just like a fruit snack. I think this is something that all young children would willingly take - and would never realize it was a clever disguise for fiber.

Bottom line: I would highly recommend Pedia-Lax Fiber Gummies to supplement your child's fiber intake, particularly if you have a picky eater on your hands. I love that they taste like candy but lack the sugar, are good for him and won't make his dentist frown.

BUY IT: You can find Pedia-Lax Gummies and other Pedia-Lax products at Target, Walgreens and other supermarkets and retailers nationwide, as well as online (ARV $7.99/ 60 ct. bottle). You can also use their handy dandy store locator to find the vendor nearest you.

DELECTABLE DEAL: You can find a printable $1.00 off coupon for Pedia-Lax Gummies on the Pedia-Lax website!

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to recieve a bottle of Pedia-Lax Gummies to try for their little one!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit the Pedia-Lax Gummies website and tell me one thing you learned that I did NOT mention in my review. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Become a fan of Pedia-Lax Gummies on Facebook and leave me a comment with your profile name. (1 entry)

4.) Add my blog button and/or my holiday button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry for each)

5.) Enter any of my other current giveaways and leave a comment telling me which one(s) you entered. (1 entry each)

Giveaway will end on January 4, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received a bottle of Pedia-Lax Gummies from Laura at Robin Leedy Associates to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review and purely my own. Your experience with this product may differ. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Before using this product, you should consult your child's physician for a complete evaluation.

Review and Giveaway: PreHistin Allergy Relief CLOSED

My poor hubby. Little does he know I am about to divulge all of his medical issues online. Not only does he suffer from evil cold sores, but he also battles blasted allergies year-round. He reacts mildly to outdoor allergens like ragweed and grass but he is deathly allergic to cats. As in, his respiratory system shuts down, his eyes water like a leaky faucet and he wheezes and gasps for air. We've visited the ER for breathing treatments on more than one occasion due to unexpected encounters with kitties. Doctors say he could potentially asphyxiate if he's around feline dander for just a few minutes. If that isn't bad enough, he is also asthmatic. Talk about a walking mess.

He's on prescription medications to keep his asthma in check. But his anti-histamine for allergies, Zyrtec, only works after he is experiencing symptoms. By then, it's usually too late and the damage is done. So, when I was contacted to review some new allergy relief tablets, I once again made my husband a test subject. A willing one however!

Allergies develop as a result of hypersensitive reactions to foreign substances or airborne pollen. These allergens are associated with elevated levels of the antibody Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and an increased release of histamine. Overactive histamine triggers the symptoms we commonly identify with allergies, including itchy eyes and throat, sneezing, and congestion. Traditional anti-histamines reduce symptoms only after histamine has already been released in your body and you are suffering. PreHistin, the world's first pre-histamine, works at the core of allergy onset. It has been clinically shown to effectively regulate IgE levels, which means no more blotting your eyes and nose with tissue until they're raw. These annoying symptoms can now be totally abated! PreHistin is completely safe and natural, made from cobalamin (a pharmaceutical grade version of B12) to regulate and maintain a healthy immune response to allergens.

Allergist-recommended PreHistin can be used for both indoor and outdoor allergies, and is safe for long-term use. There are no known side effects (no constipation, dizziness or dry mouth), it is a non-drowsy formula and there are no dosage limits so you don't have to worry about overdosing. PreHistin does not conflict with other medications and it has even been shown to keep allergies at bay for weeks after discontinuing use.

We received a 60-day supply of PreHistin to review. The directions suggest beginning PreHistin treatment 30 days ahead of and throughout allergy season. You simply place a lozenge under the tongue twice per day until dissolved and swallow. The first time my husband tried it, he admitted the cherry flavor was "not the best medicine I've ever tasted" but said it was tolerable. It melted instantaneously, so he couldn't complain much about the taste. While we both felt that the twice a day application could be a bit inconvenient, he added, "if it works, I'd happily take it three times a day!" He's been taking PreHistin everyday for close to two weeks now and we haven't noticed much of a difference in his allergies for better or for worse. But the box notes the product may take several weeks to see optimal results since it works to reset your immune system. He will continue using PreHistin, as we believe it can be his first line of defense against those purring balls of fur.

Bottom line: I would recommend PreHistin as a natural alternative to allergy relief. Why suffer with debilitating allergy symptoms if you can prevent them from starting in the first place? Seems like a no-brainer to me!

BUY IT: You can purchase PreHistin tablets on www.prehistin.com. The suggested retail price is $29.99 for a 30-day supply but it is available for a limited time at $19.95 as an introductory offer, with a free 1-month supply added on! Six and twelve-month supplies are also available.

WIN IT: One lucky allergy sufferer is going to arm themselves this season with a 30-day supply of PreHistin!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): What allergies do you and/or your loved one suffer from? Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile or if you are not a blogger!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry)

3.) Add my blog button and/or my holiday button to your site and leave a comment with the link to where I can find it. (1 entry for each)

4.) Enter any of my other current giveaways and leave a comment telling me which one(s) you entered. (1 entry each)

Giveaway will end on December 30, 2009 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winners will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received a 60-day supply of PreHistin from Laurie at Robin Leedy Associates courtesy of Cobalis Corporation to facilitate my candid review. I was not compensated in any other way for this post. The opinions expressed in this review and purely my own. Your experience with and results from use of this product may vary. Always consult a physician for an exam and official diagnosis before using any OTC treatment option.

Review: Hyland's Teething Tablets

It's been a rough couple of days and nights here in Chez Gumdrop. You see, Nate is working on Tooth #9 (and quite possibly #10 concurrently), which just so happen to be his one-year molars. He's been absolutely miserable - fussy and clingy as ever. Considering the size of the lump on his gum, his anguish is understandable. I wince with sympathy, fortunate to have those own painful memories far, far behind me. Aside from wisdom teeth, that is. They must call them wisdom teeth since I'm forever haunted by the searing jaw pain. You learn how to drink the agony away. The flood of memories is all coming back to me. But alas, the "merlot method" is not safe for teething toddlers. No matter how many old-school parental units suggest whiskey as a teething aid.

We're running the gamut of symptoms. Wakeful nights. Slight fever. Constant drool that reeks of the distinct, sweet smell of cutting teeth. Biting. Crying. Screaming. As baby suffers, mama suffers. Both our sanities are at risk. We had it lucky in Nate's first year. Even as he cut his first eight teeth seemingly all at once, he handled it like a pro. Aside from the plethora of saliva, you never would've guessed that he was teething. But molars are a different ball game. They're bigger. Hence, a bigger pain.

I want nothing more than to take the discomfort away from him. Nate doesn't really care for the taste of Baby Orajel and it only numbed the area for about 5 minutes before he was back to crying. And I'm uncomfortable pumping him full of Tylenol or Motrin all day long, for days at a time.

Thank goodness we found Hyland's Teething Tablets.

I first found out about the teething tablets from a fellow mom, who was struggling with her own teething baby many months ago. Her baby girl was only 4 months old and already exhibiting signs of teething. An early bird, much to her mama's dismay. Baby Orajel and Tylenol weren't really relieving the pain and at 4 months, her little girl was too young to try Motrin. So, out of desperation, she frantically scoured her local drugstore for another option and came across Hyland's Teething Tablets. She was a bit skeptical. There's no way a homeopathic tablet could succeed where the more ubiquitous medications have failed. Right? But after just one dose, her daughter was back to her sweet smiling self. She now jokes that she should be paid as a marketing executive for Hyland's since she tells everyone she comes across about the teething tablets.

So what exactly are Hyland's Teething tablets?

Hyland’s Teething Tablets provide a natural, homeopathic formula for symptoms of simple restlessness and wakeful irritability due to the cutting of teeth. It reduces pain, inflammation, fever, drooling and the discomfort of teething. It stimulates your baby's natural healing response to relieve symptoms.

If you're like me, you're always a little weary about the ingredients in homeopathic methods and their potential side effects. Hyland's Teething Tablets are made of:

• Calcarea Phosphorica, a mineral which supports dentition
• Chamomilla, a botanical, for irritability
• Coffea Cruda, a botanical, for wakefulness and diuresis
• Belladonna (0.0003% Alkaloids), a botanical, for redness and inflammation

All of the active ingredients listed above are microdoses and are non-toxic. In fact, if an infant were to swallow an entire bottle of Hyland's Teething Tablets, he or she would not experience any side effects! You can also use the tablets in conjunction with Tylenol or Motrin if you child has a fever.

Hyland's Teething Tablets are free of benzocaine - which means no numbing effect associated with similar products on the market - and contains no artificial flavoring or dyes. They are also sugar and lactose-free! The tablets are small and soft, and dissolve instantly in the mouth. Or, if you prefer, you can administer after dissolving them in a teaspoon of water. This means zero risk of choking.

Unlike Tylenol or Motrin, there is no minimum age requirement for use. Hyland's Teething Tablets can be used on anyone of any age. As a matter of fact, a friend of mine used them when she had a minor toothache and swore that her pain disappeared almost immediately! Another great thing about them: they never expire! So, even if you don't use them much, you'll never have to replace them unless you run out.

Hyland's Teething Tablets have even been recommended by pediatrician, Dr. Jim Sears from The Doctors:

After hearing such rave reviews and researching all the details, we decided to give them a shot. I gave Nate the maximum dose of 3 tablets. As finicky as he is, he actually seemed to like the taste, as he gladly opened his mouth for the remaining tablets. In about 10-15 minutes, I saw a considerable change in his demeanor. He went from crying in a heap on the floor to running around playing and giggling in almost no time. I have to say I was quite impressed. It wasn't until about 3 hours later that some fussiness returned and we repeated the dosage. Again, instant happy boy.

No matter how much I scrutinize it, I can't find any disadvantages with this product. It was a godsend and really saved the day for us. I have a feeling we'll be using more tablets to rescue us in the days to come.

Bottom line: I would definitely recommend Hyland's Teething Tablets to any mama searching for proven, safe relief of teething symptoms. I love that you can use them alone or in conjunction with teething toys, feeders or other medications. You really have nothing to lose here!

BUY IT: Hyland's products are available at select grocery stores, pharmacies, drugstores, and mass merchandisers nationwide. To find the vendor nearest you, you can use their handy dandy store locator. The teething tablets retail for $5.99/125 ct.

They have also released a new, paraben-free teething gel, with the same ingredients as the tablets. So you now have 2 choices to combat those horrible teething episodes! You can also visit the website for a printable $1 off coupon for any Hyland's teething product (see lower right sidebar)!

CUTE CONTEST ALERT: Through September 15th, they are conducting a video contest called "Happy After Hyland's". Submit a 90-second video showcasing unhappy "before" and pleasant "after" shots of your teething baby and you could win a Flip Video Ultra Series camcorder (ARV $149.99)! For more details or to enter, click here. Winner will be announced on September 22, 2009.

Disclaimer: I purchased Hyland's Teething Tablets on my own accord and was not compensated in any way for this review. I am in no way affiliated with the Hyland's company.