Rickets return

Rickets, a childhood ailment that leads to soft bones and poor growth, is showing up again. Though it nearly disappeared in the 1960s, it’s back, due to a deficiency in vitamin D and calcium. A report by the National Dairy Council states that this resurgence can be traced back to a decline in young children drinking milk, the primary dietary source of vitamin D. Many parents substitute soy- and rice-based beverages, soft drinks and juice for milk. While some of these are fortified with calcium, most don’t contain vitamin D. Susan Baker, a physician and professor of pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, N.Y., said, “If toddlers are not drinking enough milk, it is highly unlikely that they will receive enough calcium and vitamin D in their diets.” Of course, the National Dairy Council suggests that parents include milk and dairy products in their toddlers’ diets, but if you choose to use soy- or rice-based products, check to see that they are fortified with calcium and vitamin D – not all of them are.

Thyme to clean

Most people would hardly consider cleaning the kitchen therapeutic, but a new line of products from The Thymes aims to make the task a little more pleasant. The Thymes has created dishwashing liquid, hand lotion and all-purpose surface cleaner, all with a pleasant, light mandarin-coriander scent. Think of it as aromatherapy at the sink. For store information, visit www.thymes.com or call (800) 366-4071.

Place setting

It’s almost time to open up the camp or cottage to air everything out. You can freshen up a little – or a lot – with some fun, funky furniture from Maine Cottage Furniture in Yarmouth. Available in 140 designs and 40 different colors, the furniture ranges from camp casual to living room elegant. The Daisy armchairs and dining table, shown here, are crafted from rattan and casual enough for the porch or kitchen or dressy enough for the dining room. Either way, they’re fun. For a catalog with the full spectrum of colors and illustrations of each piece, call 846-1430 or visit www.mainecottage.com.