Keep these health tips in mind during the upcoming school year.
Pack organic fruits and vegetables such as apples or pears for kids with asthma. Both are linked to a lower incidence of asthma symptoms.
Bronchitis is marked by a tell tale cough. Antibiotics are an infective treatment, so concentrate on relieving symptoms with fluids and the use of a humidifier. Tumeric and ginger are also effective home remedies.
Colds spread like wildfire in our schools. Stay hydrated with water, clear broths, and juices that are free of high fructose corn syrup to reduce your child’s congestion and prevent dehydration.
Vitamin D is vital for bone and tooth formation. It will also boost immune function. The daily recommended amount for children is 400 IU.
Ear infections often develop in conjunction with colds or allergies. If your child complains of ear pain, headache, nausea, or hearing loss, schedule an appointment with your chiropractor or medical doctor.
Food allergies amongst kids include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, soybeans and wheat to name a few. Keep a diary and learn to read food labels because the food your child is allergic to may be an ingredient of many other foods.
Growing pains often occur in the legs and can be relieved through stretching, massaging the area or placing a heating pad over the area.
Hydration is key for young athletes. Remind your child to take regular water breaks and drink at least half of their body weight in ounces daily. For example, your child weighs 60 pounds, make sure he/she consumes at least 30 ounces daily.
Iron helps produce energy and maintains a healthy immune system.
Juvenile diabetes, often called Type 1 diabetes, usually develops in children under 20. Symptoms may include increased thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss.
Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that is necessary for proper blood clotting. It is essential for bone formation and repair also.
Lice outbreaks in schools are common. Check for lice behind the ears and at the back of the neck. Diluting tea tree oil with olive oil can be a successful method of treatment of head lice.
Magnesium plays a major role in energy production. It is also necessary for the uptake of calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth.
Nuts make an excellent snack. A handful of almonds contain fiber, protein, antioxidants, monounsaturated fat (the “good” fat), vitamin E and calcium.
Obesity is on the rise in our children. Monitor your child’s sugar intake and encourage daily exercise.
Probiotics introduce helpful bacteria into the digestive tract. They aid digestion and have helped cases of eczema in children.
Quercetin is an antioxidant substance found in apples, grapefruit and red onions, which may alleviate symptoms of allergies and asthma.
Rest is important for your child. Generally, school aged children need about 10 hours of sleep, teenagers about 9.
Sport injuries affect adolescents in the same way they affect adults. Take your child for a check up if he/she has joint pain, swelling, numbness or a reduced range of motion.
Tonsillitis is common among children and is marked by sore throat, painful swallowing, fever and swollen neck glands. A simple home remedy for tonsillitis can be made by using lemon juice. Squeeze the juice of one whole lemon in a glassful of water. Ideally, the water should be a bit warm. Then put four teaspoonfuls of honey in it, and a pinch of common salt. Stir all these ingredients quite well. Then drink this when still a little warm. This is one of the simplest and the best remedies for tonsillitis.
Urinary tract infections can damage the kidneys if left untreated. Fever may be the only noticeable symptom in younger children; older children may suffer from a burning sensation or a frequent urge to urinate. Teaching proper hygiene will help prevent UTI’s.
Vision problems can be the culprit if your child is squinting often or complaining of headaches. Make sure they are not sitting close up to the television. Make an appointment with your eye doctor for an eye exam to see if glasses may be needed.
Warming up before sporting events is highly recommended. A light jog will get the hear pumping and reduce the risk of muscle strain.
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol and a low calorie sugar substitute that boasts many health benefits, including a reduced risk of cavities.
Your example may be more important than anything, as actions speak louder than words. Set a good example by exercising often and choosing whole foods over processed foods.
Zinc may prevent acne. It helps maintain a healthy immune system and is needed for wound healing.
Live your best,
Dr. Brian
Sources:
Natural Solutions
Health Vitamins Guide
www.health.harvard.edu
Tags: children, diabetes, exercise, health, nuts, probiotics