This week we would like to focus on keeping your kids happy and healthy particularly immune strong as they head back into school this year.
Some great tips include regular handwashing, keep free of sugar and/or dairy foods, stay moving, get plenty of sleep and remain as stress free as possible. And if you find their immune system compromised some great natural remedies to think about adding to your cupboard and everyday life.
First is the handwashing. A common one brought up when you get a bunch of kids together. Also think about keeping hand sanitizers plenty accessible on shared surfaces like school supplies and computers. Heavily trafficked places are the places your kids can be most susceptible to germs.
Next is sugar and dairy removed from their diets. Some doctors even say that they notice sugar creating a mucus friendly environment which is in turn a bacteria friendly environment. Dairy often responds the same way in some children, especially those prone to sinus or ear infections. The idea is that with less mucus creation the less likely germs take hold on to your kid’s immune systems.
It is proven that the less active you are the more your immune system response is dulled, and the more physically active you are the more it is invigorated. After school activities like sports are great to keep them physically fit.
Sleeping plenty throughout the school year is very important not only for helping keep their attention. Without sleep you immune system cannot “recharge” itself. Your body must not only sleep, but must rest.
Stress takes a toll on many parts of your body. Chronic stress can is even said to alter our physical barriers to that protect against infection. It is important to keep this in mind as your kids enter a new class having to make new friends. They experience plenty of changes this time of year so let us talk about what you can keep on hand that is simple yet effective to keep their immune systems strong.
One of the best “old time” and Missouri native remedies is elderberry. Elderberry has great antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Also it does not interact with medications. If your child is experiencing a sore throat try gargling with sea salt and add some raw honey to make it more palatable. Also you can try slippery elm lozenges to help bolster their immune system throughout the day. Also it is always good to get your kids on a multi-vitamin. Kids are picky as it is so adding a general multi-vitamin/mineral is a great way to get what they may be prone to want to leave out.
This article is for purely informational purposes. Do not make any changes in your diet or lifestyle without first consulting with your preventive health care provider. We always pray for your prosperity and health, 3 John 2, blessings, Donna.