An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This saying is especially true when it comes to keeping our children healthy. Children are exposed to viruses every day with the peak flu season typically occurring between December and February. One of the best and easiest preventive measures is using alcohol based hand gels regularly. These gels lower the amount of viruses on the fingers better than washing with soap and water. Children are also more compliant with the gel because it takes less time than scrubbing with soap and water. Vaccines are another strategy used to protect against many types of flu viruses including the H1N1 flu ("swine flu"). When vaccinating we recommend using preservative free vaccines to decrease exposure to the neurotoxic mercury that is used in some vaccines. Along with these more conventional treatments, there are also natural therapies that can help your child's immune system fight off these pesky bugs and get them feeling better faster.
Probiotics
Probiotics are friendly bacteria found in yogurt that help stimulate the body's immune response. Clinical research shows that children who eat foods that contain probiotics get fewer and less severe respiratory infections. One recent study shows a 45% lower risk of developing flu-like symptoms if probiotics are taken for 6 months. Probiotics are also often used for kids who have had recent diarrhea to re-establish a healthy digestive tract. Probiotics are particularly important to supplement after children take a course of antibiotics.
Elderberry
Elderberry is a berry traditionally made into medicinal syrup to fight colds and flu. Elderberry has been shown to reduce flu symptoms and the duration of the flu. Research shows that elderberry blocks the replication of the influenza virus including H1N1 "swine" flu. Elderberry syrup is also very soothing to the respiratory tissues and used in combination with other medicinal herbs like Thyme and Anise to help lessen cough. These non-drowsy herbs can be used throughout the day to help relieve cough and boost the immune response at the same time.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a hormone produced in the body when our skin is exposed to sunlight. This hormone is responsible for many functions in the body including priming the immune system against infections. Most people in the Pacific Northwest and other northern latitude states are deficient.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties that has been used as immune support for many years. Vitamin C has been studied for many years. More recently, high dose vitamin C given intravenously is being researched as a possible treatment for patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
Homeopathic South African Pelargonium sidoides
Homeopathic medicines work by stimulating the inherent healing power of the body often called the Vis Medicatrix Naturae. Homeopathic medicines are particularly effective for children and they tend to be very gentle with little to no negative side effects. Homeopathic Pelargonium sp. has been shown to help shorten the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, sore throat, sinus congestion and cough.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a popular immune support herb that helps activate the immune system into attack mode by stimulating B-cells. These cells are responsible for making antibodies that attack viruses and other invading bugs. There have been scientific studies with variable results on its efficacy. The bottom line is that quality control really matters when it comes to getting an Echinacea product that works.
We hope that these strategies keep your family healthy during cold and flu season.