It's officially the time of year when colds and flus are passed around like Halloween candy. It seems every other person has a cold or is feeling one coming on.That also makes it the best time to help your little one (and your self) stay as healthy as possible. Here are some great ways to start:

Sleep: Much of our body's regenerative and healing processes occur during sleep so make sure your newborn/infant gets 12-14 hours a day and adolescent gets 10-12 hours/night. The more hours before midnight, the better the quality of the sleep!

Nutrition: The single. most important thing we can do to support immune function and prevent disease is to eat a balanced, whole foods diet. This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains and lean meats. These contain the vitamins, minerals, fibre and amino acids necessary to maintain an active immunity and prevent both acute and chronic illness. If you are nursing, continue to do so for as long as possible. The minimum amount of time being 6 months after birth. Breastfeeding can help prevent diarrhea, blood infections, asthma, ear and respiratory infections. Once a child is exposed to a pathogen, breastmilk will contain antibodies to combat the infection within a 2 hours!

Hydration: Make sure your child drinks lots of water. Maintaining well hydrated mucus membranes prevents cracks that may allow entry of infectious organisms.

Physical activity: Keep your child active. Regular exercise prevents obesity, blood sugar dysregulation/diabetes and cancer. It also helps relive stress and improve immune function.

Fresh, clean air: Remember to spend time outdoors with your child and protect them from second hand smoke. Second hand smoke can irritate your child's mucus membranes and lungs. It also contributes to asthma and allergies (both food and inhalant).

Finally, remember to wash hands frequently with plain soap and avoid unnecessary prescriptions of antibiotics. Giving your child's immune system the opportunity to fight an infection means they will have long-term protection against it.

You can also try the "Warming socks" treatment:
A cotton sock is soaked in cool/cold water, wrung out, and covered with wool socks before bedtime left on until warmed, usually about 20 minutes to ½ hour. In the process of responding to the cool temperatures, the immune system and circulation will be stimulated, killing infectious agents and relieving head, sinus and chest congestion. Begin on the first night of illness and repeat for 3 nights in a row.

Those with chronic infections or compromised immunity should consult with a Naturopathic Doctor before beginning treatment.

For more information on boosting your child's immune system, helpful supplemental vitamins and minerals or home hydrotherapy, feel free to contact us for a consultation.

Here's to your health,

Dr. Mead
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