Cold Allergies
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), children be get over six colds per year in various degrees. Young children under the age of six which have developing immune systems are more likely to develop a cold.
Preventing Colds
Giving a good healthy diet and pure water is the first defense against colds and allergies. Having a good nights sleep and getting enough daily exercise is also equally important. A recommended diet includes whole foods, fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.
Cold Self Treatments
If a child has a cold, it is important for the to eat lightly until it has subsided. This will allow their body to focus on healing instead of heavy digesting. Wisely chosen foods such as chicken soup and other nutritious meals are the best medicine. Here are some additional food recommendations:
- Steamed vegetables
- Herbal teas
- Ginger, onions and garlic
- Lemon and honey in warm water
- Mint flavored teas
Certain foods may actually make a cold worse and prolong wellness. For example, sugar depresses the immune system and may keep white blood cells from fighting infection. Remember, orange juice and other juices are high in sugar and should be avoided. Switching to teas and water is a better alternative.
Milk encourages the buildup of mucous, so it’s best to avoid dairy during the healing process. If they must have milk, consider soy or rice milk.
Cold Remedies
Medical doctor James Balch, co-author of Prescription for Natural Healing recommends the following herbs to counter a cold:
- Echinacea
- Lomatium
- Elderberry
Hydrotherapy
Hot baths, showers and breathing in steam imbued with lavender oil can soothe coughs and help children fall asleep. Adding eucalyptus or peppermint can relieve congestion. Finally, remember the age-old tradition moms have used for centuries; for sore throats, gargle with salt water.
About the author:
Dr. Lauri Grossman writes for various holistic publications.
Common Cold Or Allergies?
