Preventing Flu in Children

Your child doesn’t have to get sick this cold and flu season. Taking steps now to boost your little one’s immune system will go a long way toward preventing or minimizing the affects of those pesky infections.

Of course continue to remind your child to wash their hands before meals, after visits to the bathroom (even if they didn’t use the potty themselves), anytime they need a tissue and after contact with others who are sick.

Remind them not to touch their eyes, mouth or nose because that is the most common way flu like viruses enter the body.

Make sure your child is getting adequate amounts of rest each night. You are not a mean parent if you are strict on bedtime besides, that gives you some quiet time after the kids go to bed.

Proper nutrition is necessary to support your child’s immune system. Be sure to include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and avoid junk food or foods high in sugar. If you are concerned about your child’s diet, ask your doctor about a good quality multi vitamin and a vitamin C supplement when your child has been exposed to others who are sick.

Make sure they are getting adequate amounts of water each day. A good rule of thumb for water consumption is half your body weight in ounces each day. That means you too mom, we need you healthy to take care of everyone else.

When the weather permits, get outside for some fresh air and exercise. This also helps to reduce stress and burn off excessive energy.

Consider wellness chiropractic care from a chiropractor that is experienced in working with children. We often hear from the parents of pediatric patients that they have noticed improvement in their children’s overall health and immune response since beginning chiropractic care.