Ask the Doctor :: Best Supplements for Kids

Ask the Doctor:

Question: My preschool and elementary children are back in school and I want to prevent any school colds and flus. Do you have any suggestions?

 

Kids are back in school and yes, cold and flu season is gearing up. The best thing you can do, especially with those picky eaters, to slide in a few to boost and support their immune system; no one wants to miss school or work.

Below are my 3 favorites that can be thrown into a smoothie or made into a popsicle:

 

Essential Fatty Acids

Why? Your body cannot make essential fatty acids so you need to get them from your food or by taking a supplement. They are important for optimal function of the heart – think blood pressure, strokes – the nervous system, and the skin. Cod liver oil, an essential fatty acid, has vitamin a and d, which are supportive to the immune system… an added bonus.

Brand: Nordic Naturals is my favorite brand, by far. They conduct a great deal of 3rd party testing and quality control.

Food sources: Olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds but also mix in flax-seed oil, cod liver oil and hemp oil in your diet.

 

 

Probiotics

 

Why? Known as the friendly bacteria in the gut, they aid in keeping the digestive system strong and healthy. Approximately 70% of the immune system is in the digestive system so you are getting lots of support by taking some probiotics.

Brand: Find a refrigerated brand at your local health food store that contains between 1 to 10 billion live organisms – Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium – per dose

Food sources: Yogurt that contains live bacteria culture, kefir, fermented foods – tempeh and miso.

Vital Kids Berry Well Immune Support

 

Why? Berry Well contains tonifying botanical herbs like elderberry and astragulus, which support and strengthen the immune system. It is a fabulous preventative and it tastes great; simply mix with water or add to a smoothie.

Brand: Vital Nutrients

If you have any questions about supplements for kids, please contact me at drheather@drheathernd.com. You may purchase any of these supplements through my Shop Supplements page.

 

And of course, my favorite home remedy:

hydrotherapy ( click here to learn more)

Be well,

dr. heather

 

Photo courtesy of Flickr:

Photo courtesy of Flickr:

Photo courtesy of Flickr:

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