The holiday season is fast approaching, so there is no better time to get sick! - said NO ONE ever! And what’s even worse is if our children are the ones getting sick over the holidays.  Children can catch colds at any time of the year, but most colds occur during the winter months, from about October to February. Symptoms of the common cold include all or any of the following: stuffy or a runny nose, sneezing, headache, sore throat, coughing, loss of appetite, watery or burning eyes, ear congestion/infection, low-grade fever and aching muscles and joints. From start to finish a common cold if uncomplicated lasts about 5-10 days.  There are so many things we can do preventatively like continuously washing hands, staying hydrated, eating a wholesome diet, getting enough sleep. But, in the event that our children do get sick, here are the top 6 ways to help them recover quicker!

1.  FLUIDS, FLUIDS, FLUIDS!

This is the most important step. The immune system does not work effectively when it is dry.  All fluids help to alleviate respiratory illnesses. Fluids help to thin secretions making it easier for the body to clear them out. Include lots of teas, sugarless lemonade, warm water with lemon and homemade soups.

2.  LIMIT REFINED SUGAR AND DAIRY

These foods are mucous forming. Did you know that 50g of sugar can paralyze white blood cells for 5 hours? White blood cells are what your body needs to help fight off the infection. Sugars also create acid in the body that can cause a cold to linger.

3.  UP THAT VITAMIN C!

Vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties that support the immune system and may help to shorten the duration of symptoms. Choose a formula made without sugar and avoid the chewable forms, which can erode tooth enamel. Vitamin C powder is great to add to a smoothie or water.

4.  ZINC

Zinc is one of the best minerals to supplement when battling a cold. It is needed for the normal development and function of immune cells in the body. It can also help to reduce the severity of symptoms and the duration of a cold when started 24 hours of symptom onset. Zinc gluconate lozenges are great for sore throats. It is best to take with food as it can cause nausea on an empty stomach.

5.  ECHINACEA ROOT

Echinacea is a herb that is warming with both anti-microbial and immune stimulating properties.  It is best to take right at the onset of a cold. It works well in combination with Vitamin C and can be used in teas or in tincture form.

6.  ELDERBERRY SYRUP

Elderberry or Sambucus is a herb that is used for its anti-viral, immune modulating and antioxidant properties. It is also quite useful to get rid of excess mucus.

The most important thing to remember when it comes to the common cold and flu is to treat AS SOON as you notice the first symptoms – don’t wait for it to get worse! Start with the increased Vitamin C, Echinacea combination formulas and lots and lots of fluids with lots of rest. Acting early on can reduce the severity and length of the cold.

**Disclaimer

The advice in this article is for informational purposes only. It does not replace the care of a Naturopathic physician.