Natural Ways to Keep Your Children Healthy and Flu-Free

Ensuring that your child maintains a healthy diet is crucial for their overall well-being. The flu, with its accompanying headaches, nausea, aches, and fever, can be particularly miserable for children. However, there are natural steps you can take to help your child avoid the worst of the flu season and recover quickly if they do fall ill.

Eliminate Dairy When Battling the Flu

It’s not just an old wives’ tale: avoiding milk when dealing with the flu can actually be beneficial. Dairy products can sometimes increase mucus production and exacerbate symptoms, so it's wise to eliminate them from your child's diet during illness.

Opt for Natural Remedies

Natural products designed for colds and flus can aid recovery without the drowsy, foggy feeling often associated with conventional medications. These natural remedies allow your child to recover while still being able to participate in their daily activities.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

A good night’s sleep is essential for recovery and overall health. While many children might spend eight to nine hours in bed, they may not always sleep well. Hylands Calms Forte is a natural remedy that can help both children and adults achieve restful sleep. These non-addictive tablets dissolve in the mouth and can be used as needed to ensure a good night's rest.

Hydration is Key

Staying hydrated is another critical component of maintaining health. It's best to provide distilled or purified water, but in a pinch, tap water will do. Many children consume soda or juice instead of water, but these are not adequate substitutes. Juice should be given sparingly and not used as a primary source of hydration.

When purchasing juice, read labels carefully to avoid unhealthy ingredients like artificial juice, high fructose corn syrup, and excess sugar. Juice can be enjoyed as a treat, but it’s best to buy concentrated forms that can be diluted to last longer and reduce sugar intake.

Monitor Sugar Intake

Limiting sugar in your child’s diet is important. Natural snack alternatives, such as natural chocolate chips and natural M&Ms, can be just as satisfying. Aim to limit sugary snacks to every few days or once a week.

Choose Whole Grains Over Processed Foods

Flu or not, processed foods like white bread, potato chips, and crackers should be minimized. Instead, opt for whole wheat or whole grain bread and pasta. You can gradually introduce these healthier options by mixing them with the foods your child is accustomed to.

Incorporate Vegetables

Vegetables should be a staple in your child's diet. Offer them as snacks and ensure that meals include plenty of greens and lettuce. Vegetables provide essential nutrients that support overall health and immune function.

Include a Multivitamin

A good multivitamin can complement your child’s diet, providing additional nutrients they might be missing. Chewable multivitamins come in various flavors, such as orange, black cherry, and punch, making them appealing to children. Multivitamins should be taken year-round for consistent health benefits.

By making these dietary adjustments and incorporating natural remedies, you can help keep your child healthy and resilient against the flu and other common illnesses.