We’d all like to think that mother knows best when it comes to her children—especially in terms of their health and well-being. But with the confusing jumble of resources now available on the Internet, it’s become a little difficult for a mom to judge what’s reliable and what isn’t. When there’s too much information to process and understand, what’s a well-meaning parent to do?
In order to address this growing issue, vitamin brand Ceelin has launched its own website, ImmunityFoundation.com, which offers trustworthy tips and expert opinions on your child’s resistance against disease. Read on for some great advice from the site on a few of the most frequently asked questions from moms across the country.
DOES STRESS REALLY AFFECT A CHILD’S IMMUNITY?
The answer is yes, shares pediatrician Dr. Rhiza Valdes. Stress caused by significant life changes such as transferring schools, too many extracurricular activities, or parents splitting up can affect your child’s immune and nervous systems and put early brain development at risk. Stress makes your child susceptible to heart disease and high blood pressure—it can also lead to depression and various addictions in adulthood.
DO VACCINES HAVE DANGEROUS SIDE EFFECTS?
Pediatrician Dr. Tita Uy says no—post-vaccination side effects include little else (if at all) besides mild fever, appetite loss, headaches, and swelling around the injection area. Strong allergic reactions, neurological side effects, or anything equally as “dangerous” are very rare.
CAN A CHILD WHO HAS A COLD RECEIVE A SHOT?
Contrary to the old wives’ tales you’ve heard, Dr. Uy says it is perfectly safe to vaccinate children with colds, coughs, or even diarrhea. However, a shot should never be administered to a child with a high fever.
IS BREAST MILK REALLY BEST FOR BABY?
According to Dr. Josie Eusebio, a pediatrician and child development expert, breast milk is the best gift you can give your baby because it significantly lowers the risk of infection. A baby’s underdeveloped immune system is highly susceptible to harmful foreign elements, but infants who are regularly breastfed are protected from ailments like ear infections, respiratory ailments, intestinal disorders, childhood cancers, diabetes, various viruses, even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), to name a few. Breastfeeding also strengthens your child’s immunity all the way up to adulthood.
SHOULD CHILDREN START EXERCISING FROM AN EARLY AGE?
Dr. Eusebio shares that moderate exercise enhances your child’s defense against disease—so turn off the TV and turn your kid out of doors! Exercise produces “happy hormones” known as endorphins, which keep your child chipper and sweet-tempered and reduce stress (which we already know is bad for the immune system). However, everything should be taken in moderation—too much strenuous activity is detrimental to anyone’s health, young or old.
Want more tips on caring for your little one’s health? Log on to www.immunityfoundation.com to get your first look at this online community for your child’s immunity!
