Colds

What are Cold Symptoms in Children?

• A tickle in the throat
• Runny or stuffy nose, and sneezing
• Red, sore throat
• Cough
• Headache
• Mild fever
• Muscle aches
• Loss of appetite
• Nasal discharge that may change from watery to thick yellow or green

What are the Causes of Colds?

Often colds are caused by viruses that are found in invisible droplets in the air, which we either we breathe or touch. More than 100 different viruses can infiltrate the protective lining of the nose and throat, triggering an immune system reaction that can cause a sore throat and headache, and make it hard to breathe through the nose. Dry air (indoors or outdoors) can lower the resistance to infection causing more colds in the winter. And, underlying allergies can also decrease resistance and allow a virus to infect the body. Maintaining a healthy immune system is the best protection against colds.

Lifestyle tips for Cold Relief

Rest/Sleep
Sleep may be the best treatment and prevention for cold and flu. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system – leading us to have a less than optimal fever response (fever is actually the body’s way of fighting infection), and less antibodies produced on exposure to these viruses. The result? Stronger symptoms and a longer duration of symptoms, compared to individuals who are getting adequate sleep.

Nasal Cleanse
The nose is one of the first ways that we are exposed to a virus. We literally breathe it in. That being said, regular nasal washing or neti pot use can go a long way in preventing bacteria and viruses from adhering to the nasal mucosa and eventually moving into the body.

Reduce Your Exposure
This can be as simple as washing your hands, but don’t forget to limit exposure to those who are infected, too. If your child has the cold or flu, it is important to stay home – if not for his/her own rest and recuperation, but for the health and safety of others. Cold and flu viruses are spread by skin-to-skin contact, air particles, or direct contact with particles, like someone sneezing on you. In the case of cold, individuals are generally contagious the first 2-3 days, while flu sufferers are contagious for about a week.

Eat Well
Limit your sugar intake. Drink plenty of fluids. And, eat a wide range of different colored fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant, shown to help enhance cell-mediated immune response. It is found in green leafy vegetables such as kale and spinach, as well brightly colored veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and peppers. Fruits and vegetables can easily be made into smoothies, salads, fresh juices, dipped in hummus, or lightly steamed with quinoa or brown rice. It does a body good!

Natural Remedies for Cold Relief: 

Pathway KID'S BIOTIC

This liquid herbal formula is designed to support the immune system during a cold, bacterial infection, sinus infection, pink eye, or a fever. Key herbs include echinacea, goldenseal, licorice, and myrrh. Dosage is based on weight and can be diluted in juice or water.

Pathway VITAMIN D-3 DROPS

Immune support is just one of the many benefits of vitamin D. Research has shown that if your vitamin D levels are low, your immune system suffers. Talk to your health care practitioner about getting your child’s vitamin D level tested so that you can supplement with the right amount of Vitamin D that your child needs. A general dosage range for children is 400 IU-1000 IU daily.

Pathway BUFFERED C POWDER

Vitamin C when taken at the onset of cold or flu symptoms has been used to reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten the duration of the common cold.  Pathway BUFFERED C POWDER is gentle on the stomach and is easily mixed with water or juice.

Pathway ZINC LOZENGES

Zinc supports a healthy immune system and has antiviral properties. Soothe your sore throat and support your immune system with Pathway Zinc Lozenges. Each lozenge contains zinc, vitamin C, slippery elm and bee propolis.

Holistic Treatment for Colds

At Village Green Apothecary, our nutritionists and doctors work with patients to create optimal health by using natural remedies, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, and homeopathic treatments. They also recommend tailored diet plans, exercise routines, lifestyle tips, and specialized testing to address the root cause(s) of cold symptoms. 

Schedule a consultation with one of Village Green’s naturopathic doctors or certified nutritionists for a personal assessment of your child’s unique situation. During your appointment (either by phone or in-person), our professionals will:

• Review your cold symptoms and health history
• Examine your diet and lifestyle
• Recommend specialized testing
• Assess possible drug-nutrient interactions or depletions
• Answer any questions you may have
• Evaluate treatment options
• Create a customized holistic treatment plan for colds that includes natural solutions, diet and lifestyle recommendations, and custom compounding.

  Contact a Village Green nutritionist by calling 800-869-9159.

  Learn more about our nutrition counseling and wellness services.