Pediatricians urge the FDA to recall cold medicines for young ones, but will the FDA side with the manufacturers of cold medicines or with the recommendations of pediatricians? Apparently, no studies were ever conducted on cold medicines for children and the risks and effects on a child's immature system. The industry, of course, states they are safe, but the doctors aren't buying it and are demanding a recall. Cold medicines are a big business for manufacturers, who market to the parent's need to fix the symptoms of a cold.
Parents must educate themselves and remember that the symptoms of a cold are just that symptoms. They are the body's natural defense against an invader. Doctors recommend rest and lots of fluids for a reason. Most colds cycle out within 2 weeks without any medications. The runny nose and coughing is the body's way of purging the foreign virus and should not be stopped with medications. Symptom relief does not mean that it is beneficial or healthy for the body. It would be more beneficial to boost the immune system with Vitamin C, echinacea, astragulus, raw honey, or oil of oregano. Make sure that you follow dosages set for children which is usually 1/4 of an adult dosage. Always research the supplement before administering.
For a proactive immune builder during cold season, I give my children Ester C, Kyolic garlic tablets, acidolphilus and EFA's in the form of fish oil chewables. If the children do get sick, they stay home, rest, drink lots of water and herbal teas with raw honey and eat raw foods. It is helpful to avoid dairy and wheat as well during a cold since they tend to produce more mucous in the body.
Here's to your children's health!
ClearSkies
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