alternatives for treating colds, as well as ways to speed up recovery once a cold has been caught.

In October, an FDA committee recommended the use of common over-the-counter cough and cold remedies to be avoided in children younger than 6 years of age. U.S. health regulators are in the process of reviewing the safety of such products following reports of misuse leading to children’s deaths. The complete list of medication withdrawn is located at www.otcsafety.org/withdrawn.html.

The body has natural defense mechanisms that protect us from the different viruses and bacteria that contribute to the cause of the common cold. We are exposed to these pathogens daily; however most people only “catch a cold” a couple times a year. This implies that a decrease in our resistance is the major factor in “catching a cold.”

VITAMIN C

Natural therapies aim to support the body’s innate ability to fight infections by enhancing our natural defense mechanisms. Many studies have indicated that vitamin C strengthens and protects the immune system by stimulating the activity of antibodies and disease fighting cells. The Journal of the American College of Nutrition published a study showing that vitamin C decreased the duration of the common cold as well as significantly alleviating cold symptoms.

ECHINACEA

There are a number of herbs to choose from that have been shown to enhance immunity. However, the herb with the greatest amount of scientific support is echinacea. In 2005, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine indicated that echinacea was effective at treating children with cold symptoms as well as reducing the risk of developing a subsequent infection. The dosage of the herb is the limiting factor in many of the studies done on echinacea. In general, parents should use herbs wisely. If they are unsure of the dosage or use of an herb, they should seek professional assistance.

CUT BACK ON SUGAR

Sugar consumption, even if derived from fruit juices and honey, has been shown to impair immunity. This impairment is due to the competition between sugar and vitamin C in our immune cells. Sugar consumption decreases vitamin C levels resulting in significant reduction in immune function. It is important to optimize nutrition in children by reducing sugar intake and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables, which contain antioxidants shown to enhance immunity.

HOMEOPATHY

Homeopathy is another great alternative used in the treatment of cold and flu symptoms. Homeopathy treats the whole person by using minute doses of natural substances to stimulate the body to heal itself. Homeopathic remedies are nontoxic, inexpensive, and highly effective when prescribed correctly. These medicines are so highly diluted that they are safe for babies, pregnant woman, and the elderly.

It is important for parents to realize that toddlers and infants are more susceptible to pathogens since their immune systems are not fully developed, and therefore it is especially important to supply them with proper nutrition and plenty of fluids which will prevent them from “catching a cold

Amanda H. Fey is a Naturopathic Doctor currently working at the Integrative Medicine Center, www.doctorfey.com. For questions, she can be contacted at (607) 275-9697.

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