Child Health
Description
This page has 50 references
"Child Health" is the overall state of physical, emotional, and developmental well-being in children from infancy through adolescence. Key pillars include proper nutrition, sleep, physical activity, and a safe, nurturing environment. Balanced meals support growth and brain function, while social connection and daily movement strengthen resilience and learning. Parents play a crucial role in fostering habits that shape lifelong well-being. Routine checkups and early interventions also help detect issues early, ensuring kids grow into healthy, thriving adults.
Symptoms & Signs
Body System
Causes
Not Applicable
Things To Do
Nutrition for children should prioritize the following areas to promote the proper development and health of our families' young members:
whole foods that include a wide range of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, protein, and fatty acids from meat and fish.
anti-inflammatory foods, such as various types of fish, leafy green vegetables, broccoli, berries, healthy fats [from avocados, walnuts, almonds, extra virgin olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil, butter, ghee], turmeric, ginger, garlic, etc.
unprocessed products delivering such nutrients as vitamin A, B complex, C, D, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, potassium, etc.
probiotic foods, including plain, unprocessed, and unsweetened yogurts, kefirs, sauerkraut, kimchi, etc.
prebiotic foods containing soluble fiber, such as leeks, chicory root, onions, garlic, asparagus, apples, bananas, flax seeds, etc.
sufficient hydration by drinking water and herbal teas.
Furthermore, other tools that promote health and well-being in children include:
quality sleep and maintaining good sleep hygiene.
everyday outdoor time that encourages physical activity.
reduced screen time.
stress reduction by doing child-friendly yoga, breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation.
establishing healthy boundaries and rules.
spending quality time with friends and family.
Things To Avoid
It is important to identify foods and products that do not improve a child's health when planning their diet. Among these, we find:
sugar that causes inflammation and has damaging effects on the brain and developing organs.
processed and junk foods high in trans fats, salt, sugar, and preservatives.
packaged goods that contain preservatives, colorants, flavorings, sugar, and a range of other ingredients.
sweetened beverages, soft drinks, coffee, caffeinated drinks, and fruit juices.
refined carbohydrates that disregulate blood sugar levels.
foods that cause allergic reactions in a child.
desserts, candy, ice cream, etc.
Other factors that negatively influence children's health include:
inconsistent schedule that does not provide structure during the day [especially for the younger kids].
cigarette smoke. Passive smoking has a negative impact on children's health.
physical inactivity and a lack of outdoor time.
too much screen time.
lack of parental involvement and interest.
excessive stress induced by the school or home environment.
Supplements
Direct Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These supplements directly support child health by providing essential nutrients for growth, cognitive development, and immune function.
Vitamin D3/K2: Vitamin D aids calcium absorption for strong bones in children, while vitamin K directs calcium to bones, supporting growth and heart health. Together, they boost immunity and overall well-being.
Omega 3: Omega-3, particularly DHA, supports cognitive development by promoting neural growth and hippocampal function, which are crucial for memory and learning in children. EPA, another Omega-3, helps reduce inflammation and may improve behavior, making Omega-3 essential for overall well-being.
Multivitamins: Multivitamins deliver essential nutrients that support growth and development, helping fill potential dietary gaps to ensure children get the vitamins and minerals they need.
Iron: Iron supports brain development, energy metabolism, and immune defense. Deficiency in children can lead to fatigue, irritability, and cognitive delays.
Vitamin C [Acerola Juice]: Vitamin C, found abundantly in acerola juice, supports immune health and acts as a powerful antioxidant. It also aids in collagen synthesis and protein metabolism, both of which are essential for the growth and development of children.
Indirect Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These supplements do not support child health directly but may aid digestion, reduce inflammation, or support sleep and emotional balance that contribute to overall well-being.
Probiotics: Probiotics support a healthy microbiome in children, boosting digestive health and the immune system, contributing to overall wellness.
Magnesium: Magnesium promotes calm behavior, supports muscle and nerve function, and helps regulate sleep and mood in children.
Natural Compounds
These natural compounds may help support child health by promoting digestive balance, boosting immunity, or gently enhancing cognitive function.
Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast provides children with a natural source of B vitamins, supporting energy metabolism, DNA repair, and immune function for balanced health.
Honey: Honey’s antimicrobial and antioxidant properties help boost the immune system, supporting children in managing common illnesses and promoting overall well-being.
Plant Extracts
Direct Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These plant extracts directly support child health when used appropriately by calming inflammation, supporting immunity, or aiding digestion and comfort.
Curcumin: Curcumin, in a child-friendly dose (1/5 of a capsule), offers anti-inflammatory benefits, supports the immune system, and aids digestion, making it suitable for enhancing children's health in a balanced way.
Indirect Support
(Most Helpful → Least Helpful)
These extracts do not act directly on child health but may support energy, resilience, and internal balance during growth and development.
Chamomile Extract: Chamomile extract calms restlessness, soothes digestion, and supports gentle sleep in children, traditionally used for colic and irritability.
Alternative Treatments
These alternative therapies support healthy development, improve stress regulation, and help maintain balance in children’s physical and emotional systems.
Yoga: Yoga fosters a deeper connection between children's minds and bodies, promoting flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination. It also enhances concentration, focus, and emotional regulation, supporting both physical and mental well-being.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care promotes proper musculoskeletal development in children by ensuring optimal alignment and function of the spine and joints. By addressing spinal misalignments and improving nervous system function, it supports overall health and well-being.
Aromatherapy: Lavender aromatherapy is used to ease anxiety, promote relaxation, and support restful sleep in children, especially during bedtime routines.
Books That You May Want To Read
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
Educational Videos To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
How Key Nutrients Support the Body
Amino Acids: Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins, crucial for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, they play key roles in maintaining proper pH levels, storing nitrogen, synthesizing hormones, and facilitating enzymatic reactions.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Essential Nutrients Explained
References
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