ChemistDirect Experts Offer Advice on Beating the Back to School Bugs this Term
London (PRWEB UK) 16 September 2013 -- Within a few weeks into the autumn term, many children catch coughs, colds and tummy bugs, thanks to being jam-packed in a classroom together all day. (1)
But although it’s inevitable that most children will fall ill at some point, there are some steps that parents can take to boost their child’s immunity and reduce the chances of them catching every illness going.
ChemistDirect Superintendent Pharmacist Omar El-Gohary said: “I would recommend that parents give their children a good all round multivitamin such as Peppa Pig Multivitamins or the Wellkid Chewable Tablets.”
“Parents should ensure that their children take them regularly to ensure that they have adequate immunity if they start to feel rundown.”
Parents are also advised to make sure that children drink plenty of water to flush toxins from the body and eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables including key immune boosters such as carrots, green beans, oranges and strawberries. (2)
Protein such as fish, poultry, eggs, nuts and seeds are also essential, as well as a good breakfast every day. If possible, parents should reduce sugar rich cereals, and give their children porridge or a boiled egg and toast instead.
El-Gohary added: “Children should take part in regular exercise, but also get some rest time and plenty of sleep.”
Just walking or exercising for 20 minutes a day can have vast benefits on the body and help to reduce stress and improve mental outlook. It’s a good idea for families to do activities together such as hiking, bike riding, skating, or playing tennis or football, to get everyone moving. (2)
Parents should also ensure that children wash their hands often and with soap – particularly before and after every meal, and after playing outside, handling pets or going to the toilet.
But if they do come down with the dreaded lurgy - throw away their toothbrush. Although they can’t catch the same cold or flu virus twice, the virus can travel to other tooth bushes infecting the rest of the family. (3)
If symptoms of tiredness and generally feeling rundown continue for a long time, it’s a good idea to visit the GP to rule anything else out.
References
1. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2200274/Dr-Ellie-Cannons-guide-beat-school-bugs.html
2. http://www.parents.com/health/cold-flu/cold/boost-childs-immunity/
3. http://www.webmd.com/parenting/d2n-stopping-germs-12/stopping-germs?page=2
Samantha Smith, Chemist Direct, +44 1215414952 205, [email protected]
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