Children’s health, specifically about how to support food allergies and/or sensitivities, constipation and the elusive pinworm infestation! Food Allergies or Sensitivities Both of these are becoming more and more common in children for a variety of reasons. Contributing factors can include genetics, health of the intestinal flora, mucosal integrity, immune system strength and frequency of exposure to the offending foods. As well, mode of delivery and whether the child was breast or bottle fed can play a role in the development of food allergies or sensitivities. The most common food allergens seen in children are eggs, cows milk, peanuts, wheat, and soy. With the rise in gut permeability both in children and adults, the offending list is becoming even longer.

Constipation Normal physiologic changes in a child’s body can alter the frequency of bowel movements until approximately 3 years of age. Children can also resist the urge to defecate for psychological reasons or because they are too busy playing and don’t want to stop to use the restroom. This can cause an accumulation of feces in the rectum which then becomes harder and more difficult to pass later on. Other considerations for childhood constipation can include insufficient fiber intake, gluten sensitivity, cows milk intolerance or generalized dysbiosis. Certainly the most obvious and easily implemented option is to provide additional dietary fiber. Children’s diets are often filled with heavily processed foods or convenience foods that are typically missing this crucial component. Choosing to supplement with some kind of dietary fiber may be the easiest solution. Flaxseed tea can also be used to keep the bowels moving. To make flax seed tea, pour one cup of boiling water over two teaspoons of chopped flaxseeds and allow to sit for 10 minutes. Strain and have the child drink one to two cups of the tea morning and evening if possible. For help with these issue contact me today!

Dr. Laurie Dady Center for Health & Healing