Just today, I saw about 10 different signs advertising the flu vaccine.  Have you noticed over the last few years, the ads  are becoming more fear based?  I’ll never know why, the CDC and the AMA refuse to acknowledge and promote the role of immune boosting herbs and healthy diet and lifestyle tips for preventing colds and flu ..and instead roll out this massive ad campaign for everyone to get their flu shot.  I’m being facetious of course.  Actually, I do know why –  except for a few docs who have broken from the pack, physicians are not trained in nature’s healing secrets.  And when these strategies are not part of one’s tool box …… you know what they say:  “if all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.”  If all you have to work with are pharmaceuticals and vaccines, then every infection and condition looks like something that requires a drug or vaccine.  Another reason  conventional physicians do not understand or recommend natural remedies is they are programmed to believe that there’s no good science to support their use. Hopefully, in addition to providing safe, effective and natural strategies for preventing the cold and flu, the scientific studies referenced throughout this article will help put that false notion to rest.

I have been very fortunate during my 40 years as a RN  to learn about natural healing strategies from herbalists, nutritionists, naturopaths, chiropractors and naturally oriented MDs.  I was even lucky enough to have a naturally- oriented pediatrician for my own children – who instead of prescribing medications when they showed signs of an infection (some of which have recently been proven to be harmful for children (1), would instruct me to make the kids organic carrot juice.  He also recommended increasing their dose of Vitamin C, encouraged me to make them homemade chicken soup and give them a few doses of Echinacea.   I feel blessed because now my kids are healthy adults and they are applying some of these same principles with their own children.  It is s these common sense approaches often forgotten in our high- tech, pharmaceutically-oriented culture that I’d like to discuss.

As far as staying healthy during the cold and flu season, one can never underestimate the importance of certain lifestyle habits such as: getting enough rest and sleep, proper hand washing, daily exposure to sunshine and fresh air, exercise, practicing positive thinking, and staying well hydrated with ample amounts of  pure water.  But now, thanks to emerging science, as well as a new reverence for ancient healing principles, our understanding of how to prevent colds and the flu (and or minimizing the symptoms if they do occur) goes beyond these basics and gives us access to additional tools for maintaining optimal health throughout the winter season.   Although there may be some variations to the suggestions below based on our age, gender, health history, stress level etc, most of us can derive great benefits from applying some or all of these tips:

• Let’s start with Sugar: Did you know that a serving of sugar that exceeds 4 gms (a little over a teaspoon) causes our immune system to function less effectively? If the goal is to keep our immune system strong, doesn’t it make sense to cut way back on our sugar intake?   Look for those not so obvious sources such as juices (certain brands contain 30-50 gms per serving), some brands of ketchup are 33% sugar, and a few varieties of granola have 45 gms of sugar per serving!  Don’t be fooled because the package says it’s natural. Read the sugar content on the label first. If you are going to have something with sugar in it, try not to exceed  4gms of sugar per serving.  Still not convinced? Many websites will help explain this phenomena such as https://www.dummies.com/health/avoid-sugar-an-immune-suppressor-to-boost-immunity.
• Vegetables and Fruit: The current recommendation is to consume 4 ½ cups per day…. which is not always easy to do.  One solutions might be to get out the juicer (I know you have one in that back cabinet) and juice some organic veggies and fruit.  Yes, it’s a pain to clean, but there is no better source of nutrition then a fresh made batch of organic vegetable juice.   You might be thinking “let me grab a V8”.  Although there is some nutritional value left in those cans or bottles, even the nutrient content of fresh made juice begins to decline within 20 minutes after making it.  So you can imagine how little is left in the canned version that have been sitting on the shelves for months!   When making your own juice, the carrot/apple combination s a good place to start for kids because it tastes great.  From there, you can add more greens like spinach, kale,  parsley and beets. 
• Multi –Vitamin: My recommendation for anyone seeking a comprehensive supplement program to enhance their overall health and boost their immune systems is to start with a great multi with methylated B vitamins. Try to get one that has optimal levels and easily absorbable forms of these important nutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, B vitamins and Ester C. Whenever adding a multi or any other supplement, start with a low dose of one, take with food, and gradually, (very gradually) work up to the full dose before adding the next supplement.
• Fish Oil: Following the introduction of a good comprehensive multi, many professionals focused on optimizing your health suggest adding a mercury- free fish oil which contain Omega 3 fatty acids. Fish oil is notorious for reducing inflammation caused by toxins, stress, sugar and low grade infections.  It can improve attention, support cardiovascular health, strengthen immune function and affect each cell’s ability to absorb nutrients and release toxins. (2) Omega 3’s can also improve skin texture (check for bumps on the back of your arms and watch them disappear after a few months of taking fish oil). Look for a reputable company that goes the extra mile of ensuring their product does not contain mercury.
• Vitamin D: Recent studies have shown that Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an array of acute and chronic health problems including a higher rate of respiratory tract infections. (4)  Optimal levels (above 70) on the other hand have been shown to promote cognitive function and cardiovascular and immune health.   Larry Rosen, MD,  (a naturally- oriented pediatricians from NJ) reporting on a Vit D survey (5) wrote “that those individuals with Vitamin D deficiencies are at higher risk to contract the flu and develop complications from those infections.”  For more information on vitamin D and to check appropriate tests and dosages for children , go to: https://www.vitamindcouncil.org/.
• Echinacea: Echinacea is an immune supportive herb that tends to be most effective when used at the first signs of an infection and is not as effective once you already have an illness.  A formula containing Echinacea, Golden Seal and an array of Chinese herbs Wellness Herbal Resistance Liquid by Source Naturals is one of the most effective formulas for short circuiting an infection that I have ever used.
• Probiotics: Foods such as homemade saurkraut, fermented vegetables, miso, kefir and plain organic yogurt are sources of “friendly” gut bacteria. Probiotics with funny names like Acidophilus and Bifidus help crowd out pathogenic organisms such as  yeast, parasites and nasty bacteria.  Probiotics also keep the gut wall from becoming porous which prevents toxins and undigested food from getting across its barrier into the blood and causing an improper immune response. They also help the body create B vitamins.   There have been studies showing that taking probiotics as an infant can lessen a child’s incidence of allergies, eczema, and asthma and that if given when a child is developing a cold or flu, can help short circuit and lessen the time of the infection. (4 & 5)
• “Vitamin C: Many health practitioners including Dr. David Berger, MD a pediatrician from Florida recommend Vitamin C to help support immune function. Dr. Berger has a wonderful website Wholisticpediatrics.com and on it you can find the following dosage recommendations for children: For children under 1 year of age give 100mg per month of age. For children up to age 5, 1000mg per year of age, and as much as possible for older children and adults, as long as the stool does not become loose.
• Elderberry Syrup: My daughter-in- law Jen has degrees in botany, environmental science and is a master gardener.  She knows more about herbs and plants than almost anyone I know and she was the one who told me about the healing properties of elderberries.    These berries that come from the Elder tree (Sambucus) are a rich source of antioxidants. Jen makes her own syrup and gives it to my son and grandkids. Although they live in Portland, Oregon where winter days are often damp, cold and rainy, they are rarely sick.   One study that was recently published showed that in a test tube (in vitro) when cells were exposed to the flavanoids in elderberry syrup they created antibodies against HINI (the swine flu!). (6) I find it amazing that very few of us know about this study.  Where are the announcements from the CDC about how effective elderberry is against the flu?   Instead we see signs on roadways and parking lots encouraging us to get our flu shot as if the shots are the only option to prevent the flu.
• Essential Oils: According to Tacy Apostolik (a Board Certified Reflexologist and an Internationally Certified Aromatherapist), using essential oils, (aromatic liquids distilled from plants), can be very effective for cold and flu prevention.  In addition to being highly antibacterial, and anti-viral, they can also help speed up recovery, and lead to a better, overall state of health. Tacy states: “According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, winter is the time to support the kidneys and adrenals.  Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove are supportive to these organs.  Interestingly, these are the very spices we associate with the winter months.  These particular oils are considered “hot” oils, meaning they can cause irritation if applied directly to the skin.  Therefore, you can mix them (50-50) with a mild oil such as lavender or Roman chamomile, and apply to the bottoms of the feet.  This can have a double effect of supporting the urinary system, while reducing stress and aiding in a good night’s sleep.” Tacy recommends only using oils of the highest quality. Instead of an antibacterial soap, she also suggests mixing 8 – 10 drops of any antiseptic citrus oil such as lemon, orange, or grapefruit with filtered water in a small 2 oz. spray bottle as a great way to keep your hands bacteria free.  The wonderful thing about essential oils Tacy says “is that they are intuitively smart.  While protecting you from “bad” bacteria, they support the “good” bacteria we need to stay healthy. “

• Water: Drink lots of filtered water….not from plastic bottles. More information including good water filtration systems can be found at https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/water-filter-guide.php.
• Some additional supplements that can be helpful in boosting the immune system that I’ll discuss at length another time are: Zinc, the homeopathic remedy Oscilloccinum and Vitamin A from cod liver oil,

So -don’t fall prey to the fear mongering generated by the CDC, the AMA and the AAP.  Choose instead to take charge of your health and make wise choices for yourself and your family members.  If  you or your child feel like you are getting sick,  give the immune system all the help you can!   Rest, cut out sugar and dairy (which is very mucus forming), make some fresh organic vegetable juice and miso soup or take another source of probiotics.  Drink plenty of pure water and herb teas with a little honey and lemon, use Echinacea or the Wellness Herbal Resistance Liquid drops as directed,  add Elderberry syrup, Vitamin C and Vitamin D and eat really really healthy food including lots of veggies and homemade organic chicken soup!   If none of the above works…..be smart…go see your naturally oriented physician who will have additional tools in his tool box besides just a hammer!

References

1. Schaefer MK, et al: Adverse events from cough and cold medications in children. Pediatrics. 2008 Apr;121(4):783
2. Richardson AJ. Omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
   Int Rev Psychiatry. 2006 Apr;18(2):155-72. Review., Parker G, Gibson NA, Brotchie H, Heruc G, Rees AM, Hadzi-Pavlovic D. Omega-3 fatty acids and mood disorders.Am J Psychiatry. 2006 Jun;163(6):969-78. Review. La Guardia M, Giammanco S, Di Majo D, Tabacchi G, Tripoli E, Giammanco M.
   Omega 3 fatty acids: biological activity & effects on human health.Panminerva Med. 2005 12;47(4):245-3Ginde AA, Mansbach JM, Camargo CA Jr.: Association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and upper respiratory tract infection in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Arch Intern Med. 2009 Feb 23;169(4):384-90.
3. Kumar J, et al: Prevalence and Associations of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Deficiency in US Children: NHANES 2001-2004. Pediatrics. 2009 Aug 3.
4. Leyer GJ, et al: Probiotic effects on cold and influenza-like symptom incidence and duration in children. Pediatrics. 2009 Aug;124(2):e172-9.
5. Bjorksten B. Evidence of probiotics in prevention of allergy and asthma.  Curr Drug Targets Inflamm Allergy. 2005 Oct;4(5):599-604
6. Roschek B, et al: Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. Phytochemistry. 2009 Jul;70(10):1255-61.    Zakay-Rones Z, et al: Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. J Int Med Res. 2004 Mar-Apr;32(2):132-40.

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With the recently enacted laws in NY state and California mandating every child (even those who are medically fragile) receive the full list of CDC authorized vaccines, I feel it is my duty as a Pediatric RN for more than 40 years to provide parents with practical tips and ideas on what can be done to minimize the risks associated with vaccines.

Although I am tempted to elaborate on the current injustices involving the vaccine industry’s dominance of the pediatric profession and the unwarranted policies that our government is forcing us to comply with – that collectively have led to the erosion of our children’s health, instead I will share some of the relevant knowledge I have accumulated from my decades as a Pediatric RN,  mother, environmentalist, grandmother and adamant protector of children’s health in hopes of helping parents protect their children:

Tips for Minimizing Vaccine Risks:

1. Spread them out: I know this is difficult to do within certain states and pediatrician’s offices demanding full compliance – however, when and if at all possible, instead of following the “one size fits all” approach, choose which vaccines to give only after careful consideration of the individual child’s history and or genetic background. For instance if a child was born prematurely or if they have had recurrent ear infections necessitating the use of long term antibiotics, or if the parents have a history of autoimmune disorders or allergies, these are all indicators that a child may not respond well to vaccines and certainly not when several are given at one time. I’d like to say discuss all of this with your pediatrician, but unfortunately in today’s climate, most would not agree with the suggestion to postpone, spread out or avoid vaccines based on a family history or current illness. As a matter of fact, an all too common statement these days is that a child can handle hundreds of vaccines in one day. Honestly, what are these people thinking? And where are the studies proving their theory? They don’t exist! Finding a pediatrician who is at least open to  discussing selective vaccination is essential when parents are trying to make the best decisions for their children.
2. Load them up with Nutrients before and after: A week, or at least a few days prior to vaccinating, in addition to making sure the child is in good health, provide your child with immune boosting supportive nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Probiotics, Mercury Free Cod Liver Oil (a great source of Vitamin A and D and anti-inflammatory essential fatty acids),  Elderberry and if the child is not allergic to ragweed: Echinacea.  I gave these to my own children before, and for a week or two after their very limited vaccinations, and they never had a reaction.
3. Make sure the child is very healthy and hasn’t recently been on antibiotics. During my nurses training and in my early years as a pediatric nurse, pediatricians NEVER gave vaccines when children were showing signs of illness or were on antibiotics. That practice changed and now regardless of a child’s health status, vaccines are given.  Considering the fact that vaccines contain (in addition to live and attenuated viruses and bacteria) a multitude of toxic ingredients that the child’s body has to be strong enough to deal with (including formaldehyde, propylene glycol, Polysorbate 80, Aluminum, aborted fetal tissue etc), the practice of giving vaccines when a child is ill, flies in the face of common sense.4. Avoid Tylenol Although many are aware of the negative effects of giving Tylenol (acetaminophen) post vaccination,  some pediatricians continue to recommend it. Tylenol is one of the substances that  blocks the formation of glutathione which is a tri-peptide needed for proper detoxification.  Since a child needs their detox pathways to be in optimal shape in order to handle the previously mentioned toxic substances, avoiding a medication that interferes with that is a wise choice.
4. Ask for the package insert to be certain that the vaccine does not contain Thimerosal (a mercury based preservative which remains in the flu vaccine.) Additionally, you may want to special order a single dose vial if available for the particular vaccine you are considering as multi dose vials are more likely to contain more Thimerosal.6. Speak up and Speak out! Do not be afraid to speak up and ask for information.  Parents are responsible for the health and wellbeing of their children.  And although at present they are being strong armed and bullied into doing exactly as the vaccine industry, pediatric profession and government dictates, we must continue to do all we can to guard our children.   Research the heck out of this subject starting with the excellent website by Robert Kennedy Jr and his team at Children’s Health Defense or the amazing National Vaccine Information Center.  
5. Optimal Nutrition: Whether you have the opportunity to vaccinate selectively or somehow you are able to avoid vaccinating, nutrition (actually: “super nutrition” which includes organic fruits and vegetables, lots of pure filtered water, organic sources of protein (chicken, eggs, turkey, meat, nuts), healthy fats, probiotics, a good children’s supplement program etc.) are the keys to keeping kids healthy. Although the AAP and the pharmaceutical industry have tried to convince us that the main way to protect our children from infection is through vaccination, we are all smarter than that! The main ways to keep our children healthy are: by making sure they feel safe, get plenty of parental love and guidance, ensuring they have access to fresh air, exercise, clean water, eat a healthy organic (when possible)  diet, take appropriate supplements that include a great children’s multi, probiotics, Vitamin D, fish oil, and periodic use of herbs that give their immune systems an extra boost (like Elderberry and Echinacea).Summary: Do your homework and TRUST YOUR GUT! As parents, we cannot abdicate total responsibility for the health of our children to the CDC or the American Academy of Pediatrics. They have their role, but somewhere along the line, they became the authorities on children’s health and given their less than stellar track record and financial ties to the pharmaceutical and vaccine industry, it’s time we as parents TAKE BACK OUR POWER and learn and practice safer ways to vaccinate.

Although almost every article you read on this subject in the mainstream media claims that all the studies have shown there is absolutely no link between vaccines, autism and other neurological developmental and chronic health  conditions, that is simply not true. There is good science pointing to a connection (some studies listed below) and more importantly there are hundreds, if not thousands of parents of sick children who can tell you they had a normal child up until he or she received several vaccines in one day, or he or she was sick and still got their vaccines..

More research needs to be done for certain (especially examining the differences in health outcomes between vaccinated and unvaccinated populations, which to date government agencies have refused to do). But these accounts by intelligent, observant parents cannot be discounted, and to me are equally, if not more relevant in helping us prevent further damage to our children than entrusting our children’s health to an industry who has paid billions in law suits and has caused the current opioid  crisis.

“There are unanswered questions about vaccine safety. We need studies on vaccinated populations based on various schedules and doses as well as individual patient susceptibilities that we are continuing to learn about. No one should be threatened by the pursuit of this knowledge. Vaccine policy should be the subject of frank and open debate, with no tolerance for bullying. There are no sides—only people concerned for the well-being of our children.” Bernadine Healy, M.D., former director, National Institutes of Health (NIH),

Maureen H. McDonnell, RN

Articles of Interest regarding Inherent Risks in Vaccines

Aluminum hydroxide injections lead to motor deficits and motor neuron degeneration Christopher A. Shaw et all Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry 2009

Autism: A brain disorder or a disorder of the brain. Herbert, M Clin Neuropsychiatry 2005;2(6) 354-379

Hepatitis B triple series vaccine and developmental disability in US children aged 1-9 years Gallagher C, Goodman eta all Toxicology Environ Chem 2008 90(5) 997-1008

Early thimerosal exposure and neuropsychological outcomes at 7 to 10 years.Thompson WW, Price C, Goodson B, et al. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(13):1281-1292.

Detection of measles virus genomic RNA in cerebrospinal fl uid of children with regressive autism: a report of three cases.Bradstreet JJ, El Dahr J, Anthony A, Kartzinel JJ, Wakefi eld AJ. J Am Phys Surgeons. 2004;9(2):38-45.

Chronic low-level mercury exposure, BDNF polymorphism, and associations with cognitive and motor function.Echeverria D, Woods JS, Heyer NJ, et al. Neurotoxicol Teratol. 2005;27(6):781-796

Endoscopic and Histological Characteristics of the Digestive Mucosa in Autistic Children with gastro-Intestinal Symptoms. Gonzalez L, et al. ArchVenez Pueric Pediatr, 2005;69:19-25.

Detection and sequencing of measles virus from peripheral mononuclear cells from patients with inflammatory bowel disease and autism. Kawashima H, Mori et al Dig Dis Sci. 2000;45(4):723-729.

Similarities in features of autism and asthma and a possible link to Acetaminophen use. Becker KG, Schultz, Med Hypothesis . 2010 Jan:74(1):7-11.

Risk of autistic disorder in affected offspring of mothers with a glutathione S-transferase P1 haplotype.TA, Mars AE, Buyske SG, et al. Arch Pediatr  Adolesc Med.

Mercury, Lead, and Zinc in Baby Teeth of Children with Autism Versus Controls, Adams, James

Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, 70: 1046–1051,

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However, one essential factor that many of us were not emphasizing enough in our attempts to help individuals maximize their health – whether via an integrative or traditional approach was – the “happiness factor”!

Fortunately, a new science has emerged highlighting the fact that our attitudes such as enthusiasm, optimism, hopefulness and engagement in life, all have a positive influence on our health.  In 2007, a study that followed 6000 men and women aged 25-70 for 20 years found that individuals with these traits and tendencies had a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.  Additionally, a review of hundreds of studies found evidence that happier people have better overall health and live longer. Anxiety, depression, pessimism and a lack of enjoyment of daily activities have all been found to be associated with higher rates of disease including heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, depression and shorter lifespans.

Researchers also found that individuals who have an optimistic mindset were more likely to avoid risky behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption or overeating.  People with a positive outlook on life tend to engage in healthier behaviors such as exercise, eating healthy foods and getting enough sleep.   Taking care of your physical wellness may be the most effective happiness booster of all. 

You’re not a naturally happy person you say? Not to worry…science has confirmed that happiness can be learned via a set of skills and intentional habit changes, and that with certain practices, we can actually change the neural pathways in our brains. In fact these same researchers tell us that only 10% of our happiness is based on our circumstances. The rest is determined by our attitudes. And those, we do have control over!

Here are a few strategies to help enhance the “happiness factor” which in turn will improves your health:

1. Start a Gratitude Journal – We all know life is full of hardships and challenges (especially in recent times), but instead of rehashing the negative facts or keeping a journal of how people have mistreated you, write down 5 things you are grateful for on a daily basis.   Read it over a few times and feel your mood lift.   Gratitude not only increases positive emotions, but also sustains them.
2. Neuroplasticity (“re-wiring” our brain), cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation and mindfulness are techniques and strategies for helping individuals control and or redirect their thoughts toward more positive outcomes.
3. Express your gratitude to another – Letting someone know you appreciate them with a kind gesture, a gift or just your words is another method for elevating your mood.
4. Tell a Different Story – When recounting your childhood, a trauma, a negative life event, try telling it in a way that emphasizes what you learned and how you grew from that experience.
5. Learn Strategies for Happiness from the Blue Zones: When researchers have studied the Blue Zones around the planet (where people live healthy, happy lives sometimes beyond 100 years of age), they’ve found some common features. From the mountainous community of Sardinia, Italy, to Okinawa to the Seventh Day Adventists in Loma Linda, CA, the inhabitants of these Blue Zone areas all tend to not only eat a plant-based diet, move naturally throughout their day, and have a positive outlook on life, but they also live supportive communities and have a network of friends. Feeling connected, supported and respected as we age all contribute to our happiness and overall health.
6. Tune into how you feel! You’ll know if these strategies are working by the way you feel.  If you feel good, your thoughts are most likely positive and contributing to an improved state of happiness and health

Although not as scientific (but no less influential on this subject), Louise Hay (who many refer to as the founder of the Self-Help Movement) popularized another important feature to our health and happiness. In the 1980s and 90s while working with AIDS victims and healing herself of cancer, Louise began writing and speaking extensively about self-love and understanding the importance of how our thoughts shape our life experience.

In her book “Heal Your Body- The Mental Causes for Physical Illness and the Way to Overcome Them“, Louise writes:

  “What a joy it was when I first discovered the term ‘metaphysical causations’.  This describes the power in the words and thoughts that create experiences.  This new awareness brought me understanding of the connection between thoughts and the different parts of the body and physical problems… Now I could stop blaming life and other people for what was wrong in my life and my body.  I could now take full responsibility for my own health. Without either reproaching myself or feeling guilty, I began to see how to avoid creating thought patterns of disease in the future.”

One of Louise Hay’s favorite strategies for releasing negative thought patterns that were a contributing factor to dis-ease was practicing forgiveness and gratitude. Louise not only went on to heal herself from cancer, but to write several books, as well as start a very successful publishing company, Hay House Publishing which is devoted to disseminating books, audios, videos etc. by teachers such as Wayne Dyer, Esther and Jerry Hicks, Christiane Northrup, MD, and many others.  Louise passed away peacefully in her sleep this past August at the age of 90.  I will always be grateful for her pioneering work in helping us understand the importance of loving ourselves unconditionally and that minding our mind by controlling negative thought patterns and replacing them with positive loving thoughts is a great path to improving our health and happiness!

So, while checking our Vitamin D levels, monitoring our blood pressure, eating organic food or drinking green juice are all important to our health, we now know they are incomplete strategies if we don’t also include the happiness factor – practicing positive thinking, and having an attitude of gratitude!

A favorite spiritual teacher of mine sums it up here: “If you could make a decision to not allow negative emotion  to linger within you – and at the same time acknowledge that it is your work alone to refocus your attention in order to feel better, rather than asking someone else to do something different or for some circumstance to change to make you feel better – you will not only be a very healthy person, but you will be a joyful person.  Joy, appreciation, love, and health are all synonymous.”

Whether you’re a research buff studying Harvard’s latest data, or more drawn to spiritual teachings, the message is basically the same. Life is short, lighten up, laugh more, appreciate more and include the happiness factor in your overall plan to live a long, healthy and joy filled life!

Maureen McDonnell has been a holistic, nutritionally-oriented RN for 40 years.  In addition to being the health editor of a woman’s magazine in Asheville, NC, she was the former national coordinator of the Defeat Autism Now! Conferences and is the co-founder of Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet (SOKHOP.com).  Maureen lectures widely on the role the environment, nutrition and happiness play in our health.  She lives in the mountains of North Carolina (an unofficial Blue Zone) with her singer songwriter- CPA husband and is enjoying her role as grandmother to 11 grandchildren! Maureen is available for group presentations and private health consultations.

Happiness Factor Resources:

Home

Louise Hay – Official Website

The heart’s content: the association between positive psychological well-being and cardiovascular health

Happiness & health

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I used to get extremely annoyed when people would tell me to relax more and that I needed to develop an “attitude of gratitude”. I mean, what did they know? They weren’t living my overwhelmingly hectic life. Who had time to “stop and smell the roses”? “If they could walk just 5 minutes in my shoes, they would understand”.   I had no tolerance for their platitudes.  However, what I have come to learn is that if we don’t deal with stress, it eventually erodes our health, motivation and sense of well being.

As the kids have grown older and their needs have shifted, I now have a little time to reflect upon what I would have done differently when they were younger “if I knew then what I know now”.  First of all, I would have focused more on their preventive health which would have greatly changed the course of our lives, thereby reducing my stress levels. But, that’s another story for another day.

What I’ve learned and wanted to share is that in addition to adequate sleep, carving time out of my day for quiet reflection, getting more diligent with time management, and taking care of my body through healthy nutrition, exercise and mindful gratitude exercises (yes they do work), I recently discovered an unexpected source of stress reduction and peace.

A few months ago, my best friend, Maura (who is not only a holistic RN but also helps women transform their spaces into relaxing and healing sanctuaries at MauraThisMagic.com, came to help me “stage” my house as we plan on selling it in the near future.  It wasn’t that my home was decorated in an unappealing way, but it never just seemed to have that cozy, relaxing or comfortable feeling.

Not only did Maura and I have so much fun de-cluttering – getting rid of things that no longer felt right or served a purpose, but as we went through the house with a fresh intention, we found treasures tucked in corners that I had forgotten I had.  Yes, we did do a little shopping for some new things, but not many. Then, what a great time we had “feeling” where the perfect spot was for each piece of furniture or art.  Ultimately, we created what seemed like a new energy in my home. It was truly amazing and inspiring!  My home not only looked beautiful but it felt different…cozier, more welcoming – a place in which I could de-stress and recharge.  I fell in love with my home for what seemed like the first time ever! Now, I LOVE coming home and experiencing that “Ahh, I’m home” feeling…heck, I don’t want to leave anymore! It just makes me so happy!

That’s what I want to pass along to you today…the inspiration to take what you have, rearrange your treasures, maybe embellish a bit here and there with something special like a new candle or vase of fresh flowers and create a beautiful space for yourself so you too can take a break from all the stress and have a sanctuary in which to rest, relax and heal.  Below please find some of Maura’s best tips for creating a warm, cozy space within your home – a sanctuary of sorts in which to recharge your body, mind & spirit.

5 Tips to Transform Your Home (or a space within your home) into a Sanctuary:

1. Select: In an unhurried manner and with a clear intention to create a very special place for yourself in which to relax, recharge and heal, move from room in your home selecting special items (artwork, pieces of furniture, books, pottery, candles etc.) that mean something special to you and that you really love. Either mark them with a sticky note or bring them into one area to draw from later.
2. A Special Spot: Next, pick a specific room or area in your home that you are drawn to. This could be a corner in your living room, a section in your bedroom, even your bathroom and claim that as your place to start.
3. De-clutter: The next step is very important, yet sometimes hard to do. In order to create a space of calmness where you will be able to relax and recharge, you must de-clutter. This means, practicing the art of “letting go.” This can be exhausting because typically every book, piece of clothing or furniture has some sort of memory attached to it and often when we try to let an item go by putting in the giveaway pile those memories become activated and can drain us emotionally. However, if you refocus on the goal of creating a beautiful space that feels nurturing, where you can truly unwind, then letting go becomes easier.  This may take some practice!
4. “Feel” Your Way: Add your treasures, one piece at a time. Step back after each addition and “feel” how that item not only looks but how it “feels” in the space. Ask yourself:  Does it belong there?  Do I need to move it, or caddy corner it to make it more inviting? Trust your instincts and sense of design!
5. Embellish: The final touches may come in the form of a new, beautifully scented essential oil candle, greenery, a comfy throw or a vase filled with fresh flowers.

It doesn’t have to cost a lot to surround yourself with beauty, comfort and your personal treasures.  Not only will this new space feel like a sanctuary in which to truly unwind and recharge, but its calming effect will have a long lasting impact on your health.  Besides, you deserve it!  

The post The Benefits of Mom Creating a Sanctuary for Rest, Relaxation and Healing appeared first on Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet.

Insights obtained from relevant published studies regarding various metabolic and other dysfunctions commonly found in autism (GI and immune disorders, impairments in a child’s ability to detoxify and nutrient deficiencies) are key elements in the emerging paradigm focused on practical strategies for prevention and treatment of autism.

Pediatrics study confirms gastrointestinal disorders in children with autism and discusses treatment options:

Two papers published in Pediatrics on January 4, 2010, which were titled “Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Individuals With ASDs: A Consensus Report” and “Recommendations for Evaluation and Treatment of Common Gastrointestinal Problems in Children With ASDs,” were based on a review of relevant literature (1). The committee of 28 experts concluded that children with autism often have medical disorders including gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and that the associated GI symptoms – abdominal pain, chronic constipation, diarrhea, and gastro-esophageal reflux disease – can be at the root of unusual (autistic) behavior. The ensuing guidelines set forth in this paper encouraging pediatricians to evaluate and treat autistic children for these GI disorders is a long overdue acknowledgement of what parents had been telling pediatricians to do for years. The point is, the information has now been published, and there is no longer a dispute about the fact that GI problems exist in many autistic children. We also know from many parent reports that when GI issues are treated properly and resolve, autistic-like behaviors improve.

How might these two factors (the newly published studies and parents’ reports) impact the decisions women are making prior to becoming pregnant, during their pregnancies, and after the baby is born?

• Preconception Strategies for Improving GI Health
Some women are wisely choosing to address their own GI health issues prior to conceiving. If a woman has a history of Candida (yeast) overgrowth, digestive problems, gluten intolerance, food allergies, bloating, constipation, or parasites for instance, they are treating these conditions before becoming pregnant. Reducing sugar consumption, minimizing the use of antibiotics, taking probiotics, and using specific diets and herbs are helpful in optimizing a woman’s intestinal (and therefore general health) enhancing the likelihood that her child will not be prone to the GI problems often found in children with autism.
• Pregnancy Strategies for improving GI Health
The microflora in the gut of the newborn is influenced by the mother’s health and is the major external driving force in the maturation of the immune system after birth (2). In addition to a nutritious diet, an easily absorbed, natural prenatal vitamin, pure sources of fish oil (EPA and DHA), higher levels of vitamin D, and oral probiotics, women are adding fermented foods (e.g., yogurt, homemade sauerkraut, and young coconut kefir) during pregnancy to increase the colonies of good bacterial flora in their intestines.
• After Birth Strategies for Improving GI health of newborn
It has been shown that when newborns are given probiotics they have less incidence of asthma and allergies and other forms of inflammation (3). Other choices that enhance the health of the GI system in an infant are breastfeeding (4) – especially with the first milk or colostrum – that continues for at least 1 year and delays the introduction of solids. When solids are introduced, offering a varied, organic, hypoallergenic, and nutritious diet is recommended. Since good flora is destroyed by antibiotics, it makes sense to minimize their use in infancy. Using natural remedies including herbs, vitamins, probiotics, and freshly made organic vegetable juices can help the body fight off infection. In my opinion, since GI symptoms are commonly found in children with autism and we know ways to minimize the occurrence of GI symptoms, I consider it prudent to implement these effective strategies to minimize the likelihood of or prevent GI symptoms from developing.

Environmental Toxins, Impairment in Detoxification Pathways, and Their Role in Autism

What have we learned about environmental toxins and their role in autism? We know toxic chemicals have increased at an exponential rate for the past 50 years, with an average of 10 new chemicals introduced each day. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 87,000 chemicals are in widespread use and 2.2 million pounds of pesticides are sprayed on crops each year. We also know 85 billion pounds of plastic products are produced annually. The number of studies pointing to the detrimental health effects of environmental toxins (with many of them indicating a causal relationship with behavioral and developmental issues) in recent years has been astounding (5).

A 2006 report from the CDC found that the average American had 116 of the 148 synthetic compounds tested for – including the infamous dioxin, polycyclic hydrocarbons, and organochlorine pesticides. These same substances were also found in human milk, placental tissue, umbilical cord blood, and the blood and body fat of newborns.

The Environmental Working Group evaluated newborn babies born in U.S. hospitals in August and September 2004 and found an average of 200 chemicals and pollutants in their umbilical cord blood (8). Many of these toxins are known to be carcinogenic and, given a newborn’s porous and immature blood-brain barrier, the toxins are especially detrimental to the newborn’s neurological system.

Dr. Doris Rapp, a board certified environmental medical specialist, allergist, and author of Our Toxic World, A Wake Up Call, stated at a recent conference that she believes PCBs and other chemicals with hormone disrupting effects play a major role in explaining why 7 percent of all couples are now sterile; 50 percent of all pregnancies end in a stillbirth, miscarriage, birth defects or a chronic health problem; and why 7 out of every 1000 U.S. newborns die (which ranks the U.S. at number 34 tying with Poland and Slovakia for infant mortality) (7).

We are only beginning to assess the full range of damage to children caused by exposure to high (or even moderate) levels of these chemicals. But the information we do have is startling because, in addition to the transfer of these toxins from mother to baby in the womb, they are also transferable via breast milk. Moreover, since even a healthy newborn’s ability to excrete chemicals is not fully developed, they are more vulnerable to damage from these exposures than are the rest of us. To date, no health agency has officially declared environmental toxicity to be a major culprit in the autism epidemic, but research and opinions on this issue are changing rapidly. Studies done over the past few years are pointing to the role toxins play not only in the explosive increase of children being diagnosed with autism, but also in explaining why, as per a CDC Autism A.L.A.R.M. originally released in 2004, that 1 in 6 children in this country have a neurological, behavioral, or developmental problem.

A 2005 study in Environmental Health Perspectives (9) provided evidence that the closer a pregnant mother lived to pesticide application, the higher the chances were for her child to develop autism. Another study released in February 2009 showed a direct relationship between the presence of PVC flooring in a pregnant mother’s bedroom and the future development of autism spectrum disorders (10). Finally a report issued in December 2007 by the Collaborative on Health and the Environment’s Learning and Developmental Disabilities Initiative summed up the urgency of this problem by stating, “Given the established knowledge, protecting children from the neurotoxic environmental exposures . . . is an essential public health measure if we are to help prevent learning and developmental disorders. (11)”

Why then are all children exposed to environmental toxins not autistic? Dr. S. Jill James, director of the Metabolic Genomics Laboratory at the Arkansas Children’s Hospital Research Institute, helped answer this puzzling question when her research showed that a greater number of children with autism (than do the controls) have impairments in their methylation (detoxification) pathways (12). These inherited or genetic polymorphisms lead to a significant reduction in a child’s production of glutathione. Since glutathione is essential in the detoxification of chemicals, being deficient makes these children even more vulnerable than most to the damaging effects of toxins.

Knowing the information above helps us now in making new choices. Should we wait for the governmental agencies or the American Academy of Pediatrics to issue an edict telling women of childbearing age or men who plan on impregnating their partners to avoid as many chemicals as possible and to get tested or chelated for those chemicals before conception? Rather than wait for that to happen (which may take decades, if ever), I think a better idea is to exercise the precautionary principle and minimize our own (and, therefore, our offsprings’) exposure to as many toxins as possible. Common sense dictates that this one measure may help minimize the incidence of autism and other childhood disorders.

A Partial List of Tips for Reducing Toxic Load

• Switch to green cleaning and personal care products (e.g., shampoo, toothpaste, body lotion, facial cream). The average American home contains 3-10 gallons of hazardous materials, and 85 percent of the chemicals that are registered have never been tested for their impact on the human body. See the Green This! series of books by Deirdre Imus (green cleaning, baby and child care, and easy ways to detox your diet, your body and your life.
• Eat organically grown grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, meat, chicken, and eggs (13).
• If a woman has taken many drugs – prescription or over-the-counter – or works or lives in a chemically-laden environment, she might consider a detoxification or cleansing program.
• Find a “green” dry cleaner (the chemical used in most dry cleaning facilities, perchlorethylene, is a known carcinogen (14).
• Use a stainless steel water bottle to carry and consume filtered water. Heated or not, the soft plastic bottles will release phthalates. Antimony can also be released from polyethylene terephthalate.
• For more information about water filters, click here.
• Safely remove mercury based amalgam fillings with a dentist associated with The American Holistic Dental Association at least 6 months before becoming pregnant and not while breastfeeding (15).
• Prior to conceiving, consult a natural health care clinician or physician well versed in treating GI disturbances as well as elevated levels of toxins and heavy metals. One option is to contact a naturopathic physician (ND) or a MD associated with the American College for Advancement in Medicine.
• Minimize consumption of large fish.
• To build beneficial microflora, take high quality probiotics (in addition to improving levels of beneficial intestinal flora, these have been shown to decrease intestinal absorption of certain chemicals by facilitating their excretion (16)) and consume more fermented foods.
• Improve indoor air quality by opening the windows and creating cross ventilation.  When painting, choose low or no VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints. Select green building or remodeling products and allow adequate time for “non-green” building materials to outgas before moving back into the newly built or renovated nursery, room, or home.
• Reduce exposure to electromagnetic radiation by eliminating the use of microwave ovens, keeping cell phone usage to a minimum, and storing cell phones in your bag rather than in your pocket (17).
• Do do not sleep near a computer or other wireless devices.
• Use natural methods for controlling household and garden pests.
• Have children avoid playing on pressure treated wood decks and swing sets (source of arsenic).
• Minimize the use of fire retardant sleepwear (contains the toxic metal antimony).
• Purchase organic mattresses and linens.
• Remove shoes before entering the home to prevent contaminants from soil coming into the house (18).

Regarding vaccines

Although almost every article you read on this subject in the mainstream media states that all the studies have shown there is absolutely no link between vaccines and autism, that is simply not true. There is good science pointing to a connection (19). More importantly, there are thousands of parents of children with autism who can tell you they had a normal child until he or she received several vaccines in one day or that their child was vaccinated despite being ill. Although more research needs to be done, these accounts by intelligent, observant parents cannot be discounted. To me, these reports are of equal or greater importance than ANY scientific study.

Parents are choosing which vaccines to give after careful consideration of the child’s history and genetic background. For instance, if a child was born prematurely or has had recurrent ear infections, or if the parents have a history of autoimmune disorders or allergies, then these are indicators that the infant or toddler may not respond well to a vaccine (and certainly not when several are given at one time). I’d like to suggest discussing all of this with your pediatrician, but, unfortunately, most would not agree with the suggestion to postpone, spread out, or avoid vaccines based on a family history or current illness. As a matter of fact, I have heard several high ranking pediatricians say that a child’s immune system could handle hundreds of vaccines in one day. Honestly, what are these people thinking? And where are the studies proving their theory? They don’t exist! For a full discussion on safer ways to vaccinate, please see Are there Safer Ways to Vaccinate Our Children?

Due to a host of political and financial reasons, it will most likely be a long time before the pediatric profession or any health agency creates a public policy encouraging individuals to limit their exposure to toxins and eat an organic whole food diet, but frankly our kids can’t wait! As individuals, especially men and women of childbearing age, we need to get our own health – including our GI and detox issues – in order. We need to continue to empower ourselves with information regarding the hazards inherent in chemicals, minimize our exposure to them, and – of utmost importance – boost our nutritional status so we can decrease the damage caused by the toxins we can’t avoid. Although there are no guarantees in life, by using the information obtained from the many scientific studies on this subject and listening closely to parents who have successfully recovered their children from autism, we can make more informed common sense decisions allowing us to reclaim our role as the guardians of our children’s health.

References
1 – Buie, T., et al. Evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in individuals with ASDs; A consensus report and recommendations for evaluations and treatment of common gastrointestinal problems in children with ASD. Pediatrics, Jan. 4, 2010.
2 – Perez, P.F., Dore’, J., Leclerc, M., et al. Bacterial imprinting of the neonatal immune system lessons from maternal cells. Pediatrics, March 2007;119(3):e724-32.
Labeta, M.O., Vidal, K., Nores, J. E., et al. Innate recognition of bacteria in human milk is mediated by a milk-derived highly expressed pattern recognition receptor, soluble CD14. J Exp Med, May 15, 2000;191(10):1807-12.
Hrncir, T., Stepankova, R., et al. Gut microbiota and lipopolysaccharide content of the diet influence development of regulatory T cells: studies in germ-free mice. BMC Immunol. Nov. 6, 2008; 6;9:65.
3 – Bjorksten, et al. Evidence of probiotics in prevention of allergy and asthma. Inflammation and Allergy 2005,4 599-60.
• 4 – Chirico, G., Marzollo, R., et al.Anti-infective properties of human milk. J Nutr. Sept. 2008;138(9):1801S-1806S.
• 5 – Landrigan, P.J., Schecter, C.B., Lipton, J.M., Fahs, M.C., Schwartz, J. Environmental pollutants and disease in American children: Estimates of morbidity, mortality and costs for lead poisoning, asthma, cancer and developmental disabilities. Environ Health Perspect. 2002; 110 (7):721-728.
o Kimua-Kuroda, J., Nagata, I., et al. Disrupting effects of hydroxyl-polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners on neuronal development of cerebellar Purkinje cells: A possible causal factor for developmental brain disorder; Chemosphere, 2007, online www.sciencedirect.com
o Effects of environmental exposures on human development and reproduction. Proceedings of the Collaborative on Health and the Environment meeting, University of California, San Francisco, January, 2007.
o Eskenazi, B, Marks A et al. Organophosphate pesticide exposure and neurodevelopment in young Mexican-American children. Environmental Health Perspect., May 2007.115[51].
o Pogoda, J.M., Preston-Martin, S., Household pesticides and risk of pediatric brain tumors. Environ Health Perspect. 1997;105(11):1214-1220.
o Infante-Rivard, C., Labuda, D., et al. Risk of childhood leukemia associated with exposure to pesticides and with gene polymorphisms. Epidemiology 1999; 101(5): 481-487
7. MacDorman MF, Mathews TJ. Recent Trends in Infant Mortality in the United States. NCHS data brief, no 9. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2008
. Body Burden – The Pollution in Newborns; Environmental Working Group, July 14, 2005
9. http://www.medicalhomeinfo.org/health/Autism%20downloads/AutismAlarm.pdf.
8. Woodruff et al, Environmental Factors known to cause damage to children’s developing brain and neurological system: Pediatrics; 2004; 113(4):1133-40
9. Maternal residence Near Agricultural Pesticide Applications and Autism spectrum Disorders Among Children in the California Central Valley. Environmental Health Perspectives; July 30, 2007Molecular Psychiatry, November 10, 2005
10. Associations between indoor environmental factors and parental-reported autistic spectrum disorders in children 6-8 years of age. NeuroToxicology. Available online 2/10/09

11. www.iceh.org/pdfs/LDDI/LDDIStatement.pdf
12. James, SJ et al,Metabolic biomarkers of increased oxidatiave stress and impaired methyllation capacity in children with autism, Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Dec; 80(6):1611-7
13. Organic Foods vs Supermarket Foods: Element Levels; J of Appl. Nutrition, 45 [1], 1993 35-39
14. Consumer Reports study in 1996 concluded 1/6700 will get cancer from wearing PERC cleaned clothing once per week. Dry Cleaning Alternatives online; http://consumerreports.org accessed March 16, 2007
15. Haley, B, FDA Presentation: An Evaluation of Dental Amalgam Mercury Release and Corresponding toxicology Concerns, September 7, 2006.

16. Kenji et al , Effect of Probiotics Bifidobacterium breve and Lactobacillus casei on Bisphenol A exposure in Rats; Biochem 72. 70672-1-7,2008
17. Resources regarding the biological effects of EMF’s August 2007 (available on www.bioinitiative.org, and the 2009 special EMF issue of the Journal of Pathophysiology.Public Health SOS: The Shadow Side of the Wireless Revolution, Camilla Rees, Magda Havas, PhD.
18. Meadows-Oliver J Ped Healthcare (2006). 20, 350-352
19. * Gallagher C, Goodman M,Hepatitis B triple series vaccine and developmental disability in US children aged 1-9 years, Toxicol Environ Chem 2008 90(5):997-1008.
* Shaw, Petrick et al, Aluminum hydroxide injections lead to motor deficits and motor neuron degeneration, Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry (2009)
*Thompson W, Price C, et al, Early thimerosal exposure and neuropsychological outcomes at 7 to 10 years. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(13):1281-1292.
* William TA, Mars AE et al, Risk of autistic disorder in affected offspring of mothers with a glutathione S-transferase P1 haplotype. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med.
* Kawashisma Y, Takekuma K, et al Detection and sequencing of measles virus from peripheral mononuclear cells from patients with inflammatory bowel disease and autism. * A Dig Dis Sci. 2000;45(4):723-729.
* Bradstreet, JJ, El-Dahr, J et al Detection of measles virus genomic RNA in cerebrospinal fluid of children with regressive autism: a report of three cases.,. J Am Phys Surgeons. 2004;9(2):38-45.
* Echeverria D, Woods JS, Heyer NJ, et al Chronic low-level mercury exposure, BDNF polymorphism, and associations with cognitive and motor function..Neurotoxicol Teratol. 2005;27(6):781-796.

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Remember when you first saw Al Gore’s movie “An Inconvenient Truth” that depicted the dire state of our environment due to global warming?  It wasn’t easy to watch, but it did help many of us awaken to the facts and realize that as a result of the industrialization of our world – most notably the creation of 87,000 new chemicals in the past 100 years – our planet was changing… and not for the better!  The good news is – once the awareness took hold, solutions began to emerge, and positive changes ensued.

So what about our kids and their health?  Well, I’m afraid your reaction to the facts surrounding the current state of ill health our children are experiencing may be similar to those you felt when watching the movie.  However, for solutions to emerge, the facts once again must be revealed and discussed.  The purpose of this article however is not to evoke despair, but rather to emphasize effective solutions and hope so that our children’s health and well-being can be restored.

Ready or not, here are the current stats:

• 54% of the children in this country have one or more chronic illness.
• There has been a 300% increase in Asthma in the last 30 years (6.7 million kids are affected)
• 12 million of our kids have Type 2 Diabetes (this is a lifestyle and diet related illness, not genetic)
• Obesity rates have tripled in children in the last 30 years (17% of children between ages 2 and 19 are either very overweight or obese)
• 3 million kids suffer from allergies
• The CDC reports: 1 in 6 children have either a neurological, developmental or behavioral disorder
• 1 in 6 children in public schools now receive special education
• ADHD affects 5 million children
• 1 in 7 school aged children receive antipsychotic medication
• The Autism rate which was 1 in 5000 30 years ago, is now, according to recently released numbers from the CDC, 1 in 36…
• The fastest growing population of people with cancer, is children under age 13
• And finally, the Infant Mortality rate of a country is one of the most important indicators of its health as a nation. It is the number of deaths of infants under the age of one year per 1000 live births. Currently, according to the CDC, the US has a higher infant mortality rate than 27 other countries.  Despite the fact that we spend more on healthcare by far than any other country in the world, a baby born in the US today is less likely to see his or her first birthday than one born in Hungary, Poland or Slovakia

This “new normal” is not normal!

As you can see, kids today have more chronic illnesses than ever before, and as a society we should refuse to accept those statistics as normal!  Thankfully, children are no longer dying at a young age from infections (as they did prior to our collective understanding that contaminated water supplies, exposure to sewage,  malnourishment and poor hygiene practices made them more susceptible to infections.)  Additionally, the advent of antibiotics in the 1950s and the introduction of vaccines (which, at least in theory, help them resist infection) all contributed to longer survival rates and healthier children.

But now, it seems we have traded one problem for another and currently we have a different breed of children’s health problems to contend with.  The argument that all these conditions were always there in the numbers we are seeing today, (but we just become better at recognizing and diagnosing them) is a fallacy.  Ask any well-trained pediatrician or school nurse or teacher who was working 30 years ago how many kids were unable to focus or required special education or stood outside the nurse’s office at lunch to receive their medication for hyperactivity or bi-polar disorder.   Our schools and our society at large are struggling to deal with all the children who are handicapped by these physical, behavioral and developmental issues and require special services.

Having this many kids affected by asthma, allergies, Autism, ADHD, Type 2 Diabetes, autoimmune illnesses, and learning and behavior problems should not be considered normal, and the root cause or causes of these conditions must be discovered and addressed.

Why moms? Why Now?

Across the country and across the globe, mothers are beginning to speak out and share their concerns about how sick their kids are.  These conversations combined with the natural wisdom mothers possess as to what is best for their children has led to an unearthing of solutions, very smart solutions!

See, mothers, not medically trained nurses, doctors or researchers hold the key to unlocking the answers as to why this tsunami of sick kids has hit.   And more importantly, since we carry, care for (and most often are the ones to shop and cook for) our kids, we hold the power for preventing and treating these conditions.  

Here are a few solutions as to What Moms Can Do Now:

• Become informed and form a Team: Although your pediatrician is an important member of your child’s health team, don’t abdicate total responsibility for the health of your child to him or her. Do your research and find effective, safe and natural ways to prevent and treat various conditions and then discuss them with your child’s medical doctor, chiropractic physician, nutritionist, and other integrative practitioners.
• It was no slouch or ill-informed, self-proclaimed healer who said “Let food by thy medicine”. That came from Hippocrates, the father of medicine and one of the wisest men who ever lived. So take the Hippocratic Oath as a mom…When your child is showing early signs of a cold or infection, before heading to the pharmacy, make a pot of homemade soup and include: organic vegetables, an organic protein source, parsley, garlic and other herbs. Get that juicer out from the back kitchen cabinet or head on out and buy yourself an affordable Nutri-bullet and start whizzing up some organic vegetable juice (carrot, green apple, spinach with a touch of fresh lemon is a good place to start).  Familiarize yourself with healing herbs such as Echinacea and Astragalis, Peppermint, and Chamomile, etc. (we like the Gaia Herbs brand, but there are many great brands to choose from). These and many other natural remedies will support the body’s immune system and its innate ability to heal.  Medical treatment of course may be necessary, but even then, continue to support the body with healthy food and natural remedies.
• Get on top of the Vaccine Debate: Try not to reduce the very complex subject of vaccines to a simplistic “for or against” opinion. After 40 years as a pediatric registered nurse, I can tell you there are many ways to protect your child from infection and enhance their immunity.  Unfortunately, these natural approaches do not receive the same well-funded advertising and air time as vaccines do.   Nonetheless, do your research on this topic and come to your own conclusions. Although the concept of vaccinating makes sense (who wouldn’t want to protect their children against infections?), the effectiveness of many vaccines is questionable.  Add to that issue, the toxic ingredients they contain – such as formaldehyde, propylene glycol, aluminum, aborted fetal tissue, mercury, polysorbate 80 etc. (that are injected directly into your child’s blood during the most vulnerable stages of their development) and most people come to realize that this common practice may not only be ineffective but may be doing more harm than good.  The World Mercury Project  and The National Vaccine Information Center are two good sources that will provide you with credible and eye opening information to help you make informed decisions regarding the 36-45 vaccines that are currently being recommended for our children before the age of 5.  Additionally, check out this article Safer Ways to Vaccinate. 
• Help for Picky Eaters: When I initially counsel parents on the role healthy eating will play in their child’s health, they often respond by saying “Great idea, Maureen, but my child only eats two foods!” Don’t despair if your child like most kids is a picky eater. The pickiness can be a sign of nutrient deficiencies (especially in the all-important mineral Zinc).  I encourage parents to begin by giving their child a high quality, easily absorbed multi vitamin designed for kids.  If after a few weeks, their repertoire of foods does not expand (and they have white horizontal lines on their fingernails, indicating a Zinc deficiency), consider adding additional Zinc Picolinate. Start with 5mg and gradually increase to 20 or 30mg per day.  Stay within the recommended dosage parameters unless you consult a nutritionally savvy practitioner.
• Hydrate with nourishing fluids: Much to the chagrin of the dairy industry, we now understand that after a baby is weaned from the breast, milk -especially dairy based milk may not be the healthiest substance to ingest. As long as adequate and absorbable forms of calcium is supplied in other ways (such as greens, nuts, seeds and calcium citrate supplements, etc.), milk is not mandatory for optimal health. Many kids also have sensitivities to dairy (which may manifest as a chronic cough, recurrent ear or sinus infections, snoring, an inability to focus, rashes, etc.). If a milk type substance is desired, alternating between non-dairy calcium fortified milks such as Hemp milk, Coconut milk, Flax milk, Rice, etc. are usually tolerated quite well. Of course, replacing any sodas or sugar-laden juices with water is a great way to obtain optimal hydration. If necessary filtered water or sparkling water can be enhanced with a splash of organic, low sugar juice. Iced tea can be made with organic peppermint or a combination of herbs and kept in the fridge for easy access.  Keeping your kids hydrated throughout the day by giving them at least 6-8 glasses of filtered water and other non sugar fluids is important for their overall health.
• Balance their blood sugar levels: If a child has difficulty focusing, if their moods are unstable, if they get irritable or anxious, or they have periods when they feel weak and tired, try giving them a protein source every 3-4 hours to balance their blood sugar levels.  Although you don’t want to overload them on protein, having an organic hardboiled eggs, rolled up turkey slices, a handful of organic nuts, a protein based smoothie or a protein pop will do wonders for stabilizing their mood, energy, focus and overall health.   For snacks: instead of sweets or fruit, try some organic humus, organic almond butter (if your kids don’t have a nut allergy) and chop up some veggies for dipping.  Make some fresh organic chicken, turkey, beef and veggies based stews and soups and freeze them for meals during the week.
• Gut health: We hear so much about the gut microbiome these days and for good reason. 80% of the immune system is headquartered just outside the gut. So if your child is dealing with an immune dysfunction (recurrent infections, autoimmune illness like rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, allergies, etc.), healing the gut is a great place to begin the healing process. Additionally, the brain neurotransmitter that is responsible for keeping us in a good mood, reducing anxiety and depression and helping us focus (Serotonin) is also manufactured in the gut.  So if we want our kids (and ourselves) to be in a good moods, sleep well and avoid depression, gut health is key.  We can improve the health of the gut by reducing sugar intake, eating a non-inflammatory organic diet and by giving your kids (and yourself) a high quality probiotic.  Additionally, Google “fermented foods” and start making your own homemade sauerkraut (which is teaming with good “friendly” probiotic bacteria).  Good friendly bacteria or probiotics bump out the bad organisms which in turn strengthens the immune system.  It is often said in the holistic, integrative world of medicine “heal the gut, heal the child!”  Antibiotics are notorious for wiping out the good friendly bacteria, so if your child does have to take an  antibiotic, be sure to give a probiotic (not at the exact time of the antibiotic, but throughout the course of treatment and well afterwards) and continue to support the body nutritionally.

Give it time mom…

Transformation does not happen overnight:  Unlike medications that tend to mask symptoms, but generate more immediate results, dietary changes, supplements, herbs, juicing etc. can take time to produce results.  However, from my experience with my own children, as well as having guided and advised many moms over the past 4 decades, by dealing with the underlying causes of illness, these comprehensive and natural approaches tend to bring about long-lasting improvements and often resolution of the various conditions that are all too common today.

Our country has been heavily influenced by the quick fix, magic bullet pharmaceutical approach to health and we have only recently awakened or rediscovered many of these natural healing strategies.  So, reversing the illness trends in our kids is going to take some time.  Give yourself that time to learn, hang out with like-minded moms (who also want to investigate the underlying causes of these disorders and not just treat the symptoms.)   Research, read, watch enlightening documentaries such as “Bought”, “Trace Amounts”, “Forks over Knives”, “Cowspiracy”, “The Autism Summit” and “Supersize Me”.  Google the GAPS Diet, vegetable juicing, etc.

Just as the movie “The Inconvenient Truth” spurred a revolution in thoughts and actions about our environment, I am seeing a movement of moms (reconnecting with their own instinctive wisdom and empowered with knowledge of natural healing) develop.  Not surprisingly, this movement is leading to the restoration of health and well-being in many of our children!

Maureen McDonnell has been a holistic, nutritionally-oriented RN for 40 years.  She was the former national coordinator of the Defeat Autism Now! Conferences and is the co-founder of Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet. Maureen owns a supplement company Nutritionists Choice and lectures widely on the role the environment and nutrition play in women and children’s health. She has 11 grandkids and lives in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. 

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Oct	Mar	Apr
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2022	2024	2025

Adult Health , Healthy Kids , Prevention

Natural Ways to to Boost a Child’s Immunity

by Maureen H. McDonnell, RN May 2, 20185807 Views

Just today, I saw about 10 different signs advertising the flu vaccine. I’ll never know why, instead of this massive ad campaign, physicians don’t  just encourage the use of  immune boosting herbs such as Echinacea, and Elderberry  or recommend fresh-made vegetable juice, essential oils, miso soup, Omega 3’s and Vitamin D.  Actually, I do know why…except for a few docs who have broken from the pack, physicians are not trained in nature’s healing secrets. And when these strategies are not part of one’s tool box…you know what they say, “If all you have is a hammer, everything else looks like a nail.”  If all you have to prescribe are pharmaceuticals and vaccines, then every infection and condition looks like something that requires a drug or vaccine. And there’s one more reason conventional physicians do not understand or recommend natural remedies. They believe that there’s no good science to support their use. Hopefully, in addition to providing safe, effective and natural strategies for preventing the cold and flu, the scientific studies referenced throughout this article will help put that false notion to rest.

I have been very fortunate during my 35 years as a nurse to learn about natural healing strategies from herbalists, nutritionists, naturopaths, chiropractors and naturally oriented MDs. I was even lucky enough to have a pediatrician for my own children who instead of prescribing medications when they showed signs of an infection (some of which have recently been proven to be harmful for children)(1), would tell me to make the kids organic carrot juice. He’d also recommended increasing their dose of Vitamin C, encourage me to make them homemade chicken soup and give them a few doses of Echinacea. I feel blessed, because now my kids are healthy adults and applying some of these same principles with their own children.  It is these common sense approaches often forgotten in our high-tech, pharmaceutically-oriented culture that I’d like to discuss.

As far as staying healthy during the cold and flu season, one can never underestimate the importance of certain lifestyle habits such as getting enough rest and sleep, proper hand washing, daily exposure to sunshine and fresh air, exercise, practicing positive thinking, and staying well hydrated with ample amounts of water. But now, thanks to emerging science, as well as a new reverence for ancient healing principles, our understanding of how to prevent colds and the flu  goes beyond these basics and gives us access to additional tools for maintaining optimal health throughout the winter season. Although there may be some variations to the suggestions below based on our age, gender, health history, stress level, etc., most of us can derive great benefits from applying some or all of these tips:

• Let’s start with Sugar: Did you know that a serving of sugar that exceeds 4gms (a little over a teaspoon) causes our immune system to function less effectively? If the goal is to keep our immune system strong, doesn’t it make sense to cut way back on our sugar intake? Look for those not so obvious sources such as juices (certain brands contain 30-50gms per serving), some brands of ketchup are 33% sugar, and a few varieties of granola have 45 gms of sugar per serving! Don’t be fooled because the package says it’s natural. Read the sugar content on the label first. If you are going to have something with sugar in it, try not to exceed 4gms of sugar per serving.  Still not convinced?  Read the book: Sugar and Immunity by William Stoll, M.D.
• Vegetables and Fruit:  The current recommendation is to consume 4 ½ cups per day…which is not always easy to do.  One solution might be to get out the juicer (I know you have one in that back cupboard!) and juice some of veggies and fruit.  Yes, it’s a pain to clean, but there is no better source of nutrition then a fresh made batch of organic vegetable juice. You might be thinking, “let me grab a V8”. Although there is some nutritional value left in those cans or bottles, even the nutrient content of fresh made juice begins to decline within 20 minutes after making it. So you can imagine how little is left in the canned version that has been sitting on the shelves for months! When making your own juice, the carrot/apple combination is a good place to start because it tastes great. From there, you can add more greens like watercress, parsley and beets and cut back on the sweet carrots. For kids: get bolder as they get older!
• Multi–Vitamin: My recommendation for anyone seeking a comprehensive supplement program to enhance their overall health and boost their immune systems is to start with a great multi.   Try to get one that has optimal levels and easily absorbable forms of these important nutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, B vitamins and Ester C.  Check the labels. Whenever adding a multi or any other supplement, start with a low dose of one, take with food, and gradually, (very gradually) work up to the full dose before adding the next supplement.
• Fish Oil: Following the introduction of a good comprehensive multi, many professionals focused on optimizing your health suggest adding a mercury-free fish oil which contain Omega 3 fatty acids. Fish oil is notorious for reducing inflammation caused by free radical damage. It can improve attention, support cardiovascular health, strengthen immune function and affect each cell’s ability to absorb nutrients and release toxins. (3) Omega 3’s can also improve skin texture (check for bumps on the back of your arms and watch them disappear after a few months of taking fish oil).  Look for a reputable company that goes the extra mile of ensuring their product does not contain mercury.
• Vitamin D: Recent studies have shown that Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an array of acute and chronic health problems including a higher rate of respiratory tract infections. (4)  Optimal levels (above 70) on the other hand have been shown to promote cognitive function and cardiovascular and immune health.  Dr. Larry Rosen, MD (a naturally- oriented pediatricians from NJ), reporting on a Vitamin D survey (5) wrote “that those individuals with Vitamin D deficiencies are at higher risk to contract the flu and develop complications from those infections.”  For more information on vitamin D and to check appropriate tests and dosages for children , go to www.VitaminDcouncil.org.
• Echinacea: Echinacea is an immune supportive herb that tends to be most effective when used at the first signs of an infection and is not as effective once you already have an illness.  For studies and more information on Echinacea (my all time favorite immune boosting herb), go to (6).
• Probiotics: Foods such as miso, kefir and yogurt are sources of “friendly” gut bacteria. Probiotics with funny names like Acidophilus and Bifidus help crowd out pathogenic organisms such as  yeast, parasites and nasty bacteria. Probiotics also keep the gut wall from becoming porous which prevents toxins and undigested food from getting across its barrier into the blood and causing an improper immune response. They also help the body create B vitamins. There have been studies showing that taking probiotics as an infant can lessen a child’s incidence of allergies, eczema, and asthma and that if given when a child is developing a cold or flu, can help short circuit and lessen the time of the infection. (7)
• Vitamin C: Many health practitioners including Dr. David Berger, MD a pediatrician from Florida recommend Vitamin C to help support immune function. Dr. Berger has a wonderful website Wholisticpediatrics.com and on it you can find the following dosage recommendations for children: For children under 1 year of age give 100mg per month of age. For children up to age 5, 1000mg per year of age, and as much as possible for older children and adults, as long as the stool does not become loose.
• Elderberry Syrup: My daughter-in- law, Jen has degrees in botany, environmental science and is a master gardener.  She knows more about herbs and plants than almost anyone I know and she was the one who told me about the healing properties of elderberries. These berries that come from the Elder tree (Sambucus) are a rich source of antioxidants. Jen makes her own syrup and gives it to my son and grandkids. Although they live in Portland, Oregon where winter days are often damp, cold and rainy, they are rarely sick. One study that was recently published showed that in a test tube (in vitro) when cells were exposed to the flavanoids in elderberry syrup they created antibodies against HINI (the swine flu!). (8) I find it amazing that very few of us know about this study. Where are the announcements from the CDC about how effective elderberry is against the flu? Instead we see signs on roadways and parking lots encouraging us to get our flu shot as if the shots are the only option to prevent the flu.
• Essential Oils: According to Tacy Apostolik (a Board Certified Reflexologist and an Internationally Certified Aromatherapist), using essential oils, (aromatic liquids distilled from plants), can be very effective for cold and flu prevention. In addition to being highly antibacterial, and anti-viral, they can also help speed up recovery, and lead to a better, overall state of health. Tacy states: “According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, winter is the time to support the kidneys and adrenals.  Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove are supportive to these organs. Interestingly, these are the very spices we associate with the winter months. These particular oils are considered “hot” oils, meaning they can cause irritation if applied directly to the skin. Therefore, you can mix them (50-50) with a mild oil such as lavender or Roman chamomile, and apply to the bottoms of the feet. This can have a double effect of supporting the urinary system, while reducing stress and aiding in a good night’s sleep.” Tacy recommends only using oils of the highest quality.  Instead of an antibacterial soap, she also suggests mixing 8 – 10 drops of any antiseptic citrus oil such as lemon, orange, or grapefruit with filtered water in a small 2 oz. spray bottle as a great way to keep your hands bacteria free.  The wonderful thing about essential oils Tacy says, “is that they are intuitively smart.  While protecting you from ‘bad’ bacteria, they support the ‘good’ bacteria we need to stay healthy.”
• Water: Drink lots of filtered water…not from plastic bottles.
• Some additional supplements that can be helpful in boosting the immune system that I’ll discuss at length another time are: Zinc, the homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum, and Vitamin A from cod liver oil.

To summarize: if you or your child feel like you are getting sick,  give the immune system all the help you can! Try to rest, cut out sugar and dairy (very mucus forming), make some fresh juice made from carrot/apple/ginger (just a smidgen of ginger or the kids won’t drink it), make some miso soup or take another source of probiotics, drink herb teas with a little honey and lemon, use Echinacea drops in water every 4 hours, maybe add Elderberry syrup, Vitamin C and eat really really healthy food including lots of veggies and homemade organic chicken soup! If none of the above works…be smart…go see your naturally oriented physician.

Bio:  Maureen McDonnell has been a registered nurse for over 40 years (in the fields of: childbirth education, labor and delivery, clinical nutrition, and pediatrics.)   Maureen is the former national coordinator of the Defeat Autism Now! Conferences and is the co-founder of Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet.  Her published articles on autism and health can be found at www.SOKHOP.com . In addition to writing a monthly column Common Sense Approaches to Women’ Health. Maureen was the Medical Coordinator for the Imus Ranch for Kids with Cancer.   She and her husband H Hanson have 11 grandkids and feel blessed to be living in the beautiful mountains of WNC.

References

1. Schaefer MK, et al: Adverse events from cough and cold medications in children. Pediatrics. 2008 Apr;121(4):783-7.
2. Probiotic effects on cold and influenza-like symptom incidence and duration in children Pediatrics 2009; (ISSN: 1098-4275)

Bjorksten B. Evidence of probiotics in prevention of allergy and asthma.  Curr     Drug            Targets Inflamm Allergy. 2005 Oct;4(5):599-604

3. Richardson AJ. Omega-3 fatty acids in ADHD and related neurodevelopmental disorders.

4. Int Rev Psychiatry. 2006 Apr;18(2):155-72. Review.,  Parker G, Gibson NA, Brotchie H, Heruc G, Rees AM, Hadzi-Pavlovic D. Omega-3 fatty acids and mood disorders.Am J Psychiatry. 2006 Jun;163(6):969-78. Review. La Guardia M, Giammanco S, Di Majo D, Tabacchi G, Tripoli E, Giammanco M. Omega 3 fatty acids: biological activity & effects on human health.Panminerva Med. 2005 12;47(4):245-

5. Ginde AA, Mansbach JM, Camargo CA Jr.: Association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level and upper respiratory tract infection in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Arch Intern Med. 2009 Feb 23;169(4):384-90.    Kumar J, et al: Pr2nd Vit D study:   Prevalence and Associations of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Deficiency in US Children: NHANES 2001-2004. Pediatrics. 2009 Aug 3.

6. http://www.sokhop.com/why-use-the-herb-echinacea-and-when-not-to-use-it-32

1. 8.  Leyer GJ, et al: Probiotic effects on cold and influenza-like symptom incidence and duration in children. Pediatrics. 2009 Aug;124(2):e172-9.Roschek B, et al: Elderberry flavonoids bind to and prevent H1N1 infection in vitro. Phytochemistry. 2009 Jul;70(10):1255-61.            Zakay-Rones Z, et al: Randomized study of the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B virus infections. J Int Med Res. 2004 Mar-Apr;32(2):132-40.

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“There are unanswered questions about vaccine safety. We need studies on vaccinated populations based on various schedules and doses as well as individual patient susceptibilities that we are continuing to learn about. No one should be threatened by the pursuit of this knowledge. Vaccine policy should be the subject of frank and open debate, with no tolerance for bullying. There are no sides—only people concerned for the well-being of our children.”

Bernadine Healy, M.D., former director, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and current health editor, U.S. News & World Report

Now that my 5^th grandchild has arrived and I am surrounded by lots of young parents, the question comes up more and more frequently: Should we vaccinate? As I’ve posted before, I’ve been a pediatric registered nurse for 33 years, but more relevant to this discussion is the fact that I’ve interacted with hundreds of parents of autistic children as a clinician, as well as during my ten years as the coordinator of the Defeat Autism Now! Conferences.  Because of these experiences, I get many inquiries from family members, friends and clients regarding this very hot and very controversial subject. My reply to these young parents is “It’s not as black and white as your pediatrician would have you believe. Please do some homework on this subject before adhering to the guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics and or the CDC.”  I also tell them a must read is the updated version of the book by Dr. Stephanie Cave, MD What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Childhood Vaccinations.

We all know it’s easier in the short term to trust the “authorities” regarding health care for our children.  However, in my experience I have seen that when parents take the time to do some in-depth research on their own into this subject, everyone benefits.  The degree of skepticism that typically occurs as a result of their investigation can make decisions regarding vaccines a bit more challenging.  But without question, informed parents make better choices for their children.

Although almost every article you read on this subject in the mainstream media claims that all the studies have shown there is absolutely no link between vaccines and autism, that is simply not true. There is good science pointing to a connection (some studies listed below) (1) and more importantly there are hundreds, if not thousands of parents of sick children who can tell you they had a normal child up until he or she received several vaccines in one day, or he or she was sick and still got their vaccines. More research needs to be done for certain (especially examining the differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated populations, which to date government agencies have refused to do). But these accounts by intelligent, observant parents cannot be discounted, and to me are equally, if not more important, than ANY scientific study.

For the purpose of practicality, let’s say a parent does decide to vaccinate. Here are some ideas and suggestions that in my experience help minimize problems associated with vaccines:

1. Instead of following the “one size fits all” approach, choose which vaccines to give only after careful consideration of the individual child’s history and or genetic background. For instance, if a child was born prematurely or if they have had recurrent ear infections or if the parents have a history of autoimmune disorders or allergies, these are all indicators that a child may not respond well to vaccines and certainly not when several are given at one time. I’d like to say discuss all of this with your pediatrician, but unfortunately most would not agree with the suggestion to postpone, spread out or avoid vaccines based on a family history or current illness. As a matter of fact, I have heard several high ranking pediatricians say that a child’s immune system could handle hundreds of vaccines in one day. Honestly, what are these people thinking? And where are the studies proving their theory? They don’t exist! Finding a pediatrician who is at least open to  discussing selective vaccination is essential when parents are trying to make the best decisions for their children.  See Dr. Cave’s book for suggestions on an alternative schedule.

2. Some pediatricians are no longer suggesting that Tylenol be given after a vaccine.  Here’s their rationale:  Tylenol is one of the substances that can block the formation of glutathione which is a tri-peptide needed for proper detoxification.  Long story here, and I won’t list all the questionable ingredients in vaccines, but I will tell you that adjuvants like aluminum and squalene are added to vaccines to provoke an immune response. Since we need our detox pathways to be in good shape to handle these substances, some are calling into question giving a child a medication which interferes with the body’s ability to detoxify. (2)

3. Make sure the child is very healthy and hasn’t recently been on antibiotics. One study indicated that the toxic effects of mercury are more pronounced when a child is on, or has recently been taking antibiotics. (3)

4. Prior to vaccinating, some pediatricians such as Julie Buckley, MD from Ponte Vedra Florida suggest in addition to making sure the child is in good health, its good to “prime the pump”.  In other words give immune boosting supportive nutrients like Vitamin D, ½ tsp cod liver oil (a great source of Vitamin A and D and essential fatty acids), some Vitamin C, Elderberry and if the child is not allergic to ragweed: Echinacea.  I gave these to my own children before, and for a week or two after their very limited vaccinations, and they never had a reaction.

5. If a child has missed their well baby check and the pediatrician wants to “double up” on vaccines. Do not allow this…Spread them out.

6. Ask for the package insert to be certain  that the vaccine does not contain Thimerosal (a mercury based preservative.) Additionally, you may want to special order a single dose vial if available for the particular vaccine you are considering as multi dose vials are more likely to contain preservatives including Thimerosal (which remains in most flu vaccines).

If after researching this topic you decide not to vaccinate, find out the laws surrounding exemptions in your particular state by searching the National Vaccine Information Center.

Also if you choose to not vaccinate or you do vaccinate selectively, nutrition (actually: “super nutrition” which includes organic fruits and vegetables, lots of pure filtered water, organic sources of protein – chicken, eggs, turkey, meat, nuts –  fresh made vegetable juices and a good children’s supplement program) are the keys to keeping kids healthy. Although the AAP and the pharmaceutical industry have tried to convince us that the main way to protect our children from  infection is through vaccination (oh yes, and handwashing.), we are all smarter than that! The main ways to keep our children healthy are: by making sure they get plenty of fresh air, sunshine, exercise, eat an excellent organic diet, take appropriate supplements that include a great multi, Vitamin D, fish oil, and periodic use of herbs that give their immune systems an extra boost (like Elderberry and Echinacea)

Do your homework and TRUST YOUR GUT! As parents, we cannot abdicate the responsibility for the health of our children to the CDC or the American Academy of Pediatrics. They have their role, but somewhere along the line, they became the authorities on children’s health and given their less than stellar track record and financial ties to the pharmaceutical and vaccine industry, it’s time we as parents TAKE BACK OUR POWER and learn and practice safer ways to vaccinate.

References:
1. Autism: A brain disorder or a disorder of the brain?  Herbert, M Clin Neuropsychiatry. 2005;2(6):354-379

Hepatitis B triple series vaccine and developmental disability in US children aged 1-9 years
Gallagher C, Goodman M. Toxicol Environ Chem 2008 90(5):997-1008.
http://fourteenstudies.org/pdf/hep_b.pdf

Aluminum hydroxide injections lead to motor deficits and motor neuron degeneration
Christopher A. Shaw; Michael S. Petrik.
Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry (2009) in press

Early thimerosal exposure and neuropsychological outcomes at 7 to 10 years.Thompson WW, Price C, Goodson B, et al. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(13):1281-1292.

Detection of measles virus genomic RNA in cerebrospinal fl uid of children with regressive autism: a report of three cases.Bradstreet JJ, El Dahr J, Anthony A, Kartzinel JJ, Wakefi eld AJ. J Am Phys Surgeons. 2004;9(2):38-45.

Chronic low-level mercury exposure, BDNF polymorphism, and associations with cognitive and motor function.Echeverria D, Woods JS, Heyer NJ, et al. Neurotoxicol Teratol. 2005;27(6):781-796

Endoscopic and Histological Characteristics of the Digestive Mucosa in Autistic Children with gastro-Intestinal Symptoms. Gonzalez L, et al. ArchVenez Pueric Pediatr, 2005;69:19-25.

Detection and sequencing of measles virus from peripheral mononuclear cells from patients with inflammatory bowel disease and autism. Kawashima H, Mori et al Dig Dis Sci. 2000;45(4):723-729.

Similarities in features of autism and asthma and a possible link to Acetaminophen use. Becker KG, Schultz, Med Hypothesis . 2010 Jan:74(1):7-11.

Risk of autistic disorder in affected offspring of mothers with a glutathione S-transferase P1 haplotype.TA, Mars AE, Buyske SG, et al. Arch Pediatr  Adolesc Med.

Mercury, Lead, and Zinc in Baby Teeth of Children with Autism Versus Controls, Adams, James

Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, 70: 1046–1051,

The post Are There Safer Ways to Vaccinate Our Children? appeared first on Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet.

Causation theories range from: it must be due to better diagnosis, (rather than a real increase); to maternal age at the time of conception; to the more likely scenario suggesting that genetic predispositions plus toxic environmental insults (including an explosive increase in the number of vaccines given before age 5) are to blame.  The problem is, while we wait for the experts to debate these theories, more and more children are being negatively impacted by this condition.

Meanwhile, moms of affected children who want to get pregnant with another child, and women who have never conceived, ask what can be done to increase the chances of having a healthy baby. Instead of waiting for new guidelines or official policy changes to be issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) or the American Academy of Pediatrics, savvy individuals are examining the published scientific research and also listening to parents who have improved their children’s condition and coming up with new strategies for carrying, birthing, and raising healthier children.

During the last decade, as the debate has raged regarding the causes of autism, one organization: the Autism Research Institute or ARI has been gathering experts from around the world to brainstorm and conduct research on the underlying metabolic dysfunctions associated with autism, as well as safe and effective interventions to treat this condition.

Dr. Bernie Rimland, the founder of the Autism Research Institute and cofounder of “Defeat Autism Now!” instilled in this group a sense of urgency to focus on solutions that would improve the lives of children now (as opposed to research that would only have relevance for future generations).  As a result of Dr. Rimland’s vision, these meetings, subsequent research, clinical applications, and parents applying what is now termed the “biomedical approach”, many children previously diagnosed on the autism spectrum have improved, and in some instances recovered, from autism.

Subsequent research funded by ARI and other organizations revealed abnormal patterns and metabolic dysfunctions in the ASD population that include:

• GastroIntestinal dysfunctions (constipation, diarrhea, reflux, increased permeability, decreased enzyme production including DPP1V, abnormal microflora, etc) ( 1)
• Neuro-Inflammation (neuro-glial activation (2)
• Decreased blood flow to certain parts of the brain and abnormal brain size
• Hormonal disturbances (including increased cortisol production and disorders of serotonin and dopamine)
• Immune dysfunctions including a Th1 to Th2 shift and pro-inflammatory cytokine production (3)
• Oxidative Stress (decreased methionine and other markers indicating decreased methylation capacity, increased  Homocysteine, low Glutationione, increased lipid peroxidation, decreased B12 levels, etc.)
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction (decreased carnitine levels; increased lactate) (4)

As parents and clinicians work feverishly to address these abnormalities by assessing the individual issues that each child presents, and attempt to normalize or correct these various disturbances, children are improving (speech, behavior, cognition, attention, general health, etc.) and in some instances, they are even recovering to the point of losing their original diagnosis. But this is tremendously difficult, heart-breaking, and expensive work. Since some of these biochemical abnormalities may be preventable, more and more parents are working to optimize their health prior to conceiving, in hopes of increasing their chances of having healthier children.

I’ve been a pediatric registered nurse for 33 years, during which time I’ve worked as a certified natural childbirth instructor, labor and delivery nurse, and had a private practice where I provided nutritional counseling. More relevant to this discussion is the fact that during the ten years I coordinated the Defeat Autism Now! Conferences, I interacted with hundred of parents of children with autism. These are the same parents who worked tirelessly to implement the biomedical approach to treating their children’s autism symptoms. Many of them exhausted (and often broke) from instituting various treatments, repeatedly said to me “if only I knew then, what I know now, I would have made very different choices.”

Of course, autism can not always be prevented and no one should harbor guilt.  We know there are genetic components. But we also now know environmental toxicity and suboptimal nutrition play a role. As a result of the research and parents reporting improvements when they correct the various metabolic dysfunctions, I and many practitioners are realizing that more has to be done to build awareness and education around the idea that autism can be prevented and symptoms frequently associated with autism can improve.

I believe we know enough now to encourage couples who are contemplating pregnancy, or have conceived, or who have an infant, to implement certain precautionary principles to minimize the risk of having their child develop autism.  These strategies include:

• Minimizing one’s exposure to environmental toxins (5)
• Maximizing the nutrition and general health of the mother prior to conceiving, during the pregnancy and while breastfeeding
• Providing superior sources of nutrition for the infant and child
• Careful, strategic, and individualized consideration and use of vaccines

Of course there are no guarantees. However, with so many parents, physicians, and researchers united in their opinions as to what is contributing to this condition, as well as which strategies are bringing about improvements in these children, we now have a pool of wisdom, good science, and common sense from which to draw the following safe, effective, and practical recommendations for preventing autism…and we can do it now!

Prior to conception:

1. If a woman is considering becoming pregnant, one of the best things she can do is give herself six to twelve months to improve her diet and make better lifestyle choices. She should consume organically-grown grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and sources of protein (6).  Laying the foundation for a healthy pregnancy by putting herself in optimal shape will go a long way towards minimizing the chance of miscarriage or developing other complications of pregnancy and delivery.

2. Because gastrointestinal problems are so common in children with autism, in addition to reducing or eliminating  the white foods: sugar, white bread, pasta, pizza, bagels, chemical preservatives and other processed foods,  some women I’ve been working with are choosing to address their own GI-related conditions prior to conceiving. If a woman has a history of candida (yeast) overgrowth or digestive problems, gluten intolerance, food allergies, bloating, constipation, or parasites, they are treating these conditions before becoming pregnant. Reducing sugar consumption, minimizing the use of antibiotics, taking probiotics, and using specific diets and herbs to treat intestinal pathogens such as yeast and parasites can all be helpful in optimizing a woman’s health; all of these greatly enhance the likelihood that her child will not be prone to GI problems.

3. Reduce or eliminate alcohol and caffeine and eliminate tobacco (7).

4. Begin or continue an exercise routine.

5. Prior to conceiving, a woman should switch to green cleaning and personal care products (e.g., shampoo, toothpaste, body lotion, facial cream).  A 2006 report from the CDC found that the average American had 116 of the 148 synthetic, including dioxin, polycyclic hydrocarbons, and organochlorine pesticides. These same substances were also found in human milk, placental tissue, umbilical cord blood, and the blood and body fat of newborns (8). The average American home contains 3-10 gallons of hazardous materials, and 85 percent of the chemicals that are registered have never been tested for their impact on the human body. Please see the “Green This!” book series by Deirdre Imus.

6. Consider a detoxification or cleansing program such as Blessed Herbs, especially if a woman’s toxic load has been high, she’s taken many prescriptive or non-prescriptive drugs, or lives and works in a chemically-laden environment.

7. Consult a well-trained chiropractor or medical doctor familiar with nutritional and detoxification protocols, especially if a detox program alone does not relieve fatigue, migraines and or other symptoms associated with being toxic. To contact an MD, ND, DC or DO in your area affiliated with the American College for Advancement in Medicine, click here.

8.  If a woman has several mercury based amalgam dental fillings, she may want to have these removed by a dentist familiar with safe procedure for the removal of dental mercury (www.holisticdental.org). Safely remove mercury based amalgam fillings with a dentist associated with The American Holistic Dental Association (www.holisticdental.org) at least 6 months before becoming pregnant and not while breastfeeding (15).

9. Also in anticipation of conception, it makes sense to begin taking a good comprehensive multi-vitamin/mineral supplement.

10. Adding a source of animal-based Omega 3s is also essential for optimal health. Krill oil is suggested by many or a mercury-free source of fish oil.

11. Find a green” dry cleaners, as the chemical used in most dry cleaning facilities, perchlorethylene, is a known carcinogen (9).

12. Use a glass or stainless-steel water bottle to carry and consume filtered water. Heated or not, the soft plastic bottles will release phthalates and possibly Antimony.

13. Minimize consumption of large fish (for mercury levels of fish check: www.gotmercury.org).

14.  To build beneficial intestinal microflora, take high quality probiotics and consume more fermented foods.  In addition to improving levels of beneficial intestinal flora, these have been shown to decrease intestinal absorption of certain chemicals by facilitating their excretion (10). See www.BodyEcology.com.

15. Improve indoor air quality by opening the windows and creating cross ventilation.

16. Test Vitamin D levels and add additional Vitamin D3 if necessary.  Many studies are supporting the use of higher levels of Vitamin D to support immune, cardio, and neurological function than what was previously recommended (11).

18. Eating a diet rich in colorful organically-grown vegetables will provide an adequate intake of antioxidants to fight off the damaging effects of free radicals. Juicing organic vegetables is a great alternative if one can’t seem to consume the recommended 4 ½  cups of veggies and fruit per day.

19. If anticipating pregnancy, research and consider avoiding the flu shot and any other vaccine for one year prior to conception.

20. Computers, TV and cell phones emit Electro Magnetic Fileds (EMF’s) so do not sleep with these in bedroom (12).

21. Use cell phones only when necessary and keep the phone in your pocketbook as opposed to in your pocket.

22. Do what is reasonable to green your home and minimize exposure to toxins in your food, cleaning products, EMFs, water etc.   If remodeling is planned and or a new home is being constructed, try to select no VOC paints, sustainable wood as opposed to composites and resin based products, minimize exposure to building materials, allow out-gassing of new materials, etc.

23. Begin regular chiropractic care with a family wellness practitioner to begin the process of optimizing nerve and immune system function and balancing pelvic muscles and ligaments with specific adjustments.

During Pregnancy – Once a woman conceives I would suggest the following:

1. Continue a high-quality organic diet that eliminates or greatly reduces sugar and other processed foods.

2. Continue to take a good comprehensive natural and easily absorbed multi-vitamin with at least 500mg each of calcium and magnesium, and 800mcg of folic acid.  Consider adding probiotics, 2000 IU or more of Vitamin D, and start a mercury-free source of Omega 3 fish oil.

3. If possible, avoid dental work while pregnant, especially the removal or insertion of amalgam fillings.

4. If possible, avoid antibiotics and other OTC and prescription medication.  There is no pharmaceutical drug on the market that has been proven safe for pregnancy.  New studies show antidepressants are especially dangerous to take during pregnancy (13).

5. Continue an exercise program to improve circulation and stimulate peristalsis, as intestinal motility slows as a result of pregnancy hormones, so daily exercise is essential to continue having good bowel movements.  In addition, take good sources of fiber like ground flax seed, pysillium husks, bran, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

6. Eat a diet that contains at least 80gms of protein per day.  Get high-quality organic sources of protein including turkey, chicken, nuts, meat, eggs, and yellow pea protein powder for smoothies.

7. Always have a protein-rich and healthy-fat snack on hand for those low blood sugar dips.

8. Research and consider avoiding any flu vaccine or any other immunization. If Rhogam is needed because mom is RH negative, then ask to see the package insert to make sure there is no mercury-containing thimerosal in the vaccine.

9. If sick, then rest and drink lots of hot water with lemon, take extra Vitamin C, and possibly use Echinacea drops (not goldenseal during pregnancy).

10. Interview midwives and or obstetricians until you find one that makes you feel comfortable and empowered.   Home birth is an option that is not right for everyone.  However, a study published in the British Medical Journal in 2005 found that natural birth at home with certified practicing midwives is safe for low-risk mothers and their babies. The study followed 5,000 mothers in the US and Canada, and found that these home births had much lower rates of  medical interventions compared to giving birth in hospitals (14).

11. Avoid unnecessary ultrasounds, which may include all ultrasounds, as there are no conclusive studies showing that ultrasounds are safe in pregnancy.  Of some concern are studies showing how prenatal ultrasound affects brain development. Even the standard, routine ultrasounds are not medically necessary and have not been shown to improve birth outcome.  Pathways magazine, issue # 22 has an informative article on the potential relationship between ultrasound and autism.

12. Minimize intrusive procedures during labor (induction with Pitocin, pain meds, epidurals, forceps, C-section, early cord clamping, etc) by researching them and discussing with your midwife or doctor which ones you wish to have be part of your labor and birth experience.  Pathways issue #21 has an article that relates many of these often unnecessary procedures with an increased risk of autism.

13. Choose your birth care providers wisely. Rather than selecting a provider or place of birth because of insurance coverage, select providers who will support your philosophical core beliefs about birth. Decisions made about “necessary treatment” vary drastically between home birth midwives, birth-center midwives, and obstetricians. Define your values and beliefs and then seek a provider accordingly. In this issue of Pathways there is a very informative article about choosing your provider.

14. In preparation for labor, delivery, and parenthood, start childbirth classes early.  Seek classes outside of the hospital with independent groups that offer support and knowledge about natural birthing.  Additionally, finding a birth support doula is essential for better birth outcome.  he perceived need for medication can be eliminated with proper breathing and relaxation techniques and adequate support during birth.  For additional information on natural labor and birth procedures read Pathways issue #24.

15. There is a higher risk of autism in cesarean-delivered babies (15).  So although it is tempting to think of skipping labor, it is actually Mother Nature’s way of preparing the child for life outside the womb. The baby’s neurological function is enhanced by passing naturally through the birth canal and through cranial molding.

16. Walking during labor and being in an upright position or on all fours for pushing and delivery will greatly maximize your pelvis’s ability to open and birth with greater ease. This will then minimize the forceful use of doctor-assisted pulling, forceps and vacuum extraction. Any form of pulling and rotation to the baby’s delicate spine in labor may have a lasting affect on future nerve system function.

17. Interview several pediatricians during the pregnancy to find one who accepts your views on health and is open to discussing and giving careful consideration to invasive care with drugs and vaccines. Today, many parents are seeking providers outside of the typical allopathic model, choosing holistic practices that offer safer, more natural options to achieve health and well-being.

18. Continue with regular chiropractic care on a weekly basis throughout pregnancy with a doctor who caters to pregnant women.  This will optimize both your nerve system function and your pelvic biomechanics in preparation for an easier, safer birth.

During the newborn and infant stages:

1. Bond with your baby as much as possible. You will need your sleep and so you need to rest when you can.  But be sure to hold and talk to your infant as often as possible. Co-sleeping is an option many parents are adopting to insure continued contact with their babies.

2. Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to provide optimal nutrition and to ensure there is a good amount of bonding time with mother and child.  While breastfeeding, keep up your excellent dietary habits of 6-9 servings of colorful antioxidant rich veggies and fruit, 80-100gms of high quality protein sources (divided up into 4 to 5 2-oz servings per day) and plenty (6-8 glasses) of filtered water per day.

3. Wear your baby as often as possible utilizing various baby carriers. Having you baby held close allows them comfort, emotional ease, and very importantly constant motion.  These factors all contribute to strengthen and enhance neurological development in your baby.

4. Because birth is strenuous on both the mother and baby, have you and your baby checked by a qualified chiropractor shortly after birth. Spinal alignment is essential for mom’s healthy recovery and continued stamina. Your baby’s cranial and spinal development will affect their nerve system function for the rest of their lives. Early care supports strong nerve and immune system function (4). Take in extra fiber to ensure a good bowel movement each day.

5. Purchase an organic crib and or bed mattress.  Be wary of bedding and clothing with flame retardants as they contain high levels of antimony and other toxic substances.

6. Continue multivitamin and fish oil supplement with extra Vitamin D if your blood work showed a level below 50.

7. Unless a mother is positive for Hepatitis B, there is no need for her newborn to receive the Hep B vaccine in the nursery or within the first few months of life. Read Are there Safer Ways to Vaccinate Our Children.

8. I would suggest avoiding all vaccines until the child is older and then make an informed decision based on their potential affects to your child’s immune, digestive and neurological systems.  This issue of Pathways has an outstanding article on Informed Choice by Barbara Loe Fisher, co-founder of National vaccine information Center.

9. To minimize the possibility that your child will develop food allergies, postpone the introduction of solids until at least 6 months. When it is time to introduce solids, only use organic vegetables (wait a few weeks, before introducing fruits), steam them and puree them in a blender. You can make batches of these and freeze in ice cube trays. Introduce each new food no sooner than 4 days apart to make sure there is no reaction. Grains should not be introduced until the baby has teeth. Prior to then, they do not have the digestive enzyme to assimilate them. If you have a history of Eczema, Food Allergies, Celiac or Autism, then avoid dairy, soy and gluten grains (wheat, barley, oats, rye, kamut, etc).

10. Continue breastfeeding for at least one year (preferably two). A child’s own immune system does not kick in until they are about 18 months of age, and your breast milk offers the best immune system support available. Contact your local La Leche League for support and knowledge before and during breastfeeding period.

11. Regarding vaccines: Although almost every article you read on this subject in the mainstream media states that all the studies have shown there is absolutely no link between vaccines and autism,  that is simply not true. There is good science pointing to a connection (16).  More importantly, there are thousands of parents of sick children who can tell you they had a normal child until he or she received several vaccines in one day, or that their child was vaccinated despite being ill. Although more research needs to be done, these accounts by intelligent, observant parents cannot be discounted; to me, these reports are of equal or greater importance than ANY scientific study.

Parents are choosing which vaccines to give after careful consideration of the child’s history and genetic background. For instance, if a child was born prematurely or has had recurrent ear infections, or if the parents have a history of autoimmune disorders or allergies, then these are indicators that the infant or toddler may not respond well to a vaccine (and certainly not when several are given at one time). I’d like to suggest discussing all of this with your pediatrician. But, unfortunately, most would not agree with the suggestion to postpone, spread out, or avoid vaccines based on a family history or current illness. As a matter of fact, I have heard several high-ranking pediatricians say that a child’s immune system could handle hundreds of vaccines in one day. Honestly, what are these people thinking? And where are the studies proving their theory? They don’t exist!

If you do decide to give a vaccine, make sure your child has not been ill recently or is not coming down with something.  You also do not want to give a vaccine if the child has been on antibiotics or if they recently came off of antibiotics. Ask for single-dose vials and give one at a time.  There are no long term studies showing that giving multiple vaccines at once is a safe practice.  I would also suggest priming your child’s immune system with immune-protective nutrients prior to vaccinating.  You can give 250mg of Vitamin C, 2-3 Echinacea drops, and ½ tsp Cod liver oil for a few days before and after the vaccine. 

If you decide not to vaccinate, know you are among a growing group of parents who are shifting their paradigm of health from a fear-based disease model to a vitalistic, trust-based wellness model. Although you may sometimes feel isolated, know there are many parents making this shift and there is support and updated information available for you. On the Pathways website, you can find a listing of providers who are part of a new movement: Pathways Connect. They have committed their offices to be the resource for Vitalistic Family Wellness Options. There you can find information, support, and holistic care congruent with your choices.

Summary:  We don’t have all the answers.  No one does.  But let us consider the research that has already be done, the stories of improvement and recovery from parents who have traveled this difficult path, and apply common-sense precautionary principles as we prepare for and enter motherhood. If we wait for all of the research to be conclusive, or for public-health policy makers to issue new edicts and catch up to what many smart and observant parents, researchers, and physicians already know, how many more children will be unnecessarily affected by autism?  The time to prevent autism is NOW!

(This article was published in Issue #26 of Pathways Magazine.)

Maureen McDonnell has been a registered nurse for over 40 years (in the fields of: childbirth education, clinical nutrition, labor and delivery, newborn nursery, and pediatrics.) From 1998 to 2008 she coordinated the Defeat Autism Now! Conferences.  Since the late 70’s Maureen has been a vocal advocate and frequent lecturer promoting whole foods, green living and preventative health measures as the most logical and cost effective methods for minimizing complications associated with pregnancy, birth and reducing chronic illnesses in children.  In 2008 Maureen co-founded Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet.

References:

1. Buie, Timothy, et al, Evaluation, Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Individuals with ASDs; A Consensus Report and Recommendations for Evaluations and Treatment of Common Gastrointestinal Problems in Children with ASD, Pediatrics, 1-4-2010
2. Vargus, DL, Nascimbene C, et al Neuroglial activation and neuroinflammation in the brain of patients with autism,   Ann Neurolo 2005 Jan:57(1):67-81
3. LiX, Chauhan A, et al,  Elevated immune response in the brain of autistic patients, J Neuroimmunol 2009 Feb 15:207(1-2):111-6 Epub 2009 Jan 20
4. Oxidative stress James, S.J.,  et al. Metabolic biomarkers of increased oxidatiave stress and impaired methyllation capacity in children with autism.  Am J Clin Nutr. Dec. 2004; 80(6):1611-7.
5. Landrigan, PJ, Schecter CB, Lipton JM, Fahs MC, Schwartz J. Environmental Pollutants and Disease in American Children: Estimates of Morbidity, Mortality and Costs for Lead Poisoning, Asthma, Cancer and Developmental Disabilities.  Environ Health Perspect 2002; 110 (7):721-728.
6. Smith, Bob, Organic foods vs supermarket foods: Element levels. J of Appl. Nutrition, 45 [1], 1993 35-39.
7. Day, Jasperse et al, Prenatal Exposure to Alcohol: Effect on Infant growth and morphologic characteristics, Pediatrics Vol 84 No.3 September 1989 pp.536-541
8. Body Burden – The Pollution in Newborns; Environmental Working Group, July 14, 2005
9. Consumer Reports study in 1996 concluded 1/6700 will get cancer from wearing PERC cleaned clothing once per week. Dry Cleaning Alternatives online; http://consumerreports.org accessed March 16, 2007.
10. Kenji, et al. Effect of probiotics bifidobacterium breve and lactobacillus casei on bisphenol A exposure in rats; Biochem 72.2008, 70672-1-7
11. Lapillonne A Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may impair maternal fetal outcome Med Hypotheses 2010 Jan:74(1) 71-5 Epub 1009 Aug 08
12. http://www.vitalvibesusa.com/health_risks/
13. Lund N, Pedersen LH, Henriksen TB. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor exposure in utero and pregnancy outcomes. Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine. 2009; 163: 949-954.
14. Johnson, K et al, Outcomes of planned home births with certified professional midwives:large prospective study in North America, BMJ 2005:330-1416 (18 June)

15.  Emma J. Glasson, BPsych, BSc (Hons), PhD; Carol Bower, MBBS, MSc, PhD, FAFPHM, DLSHTM; Beverly Petterson, MSc, PhD; Nick de Klerk, BSc, MSc, PhD; Gervase Chaney, MBBS, FRACP; Joachim F. Hallmayer, MD, Perinatal Factors and the Development of Autism, Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2004;61:618-627.

16.  * Gallagher, C., Goodman, M.,,Hepatitis B triple series vaccine and developmental disability in US children aged 1-9 years. Toxicol Environ Chem 2008 90(5):997-1008.
* Shaw, Petrick, et al. Aluminum hydroxide injections lead to motor deficits and motor neuron degeneration, Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry (2009)
*Thompson W., Price, C., et al., Early thimerosal exposure and neuropsychological outcomes at 7 to 10 years. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(13):1281-1292.
* Kawashisma, Y., Takekuma, K., et al.  Detection and sequencing of measles virus from peripheral mononuclear cells from patients with inflammatory bowel disease and autism.  A Dig Dis Sci. 2000;45(4):723-729.
* Bradstreet, J.J., El-Dahr, J., et al. Detection of measles virus genomic RNA in cerebrospinal fluid of children regressive autism: a report of three cases.  J Am Phys Surgeons. 2004;9(2):38-45.
* Echeverria, D., Woods, J.S., Heyer, N.J,, et al. Chronic low-level mercury exposure, BDNF polymorphism, and associations with cognitive and motor function.Neurotoxicol Teratol. 2005;27(6):781-796.

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So I did ask, and this is what I found out:   Currently, 54% of US children suffer from one or more chronic illnesses, 7.3 million kids have allergies and 1 in 7 school age children are receiving prescriptive psychoactive drugs.    Should I continue with the obesity and diabetes statistics or do you get the picture?   I know I’m being bold, brazen and brash, but I don’t think these dire circumstances allow for much tact or diplomacy.  Our kids are waiting for us to wake up and change some things around!  

You might be thinking “how could our children, who live in the greatest, most medically-advanced country in the world, be experiencing these types of health problems?“  But the truth is, even our   Infant mortality rate (the number of deaths of infants under one year old per 1000 live births), in 2011, is ranked 34th in the world (meaning 33 other countries including Poland and Slovakia had a better rating than us.)(1)  The most important indicator of the health of a nation, as it is associated with maternal health, quality and access to medical care, socioeconomic conditions, and public health practices is embarrassing.  

But, let’s not dwell on the negatives.  I am a firm believer in the idea that once a problem is clearly identified, the focus should be on solutions.  As the author Jim Rohn wrote:  “Life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.”  It is only when parents, grandparents, pediatricians, teachers (and all  who care about children) collectively take action to bring about the necessary changes, will our kids have the best chance at living healthier, happier lives  unencumbered by illness.       

The Role Environmental Toxins, Poor Nutrition and Vaccines Play in Our Children’s Health:

The authors of a 2006 study that appeared in JAMA suggested that the answers to our children’s health crisis is to have better health insurance coverage and more specialists (2).  Although access to health care and having additional doctors are both important, I believe there are more effective ways to approach the problem of the escalating number of sick children.  For one thing, we need to look at the underlying causes of their illnesses.  Although genetics play a role in most illnesses, we can no longer deny the fact that having 87,000 man-made, chemicals (with only 413 of them ever tested for safety) is wreaking havoc on our own, and our children’s health.  Additionally, the nutritional status of our kids has greatly deteriorated, and finally since the early 1990s, there has been an insane increase in the number of vaccines (36-45) that our kids receive before the age of 5.  To me these facts are striking and I believe in combination they have set the stage for the disastrous health consequences our children are now experiencing.   

Connecting the dots between environmental toxins and the deterioration of our children’s health is no longer a pie-in-the-sky hypothesis. Many published studies indicate a very clear association (3).  According to renowned physician and author of Our Toxic World, a Wake Up Call, Doris Rapp, MD:  “A range of developmental and learning disabilities, ADHD, developmental delays, behavioral disorders and autism appear to be linked to pesticides” (4)   Dr. Rapp also tells us that 60,000,000 lbs. of pesticides are applied to 30,000,000 acres of lawns yearly and that 30 to 90% of fungicides, herbicides  or pesticides cause cancer,  30% cause reproductive problems and 25% of them may cause genetic/birth defects.  According to Dr. Rapp “ Our bodies and our children’s bodies are becoming toxic dump sites.”

Poor Nutrition

Since the 1970s, obesity rates (which were 5%) have tripled among children ages 6-19,   17% of kids are now obese and 35% are overweight.  When seeking answers as to why this has occurred, it’s not difficult to figure out that one reason is our kids have been seduced by the fast food industry.   But I was a bit surprised to also learn that 75-90% of a US family’s food budget is spent on processed food.   The result is many children now experience suboptimal levels of important nutrients needed for proper brain development, focus and attention, a healthy immune system and overall vitality.     

Vaccines: Although almost every article you read on this subject in the mainstream media claims that all the studies have shown there is absolutely no link between vaccines and children’s health problems — especially autism – that is simply not true. There is good science pointing to a connection (some studies listed below) and more importantly there are hundreds, if not thousands of parents of sick children who can tell you they had a normal child up until he or she received several vaccines in one day (5).  Another scenario that is often recounted by parents is that their child was showing signs of illness and received their vaccines in spite of the fact that they were sick. 

Positive Solutions:  

Many savvy individuals have already reduced the number of chemicals they and their children are exposed to.  Smart parents are also having discussions with their pediatricians regarding postponing and minimizing vaccines.  Many families are eating locally- grown or organic food and purchasing green cleaning and personal care products. In addition to making these wise choices, I have compiled a list of tips for parents and parents-to-be to refer to prior to conceiving, during pregnancy and to use as a reference during their child’s formative years.  Hopefully these tips will contribute toward the goal of having our kids live robust, happy and healthy lives!   

Tips for Raising Healthy Kids in a Toxic World:

·         Prior to Conceiving

Getting Healthy before Getting Pregnant:  If a woman minimizes her exposure to toxins and maximizes her nutrition before and during her pregnancy, she will greatly decrease the chances that her offspring will develop health, behavioral and or developmental problems in infancy, toddlerhood or at any time during the child’s formative years.  Since we now know that many children with medical conditions improve when their toxic load is reduced, they are given a whole-food, organic diet rich in nutrients , allergenic foods are removed and measures are taken to support their GI system and improve their liver’s ability to detoxify, doesn’t it make sense to address these aspects of parental health prior to conceiving? Read my post on “One of the Greatest Gifts You Can Give Your Child (and Yourself)” for more details on this subject and an extensive list of ways to “Get Healthy Before Getting Pregnant”.  

·         Decisions During Pregnancy:

Although obstetricians, midwives and pediatricians are part of our health care team, as a former childbirth instructor and labor and delivery nurse, I encourage parents to never abdicate total responsibility for the health of their children to these professionals.  Become informed, research these topics and play a very active role in the various decisions that impact your child’s health.

• Choose your birth care provider wisely by interviewing obstetricians and/or midwives until you find one that respects your desire to minimize invasive procedures during pregnancy, labor and birth including: labor induction with Pitocin, forceps, early cord clamping, etc.
  • Continue a healthy, non-GMO, mostly organic diet that limits processed foods & sugar and contains at least 80g of high quality protein per day.  Eat every few hours to avoid blood sugar dips. Include organic nuts and seeds for calcium and fiber, avoiding allergenic foods as necessary. Talk to your healthcare provider about taking high quality supplements including a comprehensive natural and absorbable prenatal multi vitamin with at least 800mcg of folic acid, 50mg of the B vitamins, 1800mg of calcium, and mercury free fish oil (source of Omega 3 fatty acids: EPA and DHA), Vitamin D, & probiotics .Avoid dental work that inserts or removes amalgam (mercury) fillings. Avoid antibiotics and other over-the-counter medications as much as possible. If feeling sick, first try increasing Vitamin C, drinking hot water with lemon, herbal teas and rest. Avoid the flu vaccine (which contains mercury) and other vaccines. Go to NVIC.org. Continue exercising and increase fiber to maintain daily bowel movements. If RH negative, ask for Rhogam without mercury (Thimerosal).Avoid unnecessary ultrasounds (See Pathways magazine Issue # 22).Interview pediatricians and make sure you find one that respects your opinions regarding postponing and/or minimizing vaccines and minimizing the use of antibiotics.  
  •  Start natural childbirth education classes earlier.  Go to www.BradleyBirth.com.

·         Once the Baby is Born:

• Insist on bonding immediately after birth.
  • Unless you test positive for Hepatitis B, do not allow the administration of any vaccines to your newborn. Breastfeeding ensures optimal nutrition and closeness but it’s not always the easiest task.  Surround yourself with supportive women who have successfully nursed to provide guidance. While nursing, continue pregnancy supplement regimen, a high quality diet with at least 80-100g of protein, extra fiber and lots of pure water and other healthy fluids. Especially if there is a family history of allergies, eczema etc., postpone the introduction of solid foods to at least 6 months. Hold off on any grains until baby teeth begin to come in.
  • Vaccines:   Research this topic and discuss with your child’s pediatrician the idea of delaying and or reducing the number of vaccines your child receives.  Always ask for Thimerosal- free versions.  For more facts read Safer Ways to Vaccinate.

Maximizing Your Child’s Nutrition to Minimize Health Problems: 

• Breast feed for at least one year.
  • Introduce foods one at a time leaving 3-4 days in between each new food to assess immediate and or delayed reactions.  Start with organic, homemade (when possible), vegetable and fruits. Once your child has shown tolerance to most foods, provide a wide variety of nutrient-rich, organic foods including: vegetables and fruits and quality sources of protein etc.  After one year of age add gluten free whole grains (millet, brown rice, quinoa etc.), organic eggs, grass-fed beef, chicken, turkey, etc.  Children are much less likely to develop food allergies, when the introduction of food is postponed and especially if grains, nuts, eggs are delayed until after one year.  
  • Avoid sugar- laden processed foods. 
  • If a child is showing signs of irritability, aggression or attention issues, stabilize his/her blood sugar levels by offering protein rich snacks and meals every 3-4 hours.
  • Instead or resorting to prescription drugs for behavioral problems, read The Over-Drugging of a Nation ( WNCWoman.com Feb 2013 issue).  
  • Encourage your kids to play outside for exercise and vitamin D.
  • Consider adding appropriate  supplements such as a comprehensive multi, Omega 3 fatty acids, probiotics, Vitamin D.

In General:

• Minimize their exposure to toxins by using natural or green cleaning  and personal care products.
• For budgetary reasons if all food cannot be organic, check out this list of foods that are most important to buy organic.
• One of the best ways to give kids a “nutrition boost” is to give them homemade organic vegetable juice. Even a small amount packs a big punch as it supplies an assortment of easily absorbed vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Get kids involved by letting them select the veggies and fruit to be juiced.
• Filtered water is important for our health and kids need at least 4-6, 8oz glasses per day. Use stainless steel bottles instead of plastic.
• Avoid microwaving food especially in plastic containers.
• Avoid using chemicals on the lawn and do not send the kids out if you live near a park or golf course when these toxic substances are used.
• For cooking use: stainless steel or glass cookware and discard any Teflon or aluminum-based pots or pans.
• Avoid scented candles, artificial room sprays and perfume.
• When building or remodeling use materials that are “green” or have out-gassed.
• Minimize exposure to mold & dust. Consider a HEPA filter for children’s bedroom.
• Choose eco-safe toys.
• Use a “green” dry cleaner.
• Avoid having amalgam fillings placed in your child’s teeth, they are 50% mercury.
• Use natural, safe and botanically-based skin lotions, shampoos, conditioner, etc.
• Instead of giving your child the flu vaccine every year, familiarize yourself or consult health professionals who are well-versed in using natural remedies for health issues. Check out this article I wrote several years ago on “Natural Ways to Prevent a Cold or Flu”. 
• Minimize exposure to Electromagnetic fields by not having kids put laptops or I pads on their lap. Have them use a wire or speaker option with cell phone and turn off all wireless devices at night. 

So there you have it. Advice from someone who surely does not have all the answers, but who does care deeply about children’s health, and who has a few decades of experience under her belt.  While reading through this long, laundry list of what to do, and what not to do, I encourage you to start from wherever you are and take small steps toward a greener life, using common sense as your guide. 

The solution to the current children’s health crisis is to recognize that although environmental toxins abound, children’s nutrition has steadily deteriorated and giving 36-45 vaccines before the age of 5 is wreaking havoc on their health, we do have options.  It is time for all of us who care about children to educate ourselves beyond what our doctors are telling us so we can develop better and safer strategies for raising healthy kids. Quite simply, we need to stop being influenced by the slick propaganda created by the food and pharmaceutical industries whose focus is on profit not our health. The goal is clear and the time is now…We need to do our homework  and trust our inner wisdom when it comes to minimizing toxins, maximizing nutrition and finding more natural, yet effective common sense approaches for protecting our kids against illnesses!    

Bio: Maureen McDonnell, RN is the health editor of WNC Woman Magazine.   She is also the cofounder of Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet (SOKHOP.com).

References:

1. United Nations: Dept. of Economic and Social Affairs: http://esa.un.org/unpd/wpp/Excel-Data/mortality.htm
   1. Summary Health Statistics for U.S. Children: National Health Interview Survey, 2006 NHANES [2003-2004], NCHS; JAMA. 2006;295:1549-1555.
   1. Landrigan, PJ, Schecter CB, Lipton JM, Fahs MC, Schwartz J. Environmental Pollutants and Disease in American Children: Estimates of Morbidity, Mortality and Costs for Lead Poisoning, Asthma, Cancer and Developmental Disabilities.  Environ Health Perspect 2002; 110 (7):721-728.
   1. Fear, NT, Roman E, Reeves G, Pannett B.  Childhood Cancer and Paternal Employment in     Agriculture; the role of pesticides.  BR J Cancer 1998; 106 (6): 347-353.
   1. A. Hepatitis B triple series vaccine and developmental disability in US children aged 1-9 years
      Gallagher C, Goodman M. Toxicol Environ Chem 2008 90(5):997-1008.

5. B. Aluminum hydroxide injections lead to motor deficits and motor neuron degeneration Christopher A. Shaw; Michael S. Petrik. Journ Inorganic Biochemistry (2009)

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