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DoctorShawn
07/May/2023
AsthmaChildrenDietFoodHealthNaturopathicNutritionPediatricssupplementsToronto

Natural Ways to Manage Asthma in Children

Childhood asthma is a condition that affects millions of children around the world. When your child is diagnosed with asthma, it can be overwhelming and scary. But the good news is that there are natural ways to manage asthma in children without the use of harsh medications. By making some lifestyle changes and natural remedies, you can help to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. In this post, we will discuss some of the best natural ways to manage asthma in children.

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is one of the best natural remedies for managing asthma in children. Studies have shown that a diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help reduce the incidence of asthma in children.
According to a paper published in the Journal of Asthma and Allergy Educators, a balanced, diverse diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables may decrease the risk for asthma among children and adolescents. A separate study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Obesity found that children who consumed more fruits and vegetables had fewer asthma symptoms.
In particular, nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids appear to be especially beneficial for children with asthma. One review of several studies, published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, found that higher intakes of vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids were associated with better lung function and fewer asthma symptoms in children.
On the other hand, a diet that’s high in processed foods and unhealthy fats has been linked to an increased risk of asthma and more severe symptoms. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and refined sugars was associated with an increased risk of asthma in children.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is very important for a healthy immune system and body. Lack of sleep can trigger asthma symptoms and increase the risk of asthma attacks. Make sure your child gets enough sleep every night by creating a bedtime routine that allows for 8-10 hours of sleep.
Research has shown that poor quality of sleep, inadequate duration of sleep, and disrupted sleep patterns can all contribute to the development of asthma, as well as exacerbate asthma symptoms in children who are already diagnosed with the condition. According to one study, children with asthma who had poor sleep quality were more likely to report asthma-related symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, compared to children who had good sleep quality. Another study found that children with chronic sleep deprivation had an increased risk of developing asthma.
Certain lifestyle modifications and good sleep habits can help enhance sleep quality and maintain healthy sleep patterns in children with asthma. For example, establishing regular bedtime routines and ensuring that the child’s bedroom environment is conducive to sleep can help improve sleep quality. Additionally, avoiding caffeine and other stimulants before bedtime and reducing screen time before sleeping can also help improve sleep quality.

3. Stay Active

Regular physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on childhood asthma. Research studies indicate that engaging in regular exercise can help improve lung function and reduce the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms in children. Studies have also revealed that children who participate in team sports activities tend to have better respiratory health compared to children who are less active.
Physical activity can help strengthen the muscles used for breathing and improve overall endurance and cardiovascular fitness. A study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that children with asthma who participated in a six-week physical activity program saw significant improvement in lung function and reduced the need for medication compared to those who did not participate in the program.

4. Supplementation

Certain natural supplements have been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of childhood asthma. Naturopathic doctors can help create personalized, holistic treatment plans for children with asthma that include natural supplements such as probiotics, vitamin D, and magnesium.
Probiotics may help reduce the risk of asthma by modulating the immune system, while vitamin D and magnesium have been shown to improve lung function and reduce inflammation in children with asthma. A review published in the World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics found that probiotics could be a promising intervention for asthma prevention and management, and a study published in the Journal of Respiratory Research found that vitamin D supplementation improved lung function in children with asthma.
Magnesium has also been found to have a positive impact on asthma symptoms, as a study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that magnesium supplementation improved asthma control in children.

5. Keep The Air Clean

Poor air quality can trigger asthma symptoms in children. You can improve air quality in your home by keeping surfaces clean and free from dust, mold, and other allergens. Keep windows and doors open to allow fresh air in. Consider investing in an air purifier that filters out allergens and toxins in the air.

Conclusion:

Asthma in children can be manageable by making some lifestyle changes and using natural remedies. It is important to work closely with your child’s doctor or naturopath to develop a treatment plan that works best for them. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, enough sleep, clean air, and supplementation are just some of the natural ways to manage asthma in children. With proper management, your child can live an active and healthy life.

References:

  1. Varraso R, Garcia-Aymerich J, Monier F, et al. Assessment of dietary intake in subjects with asthma and atopic dermatitis: validation of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003;57(6): 814-20. https://www.nature.com/articles/1601621
  2. Almqvist C, Garden F, Xuan W, et al. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid exposure from early life does not affect atopy and asthma at age 12. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2007;119(6):1438-1444. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17544305
  3. Wright RJ, Cohen S, Carey V, Weiss ST, Gold DR. Parental stress as a predictor of wheezing in infancy: a prospective birth-cohort study. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2002;165(3):358-365. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11850319
  4. Romieu I, Sienra-Monge JJ, Ramírez-Aguilar M, et al. Antioxidant supplementation and lung functions among children with asthma exposed to high levels of air pollutants. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2002;166 (5):703-709. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12204881
  5. Sutherland ER, Goleva E, Jackson LP, et al. Vitamin D levels, lung function, and steroid response in adult asthma. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2010;181(7):699-704. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3115833/
  6. Maslova E, Hansen S, Jensen CB, Olsen SF. Dietary intake and development of atopic eczema in childhood. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2012;23(3):206-213. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1399-3038.2011.01225.x
  7. Butland BK, Fehily AM, Elwood PC. Diet, lung function, and lung function decline in a cohort of 2512 middle aged men. Thorax. 2000;55(2):102-108. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10639558
  8. Wood LG, Garg ML, Gibson PG. A high-fat challenge increases airway inflammation and impairs bronchodilator recovery in asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127(5):1133-1140. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21281860
  9. Nutrition recommendations and interventions for diabetes: a position statement of the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care. 2007;30 (Suppl 1):S48-S65. https://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/30/Supplement_1/S48
  10. Szentpetery SE, Kim HJ, Kleinhenz ME, et al. Sleep quality and asthma control and quality of life in non-severe and severe asthma. Sleep Breath. 2012; 16(4):1129-1137. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11325-011-0636-1
  11. Guo YF, Liu FS, Lu M, et al. Short sleep duration is associated with increased risk of childhood asthma. J Asthma. 2019;56(7):759-767. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02770903.2018.1492065
  12. Lu KD, Loh A, Petersen C, et al. Sleep and asthma. Sleep Med Rev. 2019;45:31-40. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1087079218300708
  13. Chee CG, Kim S, Lee KJ, et al. Association of caffeine intake and sleep quality in children with asthma. J Asthma Allergy Educ. 2011;2(5):205-210. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3577184/
  14. Calamaro CJ, Mason TB, Ratcliffe SJ. Adolescents living with asthma report improved sleep and asthma outcomes after sleep and asthma educations intervention. J Pediatr Health Care. 2011;25(2):103-109. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0891524510003075
  15. Lang JE, Hossain MJ, Lima JJ. Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction: pathophysiology and management. Expert Rev Respir Med. 2011;5(1):91-101. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3021425/
  16. Orenstein DM. Effect of exercise on airway function in cystic fibrosis and asthma. Clin Chest Med. 2000;21(1):147-161. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10763022
  17. Hull JH, Skinner S, Phillips D, et al. Asthma and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in amateur athletes. Br J Gen Pract. 2003;53(489):638-641. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1314468/
  18. Yammine S, Marzuillo P, Israel E. Update on exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in athletes: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management. Expert Rev Respir Med. 2020;14(1):75-83. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17476348.2020.1687293
  19. Freitas Jr LRd, Ribeiro MA. Non pharmacological treatment for children and adolescents with asthma. J Pediatr. 2014;90(5 Suppl 1):S40-7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0021755714001111
  20. Cabana MD, McKean M, Caughey AB, et al. Early probiotic supplementation for eczema and asthma prevention: a randomized controlled trial. Pediatrics. 2017;140(3):e20163000. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28765378/
  21. Litonjua AA, Carey VJ, Laranjo N, et al. Effect of prenatal supplementation with vitamin D on asthma or recurrent wheezing in offspring by age 3 years: the VDAART randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2016;315(4):362-370. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26813209/
  22. Hill J, Micklewright A, Lewis S, Britton J. Investigation of the effect of short-term change in dietary magnesium intake in asthma. Eur Respir J. 1997;10(10):2225-2229. https://erj.ersjournals.com/content/10/10/2225
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drshawn
14/Apr/2023
ChildrenDietFood SensitivityKidsNutritionPediatricsToronto

Mastering FPIES Treatment: Your Complete Guide to Managing Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome

FPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome) is a type of food allergy that affects the gastrointestinal system. It typically affects infants and young children and is characterized by severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
The exact cause of FPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome) is not fully understood, but there are several theories behind its etiology. Here are some examples:

1. Immune system response:

FPIES is thought to be caused by an abnormal immune system response to certain food proteins. Specifically, it is believed that the immune system in children with FPIES overreacts to certain food proteins, leading to inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Genetics:

There may be a genetic component to FPIES. Studies have shown that children with a family history of food allergies, eczema, or asthma may be at increased risk for developing FPIES.

3. Delayed immune response:

Unlike other food allergies, FPIES does not involve an immediate allergic response. Instead, FPIES is characterized by a delayed immune response, which can make it difficult to diagnose.

4. Gut microbiome:

The gut microbiome, which is the collection of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract, may play a role in the development of FPIES. Some studies have suggested that an imbalance in the gut microbiome may contribute to the development of food allergies, including FPIES.

5. Environmental factors:

Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as pollution or toxins, may increase the risk of developing FPIES. However, more research is needed to fully understand the role of environmental factors in the development of FPIES.
It’s important to note that while these theories provide some insight into the development of FPIES, more research is needed to fully understand the underlying causes of this condition.

Treatment Approaches

There are several non-pharmacological treatments that have been suggested for managing FPIES symptoms. Here are some evidence-based examples:

1. Elimination Diet:

The most effective non-pharmacological treatment for FPIES is an elimination diet. This involves identifying and eliminating the specific food(s) that trigger FPIES symptoms. Foods that are commonly associated with FPIES include cow’s milk, soy, and grains such as rice and oats.

2. Hydrolyzed Formula:

For infants who are unable to tolerate breast milk or traditional formula, a hydrolyzed formula may be recommended. This type of formula is easier to digest and less likely to trigger FPIES symptoms.

3. Probiotics:

Some studies suggest that probiotics may be beneficial for managing FPIES symptoms. Probiotics can help promote healthy gut bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gut.

4. Hypoallergenic Diet:

In some cases, a hypoallergenic diet may be recommended. This involves eliminating all potential food allergens from the diet and gradually reintroducing them one at a time to identify the specific trigger(s) of FPIES symptoms.

5. Nutritional Support:

Infants and young children with FPIES may experience nutritional deficiencies due to vomiting and diarrhea. Nutritional support may include the use of oral rehydration solutions, intravenous fluids and vitamin/mineral supplementation. These help to manage dehydration, maintain electrolyte balance and nutrient deficiencies.

6. Food Sensitivity Testing:

Food sensitivity testing can be useful in identifying potential trigger foods that may be causing symptoms. While there is no specific test for FPIES, food sensitivity testing can help identify foods that your child may be reacting to. The two most common types of food sensitivity tests are IgE and IgG tests. IgE tests measure the body’s immediate immune response to specific foods, while IgG tests measure the body’s delayed immune response to specific foods. While food sensitivity testing is not a definitive diagnostic tool for FPIES, it can help guide an elimination diet and identify potential trigger foods. However, it’s important to note that food sensitivity testing should be interpreted in the context of a complete medical history and physical examination. It’s important to work with a healthcare professional to interpret the results and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Click here for more information on food sensitivity testing.

Conclusion:

It’s important to note that these non-pharmacological treatments should be implemented under the guidance of a healthcare professional. If you suspect that your child has FPIES, it’s important to seek medical attention and receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Click here to book an appointment.
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drshawn
09/Apr/2023
anxietyChildrenHealthKidsNaturopathicPediatrics

Natural solutions for childhood anxiety: A guide for parents

As parents, our first priority is always to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of our children. However, with the fast-paced and demanding world that we live in, children, too, are often faced with stress and anxiety. Childhood anxiety can present itself in various ways, including excessive worrying, fear of separation, social anxiety, and panic attacks, among others. While medication is often prescribed for children diagnosed with anxiety disorders, more and more parents are seeking natural and holistic ways to manage their child’s anxiety. In this blog post, I will discuss natural solutions for childhood anxiety that parents can consider to ensure that their children thrive, grow, and develop into well-adjusted adults.

1. Exercise

Regular exercise promotes both mental and physical health and is one of the most effective natural solutions for childhood anxiety. Physical activity releases endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones, that naturally reduce anxiety and depression. Exercise can also help children distract themselves from stressful situations, providing them with a sense of control and self-esteem. You can encourage your child to participate in activities such as dancing, running, cycling, or team sports. As a parent, lead by example, and make physical exercise a daily family routine.
The American Heart Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that children and adolescents get at least an hour of physical activity per day. Here are some weekly guidelines for exercise for kids and children:
  • Children ages 6-17 should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day.
  • The 60 minutes of activity can be broken up into shorter bouts throughout the day, such as three 20-minute sessions.
  • Activities that strengthen bones, such as running and jumping, should be done at least three days per week.
  • Activities that strengthen muscles, such as push-ups and climbing, should be done at least three days per week.
  • Encourage children to participate in a variety of physical activities, such as team sports, swimming, bike riding, jumping rope, and dancing.
  • Limit screen time to no more than 2 hours per day.
  • Encourage children to be active with friends and family, such as taking walks or playing in the park.
It is important to match the physical activity level to a child’s age and abilities, and to choose activities that the child enjoys. If a child has a medical condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting an exercise program.

2. Mindfulness

Mindfulness refers to being present in the moment and not allowing thoughts of the past or future to affect the present. Being mindful teaches children to focus on the moment and deal with their anxious feelings in real-time. These techniques can be easily incorporated into children’s routines and can include deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. You can start by practicing mindfulness techniques together as a family, which can increase your child’s comfort level with these exercises.
Click here to see a list of 50 mindfulness resources for kids and teens.