Acute Illness:
Dr. Cailen Braund often remarks that “children need to be allowed to experience symptoms of acute illness in order for their bodies to appropriately cleanse waste and toxins, allowing them to move forward in their health and wellness.”. Most illnesses in children are not caused by infections and do not require antibiotic treatment. Dr. Braund encourages parents to educate themselves on holistic approaches to childhood illnesses.
Rethinking Childhood Illness: A New Approach to Keeping Children Healthy.
Today’s medical system teaches us to fear symptoms of illness in children, often urging parents to suppress symptoms with medications. However, symptoms are often a sign that the body is working to remove toxins and restore balance.
Suppressing symptoms with medications, antibiotics, and vaccines may contribute to chronic illnesses.
Allowing the body to heal naturally supports long-term wellness. By reducing exposure to inflammatory foods and environmental toxins, we can reduce the body’s need to develop symptoms in the first place.
Providing a safe space for children to heal is essential for their long-term health.
General Guidance if Your Child is Sick:
“DO LESS, STIMULATE LESS, SPEAK LESS, EAT LESS.”
“DRINK MORE, SLEEP MORE, REST MORE, AND BREATHE MORE.”
1. Stop your daily routine and encourage your child and family to rest.
2. Create a quiet, comfortable environment for healing.
3. Keep your child hydrated with water, tea, broth, and breast milk. Reduce or eliminate formula if needed.
4. Lower stimulation—reduce noise, lights, and activity.
5. Avoid forcing your child to eat. Their body will signal when they are ready.
6. Offer warm baths throughout the day to soothe the body.
7. Avoid sugar, dairy, and processed foods, as these can worsen symptoms.
8. Observe for changes in mental status
9. Allow ample time for full recovery before returning to normal routines.
General Guidance for Fever:
- Fever helps the body eliminate toxins and restore balance. Calcium Lactate is a great one to have on hand in case of a fever.
- Keep your child hydrated and offer warm baths to encourage sweating.
- Essential oils like lavender or chamomile can be massaged on key points to promote relaxation.
- Avoid over-the-counter medications that suppress fever and may prolong illness.
General Guidance for Coughs:
- Coughing is a natural way for the body to clear out irritants.
- Keep your child hydrated and avoid mucus-forming foods (dairy, sugar, flour).
- Steam baths and saline rinses can help clear the airways.
- Chest massage with natural rubs like Breathe Chest Rub can provide relief.
- Congaplex is a great supplement to have on hand for coughs.
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General Guidance for Ear Pain:
- Most ear pain is due to inflammation, not infection. Antibiotics are rarely needed.
- Warm compresses and natural ear drops may help relieve discomfort.
- Upper Chiropractic care can support ear drainage and reduce inflammation.
General Guidance for Vomiting and Diarrhea:
- Focus on hydration with broth, tea, and room-temperature water.
- Avoid sugary or processed foods.
- Reintroduce food slowly, starting with soft, nutrient-rich foods.
Pediatric Checklist:
Seek medical attention if your child:
- Is unresponsive or difficult to wake up.
- Is not drinking fluids or urinating properly.
- Has a fever with a rash or neck stiffness.
- Has difficulty breathing or is wheezing.
Providing children with a nurturing environment for healing supports long-term health and wellness.
At AlphaCare Health, Dr. Cailen Braund focuses on holistic approaches to pediatric care, empowering families with natural strategies for optimal health.
In Health,
Dr. Cailen Braund
