Natural Pediatrics

Practical Solutions to Keeping Your Kids Healthy

Goals for Tonight's Seminar1. Monitoring developmental benchmarks (Is my child normal?)

2. Age appropriate nutrition (What do I feed my child?)

3. Exercise (What types of exercise should my child be doing?)

4. Environmental pollutants (What chemicals are dangerous and which are safe?)

5. Vaccinations (What vaccinations should I give, if any?)

Please wait until the end to ask questions

Normal Milestones

As new parents, we worry about our kids "making their milestones"Most parents worry about height, weight and head circumference"What percentile does my child fit into?"Concern when growth curve flattens or decreases over time

Developmental MilestonesDifference between growth and developmentGrowth is height/weight while development includes:

Gross motor: using large groups of muscles to sit, stand, walk, run, etc., keeping balance, and changing positionsFine motor: using hands to eat, draw, dress, play, write, etc.Language: speaking, using body language and gestures, communicating, and understanding what others sayCognitive: thinking skills: including learning, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning, and rememberingSocial: interacting with others; having relationships with family, friends, and teachers; cooperating; and responding to the feelings of others

Infant (first 9 months)First three years of life most important for developmentBasic guidelines, but every child very differentSigns to watch out for:

Does not turn his head to locate sounds by four monthsDoesn’t roll over in either direction (front to back or back to front) by five monthsSeems inconsolable at night after five monthsDoesn’ smile spontaneously by five monthsCannot sit with help by six monthsDoes not laugh or make squealing sounds by six monthsDoes not actively reach for objects by six to seven monthsDoesn’t follow objects with both eyes at near (1 foot) and far (6 feet) ranges by seven monthsDoes not bear some weight on legs by seven monthsDoes not try to attract attention through actions by seven monthsDoes not babble by eight months

Infant (9-12 Months)A very exciting time!Potential first steps, responds to verbal requests, greater interaction

Trouble areas to watch out for:Does not crawlCannot stand when supportedDoes not search for objects that are hidden while he watchesSays no single words (“mama” or “dada”)Does not learn to use gestures, such as waving or shaking headDoes not point to objects or pictures

Toddler (By Age 2)Before the age of 2, most kids are using 3-4 word sentences, kicking a ball and defiant behavior

Signs to be mindful of:Cannot walk by eighteen monthsFails to develop a mature heel-toe walking pattern after several months of walking, or walks exclusively on his toesDoes not speak at least fifteen words by eighteen monthsDoes not use two-word sentences by age twoDoes not seem to know the function of common household objects (brush, telephone, bell, fork, spoon) by fifteen monthsDoes not imitate actions or words by the end of this periodDoes not follow simple instructions by age twoCannot push a wheeled toy by age two

Years 3-4Aside from the terrific 3s, kids learn to go upstairs, draw circles and speak with a greater vocabulary

Still, warning signs include:

Cannot throw a ball overhandCannot jump in placeCannot ride a tricycleCannot grasp a crayon between thumb and fingersCannot stack four blocksStill clings or cries whenever his parents leave himIgnores other childrenDoesn’t respond to people outside the familyResists dressing, sleeping, using the toiletLashes out without any self-control when angry or upsetCannot copy a circleDoesn’t use sentences of more than three wordsDoesn’t use “me” and “you” appropriately

Ages 4-5Another fun age period where children tell longer stories, can dress themselves, and sing, dance and act. Watch a child who:

Exhibits extremely fearful, timid, aggressive behaviorShows little interest in playing with other childrenRefuses to respond to people in general, or responds only superficiallyDoesn’t engage in a variety of activitiesAvoids or seems aloof with other children and adultsHas trouble eating, sleeping, or using the toiletCannot understand two-part commands using prepositions (“Put the cup on the table”; “Get the ball under the couch.”)Can’t correctly give her first and last namesCannot build a tower of six to eight blocksSeems uncomfortable holding a crayonCannot brush her teeth efficientlyCannot wash and dry her hands

Ages 6-12 (School-Aged Kids)Physical development is slow but steady.

This span of life is where parent's influence can be more important than everCan truly shape emotional, social and mental development

Most research suggest the following:Give lots of positive attentionLet them help define rulesDiscuss making good decisions, being

patient, share and respect othersLimit nagging and maximize respect will

give child confidence in ability to make decisions

Ask, "How would you do that differently next time?"

Ask, "Can I help you think of ways to talk with so-and-so to solve that problem?"

Careful not to stereotype kids into particular activities

Adolescent Development and GrowthRapid gains in weight and height

In one year, can expect 3.5-4 inches of height growthMost adults see growth as a sign of cognitive development

Creates false expectations

Neurologically, studies suggest that nerves still connectingCould explain why come teens seem to be inconsistent in controlling emotions, impulses and judgements

Teens need more sleep for these to occurWhat to do?

Don't criticize and be supportiveAllow for extra sleep (even on the weekends)Discuss behavioral rules and consequencesSet up "job shadowing" within various fieldsRituals to mark significant passages

Proper Nutrition for Children

We recognize that a diet balanced in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, proteins, and fats is critical to the proper growth and development for kids

Trick is getting kids to eat these healthy foods

But first, let's talk about what kids need nutritionally

Calories and Protein

Caloric requirements can vary widely based on activity levels, but basic guidelines include: 1-3 year-old: 1300 calories a day 4-6 year-old: 1800 calories a day 7-10 year-old: 2000 calories a day 10-18 year-old: 2200 calories a day

Proteins are vital for healthy tissue and brain growth: 1-3 year-old: 16 grams a day 4-6 year-old: 24 grams a day 7-10 year-old: 28 grams a day 10-18 year-old: 35-40 grams a day

Critical Vitamins for ChildrenIron

Most common deficiency in childrenDeficiency causes trouble in school (ADHD)

Also irritability, listlessness, increased susceptibility to infection

Foods higher in iron: cauliflower, berries, cherries, banana, green peas, meats, seedsMUST be careful with iron supplements and children

Iron poisoning leading cause of death in kids < 6Symptoms include: abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, dark-colored stool

CalciumCalcium

Necessary for bone growth and prevention of "growing pains"Intake the most important between ages 9-18

Misconception that milk is only and best source of calciumBroccoli, tofu, chickpeas, lentils, split peas, leafy green veggies, dairyWatch out for soda intake!

Contains higher levels of phosphorusPhosphorus prevents proper absorption of calcium

Vitamin DVitamin D

"Sunshine vitamin"Originally worried about rickets (soft bones)Respiratory infections and chronic disease (diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, low HDL)Fish have highest amounts, vitamin D-fortified milk I do not recommend cow's milk for childrenSupplements now being recommended

American Academy of PediatricsI recommend higher intake during cold/flu seasonRecent study (Mar 10) showed 42% decrease in colds

Supplements for Children?

Food should be major source of nutrition, vitamins, minerals and cofactors

Most foods, unfortunately, are deficientBasic supplement regimen for children includes:

1. Multiple vitamin: good chewable versions now2. Fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids): DHA and EPA are both critical for proper growth and mental development

Other kids may need other supplements based on their age or any symptoms that may be going on

Probiotics (great for allergies)Digestive enzymes (great for gassy kids)

Tips For Healthy EatingAct as a good example!Have healthy choices at homeFamily meals togetherTasty preparation of "not-so-tasty" foods

The Sneaky Chef and Deceptively Delicious CookbooksOk idea for very young children who developmentally cannot understand healthy choicesNot-so-good for children who can be active in decision-making process

Example of mac and cheese butternut squashDo not use food as a reward or punishmentTake children along to grocery to pick out veggies and fruits

Exercise in Kids

Many reasons to have children exerciseLack of exercise can lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol and ADHD

Studies show that lack of exercise is more of a factor in gaining weight than overeating

How much exercise is enough?

Simple survey to determine if your child is currently getting enough exercise:

1. How often does your child participate in physical activity for a total of 30-60 minutes?2. How much time does your child spend watching TV, playing video games and surfing the Internet each day?

Exercise vs. Play for Kids

For majority of kids, time spent playing outside is enoughAs they get older and/or become involved with sports, sometimes adding weight bearing exercises is goodWeightlifting not healthy for childrenCan damage bone and growth plates and stunt growth

Plates don't completely close until age 17-20

Some low-impact, safe exercises include:BicyclingYogaDancingJumping ropeWalksFrisbee

Chemical Exposure (Unsafe)Unfortunately world full of many chemicalsPlastics, paints, glues, garden chemicals, household cleaners, vehicle emissions, etc.Per unit of body weight, children eat more food and breathe more air

Therefore greater exposure than most adults

Bisphenol A (BPA)Found in 93% of general populationOriginally thought to not be dangerousJanuary 2010, "some concern" for infants and childrenCan cause developmental delay, reproductive issues and promote asthma in susceptible kidsFound in baby bottles, beverage bottles, food containers, electronics, compact discs, contact lenses and cash register receiptsUse stainless steel or glass containersLook for "BPA-Free" bottles or glass bottles Also be careful not to heat plastics

BPA will leach out of plastics and into what ever is being heated

PFOA and PFOSCan cause developmental delays in childrenFound in teflon (non-stick cookware)Stain-proof carpetNo-iron or "wrinkle-free" fabricsFlame retardantsMicrowave popcorn bags

Read labels! Will list PFOAs and PFOSsEPA requiring their removals from clothing by 2015Fresh drinking water and organic veggiesImproves liver function

PhthalatesFound in perfumes, cosmetics, very soft plastics, plastic wrap, teething rings, pacifiers and children's toysCan lead to kidney damage, liver disorders and asthmaBig issue with children's toysSpecifically watch out for Diisononyl phthalateWhen children put toys in mouths, chemical is easily transmittedLook at labels on toys and buy those that are phthalate-free or contain vinyl acetate (EVA)

Vaccination Basics and AnswersVery contentious subjectStudies from both sides are confusing and create more questions than answers

Possible to prove vaccines prevent infection?Many vaccines and more added each yearFacts include:

Highest amount of antibiotics and vaccines than ever beforeHighest obesity, increased incidence of childhood disease (e.g., asthma, autism) and lowest test scores in schools than ever before

Current recommendations have kids receiving 68 vaccines by age 18

To Vaccinate or Not?

Childhood illnesses evolved to stimulate child’s immune system to help it organize itself correctly and protect it against developing allergies, asthma, infections, and even chronic degenerative disease

Few recent, well-designed studies, have shown a reduction in allergies and other diseases following infection with chicken pox and mumps

But, by law, don't I HAVE to vaccinate?

Vaccines Have Saved Our World?

History has shown that infection rates with all "childhood" diseases were on the decline well before vaccinations were introduced

In addition, since mass vaccination introduction, autoimmune diseases, ADHD, autism, etc. have dramatically risen

Deaths from Measles

Double Standard?Thalidomide?

Given to thousands of pregnant women as a sedative and antiemetic during the 1940s and 1950sThought to be safe and did not cross the placental barrier to the developing babyNot every woman who took thalidomide had children who developed birth defects, but there were 100,000s of birth defects that occurredThe drug was removed from the market because of "potential" to cause harm

Not the case with vaccinesShouldn't there be a central location to report adverse reactions to vaccines to prevent same problem?

Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS)

Federal reporting system for problems following vaccination administrationBetween mid-1999 and Jan. 4, 2004 (for all vaccines and all reactions)

128,035 adverse reactions were reportedEstimated that only 10% of all reactions are actually reported

May actually represent between 1.28 million (10%) and 12.8 million (1%) of all vaccine-associated adverse reactions

In that same period, there were 2,093 deaths reportedThis may actually represent between 20,930 (10%) and 209,300 (1%) of the deaths thought to be associated with vaccines.

Vaccination = Immunization

Misconception in public that vaccination provides absolute protection for children from diseases

Multiple studies and events demonstrate this is not so

Most recent includes an outbreak of mumps in 2006 in midwest states

Nearly 7000 were infectedAlmost 98% were vaccinated!

Other Ingredients?No study has been done to examine what is in vaccines and then recommended a continuation of vaccination

Some vaccines have up to 39 "other" ingredients as preservatives, fillers and "stabilizing agents"

FormaldehydePolysorbate 80Aluminum hydroxideMany, many others

Interesting side note: natural elimination pathways in infants for aluminum is through kidneys

Kidney function does not reach full capacity until age 2

Rotavirus Recent EventsOn Monday (March 22), countries around the world have suspended the use of rotavirus vaccine because of a contaminant found in "processing"

Rotavirus causes severe diarrhea in infants leading to dehydration and possibly death

CDC recommends administration at months 2, 4 and 6

Contaminant poses "no threat" according to company that produces vaccine and will continue to manufacture despite contaminant

Further Information About VaccinesVaccines Safety Manual, Neil Miller The Sanctity of Human Blood, Tim O’Shea D.C. Health and Nutrition Secrets, Russell Blaylock M.D. How To Raise a Healthy Child In Spite of Your Doctor, Robert Mendelsohn M.D.The Vaccine Book, Robert Sears M.D. Vaccinations: The Assault on the Immune System, Veira Schreiber Ph.D.What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Vaccines, Stephanie Cave M.D. Vaccines:The Risks, Benefits, Choices, Sherri Tenpenny D.O. A Shot in the Dark, Harris Coulter and Barbara Fisher

Pearls of Wisdom for Parents(Battlefield Manual)

Hints:Nail polish remover will dissolve Styrofoam trapped in the ear canal.To remove cacti thorns from the skin, place duct tape over the area and pull it off. Repeat several times. For frequent swimmer's ear: Take a half and half mixture of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol in a dropper container. After swimming or bathing, place 2 or 3 drops of the solution in the ear canal. The vinegar is acetic acid which changes the pH of the ear canal and kills pathogens. The rubbing alcohol is a drying solution to help clear the ear canal of moisture. For children with viral conjunctivitis, use baby shampoo or Dr. Bronner's, 1/8-1/2 teaspoon in a cup of water, as drops for treatment instead of antibiotic eye drops.

Other Helpful Hints

For diaper rash, one of the cheapest and easiest treatments is regular white Crisco. This gives an extremely good water resistant barrier over the skin and does not irritate the skin. It can be applied after each diaper change and cleaning.Oatmeal baths are helpful in softening skin and reducing itching. A cup of oatmeal mixed into the bath water helps soothe the skin. Dried oatmeal in plumbing can act like concrete. A way to avoid the oatmeal going down the drain is to place it in a cloth bag and placing that in the tub.Adding baking soda to bath water can decrease itching. Make the water milky.Put scotch tape over a lesion you want to follow, trace the lesion then store for later comparison.Have a child blow up a balloon or hold the nose of a baby while she swallows to "pop" the ears.

ConclusionsOur children are our greatest gifts in lifeTheir nutrition, exercise, and limited chemical exposure are your responsibilityLike your children, be inquisitive about their healthDon't be afraid to ask your doctor questions

Thank you for your attention!

Are there any questions?