Boy with brown hair drinks yellow liquid while mom sits beside.

Dehydration in Kids

We’ve all been there; your kiddo or baby is sick, loses their appetite, and isn’t motivated to drink. You may be surprised to hear that, as pediatricians, we don’t worry so much about a child not wanting to eat, even for a few days! Instead, our primary concern is preventing dehydration. Dehydration occurs when fluid intake is insufficient to meet the body’s needs or to keep up with fluid losses. Small children and babies can go a few days without eating much without any issues, but without drinking enough, they can become dehydrated fast! This is especially true if they have vomiting or diarrhea. Read on for signs of dehydration in kids, tips for preventing and treating dehydration at home, and when to bring them to see a healthcare provider. 

 

Signs your baby or child may be dehydrated:

Early signs of dehydration in kids can be subtle; look for decreased energy, dry lips, dark urine. Other more significant signs include:

  • Decreased urination or wet diapers – less than one void every 4-6 hours
  • Dry lips and mouth
  • Fussy and irritable (even after fever is treated)
  • Reduced or no tears when crying
  • Sunken eyes
  • Flattened soft spot (fontanelle) in an infant
  • Very sleepy or lethargic

When to call your healthcare provider:

  • Fever in an infant under three months of age
  • Any of the above signs not improving
  • No wet diaper or urination in 8 hours
  • Difficulty breathing or very fast breathing
  • Bluish color to the face or lips
  • Very sleepy or lethargic

How do I prevent or treat dehydration at home?

In many cases, encouraging plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration in kids and babies. If a child has mild hydration, similarly, there are things you can do at home to increase their fluid intake. However, in some situations, it can be too challenging to manage or the dehydration may be significant enough to warrant medical help. Therefore, if your child shows signs of dehydration and is not improving or if they start to show any signs of more significant dehydration, it is best to bring them to a healthcare provider asap. In some cases, the best dehydration treatment involves IV fluids. Remember, dehydration can be life-threatening, so don’t hesitate if you are concerned.

 

Top tips to prevent dehydration babies and kids:

Think about fluid intake early and try to push those liquids before your little one gets behind. 

  • Breastfeeding and bottle-fed babies should be encouraged to eat on their regular schedule and if taking less each feed, then offer feeds more frequently.
  • Don’t give water to babies under six months.
  • Consider an oral rehydration solution such as ORS powders or Pedialyte, especially if they aren’t eating to replenish electrolytes (safe for any age.)
  • Other fluids to try:
    • Half juice/half water (sugary drinks can make diarrhea worse, but may be helpful when diluted if they are refusing other options)
    • Clear broths
    • Popsicles! These can be a great trick for kids since they taste good, and the novelty makes them extra appealing. Pedialyte pops are a pediatrician fav!
  • If your older baby or child is well enough to eat, you can offer foods with added fluids.
    • You can add breastmilk or broth to pureed foods.
    • Puree pouches contain a fair amount of liquid and are easy to eat, even if appetites are low.
    • You can try offering fruits with a high water content, like watermelon.
  • If your child has frequent vomiting, refrain from offering food until they can keep fluids down. Focus on tiny sips of clear liquids frequently. Be sure to provide drinks with electrolytes.
  • Do not give your child medicine to stop diarrhea unless your pediatrician advises.
  • Do not give Pepto Bismol to children under the age of 12 years old. 
  • In a pinch, use a medicine syringe. 
    • For young children and babies who are flat-out refusing to drink, a last-ditch effort can be to administer small amounts of fluid the same way you would medicine. 
    • Using a medicine syringe to the back of the cheek, administer 15-30ml of breastmilk, Pedialyte or ORS every 10-15 minutes.

It can be worrying and difficult when your baby or child refuses to drink, but knowing what to do and what signs to look for can help you be prepared and get help when needed. Check out the resources below for more information!

Healthychildren.org – Dehydration

Cleveland Clinic – Dehydration and your child

Kidshealth.org – Dehydration

Child sleeps while parent sits aside them with a book in their lap.

Five tips to promote better sleep

Most kids are back to school now, and many of us parents are still trying to get everyone back into the swing of things! After a fun summer, sleep schedules and routines may have fallen off a bit. We know sleep is essential for overall well-being and mental health, but it can be hard to know how to get our kids and ourselves back on track. Have no fear. Here are five tips to promote better sleep to help the whole family thrive this school year! Keep in mind these tips apply to parents’ sleep too!

Timing is everything!

  • Set a consistent sleep and wake time.
  • Having a consistent wake and bedtime helps regulate circadian rhythms and promote better sleep.
  • Circadian rhythms are 24-hour cycles that are part of the body’s internal clock to carry out essential functions including sleep and wakeful periods.
  • Aim for around the same bedtime every night and get up around the same time every day +/- 20-minutes.
  • Yes, this means avoiding letting kids stay up super late and sleep late on the weekends! But you can allow a little wiggle room for the occasional weekend, vacations, or special events. 
  • The point is not to feel stressed or guilty when things fall off the schedule but to aim for consistency whenever possible, so it becomes second nature.
  • Read here for more info on how much sleep your child needs based on age. 

Fill up their cup! 

  • A big part of promoting quality sleep is getting enough daylight, activity, and good nutrition during the day!
  • There is evidence that exposure to daylight, especially before 10 am helps regulate circadian rhythm and promote better sleep. 
  • Better sleep is just one of the many reasons to ensure your kids get at least 60 minutes of active play daily! 
  • Good nutrition helps regulate blood sugar, avoid energy crashes during the day, and fills up those tummies so they can be comfy and content for sleep. Offer three meals and two snacks daily that include some protein and healthy fats in addition to fruits and veggies. 
  • If bedtime is more than 2 hours after dinner, then you may want to offer a healthy bedtime snack that includes a complex carbohydrate and protein as part of your routine—for example, whole wheat crackers and peanut butter. 

Develop a bedtime routine!

  • Bedtime routines help prime us for sleep and wind down after a busy day.
  • If having a bedtime routine sounds daunting, don’t stress. You do not have to have an elaborate ritual for this to work!
  • A few simple activities that happen every night in roughly the same order are all it takes. 
  • For example, after dinner, kids play quietly for 30 minutes, then take a bath, change into PJs, brush their teeth, read books, sing a bedtime song, and put to sleep. 
  • Did you know that there is science behind the bath part of the bedtime routine? Studies show passive warming from a shower or bath before bed promotes better sleep quality and efficiency! 

Set the scene!

  • Help create a welcoming sleep environment to optimize sleep. 
  • The key factors are darkness, temperature, and limiting ambient noise.
  • Light is one of the main factors affecting circadian sleep rhythms! 
  • A darker room promotes better sleep, so consider blackout curtains if your child has windows that let in excess light.
  • Ideal temperatures for sleep are between 68 and 72 degrees. You should also adjust PJ choices, so kids aren’t too chilly or overheating.
  • White noise, soothing music, or nature sounds can be a great way to relax and drown out ambient sounds for sleep.
  • Research studies have also shown soothing scents like lavender or chamomile to help promote sleep. 

Avoid screen time before bed!

  •  The light from screens and stimulation from shows or games can interfere with, you guessed it, circadian rhythms and make it hard to wind down for sleep. 
  • A good family rule is no screens 60 minutes before bed. For teens and adults to leave phones outside their bedrooms and use an old fashioned alarm clock as an alarm instead. 

Hope these tips help the whole family get some more zzzs! If you have concerns about your child’s sleep or possible sleep disorders, talk to your healthcare provider. Check out these resources for more info! 

Sleep Foundation – Light and sleep

Healthychildren.org – Healthy sleep habits

American Sleep Association – Get Better Sleep

Healthychildren.org – Sleep tips for mental health

How Can I Boost My Child’s Immune System?

“Immune Boost” is a popular buzzword these days, especially going into the third year of a global pandemic! Parents are eager to find ways to support their child’s immune system and help their families stay healthy! However, much of the popular advice circulating on the internet isn’t accurate or scientific. The good news is in addition to a healthy lifestyle; there is research to show certain supplements can help strengthen the immune system! Here we will talk about what you can do at home to help your family stay healthy!

Healthy lifestyle matters! The common wisdom that good nutrition, sleep, daily exercise, and low stress can help you stay healthy is true!

References:

CDC: 6 tips to Enhance Immunity

The compelling link between physical activity and the body’s defense system

Impact of Lifestyle on Health

We also recommend appropriate vaccines if your child is eligible since these prime immunity against certain infections. As wonderful as nourishing our children’s bodies and supporting their immune systems are, these things do not provide targeted protection against specific illnesses. Many vaccine-preventable diseases can cause severe illness and be life-threatening. Vaccines offer safe and effective protection. If you have concerns or questions, please discuss them with your health care provider. Also, don’t forget the importance of handwashing, especially during cold and flu season!

Vaccine Safety

Did you know not all immune support is the same? Studies show certain supplements help prevent common infections like colds and diarrheal illness and others help decrease the duration or severity of illnesses when they occur! Read on for more info and a breakdown of the supplements shown to help prevent certain infections and those that can help you recover faster!

Immune boosting supplements to help prevent colds and diarrheal illnesses

 

Vitamin D    

What is it?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps with calcium absorption. It also plays an important role in immune health, muscle function, and brain cell activity.

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies show regularly taking a Vitamin D supplement can reduce the number of colds you get, especially if you have low vitamin D levels!

How to get it: 

  • Food: It is hard to get enough Vitamin D from foods alone, but you can get it from fortified milk, cereal, and fatty fish. 
  • Sun: Your body can also make vitamin D when the skin is exposed to direct sunlight. However, it is difficult to make enough from this method alone as there are risks from unprotected sun exposure like sunburns and skin cancer. Therefore a supplement is usually your best bet.
  • Supplements: Studies show good results taking doses of vitamin D ranging from 400 IU/day to 2000 IU/day. The specific amount depends on age and vitamin D level, so discuss with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Safety: Vitamin D supplementation is very safe for most people! Taking too much Vitamin D, however, can be a bad idea. It can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition in which too much calcium builds up in the blood, potentially forming deposits in the arteries or soft tissues. It may also predispose to painful kidney stones. Don’t take more than the recommended daily allowance unless advised by a physician (see table below.)

References:

Table of Recommended Daily Allowance for Vitamin D

Table of Recommended Daily Allowance for Vitamin D

Probiotics:

What is it?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are the same or similar to the organisms that live in our bodies. 

How does it boost the immune system?

Research shows Probiotics can reduce the number of colds, the duration of colds, the number of school absences, and antibiotic use! Many different probiotic products are available, and specific strains can provide different health benefits. Currently, there is the most evidence for Lactobacillus Rhamsnosus to prevent colds and diarrheal illnesses. 

How to get it: 

  • Food: Probiotics are present in fermented foods like yogurt and can provide many benefits for health and a happy gut. 
  • Supplements: In order to get specific strains for particular health benefits, the best source is a supplement. A general recommendation is to choose probiotic products with at least 1 billion colony-forming units (cfus.) To help prevent colds and diarrheal illnesses, look specifically for products containing Lactobacillus Rhamsnosus. 

Safety: Side effects are minor and include mild GI symptoms. Probiotics are safe for most people, but consult your physician if you or your child has a severe or chronic medical condition that affects the immune system.

References:

Echinacea

What is it?

Echinacea is a flower and popular herbal remedy.

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies show echinacea may help prevent colds and reduce complications of colds such as pneumonia and ear infections.

How to get it: 

  • Supplements: You can get echinacea from many different types of supplements. Studies have looked at various doses and formulations of echinacea, making it hard to compare results. 

Safety: Echinacea is safe for most people, but there is a slight risk of an allergic reaction or rash. 

References:

Immune boosting supplements to help recover faster

 

Zinc:

What is it?

Zinc is a mineral and an essential nutrient, meaning the body can’t store it and must get it in our diet or from supplements. It plays a role in many physiological processes, including immune function.

How does it boost the immune system?

Research shows that taking Zinc may lower the number of colds and pneumonia. In addition, when taken within 24 hours of the start of symptoms, it also decreases the duration and severity of the common cold!

How to get it: 

  • Food: Foods like meat, shellfish, and legumes contain Zinc. 
  • Supplements: Some studies show the best results with 20mg a day supplement for immune benefits. 

Safety: Zinc is safe for most people! However, side effects can include mild GI upset and bad taste. In addition, we recommend avoiding intranasal forms like nasal sprays or swabs because they have caused permanent loss of smell in some people. 

References:

 

Elderberry:

What is it? 

Elderberry is a fruit from the Elderberry Tree.

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies have shown promising evidence that Elderberry can shorten the length and severity of cold and flu symptoms. 

How to get it: 

  • Directly: You could consume Elderberries directly with likely the same benefits. However, certain parts of the plant can be toxic and cause stomach upset, so proper preparation is important for safety.
  • Supplements: Supplements are most likely the most efficient and safest way to get immune benefits. Many elderberry products are now available. Studies have included a range of doses, but most have shown the best results with 600 – 1000mg a day.

Safety: Elderberry is safe for most people! No harmful effects have been reported from taking Elderberry supplements. However, as mentioned, certain parts of the plant can be toxic. If it is prepared improperly or if too much is consumed, it can cause GI symptoms. 

References:

Vitamin C: 

What is it?

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin meaning the body can’t store it, so you must get it from your diet or supplements. It is an antioxidant and plays a vital role in immune health, healing, and building blood vessels, cartilage, and bone. 

How does it boost the immune system?

Studies show Vitamin C can decrease the duration and severity of cold symptoms.

How to get it: 

  • Foods: Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and spinach.
  • Supplements: It is possible to get adequate Vitamin C from a diverse, healthy diet. However, you may be able to get extra immune benefits if you supplement your intake. Studies have shown doses of 1-2g a day have the best results.

Safety: Vitamin C is considered safe for most people; however, high doses can cause digestive distress like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps.

References:

 

At ZenOsa we are committed to using science to create natural remedies that actually work! For example, our natural cough syrups contain Elderberry, Zinc, and Vitamin C, all shown to help you recover faster from colds and the flu! We included vitamin D as well since we are more likely to be low in the winter months, and a little boost may help prevent recurrent infections. We wanted to include all of the most beneficial ingredients in one product, so you don’t have to give your child multiple things! Check them out here!

And we have more good news; in the pipeline at ZenOsa are our new daily immune boost supplements for kids and babies to help them stay healthy! They include science-backed ingredients that help prevent common illnesses like colds and stomach bugs. These include probiotics (Lactobacillus Rhamsnosus,) Zinc, Echinacea, and Vitamin D. We hope to launch this fall, so make sure you’re on our email list and stay tuned!

 

Brown medicine bottle with medicine dropper containing a honey colored liquid.

Is Natural the Same as Organic?

Is Natural the Same as Organic?

 

There is a growing demand for organic and natural products amongst savvy consumers. However, brands can use these terms on their labels differently, and it can be unclear. Customers may be unsure whether natural is the same as organic or whether it even matters! We are big fans of natural, organic ingredients at ZenOsa, but it is important to know that “natural” doesn’t always mean better! Read on for more info on what it means for a product to claim it is “natural” and what to look for if you want to make sure that you are an informed consumer!

 

What does it mean if a product says it is “natural?”

A product saying “Natural” is fine, but the truth is, it doesn’t tell you much by itself! The word “natural” doesn’t have a clear legal definition or require a special certification. If this is important to you, you can be a savvy consumer by checking the label for what specific ingredients are listed. Pay attention to how transparent the company is about what is and isn’t in the product. For example, brands can list “natural flavors” as an ingredient without clarifying what that means. This term is loosely regulated and can contain >100 different chemicals that companies are not required to disclose.

 

Are natural products automatically safer?

Not necessarily! Natural doesn’t mean that the product doesn’t potentially include harmful things that could cause adverse or allergic reactions. Beware of vague or misleading ingredients. Supplements generally are also more loosely regulated than other types of medications. Therefore, you want to make sure you research, check labels and choose brands you trust! 

 

What does it mean if a product says it is “organic?”

Organic ingredients have to meet strict guidelines about how the producers grow and source them. A product must contain at least 95% organic ingredients overall to get a USDA Certified Organic seal. We chose to offer certified organic products because this certification holds brands accountable for higher quality and sustainability standards throughout the production process; from growing and sourcing ingredients through manufacturing and production. Choosing certified organic to us means choosing the safest option for our planet and our kids, a no brainer!

 

The ZenOsa Difference:

Natural

But we mean it! At ZenOsa, when we say “natural,” we mean our ingredients come from nature and that our products are drug-free and contain no artificial flavors or colors.

Organic

Our products are USDA certified organic, so you can be sure they are of the highest quality and standards.

Safe

As Pediatrician Moms, we created our formulas with the help of a team of physician-scientists who use the latest scientific evidence to support their efficacy and safety. Our products are also drug-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and alcohol-free.

Transparent 

We formulate our products using simple ingredients backed by science. We are committed to clearly listing every ingredient in our products so that you, our consumers, can make an informed choice. We even take it a step further, and when we use something in our products, we want you to know why! So if we use it, you can be sure that it is not only safe, but it is there for a reason. Check out our learn more page for more info about each of our ingredients and shop for ZenOsa products here.

Read more about our choices regarding organic ingredients on our faq page, here. For more information on USDA organic certification requirements head to the USDA website. To deep dive into what labeling requirements are in place by the FDA for food and dietary substances, read more here.

In summary, some excellent natural ingredients can be great for our health! However, natural products aren’t automatically better. There is a growing body of research studying which natural remedies and supplements have scientifically proven benefits and which do not. Choose companies that back up their ingredients with science and tell you the whole story about what is in their products!