Keeping kids healthy through the colder months can feel like a full-time job, especially with travel, family gatherings, and constantly changing routines. But the goal isn’t to shield them from every germ. Part of building a strong immune system is allowing them to develop antibodies naturally, while also providing the support their bodies need so that illnesses are less severe and recovery is faster.
I often explain the concept of a collective immune system to parents. Children benefit when their immune systems encounter common viruses in measured ways, building a library of defenses that prepares them to respond more efficiently in the future. The idea isn’t to prevent exposure completely, but to ensure their bodies have the tools to respond effectively.
This time of year, kids are commonly exposed to colds, flu, RSV, sinus infections, and stomach viruses. Travel and stays in hotels or unfamiliar homes can add hidden challenges, including exposure to mold or allergens in spaces whose histories are unknown. Frequent weather changes, dry indoor air, and the hustle of holiday activities can further strain their immune systems.
Supporting kids through these challenges can be both simple and strategic. Vitamin D is essential for immune modulation, especially in months with limited sunlight, and using a humidifier helps keep nasal passages moist and less susceptible to infections. Thoughtful snacking is another easy support; even if kids are indulging in sweets, choose options that are free from artificial dyes, sweeteners, and high-fructose corn syrup to reduce unnecessary chemical stress.
When it comes to supplements, there are several options that I often recommend for seasonal support. For digestive and gastrointestinal balance, products like GB-Tone and Bioplasma can be helpful. For environmental allergens, Natural D-hist Jr can help them with histamine reaction.
Immune support can be enhanced with grapefruit seed extract and ACS silver. To help support the body’s natural drainage pathways, homeopathic options such as Drainage Tone or Lymph Tones can be considered.
Definitely ask their practitioner for guidance on which products and dosages are appropriate for your child’s unique needs.
Lifestyle habits remain foundational. Encourage hand hygiene without creating fear, make sure children get adequate sleep, and maintain balanced nutrition. Let them have natural exposures in controlled ways so their immune systems can build memory and strength over time.
Supporting kids’ immune systems is about balance and intentional choices. With the right nutrition, thoughtful supplementation, and practical lifestyle habits, children can stay healthier, recover more quickly, and develop the immune resilience they need to thrive through the winter season.
Every year, right around October, we hear the same phrase on repeat: “It’s flu season.” Pharmacies, commercials, and even grocery stores all warn us that the flu is lurking and that the solution is simple—line up for your vaccine. But here’s the truth: there isn’t a magical “flu season” when a virus suddenly becomes more powerful. Instead, our environment and habits shift in ways that make us more vulnerable to illness.
So, what’s really happening this time of year?
Cold weather drives us indoors- Less fresh air and more time in close quarters.
Sugar overload- Halloween kicks off months of candy, baked goods, and holiday treats.
Sugar suppresses the immune system for hours after we eat it, leaving us more prone to catching bugs.
Less sunshine = less vitamin D- As days shorten, our natural vitamin D production drops, weakening immune resilience.
Dry air- Cold, dry air dries out our nasal passages, which are part of our body’s first line of defense against pathogens.
Stress and schedule shifts- Back-to-school, holiday planning, and end-of-year pressures take a toll on rest and circadian balance, making it harder for the body to defend itself.
The combination of these factors—not an aggressive virus—explains why more people get sick this time of year.
In my opinion, the term flu season is more about marketing than medicine. By labeling a time of year as “dangerous,” industries can push flu shots, over-the-counter cold remedies, and immune-boosting products in one sweep. It’s not that prevention tools are bad, but the narrative often oversimplifies the real root causes of illness. Instead of focusing on the immune-weakening lifestyle shifts of fall and winter, the spotlight is put on one single virus. You don’t have to feel doomed to get sick once the leaves change color. Here are some natural ways to stay resilient:
Prioritize Vitamin D- Get outside daily when possible, and consider supplementation.
Cut down on sugar- Enjoy treats mindfully, but balance them with whole, nutrient-dense meals.
Stay hydrated- Moist nasal passages and a well-hydrated body are less susceptible to infections. Consider a nasal rinse daily.
Boost your immune system naturally- Herbs like elderberry, echinacea, and astragalus can help, along with foods rich in vitamin C and zinc.
Keep moving- Exercise keeps the lymphatic system flowing and drains out toxins.
Rest well- Prioritize sleep—your immune system does its best repair work while you’re resting.
Fresh air & circulation- Open windows when you can, or use air purifiers to keep indoor air clean.
Next time you start to see “flu season” ads everywhere, remember: what’s really happening is a season of lifestyle shifts. The good news is that by being proactive, you can strengthen your body’s defenses and stay vibrant all season long.
Learn About Your Spleen and How to Keep it Healthy
What is your spleen and where is it?
The spleen is a soft, small organ that is about the size of an avocado and is positioned in the upper left side of the abdomen under the ribcage. The spleen has many functions; although, it is primarily an immune organ.
What does the spleen do?
The spleen is a hub for the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is the system that drains fluid from organs and tissues and circulates white blood cells to help the body fight infection. The spleen is the largest organ involved in this system. The following actions are some of the known functions of the spleen:
Blood storage
Blood filtration
Production of infection fighting antibodies and white blood cells
Maintenance of fluid balance in the body
Maintenance of blood volume
How do I know if my spleen is compromised?
Common indicators that your spleen may be under stress are as follows:
Frequent bacterial infections
Chronically swollen lymph nodes (often manifests as small, swollen knots, especially on the back or front of the neck, under the chin, behind the ears, in the armpits and in the groin area)
Unexplained pain or fullness in the upper left belly
Chronic skin rashes/conditions
A history of Mononucleosis (Mono) infection
Bruising or bleeding easily
Fatigue
Anemia that doesn’t respond to iron supplementation
Are spleen issues dangerous?
It is unusual for spleen issues to be dangerous. Medically, the spleen is not typically addressed unless in medical emergency conditions. As the spleen is a soft, spongy organ, it is possible for it to rupture if it is injured. Injury usually comes from abdominal trauma. A Mono infection often causes the spleen to enlarge, which increases the spleen’s vulnerability to injury. As a result, individuals with Mono should be careful to avoid injury until the spleen returns to normal size, which can take weeks or months. A spleen rupture can be life threatening, but is extremely uncommon without abdominal trauma.
Unlike conventional medicine, holistic medicine addresses the spleen preventatively. Early warning signs of spleen symptoms can be addressed naturally to assist with overall health.
Can you live without a spleen?
Yes! You can live without your spleen. The liver will take over some of the spleen’s functions in its absence.
Some individuals are born without a spleen, or sometimes too many spleens that don’t function properly. I once heard of an individual that was born with five spleens! In his case, more was not better and all five were surgically removed. There are other cases where individuals had a history of a ruptured spleen or a surgical removal.
Often, life without a spleen can mean living on chronic antibiotics because the immune system is compromised. However, a spleenless life doesn’t have to be that way! I’ve had multiple patients, without a spleen, function with healthy immunity without the need for antibiotics, by taking additional immune, lymph and liver support.
How do you support your spleen?
There are many ways to support your spleen health, or your immune system if you don’t have one. Here are the 3 primary ways to support your spleen:
Reducing your toxic load.
Eating a healthy diet.
Taking spleen and immune supporting supplements.
It is important to reduce your toxic load because one of the functions of the spleen is to filter the blood. Eliminating toxic cleaning products, personal hygiene products and additives to foods is a great way to help your spleen and thus your immune system.
Diet is always a cornerstone of immune health and plays a role in the quality of your blood. The best diet for your spleen is a low carb diet that is focused on high quality meats and proteins, high in vegetables (and in this case, especially cooked vegetables and greens) and good fats, with minimal carbs from starchier vegetables and fruits.
What supplements are good for the spleen?
There are many supplements that help to support the functioning of the spleen. Any immune system support may have an application in this case.
Here are a few of my favorite supplements for general spleen support:
Chlorophyll Complex from Standard Process: This supplement contains the component of plants that makes them green. Chlorophyll helps to purify and build the blood.
Immuplex from Standard Process: Immuplex is a whole food supplement that helps support the immune system and white blood cell maintenance.
Scolopendrium from Marco Pharma: This supplement is an herbal blend that serves as a drainage remedy for the spleen. I have had many patients solve pain in the upper left abdomen using this remedy.
Final Note:
The spleen is a frequently overlooked organ because when it functions properly, there is little reason to think about it. However, your spleen is very important to your immunity and the quality of your blood and is thus worthy of attention. If you have any indicators of spleen stress, you should take proactive steps to heal it. At the NHCAA, we use Muscle Testing to evaluate your spleen for stress and to help locate the correct support in your individual case. If you need help with healing your spleen, contact our office.
In our fast-paced and demanding world, stress has become an inevitable part of our daily lives.
From work pressures to personal responsibilities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and depleted. However, implementing a routine can significantly help manage our response to stress. Alongside a structured routine, incorporating stress management supplements can provide additional support to promote a healthy stress response in the body. Here are three effective stress management supplements that can help you navigate the challenges of daily stress.
Natural Calm Magnesium Powder: Promote Restful Sleep and Relaxation
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in numerous bodily functions, including stress management. It plays a crucial role in producing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has inhibitory properties and helps regulate rest and sleep. However, studies have shown that a significant percentage of Americans do not consume adequate amounts of dietary magnesium daily. Natural Calm Magnesium Powder offers a delicious and convenient way to boost your magnesium levels and support healthy sleep patterns. Simply mix one teaspoon of Natural Calm with water and drink it before bed to promote relaxation and restful sleep.
Drenamin by Standard Process: Support Physical and Mental Resilience
If you find yourself feeling physically weak and less productive due to stress, Drenamin may be the solution you’ve been seeking. Drenamin is a whole-food supplement that provides adrenal support and essential B vitamins to the body. B vitamins have been extensively studied for their ability to manage work-related stress. In fact, research has demonstrated that supplementing with B vitamins can lead to a reduction in personal strain and depressed mood within 90 days. By incorporating Drenamin into your routine, you can provide your body with the necessary support to maintain a healthy stress response and enhance overall resilience.
Cal-Amo by Standard Process: Balance pH Levels and Alleviate Symptoms
If stress exacerbates symptoms such as allergies and asthma, Cal-Amo can be a valuable addition to your stress management regimen. Cal-Amo is specifically designed to balance the body’s pH levels. You may have noticed that individuals experiencing allergies or asthma sometimes find relief from acidic foods like coffee or cola. Similarly, Cal-Amo helps correct an overly alkaline pH, providing relief and support. Additionally, this supplement aids in mineral utilization and supports the adrenal glands. Users of Cal-Amo have reported improvements in joint stiffness and reduced acid reflux. By incorporating Cal-Amo into your routine, you can achieve a more balanced pH and alleviate symptoms associated with stress.
If you’re in need of stress relief supplements to support a healthy stress response, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office today. Your practitioner will work with you to determine which of these whole-food stress management supplements is the best fit for your needs. If you’re ready to order one or more of these stress relief supplements, visit our website [insert website link] to make your purchase.
Remember, incorporating a routine and supporting your body with stress management supplements are essential steps towards maintaining a healthy stress response. By taking proactive measures to manage stress, you can regain balance, resilience, and overall well-being in your life.
I remember when I was young hearing the phrase “feed a cold, starve a fever”. But, what does that really mean? The definition of starve is: 1) to kill with hunger; 2) to deprive of nourishment. This does not seem like the best idea. What IS a good idea is to eat healthy foods to avoid viruses (and other immune challenges, too.)
Having a low appetite can be common when you are ill because your digestion slows down when the immune system is working hard. So, if you aren’t hungry, forcing yourself to eat is not necessary. However, drinking adequate fluid is (especially if a person has a fever).
Research is being done with lower carbohydrate diets and illness, and one such study indicates that a ketogenic diet can help with immune system function. (1) This means that eating a diet that focuses on healthy fats, adequate-protein, and fewer grains and sugar could be beneficial to your immune health.
Here Are Foods To Avoid:
These foods are higher in an amino acid arginine which can perpetuate viral load (whereas lysine could suppress viral load). (2)
NUTS: Almonds and Almond Butter, Pecans, Walnuts, Peanuts and Peanut Butter, Cashews, Pistachios, Hazelnuts, Macadamia Nuts, Brazil Nuts
OTHER: Oatmeal, Pasteurized Dairy products, Sunflower seeds, Chocolate, Corn, Sesame Seeds, Onions, Brown Rice, Soybeans, Whole Wheat, and Millet.
White refined sugar should be avoided because it is inflammatory and depletes your B vitamins and minerals (which are essential for your immune system).
I did an anti-viral elimination diet and avoided all the foods in the previous paragraph for 3 weeks. With slow reintroduction, I learned what each specific foods did to my body. Almonds caused an upset stomach. Peanuts or peanut butter created cold sores. Oatmeal caused a headache. Now I know what to avoid for myself. You can discover this, too.
Foods Strengthen Your Immune System:
The following anti-viral foods and herbs can generally strengthen your immune system. Most of these have high Vitamin A, B Vitamins, Vitamin C, and mineral content.
Recommended Anti-Viral Supplements to Support Your Immune System:
Vitamin C – Vitamin C is good for tissue healing and the immune system. (4)
Zinc – Zinc is immune supportive, has anti-viral properties, promotes tissue healing, and can help with blood sugar and hormone balance. (5)
Vitamin D – Vitamin D helps with mineral absorption, resistance to illness and normal immune function, bone, brain, and heart health. (6)
Iodine – Iodine is an essential mineral for every cell in the body and the thyroid gland in particular and iodine may boost the immune system. (7)
Other Tools You Can Use:
Sauna – Use of a sauna can help with detox pathways, decrease inflammation, boost the immune system, and increase resistance. (8)
Nebulizer – Using a nebulizer with a supplement called BioMolecular Oxygen from CellCore Biosciences can help with oxygenation of the cells and tissue healing.
I look forward to helping you build a stronger body, stronger immune system, and live a healthier life.
Be well, Kerry Cradit, B.S. Nutrition and Food Science
Regular consumption of bone broth, known for its immune system-boosting properties, is a healthy habit that can support your overall well-being.
Almost every culture has made use of bones in cooking to get the nutritional benefits as well as to make the most out of precious resources.
Here are some health benefits of bone broth for the immune system:
Rich in easy to absorb minerals
Contains healing factors for the lining of the gut (helps to heal leaky gut)
Supports healthy hair, skin, and nails
Supports healthy joints
Supports skin elasticity
Naturally boosts the immune system
Contains minerals, amino acids, collagen, gelatin, good fat
Supports bone health
Helps with detoxification
During these challenging times of living during a pandemic, it is more important than ever to access as many of the health and immune system benefits available to you as possible. Bone broth is one of the cheapest of those precious resources available to you and has the added benefit of being food as well as medicine.
Now, you likely have more time than ever to cook so break out your pressure cooker, crockpot or stockpot and try it out. Sure, you can buy bone broth in the store, but it’s going to be missing the fat and gel that make it so good for you. Not to mention that it is quite expensive to buy when you can make it at home easily with scraps! Making your own bone broth is good for your immune system and your budget.
Dr. Amanda’s Simple Instant Pot Bone Broth
Ingredients:
Organic bones
Purified water
Apple cider vinegar
Vegetables (optional)
Spices (optional)
Instructions:
Add bones to instant pot up to almost 3/4 the way with some gaps between bones. (I used organic grass-fed beef bones)
Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
Add water up to the max fill line.
Let sit for 30 minutes to begin bone demineralization.
Add spices and vegetable scraps if you want. (I used 5 crushed cloves of garlic, some celery scraps, and pink Himalayan salt)
Close the lid to the pot and turned the valve to seal. I used the soup/broth and low-pressure settings for 120 minutes.
After it is done cooking, strain the broth into a pot then put it in mason jars. After it cools, put them in the refrigerator. After 12 hours the fat and gelatin will rise to the top.
You can store the bone broth in the refrigerator for 1 week. To store longer, freeze.
You can use a crock pot or stock pot, but will need to cook for at least 12 hours using those methods.
You can drink this broth plain or with butter and salt. You can also use this as the base for soups, gravies and for braising.
Bone broth can be used for fasts. I have seen dramatic improvements using this type of fast for individuals with digestive issues as in addition to giving the digestive system a rest, it contains those gut healing factors. Bone broth is also a great complement to a keto or carnivore diet. Bone broth is the staple for the GAPS (gut and psychology syndrome) diet and can support a healthy mood and sleep.
I recommend consuming at least 1 cup per day for gut and immune benefits. With the current viral situation we are facing, I advise daily consumption over at least the next 3 months.
For more help on how to integrate bone broth into your nutrition plan and how to access mother nature’s medicine cabinet, contact the office to set up a phone visit.
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