Vitamin C comes in many various forms in the food we eat, including supplements found in topical, capsules, powder, chewable tablets, liquids and gummy form.
Make sure you read your labels to determine which Vitamin C is best for your family.
Around the end of the 15th century, a condition called scurvy, was cited as a major cause of illness and mortality among sailors due to malnutrition. This condition is caused by a severe-prolonged deficiency in Vitamin C. In 1747, James Lind conducted experiments aboard a naval ship utilizing lemons to aid in the treatment of scurvy. In the 1920’s, Albert Szent-Györgyi first recognized the correlation between Vitamin C deficiency and ascorbic acid treatments. If you’re deficient in Vitamin C, you could suffer from the following symptoms:
Prolonged deficiency can over time lead to other health related issues such as high blood pressure/atherosclerosis, gallbladder disease, stroke and certain cancers.
Vitamin C is one of the safer and more researched supplements out there and is unlikely to cause a problem. However, a high dosage or intake of Vitamin C can lead to a couple unwanted side effects. Vitamin C is absorbed in the intestines which can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or have a laxative effect. Another poor side effect is the potential to increase urinary oxalate and uric acid excretion, which can inadvertently lead to kidney stones. People with hemochromatosis (too much iron in their blood) can lead to tissue damage from high iron absorption.
Lipid levels should be monitored in individuals taking both statins and antioxidant supplements
What tricks do you utilize to encourage your kids to take their daily dose of vitamin C? Comment below….
*Disclaimer- Please seek health advice from your provider before trying any of the above mentioned supplements. Only you and your provider understand your child’s health history. These supplements are not considered cures for any ailments
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The most commonly used elderberry for medicinal purposes is Black elderberry. Elderberry is botanically known as Sambucus nigra and is a native tree to the European continent. The tree bears cream-colored flowers that are followed by dark purple berries in the autumn season.
Elderberry is one of the top antiviral herbs that aids in boosting Immunity, beneficial for the respiratory system and helps to reduce inflammation. Elderberry has been traditionally used for improving sinus issues such as congestion, relieving pain and inflammation, water retention, constipation and even cancer.
So how does elderberry work? Here’s what you need to know……
Elderberries are rich in nutrients such as organic pigments, amino acids, tannin, carotenoids, and vitamins like A, B and C, iron and potassium. It also contains flavonoids which have antioxidant properties that help boost immunity by removing free radicals. It also contains a chemical, that helps stimulate the immunity.
The easiest way for a child to consume elderberry is to purchase a liquid or gummy. However, there are other ways to consume elderberry including…
When you purchase elderberry, be careful of the extra additives such as sugars.
Like many medications on the market, supplements can be a cause for concern depending on your health history and your sensitivity tolerance. Elderberry has few side effects when used properly. It is a flower so an allergic reaction can occur.
This is also not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because there is not enough research on fetal health and development.
Elderberry is generally safe to consume. However, due to the actions of the supplement, elderberry could potentially interact with the following medication.
*Disclaimer- Elderberry does not cure. Please seek advice from your child’s health care provider before introducing anything new. Only their provider knows their health history.
How do you prepare elderberry for your child (i.e gummy, liquid)?
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