Allergies are exaggerated immune system responses to non-harmful substances and are a common childhood health problem. The National Center for Biotechnology Information reports that common allergens include dust, pet dander, mold and pollen, although your child may also experience allergic reactions from certain spices, insect bites and cosmetic products. Before giving your child dietary supplements to help combat her allergies, meet with her doctor to discuss the immediate and long-term health implications of supplements.
Children's Allergies
Approximately 50 million people in the United States have some type of allergy, reports the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Most people, notes the College, develop allergies during infancy or childhood, and allergic disorders are the No. 1 cause of chronic disease in children. Your child has a greater risk of developing allergies if there is a family history of allergies. Your child's allergies may manifest as skin rashes, asthma or hay fever. Your child may also develop certain food allergies.
Appropriate Dietary Supplements
Numerous dietary supplements may be appropriate in treating your child's allergies. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that important supplements for treating allergies include inositol hexphosphate, acidophilus, quercetin, MSM, raw adrenal glandular, vitamin B complex, natural carotenoid complex, eucalyptus, thyme and eyebright. Although these supplements have traditionally been used in treating allergies, further research may be necessary to support their use for this health problem.
A Useful Supplement
Eyebright may be one of the most useful dietary supplements in treating your children's allergies. Eyebright, notes naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," is a decongestant, anti-inflammatory, expectorant and antiseptic agent. This dietary supplement, notes Tilgner, has been used in treating allergies, nasal and sinus congestion and nasal discharge. Eyebright is well-known for its ability to treat hay fever and itchy or watery eyes.
Warning
If your child develops allergies, discuss possible treatment measures -- including natural therapies -- with her physician. A qualified health-care professional can instruct you on the proper use of dietary supplements in the treatment of allergies and what supplements may be most effective for this health purpose. Certain dietary supplements may cause unexpected health effects, especially if they are not used according to your doctor's advice. Supplements should always be used under the guidance of a licensed health-care provider.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Allergies
- American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology: Children's Allergies
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
