Nutrition for recurrent ear infections
Recurrent ear infections (Otitis Media) in children are often related to food allergies and environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke. With this in mind, here are some dietary suggestions for you and your child.
Foods to include
- Foods that reduce mucous: garlic, onion, watercress, horseradish, mustard, parsley, celery, green tea, lemon
- Foods rich in proteolytic enzymes: fresh pineapple, papaya; these have an anti-inflammatory effect, but be careful of excess amounts of sugar
- Foods rich in bioflavonoids: fresh citrus fruits, leafy vegetables, dark berries, cherries, dark grapes
- Plenty of fluids (preferably water)
- Vegetable and fruit juices diluted with water 1:1 to prevent intake of excessive amounts of sugar (no orange juice, as it is a common allergen)
- Breast milk to infants to enhance their immunity and inhibit the onset of food allergies
- A multiple vitamin/mineral supplement to children no longer breast feeding to boost their immune system and enhance their overall vitality
- Specific
vitamins and minerals: vitamins A, C, and E, beta carotene, zinc, selenium
(these nutrients are especially involved in enhancing immune function)
Foods to eliminate
- Foods that are mucous-forming: cow's milk, cream, butter, cheeses, roasted peanuts, oranges, orange juice, bananas, excessive sugar
- Refined sugar, refined flour, other refined and processed foods
- Food allergens:
dairy products, eggs, wheat, corn, orange, peanuts and peanut butter,
soy, chocolate
Supplementation for recurrent ear infections
- Bifidobacteria
- Acidophilus
- Sacromyces boulardia
- Homeopathic thymus glandular
- Short term use of vitamin A
- Herbal Baptisia
- Herbal Echinacea
- Vitamin C