Expert Answers

with Dr. Jen EXPERT An s wers

QDear Dr. Jen,

Can you suggest some ways to keep my kids’ immune systems healthy as they return to school this fall? —A.S., Surrey

AWhile our children’s immunity is always on our mind, now is the perfect time to strengthen your child’s immune system. 1. Serve probiotic-rich foods. With 70% of your immune system in your gut, one of the best ways to support immune health is by building up good gut bacteria. Serve more fermented foods like kombucha or unsweetened yogurt. If you have a picky eater, try a kid-friendly probiotic powder you can mix into their favourite drink or sprinkle on cereal. 2. Cut out sugar! Sugar has been shown to alter our microbiome by feeding the more pathogenic bacteria, crowding out beneficial, immune-strengthening bacteria. Sugar has also been shown to decrease the effectiveness of our white blood cells. Consider replacing sweet foods with vitamin C-rich fruit like oranges and blueberries, and encourage fibre-rich veggies like carrots and celery, paired with protein-dense hummus and nut butters. 3. Supplement with Vitamin D. Up to one third of urban Canadian toddlers are thought to be deficient in vitamin D! Optimal levels have been shown to support white blood cells and the immune system in general. Find vitamin D in liquid form, for easy daily child-friendly dosing. Of course, we can’t forget the number one way to ward off sickness, which is to practice frequent hand washing, so encourage your child to lather up regularly. This, along with a healthy gut and adequate vitamin D levels, can help set up your kids, and the whole family, for immune success.

Swap out refined sugar snacks with fibre-rich ones like veggies and hummus.

DR. JENNIFER BRIX

Dr. Jennifer Brix is a naturopathic doctor, health educator for Natural Factors, and public speaker with a passion for empowering her patients to achieve optimal health. She has special expertise in treating digestive complaints, hormone imbalances, and brain-related health conditions, and has a family practice at Brix Wellness in Kelowna, BC. www.freshhealth.ca The information in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider before starting supplements or making lifestyle changes. Q Dear Dr. Jen,

I have been under a lot of stress these past few months and am looking for something to support my mental health and help me feel calmer. Before considering a medication, is there something you can suggest for a situation like mine? —C.B., Kelowna

AYou are not alone. As we navigate our “new normal” many of us are looking for ways to reduce our daily stress. Stress can cause a racing heart, headaches, and upset stomach, but long-term exposure is linked to many other health issues, including hormone disruption, weight gain, sleep problems, anxiety, low mood, and blood sugar swings. Over time, this unmanaged stress can lead to more serious complications by impacting our immune systems, digestion, and cardiovascular health.

To help minimize the impact of stress on our mental and physical health, exercise, self-reflection, eating well, and getting that much-needed sleep are key. There are also natural treatments for managing stress. In herbal medicine, adaptogens are do just that; one well-known example is ashwagandha. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), or Indian ginseng, originated in Ayurvedic medicine. Current research shows ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol levels, relieve anxiety and stress, promote restful sleep, and support cognitive and mental function. It supports adults of all ages, including helping seniors recover from illness and gain back their strength. Look for an extract, such as KSM-66 or Sensoril, to ensure you are getting a form of ashwagandha that has both an exceptional safety profile and validated clinical research. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and in need of support, rest assured—safe and effective natural stress relief is within reach.