Naturopathic Support for Newborns

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a joyful occasion, but it also brings various challenges for both parents and the newborn. Fortunately, naturopathic practitioners can collaborate with your primary care physician to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby. Here are some common issues that new parents may encounter:

Enhancing Breastfeeding Experience

Breastfeeding is widely recognised as the healthiest and most nutritious option for newborns. However, the quality of breast milk can be influenced by the mother’s nutritional status. If you are not receiving adequate nutrition, the composition of your breast milk may be affected. Furthermore, some mothers struggle to maintain a sufficient milk supply. Although formula can be used as a supplement, breastfeeding is generally preferred.

Additionally, it is not uncommon to experience pain during or after breastfeeding sessions. While this topic may be uncomfortable to discuss, there are naturopathic remedies available to address such issues.

Throughout your breastfeeding journey, naturopathic practitioners are available to support you. They can provide solutions to help you maintain optimal nutrition levels, enabling you to provide the healthiest breast milk possible for your baby while prioritising your own well-being.

Naturopathic Approaches for Colicky Infants

Adjusting to life with a newborn can be challenging for any parent, and dealing with colic can make it even more difficult. Colic refers to frequent crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It can have various potential causes, including digestive issues, infections, growing pains, overstimulation, inflammation in the nervous system and brain, gas, irregular heartbeat, increased pressure behind the eyes, or even injury. While the cause of colic can sometimes be hard to identify, it typically improves around four months of age. However, if the condition persists beyond that, there might be underlying factors involved. Regardless of the cause, naturopathic treatments are available to provide relief for colicky babies.

Naturopathic Care for Toddlers

As your child enters the toddler stage, their personality traits emerge, and they become more explorative. They may start school, engage in sports or competitive activities, and even begin learning to read. This is a phase when various childhood illnesses and health concerns may arise. Discover how naturopathic medicine can contribute to your child’s overall health and happiness.
Naturopathic Approaches to ADHD

Receiving a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD for your child can bring some relief as it provides an explanation for their academic struggles, disruptive behavior, impatience, lack of focus, and other challenges. While conventional medicine offers treatment options that can be effective, they often come with side effects. Many parents prefer exploring non-pharmaceutical approaches, such as lifestyle and nutrition-based solutions, to reduce the need for medication.

Fortunately, there are several naturopathic alternatives available to assist your child in managing ADHD symptoms. A naturopathic doctor, like Benjamin, will employ various modalities to address attention issues and enhance your child’s performance in school, social situations, and overall life. The approach may involve analyzing your child’s diet to identify potential triggers for ADHD symptoms, such as artificial additives (BHA, BHT, salicylates), food colorings, flavorings, caffeine, trans fats, refined sugar, carbs, and nutrient deficiencies. Dietary adjustments can significantly impact not only your child’s ADHD but also their overall health.

In addition, traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, may be considered as a means of treatment. Benjamin will ensure a comforting and relaxing experience for your child. Herbal medicines might also be utilised to address anxiety and promote a calmer mood. Even if you decide to pursue conventional medical options, Benjamin can offer a treatment plan that aims to minimise any harmful side effects.

Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment and discuss your child’s ADHD and how we can provide assistance.

Naturopathic Approaches to Asthma

Asthma, a respiratory condition characterized by airway spasms and inflammation, commonly affects children and presents symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. During acute asthma attacks, rescue inhalers or “puffers” are often used to alleviate symptoms. However, these inhalers only provide short-term relief, while long-term medical treatment typically involves the use of inhaled corticosteroids, which do not address the underlying cause of asthma.

Environmental factors, including allergens such as mold, pollen, dust, animal dander, and dietary allergens like dairy, peanuts, or wheat, can contribute to asthma symptoms. By identifying allergies and implementing strategies to limit exposure to allergens, we can potentially manage asthma symptoms more effectively. Nutrition also plays a role in asthma management, as certain key nutrients like molybdenum, copper, iron, magnesium, vitamins B6, B12, C, and omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce sensitivity to allergens. Additionally, individuals with asthma often have a deficiency in stomach acid, which can hinder nutrient absorption from food.

Our naturopathic approach aims to uncover the specific causes of your child’s asthma symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. Many individuals with asthma have successfully reduced or eliminated the need for puffers and other medical treatments through naturopathic interventions. Contact us today to discover how we can assist you.

Naturopathic Solutions for Ear Infections

Ear infections are a common ailment, especially among children, involving an infection in the space behind the eardrum. This area contains small vibrating bones crucial for hearing. While ear infections are generally not life-threatening, untreated cases can lead to hearing complications or partial deafness.

If your child complains of ear pain, particularly when lying down, it is likely an ear infection. Symptoms may include headaches, fever, balance difficulties, sleep disturbances, and general fussiness. In non-vocal or preverbal children, signs can include ear tugging, sleep disturbances, or increased crying.

Reach out to Benjamin today to schedule an appointment and discuss your child’s condition.