Try Natural Approaches to Strengthen Your Child’s Immune System Instead

A recent study reported in Pulse, the magazine for GPs, of all Danish children born between 1995 and 2003 found that the relative risk of Irritable Bowel Disease was 84% higher for children given anti-biotics compared to non-users. This association was strongest among children who had more than seven courses of antibiotics, increasing the risk by more than seven times, respectively, compared with non-users of antibiotics.

Study lead Dr Anders Hviid, an epidemiologist at the State Serum Institute in Copenhagen, said that ‘antibiotics can alter the intestinal microflora and cause overgrowth of potentially pathogenic microorganisms that may trigger IBD in susceptible children.’

This adds to the research showing the damage that can be done to children with the early use of anti-biotics. A Canadian study in 2007 found that children who are treated with antibiotics during their first year are twice as likely to develop asthma by the age of seven. (Source: Chest, 2007; 131: 1753-9).

The risk was highest among children who received more than four courses of antibiotics, and who were given ‘broad-spectrum’ drugs for general healthcare.

This also explains how homeopathic treatment focussing on the state of the intestines and rectifying the balance between beneficial and damaging bacteria can improve illnesses such as asthma, eczema and digestive complaints.

The best defence against any sort of infection is a strong immune system. See Increasing Your Resistance against Viruses (like flu) and How to Treat Your Child’s Coughs and Colds Naturally for ideas on how to best protect your family from winter illnesses.

If you’re not sure where to start, consult a homeopath or naturopath for guidance. Hellis is available for consultations over the phone and face to face.