jo anne's place logo

Child Care - Best Practices

Education and empowerment, rather than fear, are good strategies for protecting our kids. Having a healthy respect for bacteria and viruses and learning proper practices for hand washing and, distancing when necessary, will help children feel secure and safe. 


The best health practices for kids (and adults) are play, fresh air, sunshine, exercise, wholesome food, clean water, learning, and plenty of sleep. 


Avoid foods that may weaken the immune system: white sugar, unfiltered chlorinated water, and pesticide contaminated foods (see the
Environmental Working Groups Dirty Dozen).


 

Children, like adults, thrive on a diet that is based mainly on whole foods: fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds, beans and whole grains. Starchy foods and animal products digest in very different digestive secretions and are best eaten a separate meals to avoid excess mucous production.


two children reading a book with an adult

To fill nutritional gaps children will benefit from a good multivitamin that includes a full B complex, vitamin C (in winter), calcium, magnesium, and zinc. For children 4 and over who have difficulty with concentration, or for children prone to colds and flu, we recommend Bio-Strath, a whole food vitamin/mineral combination that improves focus and strengthens immunity.


Vitamin D is a very common deficiency in Canada. Even in summer very few children spend any time outside without sunscreen which inhibits the natural synthesis of D. The upper limits recommended by Health Canada are:

  • Infants 0-6 months 1,000 IU 

  • Infants 7-12 months 1,500 IU*

  • Children 1-3 years 2,500 IU

  • Children 4-8 years 3,000 IU

  • Children and adults 9-70 4,000 IU


If you use drops for a dosage of 1,500 take 2,000 every 2
nd day. For a dosage of 2,500 take 3,000 every 2nd day.


To nourish their developing brains, children need the Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Regular consumption of fish, flax and hemp seeds and their oils will provide them through diet, otherwise there are children’s formulas specific to their needs.

 

Children are healthier and happier when there’s a good balance of healthy bacteria in their digestive tract. Make fermented foods a regular part of their diet and supplement intermittently with probiotics. Scientists estimate that 60% or more of human immune function is dependent on a healthy microbiome.

 

Numerous studies* have been done on the herbs astragalus, echinacea, and elderberry demonstrating their ability to improve immune function. There is a selection of products available that are formulated specifically for children. Manuka honey is another tasty way to sooth a sore throat and boost immunity.

 

If children learn about natural foods and natural remedies at an early age they will likely carry those great habits into adulthood. Parents that empower their children to be mindful of their health on every level, can enjoy watching their lives unfold as healthy fruitful members of their communities.


*Reference Nation Center for Biotechnical Information (NCBI)

shilouette of children
By Jonathan Tessier March 28, 2025
An Easy, Nutritious Path
By April Allen March 25, 2025
Did you know what your skin needs changes based on the seasons? As seasons, and therefore weather, changes our skin adapts to maintain balance. These adaptations can take time, and you can support them with the proper products and ingredients!
By April Allen March 24, 2025
Happy Easter! Looking to switch it up and try some new recipes this year? Here is a roundup of Easter recipes featuring some old favourites and some new additions:
Kidney diagram in hands
By April Allen March 24, 2025
This information is not intended to replace appropriate professional advice. Please check labels and consult your pharmacist if you take prescription medication. The kidneys are an amazing organ system! In Traditional Chinese Medicine they are considered, along with the adrenal glands, a master organ. They perform the critical functions of capturing and recycling nutrients and eliminating liquid acidic waste. When the kidneys fail to perform this detoxification, patients must have their blood filtered through renal dialysis. A Healing Diet - This mirrors recommendations from studies done on kidney function: Drink 7-10 glasses of filtered or spring water. Chloride is a potential carcinogen and potentially damaging to the kidneys as well as the entire body. Consume a diet that is 75-80% alkaline forming. A urine pH maintained in the range of 6.5-7.4 allows your kidneys to readily eliminate acid waste. Chemical free, organic foods are the safest for kidney health. Make vegetables, fruit, raw seeds, nuts, legumes, beans, and wholegrains the mainstays of your diet. Limit red meat and sweeteners. Studies show a whole food plant based diet and the Mediterranean diet can benefit patients with chronic kidney disease. Fermented foods improve digestion and have a positive effect on pH levels. Apple cider vinegar used as a condiment or mixed in water with meals aids in assimilating nutrients, corrects pH, and dissolves calcium and acid crystal deposits. Replace salt with Herbamare for full flavour but 1/3 the sodium. The combination of whole sea salt with other herbs provides a better sodium/potassium ratio. Cook gently. High heat causes acrylamides and advanced glycation end products, both risk factor in type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Basic Supplements – to avoid common deficiencies Bio-Strath – 100% digestible whole food tonic, providing B vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and cofactors. Used by more staff at Jo Anne’s than any other supplement. Buffered vitamin C during fall and winter months. A powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage and degeneration. Vitamin D 8,000 IU for one month then reduce to the upper limit of 4,000. A steroid hormone precursor that reduces inflammation and the risk of infection. Magnesium – has over 300 biochemical functions. Essential fatty acids – anti-inflammatory, help regulate blood pressure and a deficiency is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. Probiotics – intermittent use to strengthen the immune system and correct pH Dietary Aids for Kidney Health - Special foods with science backed benefits: In studies ginger, garlic, and onions improved symptoms of kidney disease and increased renal function. Regular consumption could provide significant protection. Watermelon is 92% alkaline water which helps flush the urinary system of stored toxins. It supports the liver to process ammonia thus easing the strain on the kidneys. Finally, it can actually be used to dissolve kidney stones! Some people perform a watermelon fast one day a week, eating only melon wedges when hungry. Urine testing is a convenient way to monitor chemistry. The best time to check is in the morning prior to consuming food or drinks (other than water). If it’s initially difficult to achieve readings between 6.5-7.4 take 1-2 AlkaPure pH capsules upon rising. Once optimum readings are achieved, test periodically. Special Supplements for Kidneys - For an annual or biannual kidney cleanse: Astragalus – numerous studies show this herb has a protective effect on kidneys, liver, and spleen. It is also used in the treatment of cancer, diabetes, and immune disorders. It has been shown to slow tumor growth and significantly extend the lives of those who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation. Nettle is a wonderful cleansing herb for the kidneys. It also helps with all conditions related to inflammation, including arthritis and allergies. Burdock provides a whole body detox by increasing urine output and drawing out stored toxins. It is a natural option to use instead of prescription diuretics but consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are already on diuretics before making a change. Exercise, fresh air, deep breathing with complete exhalation all benefit the kidneys. For those days that you’re pressed for time perform the 4-minute workout by Dr Zack Bush. This easy routine performed 2-3 times boosts nitric oxide production and kidney function. See it online. Following the diet and basic supplement suggestions should have a beneficial effect on your kidneys and your overall health. One of the biggest changes you hopefully will notice is an increase in energy level. Keep a journal to track your progress. *Revised July 2023
By Jonathan Tessier March 19, 2025
Are seed oils bad for you? You may have seen some Social Media influencers claiming that they are. Is there any truth to this? What are the benefits of not eating seed oils? Let's find out.
By April Allen March 5, 2025
Who run the world? Girls! March is Women's History Month, and March 8th is International Women’s Day. What better time than this to lift up the women around us!
By Jonathan Tessier March 4, 2025
What is Circadian Rhythm?
By Jonathan Tessier March 4, 2025
Baked Pasta, better than regular!
By Jonathan Tessier February 25, 2025
Try out some of these delicious international food recipes, most of which you can make with ingredients from our store! There's a lot of diverse recipes in here from Japanese to Indian food!
Rebecca holding green smoothie in a glass cup with a straw
By April Allen February 20, 2025
Celebrate the luck of the Irish with these festive, healthier St. Patrick's Day recipes! We've added some brand new recipes to the list for 2025 - Slainte!
More Posts
Share by: