Healthy kids: Kiddie health myths that moms can ignore!
Confused by kiddie health myths? Let your healthy kids go out and play as you read this list of popular health myths that have been scientifically debunked.
Healthy kids: Kiddie health myths that moms can ignore!
People always have something to say about something, your child's health is no exception. From hand-me-down pieces of advice from your great grandmother to straight up old wives tales, it's best to know what's fact from myth. Here are some popular kids health myths that have scientifically been debunked:
1. The cold weather or going out with wet hair will give my child a cold!
While being exposed to cold weather may give one the chills and make them feel uncomfortable, it is not the reason behind your child’s cold. According to D.J. Verret, MD, an otolaryngologist from Texas, going outdoors may actually be one of the best things you can do to prevent catching a cold. Why? Because people tend to stay indoors to keep warm therefore making them more susceptible to colds which are caused by viruses or bacteria.
Author of "The Good Doctor's Guide to Colds & Flu”, Neil Schachter, M.D, says that a sneeze or a cough brings forth viral-rich fluids from your airways making it easy for germs to spread. To protect your baby or child from catching a cold, make sure that they watch their hands often.
2. Don't kiss your baby if you have a cold
According to Neil Schachter, M.D., author of "The Good Doctor's Guide to Colds & Flu, there is nothing wrong with giving your child a peck on the lips even if you have a cold. The saliva hanging out in your mouth harbors very little cold virus -- so it's surprisingly hard to pass the illness through kissing. The best way to keep your baby from catching your cold: Wash your hands often.
3. It’s okay for your baby to sleep on his side!
Babies placed on their stomachs or sides to sleep may have more difficulty breathing than those placed on their backs. This is because when infants sleep tummy-down, they’re more likely to overheat, breathe incorrectly, and rebreathe carbon dioxide air they’ve exhaled, which lacks oxygen. If you’re worried about your baby developing a flat spot on her head after too much back time, you can always give your baby adequate amounts of tummy time while she’s awake and under your watchful eye.