Back-to-School: Improving Your Child’s Immune System

Children in Clearwater have not even started attending school again for the year and already we’ve heard of lots of children with colds, asthma, runny noses and other symptoms. Every year when children go back to school, there is a bit of an uptick in illnesses among children. At Dawn Potter Acupuncture, we take a natural and preventive approach to health and believe that the best treatment option is being prepared! Today, we’re discussing back-to-school illnesses and how you can improve your child’s immune system to avoid these issues. If you find that your child is feeling under the weather, feel free to reach out. We are always happy to help.

Why Do Children Get Sick When Returning to School?

When children return to school they are being exposed to a lot of new things. Other children and whatever germs they may be carrying around for the week, chemicals that have been used in the school, dust that hasn’t been cleaned up all summer, etc. It can be quite a lot for their developing immune systems to handle, often resulting in many children feeling under the weather.

Improving Your Child’s Immune System Naturally

There are numerous ways that you can improve your child’s immune system naturally.

1. We offer nutritional guidance in Clearwater which can help to properly feed your child’s growing body. Eating a healthy diet should always be your first step when attempting to get healthy and improve your immune system.

2. We also offer Chinese herbal medicine in Clearwater which has been used for thousands of years to address ailments and improve the health of patients around the world.

3. Our Clearwater acupuncture treatment can be another wonderful way to boost the immune system and reduce symptoms.

Additionally, getting rest, making sure your child is not stressed and having fun can be another wonderful way to improve your overall physical and mental health.

Schedule Acupuncture for Children in Clearwater, Florida Today

Interested in acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, nutritional guidance or any other treatment options at Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater? Feel free to schedule a free discovery call, we are always welcoming new patients and would be happy to discuss how we can help keep your child healthy all school year long.

Beginner’s Guide to Traditional Chinese Medicine

When it comes to Chinese Medicine, many people can become confused. While Chinese Medicine is widely known for its pain relieving abilities, many people are unaware of how it can affect digestive disorders, stress levels, allergies and even fertility. At Dawn Potter Acupuncture, we offer a variety of Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment options, including acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping and even moxabustion. Depending upon the cause of your ailment, symptoms or conditions, different techniques may be recommended. If you have additional questions about our Clearwater Traditional Chinese Medicine, feel free to give us a call. We’re always happy to answer questions.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting very fine needles into points on the body. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years across the world and can be used for the treatment of a variety of conditions, pains and even addictions.

Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal medicine involves the use of plants, minerals and even flowers to heal the body. Chinese herbal medicine can come in various forms, however the most popular are pills and teas. Chinese herbal medicine generally has very few side effects and should be monitored closely.

Cupping

Cupping involves the use of jars being placed on the skin to create a vacuum using suction. This results in the tissue underneath being sucked and raised into the jar, increasing circulation, relieving pain and pulling toxins from the body. Cupping does leave temporary red, blue and/or purple marks, however they typically resolve after a few days.

Moxabustion

Maxobustion involves burning an herb known as “mugwort” which is placed near the skin to warn a specific point. Maxobustion has been used around the world for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, including asthma, gynecological disorders, diarrhea and more.

Customized Treatment Plans

At Dawn Potter Acupuncture we proudly offer customized treatment plans that are tailored to your specific needs, health history, wellness goals, etc. We offer free discovery calls and would be happy to chat and see how we can help you.

Start Clearwater, Florida Chinese Medicine Today

Interested in improving your health with Chinese medicine in Clearwater, Florida? Dawn Potter Acupuncture is always accepting new patients and would be more than happy to help. Schedule your appointment with us today for Chinese medicine near you.

The Best Fruits You Should Be Adding To Your Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Do you suffer from inflammation throughout your body? Interested in healthy foods that are known to reduce inflammation in the body? We’ve talked about spices and various other foods but today we wanted to talk about nature’s candy: fruit. Many people hear that fruit contains sugar and that they should avoid it, however, this isn’t exactly the case. Sugar in fruit is not added sugar, you shouldn’t overeat it, however, two or three servings of fruit a day or fine. Today, Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater, Florida is discussing the best anti-inflammatory fruits you should add to your diet. Have questions? Interested in nutritional guidance? Feel free to schedule your free 15 minute consultation with us.

Cherries

Research on cherries (including sweet and tart) has shown that they can actually lower inflammatory blood proteins and have effects comparable to ibuprofen. Cherries are even recommended for those that suffer from arthritis and inflammation of joints. Anthocyanins and polyphenolic compounds stop potential free radicals from damaging cells and can also improve overall sleep by increasing melatonin levels in the body (proper sleep can greatly reduce inflammation).

Strawberries

We tend to hear about oranges when talking about Vitamin C but did you know a cup of strawberries contains 100% of your recommended daily Vitamin C? Vitamin C has been shown to improve functioning of the immune system and reduction of inflammation. Next time you want a sweet treat, try strawberries! Other berries such as blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, etc. are great options as well. You can even buy mixed berries in the frozen section at most stores to enjoy all year round.

Apples

You’ve probably heard “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” before, right? While this may not be completely factual, apples can be extremely beneficial for you. They contain soluble fiber known as pectin, known as a prebiotic. These feed good microbes in the gut, improving your overall immune system and reducing inflammation throughout the body.

Oranges

Oranges are often regarded for their high levels of vitamin C but they also contain B vitamins, calcium, fiber and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals such as flavonoids and carotenoids. Other citrus fruits such as limes, lemons and even grapefruit are other wonderful options. If you take medication, always be sure to make sure there is no grapefruit interaction as this is a common thing.

Kiwis

Along with the other fruits on this list, Kiwi is high in vitamin C, antioxidants and enzymes that can help reduce inflammatory responses in the body. You can get the regular kiwifruit or opt for the golden ones that can be eaten whole (peel included). Both are great additions to healthy snacking options for your home.

Visit Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater Today

These fruits are just a few of the many that can be anti-inflammatory. Just make sure you limit yourself to the recommended servings and you should be good. Fruit can be added to different things, made into dessert (sorbet, “ice-cream”, popsicles, etc.) or even added to water to add some flavor. Need more help with your diet or nutrition? Schedule an appointment with Dawn Potter Acupuncture in Clearwater, Florida today.