Ear Infections – What Are The Risks?
Today, ear infections are generally accepted as frequent offenders, and if not recognized and treated early, can lead to more serious complications as described below. Ear infections are the bread and butter of conventional pediatricians, who treat them with frequent courses of antibiotics, decongestants and sometimes with surgery. In young children middle ear infections are a normal part of growing up (until their immune systems are functioning as the first-line defense against all types of infections, whether viral, bacterial or fungal.)
So, what are the risks? If the infection is viral, the risks are minimal. However, if the infection is bacterial and treatment delayed, there is danger that the infection may become chronic or spread to a portion of the bone behind the ear called the mastoid process. If antibiotics do not control this, a surgical operation may be needed. Children who are old enough to gargle should be encouraged to gargle with a warm saline solution, which promotes healing by bringing more blood to the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear with the throat. Read on for more details.
Ear Infections Plaguing Nearly All Of Our Children
A very common issue:
About 80% of children will have at least one ear infection by the age of 5, and 75% will have one by the age of 3. It is also said that otitis media (middle ear infection) is the most common cause of hearing loss in children, costing approximately $2 billion annually on medical and surgical treatments in the U.S. In addition to otitis media, children and adults may suffer from otitis externa (infection of the outer ear), commonly referred to as swimmer's ear. If you are a parent with a young child in daycare or a parent with a child who spends a lot of time under water, you have no doubt had some experience with ear infections and it was more than likely, not a pleasant one.
What causes ear infections and why are they so common?
Well, swimmer's ear (otitis externa) is probably the most common type of ear infection during the summer months and occurs when water is trapped in the ear canal, usually from swimming and spending a lot of time in the water, causing bacteria to grow. Other causes of otitis externa can be anything that breaks the skin in the ear canal causing bacterial growth such as cotton-tipped applicators, bobby pins, or vigorous scratching.
Middle ear infections (otitis media) are more common during winter and spring. It is an infection in the space behind the eardrum caused by backed up fluid leading to bacterial growth. The fluid gets backed up, usually from a previous infection or cold that has caused the Eustachian tube to become blocked due to swelling and increased secretions in the nose and throat. The Eustachian tube's purpose is to act as a drain for secretions created by the middle ear and to regulate air pressure. Middle ear infections have multiple causes such as respiratory infections, being exposed to cigarette smoke and allergies. It can also be caused by the baby's position during bottle-feeding, if the baby is lying flat while sucking the Eustachian tube does not work properly. There has been a dramatic rise in the number of ear infections over the last two decades due to the need for a two-income household and moms returning to the workplace before the child's immune system has had a chance to fully develop. Infants and toddlers are continually bombarded by respiratory infections in day care centers.
Are there long-term complications from chronic ear infections?
Yes. There can be possible long-term complications with both types of ear infections if not treated properly. The list of complications that can arise from improperly treated swimmer's ear are chronic otitis externa, narrowing of the ear canal that would affect hearing and future infections, facial infections, and, in the immune challenged, malignant otitis externa. Malignant otitis externa would be the most severe complication, which is the spread of infection to the bones of the ear canal and lower part of the skull.
Since middle ear infections occur in the very young the complications can be detrimental to the development of the child. As previously quoted, middle ear infections are the number one cause of hearing loss in children and this may cause further complications of delayed speech development. Also, middle ear infections can spread to nearby structures in the head like the mastoid bone (mastoiditis), and in extreme cases the brain (meningitis). The mastoid bone is a complex system of air cells that house the structures of the inner ear responsible for balance and facial expressions.
What are some of the symptoms of ear infections?
Symptoms of swimmer's ear start with a mild to moderate pain that is made worse by tugging at the outer ear and an itchy ear. Other symptoms include: a sensation that the ear is blocked or full; drainage; fever; decreased hearing; intense pain that may radiate to the neck, face or side of the head; the outer ear may appear to be pushed forward or away from the skull; and swollen lymph nodes.
Symptoms to look for of middle ear infections in infants and toddlers are: hearing problems; inconsolable crying; irritability; restlessness; fever; vomiting; ear drainage; and tugging at the ear. Symptoms to look for of middle ear infections in children, adolescents and adults are: earache; a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear; hearing problems; dizziness or loss of balance; nausea or vomiting; ear drainage; and fever.
Is there anything you can do to prevent ear infections?
Yes. The key is to keep the ears free of moisture. Dry your ears after swimming or bathing; the safest way to dry your ears is by using a hair dryer. Using removable earplugs while in the water may do the trick, but be sure they fit snuggly in the ear. Also, if you know that you do not have a perforated eardrum, then you can use an eardrop mixture of half vinegar and half alcohol. One other important note is that people with itchy ears or those who have excessive earwax are more susceptible to an infection, so it would be wise to have your ears cleaned periodically by an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) or your family doctor.
There are multiple preventative options to alleviate middle ear infections, however, none of them are guaranteed to work all of the time. Babies that are breast-feed for the first 6 months are less likely to contract middle ear infections for two reasons: one, the mother is able to pass along important antibodies to protect against various diseases and illnesses, and two, the use of cow's milk can be an irritant to the Eustachian tube. Allergies are a major factor in chronic ear infections. Singling out the allergen and removing it from the child's diet or environment will play an important role in the health of your child. Common allergies that may contribute to ear infections are: wheat, dairy products (cow's milk), pet dander, mold and pollen. Another diet consideration that may help would be to reduce sugar intake. The natural sweetener xylitol (found in some fruits) has been known to reduce ear infections. It is very important to keep your child away from second hand cigarette smoke. Also, be sure your child is getting enough antioxidants in order to boost their immune system such as Vitamins A, C, E and Zinc.
Be cautious of taking too much zinc and of taking it for a long period of time. The RDA for zinc for infants 7 months - 3 years is 3 mg, children 4-8 years is 5 mg, children 9-13 is 8 mg, adolescents 14-18 is 11 mg (males) & 9 mg (females), and 19+ 11 mg (males) & 8 mg (females). If taking it for more than a few weeks, then you should also take copper along with it. Always consult your physician if you are pregnant or lactating before taking any supplementation.
Ear Infection Treatments: Traditional and Alternative
It is important to note that if any type of ear infection is suspected, whether the inflicted be an infant, child, adolescent or adult, that a physician is consulted before starting any treatment plan. In addition, follow up appointments should be made until the infection has been completely dissipated.
Otitis Externa or Swimmer's Ear
If swimmer's ear is caught early on it may be successfully treated with a mild acid solution such as boric or acetic acid (vinegar). If the infection persists or was not caught in the early stages cleaning the ear with antibiotics may work, however, this method can only be used providing the eardrum is not perforated. If the ear canal is swollen shut, the physician may place a sponge or a wick in the ear canal before administering antibiotic eardrops as well as prescribing steroid eardrops to reduce the inflammation. It may be necessary for the physician to clean out the ear to remove pus and debris, and he may also run a culture to identify what type of bacteria or fungi that are causing the infection. In addition, oral antibiotics and pain medications may be prescribed, although, over the counter pain relievers should be enough to manage the pain. A warm washcloth or heating pad over the ear may also work for temporary pain relief. In extreme cases where the infection has spread to bones in the skull intravenous antibiotics and surgery may be necessary. The best treatment, however, is to never get an infection in the first place; focus on prevention.
Otitis Media or Middle Ear Infections
The traditional treatment of middle ear infections is oral antibiotics, acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain and fever, and analgesic eardrops. If the child has allergies the doctor may prescribe antihistamines and if the child has a cold he/she may prescribe decongestants. There are disputes over the effectiveness of antibiotics and its overuse. An alternative to traditional antibiotics is colloidal silver, a natural antibiotic that can be taken orally or used as an ear wash. In addition, a carotenoid complex of 20,000 IU daily will aid in controlling the infection for adults, and 1 teaspoon of cod liver oil for children. An alternative to the traditional approach for pain relief is to place a few drops of warm garlic oil or olive oil in the ear, then a drop or two of lobelia or mullein oil, and then place a cotton ball loosely in the ear. Also, Goldenseal extract and Echinacea are herbs that support immune function; however, a physician should be consulted before starting this alternative treatment option.
Chronic Middle Ear Infections
If middle ear infections become chronic, the treating physician may suggest the insertion of ventilation tubes in order to drain the opposing fluid down the Eustachian tubes and to prevent the build up of future fluid in the middle ear. Typically, as the child grows, the tubes will fall out and the eardrum will heal on it's own. If for some reason the tubes do not fall out on their own, the doctor will remove the tubes. Other surgical procedures that may be suggested by your physician are the removal of the adenoids or tonsils. Chronically infected and swollen adenoids or tonsils can cause the dysfunction of the Eustachian tubes. Adenoids are small organs located in the back of the throat, behind the sinuses. Both organs are thought to act as a defense against incoming bacteria and viruses. However, if they are constantly enlarged (hypertrophy) they may do more harm than good.
Chiropractic For Middle Ear Infections
Chiropractic adjustment is another option for parents to try before resulting to surgery. Several studies have shown the safety and efficacy of chiropractic treatments in children. "In one study of 46 children (age 5 and under) with otitis media, 93% of all episodes improved, 75% in ten days or less. In another study, five children with chronic recurrent otitis media all responded favorably to chiropractic care.
Alternative Medicine
Immune-Aid+ provides the effective combinations of phytomedicinals, herbs, amino acids and metabolites that the body needs to fight off infection. Some of the ingredients in Immune-Aid+ include Colloidal Silver, Goldenseal, Echinacea, Beta Carotenes, OptiZinc, and Ester-C. The ingredients in Immune-Aid+ have been shown to: help reduce fever; help fight infection by strengthening the immune system; and help increase rate of recovery with the efficient removal of pathogens, bacteria and other toxins.
Virexin is a powerful homeopathic medicinal combining plant extracts, amino acids, vitamins and more to give the body optimal nutritional support and help the body to activate the immune system defenses against bacterial and viral infections, rid itself of deadly free ranging DNA-viral matter and accelerate recovery, alleviate the symptoms of colds and flu, and restock those nutrients that often become depleted from prolonged illness. Some ingredients found in Virexin include Echinacea, OptiZinc and St. John's Wort.
Aller-Sine is a homeopathic medicinal that contains highly specific nutrients to aid the body's natural ability to reduce the overabundance of histamine and other inflammatory cytotoxic substances within the body, while also inhibiting allergic reactions to drugs/serums, pollen, dust, animal fur and other environmental pollutants. Some of the ingredients in Aller-Sine include Echinacea, Vitamin C, Folic Acid and specific homeopathics known to prevent allergic responses.
ReFlora contains a special complex of 10 different and beneficial bacteria, plus phytomedicinals and other nutrients, to help the body restore healthy bacterial flora. The use of long-term antibiotics can destroy the balance of beneficial bacteria, which is extremely important for the immune system.
Illness & Recovery Strategies:
When a body has been ill for extended periods of time, its biochemistry has withstood considerable stress and depletion. For these very special times, it is not recommended that full dosages of Nutraceuticals be used. Rather, to begin with, just halve or quarter the usual or recommended maintenance dose. Nutrition and Nutraceuticals, although harmless food, are still powerful entities. At times of extended illness, too much "good" nutrition too quickly will simply encumber and compromise our biochemistry further. Just as it is foolish to "fast" from food for a few days, only to then attempt to eat a large meal of steak & eggs, biscuits & gravy to break the "fast," it's careless to offer too much nutrition to a body that has been sick for a long time. Remember, the first order of the house is to "be gentle, and do no harm."Therefore, only offer half or quarter dosages of Systemex and other Nutraceuticals to a body which has suffered extended illness, letting the body respond slowly and rebuild itself in its own time frame. A sick body takes longer to assimilate and refurbish itself, so remember to "feed" it slowly and carefully. Before long, as the body begins to strengthen and recover, larger dosages of nutrients will then be appropriate.
Dosages for Infants, Children, Adolescents and Adults:
Our formulas are generally safe for everyone, from infancy to the aged, but it’s always best to first consult with your physician before using any product of food especially if serious illness or disease is suspected. In general, for Homeopathic Nutraceuticals, Systemex and Nutritionizer, dosages for Infants (1-3 yrs) generally require one quarter (¼) of the recommended maintenance dosages for adults, although there are always exceptions. Dosages for children between 4-7 years of age require one half (½) of the recommended maintenance dosages for adults. Dosages for children between 8-12 years of age require three quarters (¾) of the recommended maintenance dosages for adults, and for those over the age of 12 years dosages are generally the same as adults because increased rates of body metabolism in these children/adolescents more than adequately compensate for body mass and weight of adults. Dosages for the elderly generally follow those recommendations for adults, but again, if the elderly have been sick or infirm, it’s best to start out by quartering or halving the dosages (see "Illness and Recovery Strategies" above). In general, with any problem of adjustment, simply reduce the dosages, letting the body find it’s own comfort level of assimilation.
All formulas may be mixed with baby food for infants, added directly to the shakes for children, or mixed with peanut butter and honey and made into sandwiches. For those having difficulty in taking capsules, it’s recommended that all capsules be mixed directly with the Systemex meal replacement shakes.
Please note: Since the USRDI’s of Vitamins and Minerals are considered the least required to sustain life, and not the optimal amounts, often full dosages of Systemex will prove more useful for recovering individuals.
Today, ear infections are generally accepted as frequent offenders, and if not recognized and treated early, can lead to more serious complications as described below. Ear infections are the bread and butter of conventional pediatricians, who treat them with frequent courses of antibiotics, decongestants and sometimes with surgery. In young children middle ear infections are a normal part of growing up (until their immune systems are functioning as the first-line defense against all types of infections, whether viral, bacterial or fungal.)
So, what are the risks? If the infection is viral, the risks are minimal. However, if the infection is bacterial and treatment delayed, there is danger that the infection may become chronic or spread to a portion of the bone behind the ear called the mastoid process. If antibiotics do not control this, a surgical operation may be needed. Children who are old enough to gargle should be encouraged to gargle with a warm saline solution, which promotes healing by bringing more blood to the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear with the throat. Read on for more details.
Ear Infections Plaguing Nearly All Of Our Children
A very common issue:
About 80% of children will have at least one ear infection by the age of 5, and 75% will have one by the age of 3. It is also said that otitis media (middle ear infection) is the most common cause of hearing loss in children, costing approximately $2 billion annually on medical and surgical treatments in the U.S. In addition to otitis media, children and adults may suffer from otitis externa (infection of the outer ear), commonly referred to as swimmer's ear. If you are a parent with a young child in daycare or a parent with a child who spends a lot of time under water, you have no doubt had some experience with ear infections and it was more than likely, not a pleasant one.
What causes ear infections and why are they so common?
Well, swimmer's ear (otitis externa) is probably the most common type of ear infection during the summer months and occurs when water is trapped in the ear canal, usually from swimming and spending a lot of time in the water, causing bacteria to grow. Other causes of otitis externa can be anything that breaks the skin in the ear canal causing bacterial growth such as cotton-tipped applicators, bobby pins, or vigorous scratching.
Middle ear infections (otitis media) are more common during winter and spring. It is an infection in the space behind the eardrum caused by backed up fluid leading to bacterial growth. The fluid gets backed up, usually from a previous infection or cold that has caused the Eustachian tube to become blocked due to swelling and increased secretions in the nose and throat. The Eustachian tube's purpose is to act as a drain for secretions created by the middle ear and to regulate air pressure. Middle ear infections have multiple causes such as respiratory infections, being exposed to cigarette smoke and allergies. It can also be caused by the baby's position during bottle-feeding, if the baby is lying flat while sucking the Eustachian tube does not work properly. There has been a dramatic rise in the number of ear infections over the last two decades due to the need for a two-income household and moms returning to the workplace before the child's immune system has had a chance to fully develop. Infants and toddlers are continually bombarded by respiratory infections in day care centers.
Are there long-term complications from chronic ear infections?
Yes. There can be possible long-term complications with both types of ear infections if not treated properly. The list of complications that can arise from improperly treated swimmer's ear are chronic otitis externa, narrowing of the ear canal that would affect hearing and future infections, facial infections, and, in the immune challenged, malignant otitis externa. Malignant otitis externa would be the most severe complication, which is the spread of infection to the bones of the ear canal and lower part of the skull.
Since middle ear infections occur in the very young the complications can be detrimental to the development of the child. As previously quoted, middle ear infections are the number one cause of hearing loss in children and this may cause further complications of delayed speech development. Also, middle ear infections can spread to nearby structures in the head like the mastoid bone (mastoiditis), and in extreme cases the brain (meningitis). The mastoid bone is a complex system of air cells that house the structures of the inner ear responsible for balance and facial expressions.
What are some of the symptoms of ear infections?
Symptoms of swimmer's ear start with a mild to moderate pain that is made worse by tugging at the outer ear and an itchy ear. Other symptoms include: a sensation that the ear is blocked or full; drainage; fever; decreased hearing; intense pain that may radiate to the neck, face or side of the head; the outer ear may appear to be pushed forward or away from the skull; and swollen lymph nodes.
Symptoms to look for of middle ear infections in infants and toddlers are: hearing problems; inconsolable crying; irritability; restlessness; fever; vomiting; ear drainage; and tugging at the ear. Symptoms to look for of middle ear infections in children, adolescents and adults are: earache; a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear; hearing problems; dizziness or loss of balance; nausea or vomiting; ear drainage; and fever.
Is there anything you can do to prevent ear infections?
Yes. The key is to keep the ears free of moisture. Dry your ears after swimming or bathing; the safest way to dry your ears is by using a hair dryer. Using removable earplugs while in the water may do the trick, but be sure they fit snuggly in the ear. Also, if you know that you do not have a perforated eardrum, then you can use an eardrop mixture of half vinegar and half alcohol. One other important note is that people with itchy ears or those who have excessive earwax are more susceptible to an infection, so it would be wise to have your ears cleaned periodically by an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) or your family doctor.
There are multiple preventative options to alleviate middle ear infections, however, none of them are guaranteed to work all of the time. Babies that are breast-feed for the first 6 months are less likely to contract middle ear infections for two reasons: one, the mother is able to pass along important antibodies to protect against various diseases and illnesses, and two, the use of cow's milk can be an irritant to the Eustachian tube. Allergies are a major factor in chronic ear infections. Singling out the allergen and removing it from the child's diet or environment will play an important role in the health of your child. Common allergies that may contribute to ear infections are: wheat, dairy products (cow's milk), pet dander, mold and pollen. Another diet consideration that may help would be to reduce sugar intake. The natural sweetener xylitol (found in some fruits) has been known to reduce ear infections. It is very important to keep your child away from second hand cigarette smoke. Also, be sure your child is getting enough antioxidants in order to boost their immune system such as Vitamins A, C, E and Zinc.
Be cautious of taking too much zinc and of taking it for a long period of time. The RDA for zinc for infants 7 months - 3 years is 3 mg, children 4-8 years is 5 mg, children 9-13 is 8 mg, adolescents 14-18 is 11 mg (males) & 9 mg (females), and 19+ 11 mg (males) & 8 mg (females). If taking it for more than a few weeks, then you should also take copper along with it. Always consult your physician if you are pregnant or lactating before taking any supplementation.
Ear Infection Treatments: Traditional and Alternative
It is important to note that if any type of ear infection is suspected, whether the inflicted be an infant, child, adolescent or adult, that a physician is consulted before starting any treatment plan. In addition, follow up appointments should be made until the infection has been completely dissipated.
Otitis Externa or Swimmer's Ear
If swimmer's ear is caught early on it may be successfully treated with a mild acid solution such as boric or acetic acid (vinegar). If the infection persists or was not caught in the early stages cleaning the ear with antibiotics may work, however, this method can only be used providing the eardrum is not perforated. If the ear canal is swollen shut, the physician may place a sponge or a wick in the ear canal before administering antibiotic eardrops as well as prescribing steroid eardrops to reduce the inflammation. It may be necessary for the physician to clean out the ear to remove pus and debris, and he may also run a culture to identify what type of bacteria or fungi that are causing the infection. In addition, oral antibiotics and pain medications may be prescribed, although, over the counter pain relievers should be enough to manage the pain. A warm washcloth or heating pad over the ear may also work for temporary pain relief. In extreme cases where the infection has spread to bones in the skull intravenous antibiotics and surgery may be necessary. The best treatment, however, is to never get an infection in the first place; focus on prevention.
Otitis Media or Middle Ear Infections
The traditional treatment of middle ear infections is oral antibiotics, acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain and fever, and analgesic eardrops. If the child has allergies the doctor may prescribe antihistamines and if the child has a cold he/she may prescribe decongestants. There are disputes over the effectiveness of antibiotics and its overuse. An alternative to traditional antibiotics is colloidal silver, a natural antibiotic that can be taken orally or used as an ear wash. In addition, a carotenoid complex of 20,000 IU daily will aid in controlling the infection for adults, and 1 teaspoon of cod liver oil for children. An alternative to the traditional approach for pain relief is to place a few drops of warm garlic oil or olive oil in the ear, then a drop or two of lobelia or mullein oil, and then place a cotton ball loosely in the ear. Also, Goldenseal extract and Echinacea are herbs that support immune function; however, a physician should be consulted before starting this alternative treatment option.
Chronic Middle Ear Infections
If middle ear infections become chronic, the treating physician may suggest the insertion of ventilation tubes in order to drain the opposing fluid down the Eustachian tubes and to prevent the build up of future fluid in the middle ear. Typically, as the child grows, the tubes will fall out and the eardrum will heal on it's own. If for some reason the tubes do not fall out on their own, the doctor will remove the tubes. Other surgical procedures that may be suggested by your physician are the removal of the adenoids or tonsils. Chronically infected and swollen adenoids or tonsils can cause the dysfunction of the Eustachian tubes. Adenoids are small organs located in the back of the throat, behind the sinuses. Both organs are thought to act as a defense against incoming bacteria and viruses. However, if they are constantly enlarged (hypertrophy) they may do more harm than good.
Chiropractic For Middle Ear Infections
Chiropractic adjustment is another option for parents to try before resulting to surgery. Several studies have shown the safety and efficacy of chiropractic treatments in children. "In one study of 46 children (age 5 and under) with otitis media, 93% of all episodes improved, 75% in ten days or less. In another study, five children with chronic recurrent otitis media all responded favorably to chiropractic care.
Alternative Medicine
Immune-Aid+ provides the effective combinations of phytomedicinals, herbs, amino acids and metabolites that the body needs to fight off infection. Some of the ingredients in Immune-Aid+ include Colloidal Silver, Goldenseal, Echinacea, Beta Carotenes, OptiZinc, and Ester-C. The ingredients in Immune-Aid+ have been shown to: help reduce fever; help fight infection by strengthening the immune system; and help increase rate of recovery with the efficient removal of pathogens, bacteria and other toxins.
Virexin is a powerful homeopathic medicinal combining plant extracts, amino acids, vitamins and more to give the body optimal nutritional support and help the body to activate the immune system defenses against bacterial and viral infections, rid itself of deadly free ranging DNA-viral matter and accelerate recovery, alleviate the symptoms of colds and flu, and restock those nutrients that often become depleted from prolonged illness. Some ingredients found in Virexin include Echinacea, OptiZinc and St. John's Wort.
Aller-Sine is a homeopathic medicinal that contains highly specific nutrients to aid the body's natural ability to reduce the overabundance of histamine and other inflammatory cytotoxic substances within the body, while also inhibiting allergic reactions to drugs/serums, pollen, dust, animal fur and other environmental pollutants. Some of the ingredients in Aller-Sine include Echinacea, Vitamin C, Folic Acid and specific homeopathics known to prevent allergic responses.
ReFlora contains a special complex of 10 different and beneficial bacteria, plus phytomedicinals and other nutrients, to help the body restore healthy bacterial flora. The use of long-term antibiotics can destroy the balance of beneficial bacteria, which is extremely important for the immune system.
Illness & Recovery Strategies:
When a body has been ill for extended periods of time, its biochemistry has withstood considerable stress and depletion. For these very special times, it is not recommended that full dosages of Nutraceuticals be used. Rather, to begin with, just halve or quarter the usual or recommended maintenance dose. Nutrition and Nutraceuticals, although harmless food, are still powerful entities. At times of extended illness, too much "good" nutrition too quickly will simply encumber and compromise our biochemistry further. Just as it is foolish to "fast" from food for a few days, only to then attempt to eat a large meal of steak & eggs, biscuits & gravy to break the "fast," it's careless to offer too much nutrition to a body that has been sick for a long time. Remember, the first order of the house is to "be gentle, and do no harm."Therefore, only offer half or quarter dosages of Systemex and other Nutraceuticals to a body which has suffered extended illness, letting the body respond slowly and rebuild itself in its own time frame. A sick body takes longer to assimilate and refurbish itself, so remember to "feed" it slowly and carefully. Before long, as the body begins to strengthen and recover, larger dosages of nutrients will then be appropriate.
Dosages for Infants, Children, Adolescents and Adults:
Our formulas are generally safe for everyone, from infancy to the aged, but it’s always best to first consult with your physician before using any product of food especially if serious illness or disease is suspected. In general, for Homeopathic Nutraceuticals, Systemex and Nutritionizer, dosages for Infants (1-3 yrs) generally require one quarter (¼) of the recommended maintenance dosages for adults, although there are always exceptions. Dosages for children between 4-7 years of age require one half (½) of the recommended maintenance dosages for adults. Dosages for children between 8-12 years of age require three quarters (¾) of the recommended maintenance dosages for adults, and for those over the age of 12 years dosages are generally the same as adults because increased rates of body metabolism in these children/adolescents more than adequately compensate for body mass and weight of adults. Dosages for the elderly generally follow those recommendations for adults, but again, if the elderly have been sick or infirm, it’s best to start out by quartering or halving the dosages (see "Illness and Recovery Strategies" above). In general, with any problem of adjustment, simply reduce the dosages, letting the body find it’s own comfort level of assimilation.
All formulas may be mixed with baby food for infants, added directly to the shakes for children, or mixed with peanut butter and honey and made into sandwiches. For those having difficulty in taking capsules, it’s recommended that all capsules be mixed directly with the Systemex meal replacement shakes.
Please note: Since the USRDI’s of Vitamins and Minerals are considered the least required to sustain life, and not the optimal amounts, often full dosages of Systemex will prove more useful for recovering individuals.
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