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It is important for young athletes to drink plenty of fluid to avoid any heat illness and dehydration, which can deplete a child's strength, energy, and coordination and lead to other health problems. It is a good idea for your child to drink water or other fluids throughout the day, but especially before, during, and after periods of extended physical activity. Experts recommend that kids drink approximately 1 cup (240 milliliters) of water or fluid every 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity, depending on the child. Shorter competitions may not require drinking during the activity, but it is important to drink water after the game or event to restore whatever fluid your child lost through sweat during the event. Children often do not recognize or respond to feelings of thirst. So it is a good idea to encourage your child to drink before thirst sets in. Although many sports drinks are available, usually plain water is sufficient to keep kids hydrated. Sports drinks are designed to provide energy and replace electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium which athletes lose in sweat. Your child's body typically has enough carbohydrates to serve as energy for up to 90 minutes of exercise. In most cases, any lost electrolytes can be replenished by a good meal after the activity. Soda and juice will not replenish your child's fluid needs as well because many of them have too much sugar and can upset the stomach. If your child wants juice, it is a good idea to mix it with water to reduce the concentration of sugar. Remember that sugar may be listed by another name such as sucrose or fructose.

Warning for those of you with small children!

in Teethers and Toys Before 1998, children's plastic toys and teethers were often made with a chemical called diisononyl phthalate, used as a softening agent. Although there has not been a comprehensive study performed to determine how much of the chemical leeches out of a baby's toy when chewed, or how much of the chemical a baby must ingest to pose a health risk, the U.S. government asked manufacturers to voluntarily stop using phthalates in toys and teethers. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) also recommends that parents not give their children toys or teethers made with this chemical. Laboratory studies indicate that in high doses, phthalates damage the liver, kidneys and other organs in mice and rats. Manufacturers who stopped using phthalates in teethers in early 1999 include ArcoToys, Chicco, Disney, Evenflo, The First Years, Gerber, Hasbro (Playskool), Little Tikes, Mattel (Fisher-Price), Safety 1st, Sassy, Shelcore Toys and Tyco Preschool.

Note: None of the pacifiers or nipples currently sold are made with phthalates (Article taken from babyweekly.com)

SPRUCE YOUR VEGGIES!

Here is a quick and easy way to add flavor to your fresh steamed veggies. Whisk together 2 Tbs. of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Toss with freshly steamed vegetables. (from Nutrition Action Health Letter)

EYE HEALTH...Lutein and Cataracts

A recent published study found that after tracking 35,000 women, those who consumed the most lutein (approximately 6,700 micrograms daily) had an average of 18 percent lower risk of cataracts over the next 10 years than those who consumed the least. The best source of lutein come from green leafy vegetables! If you don't feel that you get enough green leafy vegetables daily we do offer a few supplements that could help you get the nutrients that your need to stay healthy.
Our two eye health formulas are, "Bright Eyes with Lutein" and "Vision by Pure Essense." Both of these formulas are available at an affordable price. Stop by or call for more information.