As the final days of October bring a noticeable shift in weather and an increase in chilliness across Ambala, health concerns for children have mounted among parents. The fluctuating daytime temperatures coupled with cooler mornings and evenings are making it challenging to protect young ones from ailments like viral fevers, coughs, colds, and various skin conditions. Amidst this seasonal transition, Dr. Rajita, a homeopathic physician working at the Ambala City Civil Hospital, has come forward with vital recommendations concerning children's diet, clothing, and overall hygiene to help safeguard their health.
Pay Special Attention to Children's Health in Changing Weather
Providing more details, Dr. Rajita explained that children under the age of 14 are particularly susceptible to issues such as viral fevers and bacterial infections during this period. Consequently, parents need to remain vigilant regarding their children's well-being. Special care must be extended towards the clothing, dietary habits, and cleanliness routines of younger children to prevent any sudden health complications.
Dress Children in Full Sleeves and Apply Moisturizer
Dr. Rajita noted that with the escalation of chill in the air, children should be dressed in full-sleeve garments to protect them effectively from the cold. Additionally, to ward off skin-related troubles, children should be bathed in lukewarm water. Applying a suitable moisturizer to their skin right after bathing can significantly help in reducing dryness and itching issues.
She emphasized that alongside comfortable daily wear, parents must also pay attention to sleeping arrangements during this changing season. If the night feels cold, children should be provided with appropriate warm clothing and adequate blankets to keep them cozy.
Keep Children Away from Junk Food and Market Sweets
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining children's health. Dr. Rajita advised that children should be kept away from outside food, excessive junk food, and packaged edible items. Their daily diet should incorporate home-cooked, fresh, and nutritious meals. Fruits and vegetables must be thoroughly washed before being handed over to children for consumption.
She mentioned that during festive seasons, the consumption of sweets and market-bought items tends to spike. Therefore, attempts should be made to keep children away from commercial sweets and highly sugary products. It is far better to offer limited quantities of sweets prepared at home under clean and hygienic conditions.
Make Handwashing a Habit Before Meals
Stressing the importance of sanitation, the doctor stated that when children return home after playing outside, their hands and feet must be washed thoroughly. Incur the habit of washing hands prior to eating meals or touching any food item. Germs can easily enter the body through dirty hands, thereby escalating the risk of infection.
For fruits and vegetables stored in the refrigerator, proper cleaning and storage practices should be observed before feeding them to children. Cooked food must be heated thoroughly before serving. She added that clean and safe drinking water should be provided, and the temperature of the water should be maintained according to the child's comfort.
Protect Children from Cold Winds and Ensure Adequate Rest
Dr. Rajita recommended shielding children from cold breezes and organizing their daily routines systematically. Encourage light physical activities during morning hours and ensure that children get sufficient rest. However, the use of air conditioners or ceiling fans should be managed strictly according to the room temperature and the child's convenience.
