12 Ways to Treat Baby’s Cough & Cold That Pediatricians Won’t Tell You

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7. Eliminate Dairy for a While

The bad news about dairy is that it only adds to the mucous problem. Even if your child has no problem with dairy products, remove it while they are sick, especially when they have a wet sounding, phlegmy type of cough. Removing dairy products for a time will reduce mucus. Of course, if your baby is breastfeeding or still drinking formula or cow’s milk as their main source of calories; don’t remove dairy products from their diet!

8. Ginger

Ginger has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and cough-suppressing compounds, which makes it a terrific way to naturally relieve cough and cold symptoms. Ginger will induce sweating and expelling heat. This can help to relieve mild fevers. Ginger also has immune boosting compounds which can help to speed healing. Ginger tea is probably the best way to consume this substance. Put six cups of water, two whole cinnamon sticks in a pan, along with about half of a cup of sliced, fresh ginger. Simmer on the stove — but don’t boil it — for about 20 minutes, and then strain it. Add some raw, organic honey to taste and offer it to your child several times each day. For children younger than twelve months old, dilute this with a bit of warm water.

9. Breast Milk

For babies younger than six months old, try to give them breast milk to help fight off the virus. Some babies will refuse to nurse because they have difficulty breathing. Try to suction out some of the mucus out of their nose or try different positions, especially those that keep the baby in more of an upright position. Breast milk provides a unique balance of antibodies and nutrients that help to keep their bodies free from infection and to speed recovery.

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