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Randall Neustaedter OMD

 What factors in your child's life are most likely to cause health problems? The first is genetic factors, for example a tendency to develop allergies. You can't do anything about this. The second is exposure to drugs, and these are mostly a matter of personal choice. You can choose whether your child gets drugs.

Let's talk about drugs. The first class of drugs your child will use is vaccines. These are by far the most potent drugs your child is likely to take. They are capable of inflicting damage to nerves and the brain resulting in permanent problems including autism, learning disorders, and seizures. They can also damage the immune system, causing asthma, diabetes, and immune deficiency states that result in a susceptibility to recurrent colds and ear infections.

 The next class of drugs is antibiotics, which may result in a quick fix for some types of infections, but can also damage the delicate balance of immune functions in children and cause recurrences of the vary same infections they are intended to treat.

 Then there are the suppressive drugs: decongestants, antihistamines, cough medicines, and fever reducers (Tylenol, Motrin). Many of these have been taken off the market because of dangerous side effects. The fever reducers will soon contain a warning label about their side effects as well. Do not underestimate the damaging effects of these over-the-counter drugs on the nervous system.

 Finally, there are the chemicals added to packaged foods and drinks. Children should never ingest aspartame (Nutrasweet) or monosodium glutamate (MSG). These substances, known as excitotoxins have significant effects on nervous system functions. Other added chemicals are hidden in terms such as "textured vegetable protein" and "natural and artificial flavorings."

 Fortunately, solutions are simple. Shop at health food stores for packaged foods that use more sensible and safer ingredients. Make informed decisions about what vaccines you are willing to give to your children. And use natural methods of treatment for children's illnesses. Homeopathy and herbs are effective and safe alternatives to mainstream drugs for childhood ailments. You can learn to use many of these yourselves, and you can take your child to a qualified homeopath, naturopath, or acupuncturist for medical care that will bolster and strengthen immune function. Some prescription drugs may be necessary at times, but even drugs for asthma and diabetes can often be reduced using natural treatments.