The Importance of Colds: Why Kids Need to Get Sick

As a mom, it’s natural to want to protect your family from every sneeze, cough, or sniffle that comes their way. But what if I told you that getting a cold or a minor viral infection every 6-9 months is actually a good thing? It may sound counterintuitive, but these little illnesses are a crucial part of keeping your immune system strong and healthy.

Why Regular Colds Are a Sign of a Healthy Immune System

Our immune systems are like muscles—they need to be exercised to stay strong. When you or your child catches a cold, your immune system is put to work, identifying and fighting off the virus. This process helps it stay sharp and ready to tackle more serious infections. In fact, a lack of colds or viral infections can be a sign that your immune system isn’t working at its optimal level.

If you or your child aren’t getting sick at all, it could mean your immune system isn’t being exposed to enough pathogens, or it might not be responding as it should. This is why it’s important to pay attention to your body’s signals and make sure your immune system is functioning properly.

What is a NORMAL Cold?

A typical cold or minor viral infection should last about five days. It may be uncomfortable, but it should be manageable without the need for over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, like Tylenol, cough syrups, or decongestants. While it’s tempting to reach for that bottle of cold medicine to suppress your symptoms, doing so can actually prolong the illness.

OTC drugs often mask symptoms rather than addressing the root cause, which can make your body take longer to fully recover. Instead, consider supporting your body’s natural healing process with supplements, rest, hydration, and chiropractic adjustments that can help you bounce back quicker.

Supporting Your Child Through a Cold

When you or your child are dealing with a cold, there are several natural ways to support your immune system and speed up recovery. Hydration, rest, and a nutrient-rich diet are your best allies. Supplements like vitamin C, zinc, and elderberry have been shown to help the body fight off infections more effectively. Keeping your stress levels low and getting plenty of sleep are also crucial for a speedy recovery.  Your natural healthcare provider can help guide you on what is the best line of action for you and your child. 

Chiropractic adjustments support your body’s immune response, helps you manage stress levels, and improves sleep.  Moms and kids who get adjusted in the midst of a cold report a quicker recovery. 

If you find that you or your child are getting sick more than twice a year, or not getting sick at all, it’s a good idea to check in with your pediatric chiropractor. This could be a sign that your immune or nervous system needs some attention, and a check-up can help identify any underlying issues.  Our doctors at Early Beginnings focus on helping parents and kids through the normal and the not-so-normal.  We are well-versed in supporting the immune system and nervous system. 

When to Seek Help

While regular colds are a sign of a healthy immune system, it’s important to know when to seek support. If you or your child’s colds are becoming too frequent, lasting longer than five days, or are accompanied by severe symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment. At Early Beginnings, our doctors will assess your immune system function and offer guidance on how to strengthen and support it.

Just remember, getting a cold isn’t the enemy—it’s a sign that your immune system is doing its job. By allowing your body to go through the natural process of fighting off a cold, you’re actually keeping yourself and your family healthier in the long run. So the next time you feel a cold coming on, take it as an opportunity to give your immune system the workout it needs!