Written by: Dr Alison French

After a glorious long summer, winter has really declared its presence over the last few weeks, bringing with it all those dreaded infections. For many of us this signifies a continuous battle against coughs, colds, flu, tonsillitis and gastroenteritis. Babies can add bronchiolitis to this list. This is particularly menacing for ex-premature or low birth weight babies and those with heart conditions. Toddlers can add ear infections, and glue ear. This is to name but a few of all the “nasties” just waiting to disrupt our family lives and worry us all stupid. Thankfully, for the majority of us, our precious little darlings are high maintenance for just a few days, then “bounce back” ready to embrace the next infection equipped with a slightly more highly tuned immune system.

Meanwhile, between administering medicine, mopping up unmentionables from the floor and putting yet another load of laundry in the tumble dryer, are we really meant to feed them?
What should we feed them?
Can what we feed them help them recover or better still prevent illness?
What should we do if they refuse to eat anything at all?

Here are a few tips on how to get through these worrying times and some answers to these questions.

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