Pediatricians back double defense for children

The pandemic brought with it fear and uncertainty, especially on health and safety matters. It became essential to limit activity, stay indoors, and keep a distance from other people, which meant putting a stop to many services and activities that make up everyday life.

Among the most affected are children, whose routines have had to be significantly modified. Most of them may still not have the capacity to understand the magnitude of the pandemic and the effects of COVID-19; what makes the situation worse is how these children continue to mark their growth and learning milestones within quarantine constraints. 

But beyond this realm of worry for missed chances is a bigger issue: the need to boost immunity and mental health, and the obstacles that have been identified. Dr. Antonio D. Ligsay, in his presentation on The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Child’s Health and Well-being, identified the existence of food emergency, serious enough to threaten food security and nutrition. Because of safety precautions and restrictions in place, food supply and access—as well as prices—have become prohibitive and unreachable, especially for lower-income households.  

Dr. Ligsay also cited the article published at The Lancet in July 2020 on the concern in the expected increase in childhood malnutrition due to steep declines in household incomes, changes in availability and affordability of nutritious foods, and interruptions to health, nutrition and social protection service. In the Philippines, the DOST-FNRI has taken a proactive stance by conducting a Rapid Nutrition Assessment Survey (RNAS) that aims to provide a snapshot of the nutrition and food security situation during the COVID-19 pandemic to serve as a basis for enhancing and intensifying nutrition programs in the country. 

While this health crisis is hopefully on its way to being resolved with the coming availability of vaccines, it is far from over. It was discussed that strong immunity is necessary for both physical and psychological health to occur. The session reinforced that along with physical activity and sufficient sleep, implementing optimal nutrition is cost-effective and a valuable strategy to help reduce the burden of infectious diseases worldwide, including COVID-19.

It was highlighted that Vitamin C and Zinc are two essential micronutrients that are proven to synergistically work together to support the child’s immune system. With Vitamin C, a mild and more abdomen-friendly option for children is sodium ascorbate, as it is buffered and therefore, less acidic than ascorbic acid.

As a key takeaway, the speakers reinforced that double support from both the pediatricians and parents is necessary for the whole wellbeing of the child as we continue to move forward towards a better normal. And it can start by giving them the double defense of a safe and effective supplement to strengthen their immunity. 

Fern-C Kidz is a non-acidic Vitamin C + Zinc formulation that supports the growth and immunity of children ages 4 and above. It is a sodium ascorbate preparation, making it tummy-friendly and can be taken even before meals.

Fern-C Kidz was acquired by Stada Philippines in early 2020 as part of the company’s thrust to provide better health to Filipinos. Stada’s acquisition of the Fern-C brand cements its vision of being a trusted partner in providing high-quality, holistic care for the people. Aside from Fern-C Kidz, Stada Philippines also has in its portfolio leading consumer health products such as Oilatum, Zerochol and Zoflora.

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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by Fern-C Kidz.