Co-Sleeping and Obesity
I don’t buy this. It’s a small study that relies upon parental reporting. Most data shows clearly that everyone gets a better night’s sleep when kids are in their own beds and not hogging the sheets in their parents’ bed. Not to mention that co-sleeping is a known risk factor for SIDS among infants.

Zinc and the Common Cold
TAKE NOTE! This study suggests that zinc shortens cold symptoms for adults but not for kids. It’s a good reminder that our children are not just mini versions of ourselves.

Let’s Get Physical
Here’s a clip from America Now, reminding you to get out of your chair and go exercise!
topics: America Now, exercise, obesity
Pain Pill Popping Among Teens
I for one was surprised to read that pain pill abuse is starting young, peaking among 16-year olds. This is an eye-opening reminder that we need to teach our kids not just about abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs, but prescription drugs as well.

Here She Goes Again
I cannot help myself! When an article comes out about sports and energy drinks, I feel compelled to post. I promise to be objective and post the benefits of these drinks too, that is if any are ever discovered…
topics: nutritionYou Are What You Eat… And Apparently You Are Where You Live, Too
This Time Magazine article summarizes a series of studies released this week looking at childhood obesity. Well summarized and worth a read.
topics: nutrition, obesity


CARA NATTERSON, MD is a board-certified pediatrician, pediatric consultant, media expert, and the author of several books on child health and parenting. 