Photo Credit: ayleene

It’s been one week since my son started pre-K and he’s already bringing viruses home. This is the time of year when my children tend to get sick a lot, which in turn means that I also get sick. Since I’ve been testing out Member’s Mark 4X Probiotic, I thought I’d share how I’ve been feeling since I started taking the probiotics and what tips I recommend for staying healthy this season.

Unless I’ve consumed too much dairy, I don’t typically suffer from digestive issues. Since I started taking the probiotics, I haven’t experienced any subsequent issues.  One pill a day is all that is needed and I like the fact that they’re easy to swallow (I have difficulty swallowing large pills).  Each pill is individually wrapped and labeled with the day which makes it easy to remember if I’ve taken my probiotics. They don’t have a taste which is nice (some pills have an unpleasant taste).  Since cold and flu season is just beginning, I’m planning on continuing the probiotics as part of my regimen for staying healthy this season.

Member’s Mark 4X Probiotic includes 4 strains of natural bacteria designed to support and maintain a healthy digestive system and promote gastrointestinal health and digestive system balance.  You can purchase a 3 month supply at Sam’s Club for less than $30.

So what else do we do to stay healthy?

1. We wash our hands. Often.

2. My husband and I get flu shots. Every single year.

3. All four of us take vitamins.

4. We stay active.

5. We avoid crowds as much as possible during this time.

6. We eat lots of fruits and veggies

7. We aim to get enough sleep.

For more information, visit digestive health.

Disclosure: This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias.  The opinions expressed above are solely that of the author and not intended to replace medical advice.#digestivehealth

In the midst of cold and flu season, I carry a constant supply of antibacterial lotions and wipes.  I also find it helpful to cover those surfaces my children come into contact with.  Infantino offers a number of different types of shopping cart covers that can double as high chair covers.  Their latest design is the Cloud Shopping Cart Cover which offers tots a clean and cozy place to cruise and chill.  The cushioned cover easily stretches over shopping carts and restaurant high chairs, providing a barrier between your little one and those icky germs.  The cover features 2 loops for toys to keep your tot happy and occupied and an adjustable belt to keep him/her safe.  The numbers print can also be used to teach your child how to count while you’re out shopping or dining.  And when you’re done, simply wipe, fold and store in the plastic bag provided.

As a mom of two small children who have been sick way too often this season, I find it invaluable to keep the cover in the car so I can use it whenever we’re out.  While I do think the numbers pattern is fun and attractive to children, I wonder how dirty the white will get.  I actually prefer some of Infantino’s other patterns over this one for that very reason.  I also like the fact that some of the other covers offered include toys.  Lastly, while it’s easy enough to fold and store, I think it would be brilliant if the company could offer a cover that folded up a bit more compactly so I could store it in a diaper bag.

You can purchase the Cloud Shopping Cart Cover online for $29.99 and at select retailers nationwide.

You can keep up with Infantino on Facebook and/or Twitter.

I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation.

Probiotic means “for life” and the benefits for children, in particular, include the following:

• Supports their still-developing immune system
• May help reduce upset stomach
• Helps to reduce occasional diarrhea
• Helps reduce the length and severity of antibiotic-associated diarrhea

We originally started our son on probiotics for his food allergies, which manifest with skin and intestinal reactions.  When my daughter was experiencing reflux and slow weight gain, we started her on probiotics as well.  My son’s intestinal upset subsided tremendously after months on probiotics and my daugther’s reflux improved (but didn’t completely resolve until she was close to 1 year old).  Probiotics are now a regular part of our routine.

Photo Credit: Culturelle

Culturelle recently introduced a kid’s probiotic containing Lactobacillus CG.  This specific “good bacteria” can effectively survive stomach acid and forms a strong barrier against bad bacteria.  Culturelle for Kids is offered in a dairy-free, gluten-free powder that dissolves in cold foods or drinks.  There is no odor or taste and my son, who’s been taking Culturelle, doesn’t seem to notice it when we mix it in his applesauce.  We actually still use an infant probiotic with my daughter, although Culturelle is safe for infants.

Because we’ve been using probiotics for some time now, I can tell you that the biggest difference I’ve noticed in all of us is improved digestive health.  It’s hard to know if they’ve been effective at warding off illness because we truly have had our share,  given that my son is in preschool.  Fortunately, we’ve never had the flu or something more serious than colds, viruses, and ear infections.

A 30-count box of Culturelle for Kids retails for $24.99 and products are available at pharmacies and online retailers nationwide.

I wrote this review while participating in a Mom Central Consulting blog tour on behalf of Culturelle. I received a Culturelle for Kids product sample and a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

As you know, we’re a family of food and environmental allergies.  The only season we find a bit of relief in is the Summer.  Because we live in the desert that is Southern California, we don’t get a lot of rain or moisture and often experience dry weather conditions.  The lack of humidity can be compounded by the fact that we use central heating in our home.  According to some medical experts, low levels of humidity can dry out skin and mucous membranes, making you more susceptible to illness.

I’ve used humidifiers in the past during times of illness, but I often find them difficult to keep clean and free from mildew/mold.  There are concerns about using a humidifier with individuals who suffer from asthma and/or allergies because those allergens can potentially be released into the air.

Germ Guardian, a company that offers a variety of home sanitizing products recently introduced their new Ultrasonic Humidifiers, designed with Silver Clean technology to fight the growth of bacteria and mold in the water tank.  The company offers six different humidifiers, most of which can provide warm or cool humidification.

Photo Credit: Germ Guardian

We were offered the opportunity to try out the H1500 Ultrasonic 55-Hour Humidifier which features a mold and mildew resistant tank, warm or cool humidification, and a 55 hour run time!  The humidifier is very easy to set up and simply requires filling of the tank.  Once it’s full, you can opt for warm or cool humidification and vary the spray level.  It’s super quiet and has not interrupted my sleep once this week while using it.  Our children sleep with us so we don’t need a night light, however, I really like the fact that the unit contains a soft-glow light for use in a child’s room.  With a 55 hour run time, it would be difficult to know when it’s time to refill the tank so the unit possesses a low water indicator light which I find helpful.

Many humidifiers on the market require filters or evaporating pads that must be replaced.  Germ Guardian’s Ultrasonic Humidifiers do not impose additional costs because there is nothing to replace.  Germ Guardian offers a range of humidifiers that can be used in both small and large rooms with varying run times.  In addition to acting preventatively, the Ultrasonic Humidifiers can prevent dry skin and chapped lips.

Germ Guardian humidifiers vary in price with smaller units starting at $69.99 to larger units priced at $199.99.  For more information or to find a retailer near you, visit Germ Guardian.

No compensation was received for this post.  A product sample was provided which helped facilitate this review.

I’m always looking for ways to stay healthy and boost my immune system, so I decided to try Ester-C, the number 1 pharmacist recommended brand of Vitamin C. Ester-C is a unique and patented form of vitamin C which provides active immune support without upsetting your stomach.  Ester-C offers powerful antioxidant support and may help promote heart and circulatory health.  It’s available in an easy-to-swallow tablet form or kid-friendly chewable gummies.

One of the things I learned while studying Ester-C was that vitamin C is acidic, and in it’s traditional form, can exacerbate heartburn.  After about a week of taking Ester-C, I have not noticed an upset stomach after ingesting it.  As far as it’s effectiveness, I can’t really tell yet.  While I haven’t managed to get a full blown cold or the flu, I do feel under the weather right now.  I’m hoping that my continued intake of Ester-C will at least help support my immune system as it fights off whatever illness is lurking.

Ester-C recently launched their 24/7 Mom Contest and the grand prize is a big one…a 7-night Mediterranean cruise! To enter, you’ll need to create a video or a photo with an essay stating why you or a mom you know is a 24/7 mom.  You can also vote on entries with an opportunity to win prizes including an Ester-C gift basket.  Additional prizes include spa treatments and house-cleaning service (I’m all over that one!).  Motherhood is a 24/7 responsibility.  Even when I’m sleeping, I’m thinking about my children…in tune with my daughter as she snuggles against me…cognizant of my son, who’s asleep at the end of our bed.  Who do you know that can juggle a household, a job, and her family?  Nominate that mom, wife, sister, grandmother, aunt or friend to be Ester-C’s official 24/7 mom.  For more details, just visit their website.

Ester-C is available at grocery stores and pharmacies nationwide. Right now you can register for a $2.00 coupon towards your purchase of Ester-C.

No monetary compensation was received for this post.  I received a sample and a gift card as part of this review.

The inventor of hand sanitizers is brilliant and I’m convinced that he or she must be a parent!  Hand sanitizers are so effective, they are being used in hospitals across the country to prevent the spread of infection.  Consequently, there are numerous brands on the market and it may appear that they are all alike.  However, in my experience, they’re typically alcohol-based.  Not only does alcohol have a very strong scent, it can be drying and harsh on the hands.  I also worry about the residues left behind, particularly when I consider the fact that I’m using them on my children.

Veripur Hand Santizer Moisturizer offers four hours of continuous germ protection without the odor or drying effects of alcohol.  The active ingredient in Veripur is Benzethonium Chloride which was tested and proven to be effective against 20 commonly found strains of bacteria and four viruses.  Their patented SafetyDerm technology deeply cleans and disinfects skin, then creates an invisible shield on the surface that kills 99.9% of germs on contact for up to four hours.

Once you apply and rub Veripur in, you won’t know it’s there.  There is no odor, unless you opt for the scented version, and no residue.  It goes on like a cream, rather than a gel, and feels very much like a moisturizer.  Veripur contains avocado, jojoba and grape seed oils to prevent dryness and irritation from the winter elements.

Veripur Hand Sanitizer Moisturizer is available exclusively at Walgreens for the sale price of $3.99 (regularly $5.99). For more information, I encourage you to visit their FAQs section.

I wrote this review while participating in a Mom Central Consulting blog tour on behalf of Veripur Hand Sanitizer Moisturizer. I received a Veripur product sample and a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Photo Credit: TheraFlu

This year, we’re staying healthy by being vigilant about hand-washing, using antibacterials safely and judiciously, resting up, and taking our probiotics (I’m an avid believer in the benefits of probiotics!).  My son can’t get a flu shot because he’s allergic to eggs and my daughter is still rather young.  So my husband and I received flu shots to protect ourselves (and them) from getting the flu. We’ve also downloaded the Theraflu WheresFlu app for the Droid so we are in the know about where the risk is greatest.

Theraflu, the company that manufactures medicines to relieve cold, cough, and flu symptoms, developed the free app to help you stay informed about the most active cold and flu reports across the country.  The app, which is available for the iPhone, Droid, and Blackberry, uses GPS to identify your location and categorizes illness severity as low, moderate, high, and very high.  You can also input a zip code to find out the incidences of cold and flu in another city.  Last night, I found out that our city is currently identified at moderate risk with 5-10% of the population being affected. Those top five cities currently experiencing a high level of illness include Fort Smith, AR, Fort Wayne, IN, Oklahoma City, OK, Erie, PA, and Tulsa, OK.  Perhaps now might not be the best time to pay a visit.

I think this app would be very beneficial to an individual or family who is planning travel during the winter months.  If you know someone who may benefit from the app, you can send it to him/her via email.  If you don’t have one of the three enabled phones, you can track cold and flu symptoms online. TheraFlu utilizes data provided by SDI, a source used by the CDC.  While you’re on the site, be sure to get your $2.00 coupon off any Theraflu product.

What are your best tips for staying healthy this season?

This is a sponsored post through the Momtrends Blogger Outreach program for WheresFlu

Despite the fact that Southern California has been experiencing a rather mild winter, illness is still rampant.  One of the things I don’t like about winter is the prevalence of viruses and bacteria that cause everything from the common cold and flu to ear infections and strep throat.

So how do we stay well during this time?  Here are some of my best tips:

1. Know when to wash your hands.  I know it sounds too easy. But handwashing is the number one way to prevent the spread of germs. So why does illness still abound in the winter?  People are simply not cognizant of when they should wash their hands.  If you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, you should wash your hands.  Before you eat and after you use the restroom are appropriate times to wash your hands.  When you’re ill, you should be extremely vigilant about handwashing after sneezing and blowing your nose.

2.  When you can’t wash your hands, antibac!  A waterless antibacterial is very beneficial, particularly with children.  Clean’s Anti-bacterial Moisturizing Hand Cream kills 99.9% of germs for up to 4 hours.  The cream is moisturizing, rather than drying and suspends germs using it’s Safety-Derm technology.   It’s available in Original, Ultimate, Shower Fresh, and Unscented varieties and free from alcohol, and triclosan.

3.  Get enough R & R: It is during relaxation and sleep that our bodies rejuvenate. Our immune system, in particular, needs this time of rest to repair itself so that it can fight off illness.

4.  Become a pro on probiotics: Whether you get them through yogurt or via supplements, probiotics can decrease the number of illnesses you get and their severity.  We like GoodBelly because it’s dairy free and helps with my son’s GI issues.

5.  Get a breath of fresh air:  One of the reasons illness is so prevalent during the winter months is that everyone congregates inside due to the weather.  This is the time when we avoid crowded, indoor spaces and opt for the outdoors.

What are your best tips for staying healthy this winter?

No compensation was received for this post

Photo Credit: davidlat.  All rights reserved.

As we enter cold and flu season, I’m becoming increasingly vigilant about germs.  Handwashing…check.  Antibacterial gels and wipes…check.  Tylenol and Motrin in case someone DOES get sick…check.  Humidifier…check.  Tissues Boogie Wipes…check!

My son has unfortunately inherited my husband’s fairer, more sensitive skin.  But even if he didn’t have sensitive skin, colds always cause red, raw, irritated noses (even when I’m sick!).  Combine that with the fact that he can’t blow his nose and the result is dry nasal secretions that build and build, keeping his little nose all stuffed up!  Like most toddlers, he absolutely despises when I try to wipe his nose.  You’ll never see a toddler run faster!

A few weeks ago we had an opportunity (should I call it an opportunity if your toddler gets sick?) to try Boogie Wipes. These super soft, scented, saline wipes (alliteration?) are great for cleaning noses and dissolving mucus.  Cold, flu and allergy season are all rapidly approaching, particularly with kids returning to school this fall.  Boogie Wipes are available in Great Grape, Fresh Scent, and Magic Menthol (which is great for stuffy noses).  My son’s favorite is the grape (just make sure your children don’t try to eat them!).  And this mom has been found using them as bottom wipes when she forgets to go to the store for baby wipes.  The wipes are moist and soft, which is great for preventing raw noses or soothing irritation.

As a mom concerned about chemicals in baby and kid’s products, I like to know exactly what is in the products I use on my son.  The wipes are free from alcohol, phthalates, and parabens.   The ingredients used to moisturize little noses include Vitamine E, Aloe, and Chamomile (all very gentle, hypoallergenic, and natural).

A pack of 30 wipes retails for $3.99.  Boogie Wipes are available for purchase at a variety of retailers nationwide.

Win It! One of you will win a Boogie Woogie Gift Basket!  Simply head on over to the site and take a look around.  Come back and leave me a comment with something you learned on the site!  Comments will close on October 10, 2009 at 10 pm PST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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Despite the fact that we’re not officially in the midst of cold and flu season, Swine Flu and other viral and bacterial illnesses are very much a presence in our country.  Hand washing and antibacterial gels are a staple in our household.  Here are some facts you may not know about the cold and and flu.

It is estimated that there are more than 125 million workdays missed by parents who stay home with a sick child

One sneeze can spray 100,000 infectious droplets into the air at more than 200 MPH

Cold and flu viruses can live up to 24-hours on hard surfaces and up to 3 hours on your skin

Rhinovirus is most active from late fall, spring and summer

Up to 189 million school days are missed each year due to a cold

If and when you do get sick, you may want to consider the all-new Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissues.  I haven’t tried them yet, but these “super” tissues can actually kill viruses.   Here is a little more information from the site:

• The blue-dotted, moisture-activated layer indicates it’s a Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissue
• Tissues are fragrance free
• The middle layer of Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissues contains active ingredients that kill 99.9% of cold and flu viruses
• They are extremely soft and gentle enough even for small children

Wash your hands before you eat, after you use the bathroom, after you play with a pet and when you come in from playing outdoors

Get a good night’s sleep every night. Sleep can help strengthen the immune system

Dispose of used tissues in the trash as soon as possible