News You Can Use
When Should Your Kids Avoid
Cough and Cold Products?
Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Public Health Advisory.
It warned that over-the-counter cough and cold products should not be used in children
younger than age 2. This is because these products can have serious side effects. In addition,
they have not been proven to be effective. The FDA suggests that parents with questions
about how to treat cold symptoms call their doctor or other health care practitioner.
In Kids, Less Sleep May Mean More Weight
Sixth-graders who sleep longer are much less likely to be overweight than their peers who sleep less. Researchers are still trying to explain the link, but some suspect that sleep deprivation can affect carbohydrate metabolism and glucose tolerance. To make sure your children get their ZZZs, adopt an age-appropriate bedtime.Pediatrics, vol. 120, no. 5
