Anything that reflects the slightest thing wrong for a child will cause concern in a parent. A fever, for example, is one of the primary reasons that parents will call their child’s pediatrician. Yet, the truth is, what many of us have been told is a low grade fever is a natural body temperature for some children.
Simply put, our body?s first line of defense when invaded by any microbe, virus or bacteria is going to be cells called microphages; a strong, healthy immune system may be able to eliminate the problem with this first step alone. If these fail to contain the ?bug? then the body creates other pyrogens and proteins to try to assist. Once these have been created the hypothalamus in the brain recognizes that there is an invader and raises the body temperature to assist in killing it off. This raised temperature will generally be just a couple of degrees, but the hypothalamus determines, based on the number of pyrogens and proteins, what will be necessary to eliminate the bug. If the hypothalamus creates additional biochemicals to try to protect the body then the temperature raises accordingly.
The best response to a fever below 104.5°F for children over the age of 3 years is lots of rest and clear fluids. Since the fever will cause your child to sweat they will lose sodium and water which must be replaced with proper fluids. This does not include Gatorade or other sugary sports drinks.
DeMoss Chiropractic recognizes and supports the body?s natural ability to fight off infection. The immune system, like all other bodily systems, is controlled by the central nervous system via the spinal cord, which is housed in the spine. Your chiropractor helps keep the spine aligned allowing messages to travel without interruption from the brain to the rest of the body. A fever is, quite simply, a natural part of your child?s immune system. When it is functioning at it?s absolute best, your child?s body will fight off most foreign invaders so swiftly that they will have no outward effect at all. However, when necessary your child?s immune system will raise their temperature to create a hostile environment for that invader. It?s how a properly functioning body functions.

California voted yes on Prop 64 in November. So, what does this mean? Well, Prop 64 legalized marijuana and hemp for recreational use, though it has been legal for medicinal use for several years. Some citizens who were against the passage of Prop 64 were vocal about their concerns regarding who could purchase it and how it is used in the public sphere. Prop 64 took this into consideration, making it illegal for those under 21 (similar to tabacco sales). Moreover, it can?t be smoked in public and users cannot drive while high or give it to minors. Commercial pot growers will be licensed and there will be regulations on labeling, packaging, and marketing the substance.
Californians who do not possess a medical marijuana card may not be abe to legally purchase pot from dispensaries until the second part of Prop 64 goes into effect on January 1st 2018.
Some things to look out for in the coming years. What will be Prop 64?s influence on the drug cartels ? will it strengthen or weaken them? Will this Prop allow prime-time television ads for marijuana? If you object to this; consider what makes it different than beer advertisements? Just some things to keep in mind.
It?s important to stay educated on relevant natural health topics. At DeMoss Chiropractic, we host health and lifestyle workshops monthly that are meant to keep you informed and healthy. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and check out our website for updates regarding upcoming health and wellness workshops held within our practice.

It?s Watermelon season which means watermelons at your local market are juicier and less expensive than ever! Did you know that this summer favorite has many health benefits! You Can Eat the Rind: The rind contains health-promoting and blood-building chlorophyll and even contains more citrulline (amino acid) than the pink flesh! Throw it in the blender with your morning smoothie for some easy health benefits! It Lives Up to Its Name: Watermelon is more than 91 percent water. This means that eating watermelon with you on a hot summer day is a tasty way to help you stay hydrated and avoid dehydration when supplemented with plenty of water.  Try this recipe for a yummy summer Watermelon drink!
Ingredients:

• 8-10 strawberries
• 1 cup watermelon, cut and cubed
• 1/4 peeled cucumber

Instructions:

1. Cut your watermelon into large cubes and remove the rind.
2. Peel and cut your cucumber into large pieces.
3. Put all ingredients in your blender
4. Pour contents into a glass and refrigerate for 1 hour (it definitely tastes best when cold!)
5. Enjoy