Ear Infections

Ear infections are generally seen in small children under six. They have two general causes. The first cause is when water gets trapped in the ear canal due to the buildup of wax (called Swimmer’s Ear). This causes bacteria to grow and an infection to occur.
The second cause is a middle ear infection generally related to an allergy or upper respiratory infection and is caused by fluid buildup in the ear.
Ear infections can either be viral or bacterial but viral is much more common — therefore, treatment with conventional antibiotics typically is ineffective and includes side effects.

Top Foods for Ear Infections

• Water: Helps clear mucus.
• Wild-caught fish: Omega-3 fats help reduce inflammation and improve allergies.
• Non-dairy baby formula: If a baby drinks formula, switch to coconut or goat’s milk-based formulas which tend to cause fewer allergies.
• Clean lean protein: Sufficient protein helps the immune system.  Aim for 3-4 ounces at minimum per meal. Shellfish can be problematic for some people; if so, avoid it.
• Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C: Keeps immune system strong, which helps the body’s ability to ward off infection.

Foods to Avoid

Potential food allergens: Some common allergens include conventional dairy, gluten, shrimp and peanuts.
Conventional dairy: Pasteurized cows dairy products can be mucus-producing and worsen infection.
Sugar: Reduces immune functioning.
Processed foods: These foods may contain added chemicals and dyes that young children can be sensitive to.

Top 5 Ear Infection Remedies

#1 Garlic oil ear drops: (2 warm drops in ear daily)
Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
#2 Zinc (10 mg 2x a day for those older than 2 years old)
Zinc boosts immune function and promotes healing.
#3 Vitamin C (1,000mg 3x a day for adults, 500 mg 2x daily for children 6-12 yoa)
Vitamin C enhances immune function and lowers inflammation.
#4 Echinacea (2 mL 4x daily for children)
Echinacea increases lymphatic drainage and stimulates immune function.
#5 Vitamin D3 (400 IU – 2000 IU daily ages 2-12)
Vitamin D3 helps support the immune system.

Chiropractic for Ear Infections

Chiropractic adjustments can remove pressure from ears and quicken the healing of ear infections.

Essential Oils for Ear Infections

Rubbing basil oil and frankincense essential oil behind the ears and at the bottoms of the feet can speed healing of ear infections.