Why children catch everything –and how to help them bounce back faster.
OLD WIVES’ TALES, TESTED
Do grandma’s go-to remedies actually work? We take a closer look.
It’s not too late to get vaccinated Book your free flu shot online today
KEEPING KIDS HEALTHY
As the weather cools, kids become more prone to coughs, colds, sore throats, asthma flare-ups, and other common winter illnesses. This edition of the LIVE+ catalogue includes practical tips focused on children’s health and wellbeing.
One of the most important things we can do as parents is support our children’s immune systems. Good nutrition, sleep, hygiene, and the right supplements – like vitamin D – can go a long way in helping kids stay well and recover quickly.
But cold and flu season isn’t just about prevention – it’s also about knowing where to turn when your child is unwell. That’s where your prescribing pharmacist can help. We can now assess and treat a growing range of common childhood conditions, often without the need for a GP visit.
Here’s how we can support your family:
• Winter infections: Sore throats, ear infections, and mild fevers. We offer treatment, advice, and prescriptions where needed.
• Asthma & COPD support: Inhaler technique checks, asthma care plan enrolment, and prescriptions for relievers and preventers.
• School sores: Early assessment and antibiotic treatment.
• Oral health: Guidance on brushing, diet, and choosing the right products. We also provide prescriptions for oral thrush, teething pain, mouth ulcers, and fluoride supplementation — important in areas like Cairns where fluoride isn’t added to the water supply.
• Childhood vaccinations: Free flu vaccines are available for Queensland children aged 6 months and over, with additional vaccinations also available in store.
We’re here to be your first port of call for your child’s health. As a parent myself, I know how stressful it can be when your child is unwell. That’s why my team and I are committed to providing fast, expert care — right here in your local community.
Come in, have a chat, and let’s keep our families healthy this winter.
Managing Director
Children vs Adult Immunity
Cold and flu season arrives like clockwork each year. As a parent, it’s tough to watch your child feel crummy (again) – and even tougher to know when to rest, when to worry, and what actually helps.
Here are a few practical tips to support your child’s health – and ease your stress – during this season of sniffles and tissues.
1 Nutrition Dietitian
Be your child’s in-house dietitian by building a balanced meal plan rich in fruit, vegetables, and immune-boosting foods like yogurt, citrus, and leafy greens. Supplements can also help top up any shortfalls – think vitamin C, D, A, zinc and probiotics. For tailored advice, check in with your pharmacist or GP.
2 Germ Fighter
Fight germs before they strike. Teaching good hygiene isn’t just about staying clean – it gives kids the tools and confidence to care for their own health. Reinforce handwashing, regular nail trimming (to discourage biting), avoiding face-touching, oral hygiene, and wearing clean clothes.
3 Vaccinations
Vaccines remain one of the best ways to protect your child’s immune system. Make sure they receive their seasonal flu shot and any other recommended immunisations. Your local pharmacist can check your family’s vaccination history and let you know what’s due.
4 Under Double Digits
A child’s immune system doesn’t fully mature until around 7 or 8 years old. That’s why younger kids seem to catch everything. All those early sniffles are part of the immune system learning and strengthening. By the time they reach 10, their body has encountered a wide range of germs, viruses and vaccines – making them better equipped to fight off future bugs. Keep reinforcing healthy habits as they grow.
As children get older, their immune systems grow stronger and smarter – learning from each exposure. Did you know playing outside can actually help? Everyday dirt and germs help train the immune system, so a little mud and fresh air can be a good thing.
Helping your child grow up healthy, strong, and full of energy comes down to two key things: regular movement and the right kind of protein to fuel their growing bodies. A mix of fun exercise and balanced nutrition lays the foundation for long-term wellbeing.
EXERCISE FOR KIDS
Kids are naturally active—they love running, jumping, climbing, and playing. Exercise isn’t just about burning energy; build strong bones and muscles, supports mental health, and boosts overall development. Make family fitness part of the routine. Children often enjoy joining in when parents get moving too, and keeping it playful helps build healthy habits without pressure.
The key? Keep it fun and consistent — just part of everyday life.
Protein: a building block for growth
Protein helps repair and build muscle, supports the immune system, and keeps skin healthy. So what kinds are suitable for kids? Here are some safe, age-appropriate options:
• Nutra Organics Brekkie Hero or Thriving Family – plant-based protein with a blend of wholefood multivitamins*
• Sustagen Kids Essential Complete – formulated to provide essential nutrients for children aged 1 to 10
Protein can be added to everyday foods like cereal, yoghurt, muffins, cookies, pancakes or smoothies — feel free to get creative.
Simple Protein Powder Cookies to bake with the kids
INGREDIENTS
1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or chocolate works well)
1/2 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp baking soda (optional, for slight rise)
A pinch of salt
Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit
INSTRUCTIONS
KIDS EXERCISE ROUTINES & SAFE PROTEINS
Did you know?
Kids who get regular exercise tend to sleep better, concentrate more in school, and even feel happier.
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C
2. In a bowl, mix the oats, protein powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the peanut butter, honey (or syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. The mixture should be thick but sticky.
4. Fold in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each slightly with your fingers.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutra Organics Brekkie Hero or Thriving Family
Sustagen Kids Essential Complete
Vicks
OLD WIVES TALES THAT MIGHT ACTUALLY HELP WHEN YOU’RE SICK!
When you’re sniffling under a pile of blankets, chances are someone’s grandma has a remedy for that — and surprisingly, some of them aren’t too far off. While not every old wives’ tale stands up to science, a few timehonoured traditions do offer real comfort and support when you’re unwell.
1“STARVE A FEVER, FEED A COLD”
It’s a catchy phrase, but not entirely accurate. The truth is, your body needs nourishment whether you’re dealing with a fever, a cold, or something in between. You don’t need to force large meals, but gentle, nourishing options like warm broths, teas, and easily digestible foods can help maintain your energy while you recover.
SLEEP IS THE BEST MEDICINE
Grandma was definitely onto something with this one. Sleep supports immune function and helps your body repair itself. Try to disconnect from screens and responsibilities where you can – rest isn’t laziness when you’re sick, it’s essential.
CHICKEN SOUP CURES EVERYTHING
While it won’t cure your cold, chicken soup is warm, soothing, and hydrating. When packed with vegetables, garlic, ginger, and onion, it becomes a comforting and nutritious option that may support your immune system and ease symptoms.
ONIONS IN YOUR SOCKS
This classic tale suggests onions in your socks can “draw out toxins.” While there’s no scientific evidence for this, onions do contain compounds with immune-supportive properties. Skip the socks and add them to your soup instead.
DON’T GO OUT WITH WET HAIR
You won’t catch a cold just from damp hair – viruses are the true culprit. However, being cold and run down can leave your body more vulnerable, so staying warm and dry is still a good idea when you’re feeling under the weather.
FRESH AIR IS GOOD FOR YOU
TOO MUCH SCREEN TIME WILL ROT YOUR BRAIN
Not exactly flu-specific advice, but there’s a grain of truth. Constant screen time can strain your eyes, disrupt your sleep, and increase fatigue – all of which can slow recovery. Try listening to music, a podcast or an audiobook, and let your mind and body rest.
This one’s true. Fresh air can lift your mood, reduce stuffiness, and help prevent germs from lingering indoors. If you can soak up a little sunshine at the same time, all the better – it may even give your immune system a gentle boost. 7 4 6
While some old wives’ tales are more folklore than fact, many hold simple wisdom that still rings true.
Whether it’s soup, sleep, or a bit of sunshine, the message remains: slow down, listen to your body – and maybe, just maybe, take grandma’s advice.
