NAPPY RASH How to support your little one through this common childhood occurrence
Nappy rash is a common form of inflamed skin (dermatitis) that appears as red and inflamed skin on your baby's bottom. It is commonly related to infrequency change of nappies, skin sensitivities and chafing. Although a common problem, it can still cause mild stress and worry when a parent sees their little one in discomfort .
However, quite often simple strategies can be put in place to help ease the symptoms of nappy rash. These may include:
Changing your child's nappy often as soon as they become wet or soiled.
Avoiding wipes and using natural skin sensitive soap water and and a cloth.
Try not using baby wipes for a while to see if there are any sensitivities. Try and give your child 'air time' without a nappy
Apply a natural barrier cream to help the healing process. Please read the ingredients, avoid petroleum based cream and anything with added nasties. Pure paw paw cream or moo goo are great brands.
Other possible causes Sometimes a nappy rash just won't go even after trying all the methods as mentioned. That is when we need to consider a possible disruption to the protective barrier of the skin. Candida can often be the cause. Candida loves to flourish in a wet dark nappy. Quite often this imbalance can be caused by contact from the birth canal of the mother, recent antibiotic use or a bout of diarrhoea. All these things can cause a imbalance of normal intestinal flora.
The best approach when dealing with treating candida based nappy rash is to help build a healthy immune system in your child and treat with anti-fungals.
A quality cod liver oil is a fantastic supplement to give your child, it will help boost their immune and also help heal the skin barrier.
Probiotics with the strain Saccharomyces boullardii is the best line of defence when dealing with candida. It is very effective with dealing with the opportunistic yeast. Vitamin C is also a very effective treatment too, as it will help with building immune system and skin healing.
With regards to diet, it should always be considered. A diet free from highly processed sugars is best approach. Adding more cultured and fermented foods can be very beneficial to combat a candida overgrowth. Making sure your child's diet is full of plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit. It may also be beneficial to create your own diet diary, if you notice any particular foods that may cause nappy rash after consumption. Tomato based foods are quite often a culprit. Speaking to a qualified Nutritionist can help you in the right direction with regards to problematic foods.
Information in this article should be a guideline only. Always seek medical advice if you are unsure. My name is Laura, I have been in the childcare industry for the past 18 years. I am also a qualified Nutritionist and my passion is helping people through one on one consultations reach their optimal health through food and nutrition on a holistic level. References https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaperrash/symptoms-causes/syc-20371636 Hechtman, L., n.d. Clinical Naturopathic Medicine.