Do you ever feel as if you're in a never-ending battle to keep your kids happy, healthy and safe? Welcome to parenthood! You’re a watchful protector, just waiting to swoop in and sock it to the everyday super villains that stand in the way of your children’s health and happiness.
Some of these lurking dangers are easy to see and prevent, (the anxiety of school or the looming threat of a bully).
There are, however, hidden threats that are invisible to the naked eye but are nonetheless lurking in your home waiting for their moment to strike. Worst of all, they’re hiding right under your nose.
In your food!
Regardless of how much care and attention we put into the food we prepare for our families, it’s our duty to remain vigilant against microscopic malcontents and keep them out of our kids’ bellies. When I recently met with a nutritionist for my own diet needs, she opened my eyes to a host of food-borne bacteria that generally pose a marginal threat to adults with robust Immune Systems but can cause serious trouble for little ones whose immune systems are still developing.
Here are 3 of the most common food-borne bacteria and common signs and symptoms if you've been infected:
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Listeria
Listeria is a common bacterium that’s present in all manner of fresh foods, even foods many of us consider safe. In fact, it’s the reason why cashew butter was recalled. When ingested, it can cause a serious condition known as Listeriosis. It can infect vegetables by lurking in the soil and water that nourish them, it’s also present in animal products such as meat and dairy. A tenacious enemy, it can even transmit from contaminated to uncontaminated foods.
Pregnant women and newborns are particularly vulnerable to listeria.
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