This is the final post in my series on the Natural Products Expo, Expo West. So, what’s the big trend for kids and pets. Although there were many, here are the 4 that stood out for me:
Pet Omega 3 Supplements: Pet’s need Omega 3’s, just as humans do. We need to get them from our diets because they are anti-inflammatory, and important for heart health, and our skin/hair and nails. They are especially important for older dogs and cats that may have arthritis or achy joints. It’s important, however, to buy from a company that not only ensures fresh fish oils, but that is third-party tested for contaminants and heavy metals. My favorite company is Nordic Naturals, and their Pet Omegas are the best on the market. They come in a variety of size.
Healthy Doggie Snacks: Regular dog snacks that contain grain and fillers are “junk” food for dogs. They might taste nice, but it’ll make your dog fat. A new breed of snacks has arrived on the market that a designed for specific health needs. Happy Hips Jerky bars are Soooooo healthy! There are bars for joints and hips, bars for skin, coat and eyes, and even bars for heart health. Another incredibly healthy doggie snack is Brads Raw Kale Snacks.
Skincare Care For Tweens & Teens
Girls are going into puberty earlier than ever. This is probably partly due to the number of chemicals they are now exposed to in our environment. I love that there are now skin care companies that are specifically for this age group. Good For You Girls and Sparklehearts made every skin care product a young girl could need. The packaging is adorable, and it’s chemical and paraben-free.
Healthy Gadgets
Sinus problems are on the rise. This is probably due to more pollutants in our air. Have you seen how many sinus medications are now on the drugstore shelves. But, many of them come with side effects. A wonderful children’s doctor came up with a brilliant invention called Nasopure. It’s an alternative to the Netti Pot, and MUCH easier to use, especially for kids. You simply fill the plastic bottle with warm water and the buffered salt (that comes with the it), and insert the nozzle into one nostril (over a sink, or in the shower). You gently squeeze the bottle and the water comes pouring out of your other nostril – bingo, you sinuses are completely clean. They have a version for adults and a version for kids. Also, they have a version for a baby, where the mother sucks the snot out of the baby’s nose! I know – it sounds GROSS, but it really isn’t: There is a filter to collects the mucus half way up the tube – it’s 100-times more effective than those bulb things.
So, that concludes my month-long series from Expo West. I hope you got to see some of the episodes, where I covered all these products on Hallmark’s “Home & Family”. I ‘ll be back at Expo West next year to find my Top Picks for 2014!
