13 February 2024 , 15:52
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The average family endures as many as 12 illnesses each year – with six in 10 parents of young children admitting they will simply "power on through" if they become poorly, a study has found.
A poll of 1,500 mums and dads found that 70% feel parenting is taking its toll on their health and, in turn, their relationships with their partners and their little ones.
Four in 10 claim that catching colds or coughs from their youngsters is making them feel more ill now, than they ever did before having kids.
And 54% blame a lack of rest, while 58% believe that the root cause of the problem is not being able to simply stop when necessary.
As a result, over a third (34%) have resigned themselves to falling ill more often, due to living in a household with more people, according to the research, by family wellness brand, Zarbee's. Meanwhile, 24% admit symptoms of ailments like headaches can feel worse due to a loud household.
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The research also found over half of parents (51%) admit they don’t take care of themselves when poorly – particularly if their child is ill, too.
And four in 10 blame this on catching coughs and colds from their little ones (Anastasiia Krivenok/Getty Images)And for those with a partner, 31% said their other half shares the burden by putting the kids first and carrying on, regardless of how ill they are themselves.
However, 35% of parents admit sickness in the household can take its toll on their relationship – due to lack of sleep (67%), general frustration (48%), and becoming short-tempered about small things (40%).
As a result, 58% wish they could do more to prevent coughs and colds in their household. More than six in 10 (62%) will distribute multivitamins to their family to help boost immunity, while 48% ensure their children get enough sleep, and 51% encourage fresh air.
The research, conducted via OnePoll, found the most frequent sicknesses families experience include colds, coughs, and sore throats.
A spokesman from Zarbee's said: "Our research shows that when one parent is run down, the relationship with their children or their partner can be impacted.
"A family’s wellbeing is also a priority for parents who are already using, or consider using, multivitamins to support their family’s immune system all year round.
"This Valentine’s, we’re encouraging everyone to spread the love within the household, with a daily dose of kindness in the form of immune support supplements, that will help the whole family to feel its best."