Enhancing your child’s Immune system

Frequently, parents ask themselves: What can we do to maintain our kids’ health? Is it possible to strengthen immunity and prevent disease? Yes, but only insofar as magic wands and supplements are concerned. Basically, maintaining good health is the greatest method to maintain a strong immune system. As trite as it may sound, that method works. Here are some tips to help your kids stay healthy this school year.

Give them a healthy diet

A healthy diet consists of a lot of fruits and vegetables (five servings a day is advised), complete grains, and lean protein (which should make up half of every meal plate). Vegetable oils and dairy products, as well as other sources of calcium, are part of a balanced diet. Foods that are processed, have added sugar, or contain unhealthy fats—such as the saturated fats present in animal products—should be avoided. That does not exclude your youngster from ever enjoying ice cream or cookies. However, those items should not be consumed daily by your child if you want them to be healthy. (The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers recipes for healthier baked goods and other ideas for improving the diet of your family members.).

Numerous supplements make the promise to strengthen your immune system. None of them can replace a nutritious diet, even if it is still unclear whether the majority of them actually have any effect. A multivitamin containing iron can make sense if your child dislikes veggies or has a restricted diet in general. Consult your doctor to determine whether vitamins or supplements are a good fit for your child.

Make sure they get enough sleep

Children as well as adults alike require sleep in order to rejuvenate and replenish their bodies. Children require different amounts of sleep depending on their age (infants require 12 to 16 hours a day, while teens need eight to 10 hours), as well as individual differences in their sleep patterns. Limiting screen time—devices should actually be turned off an hour or two before bed, and ideally not in the bedroom at night—and adhering to a regular schedule are two ways to promote healthy sleep in teens.

Make them move

We are healthier and less prone to illness when we exercise. Really, kids should be moving for an hour every day. Being “active” can refer to anything from going for a stroll or playing at the playground to participating in sports or visiting the gym. More is not always better; if your child is an avid athlete and works out for several hours every day, make sure the activity is not interfering with their sleep or leading to burnout, as these conditions might compromise their immune systems.

Control their stress levels 

Stress impairs our immunity and increases our risk of infection. Ensure that children have playtime when they are not busy and have access to people and things that bring them joy. As a family, spend time together and give your kids the chance to discuss anything that is on their minds. Speak with your doctor if you have worries about your child’s mental well-being or moods.

Verify that they have received all necessary vaccinations

Immunizations shield us against a wide range of diseases. Find out from your doctor whether your child has received all recommended vaccinations. It is advised that everyone six months of age and older get the flu shot every year.

Remember the basic safety measures

To help stay healthy, the family can all take a few easy precautions. Hands up. Use your elbow to shield your sneezes and coughs. Try to avoid being around sick people as much as possible. Additionally helpful are masks, particularly in congested interior areas.