As a parent, keeping your child safe and as healthy as possible is a top priority. Especially around school time and as social interactions increase, having a well-developed immune system is important in staying safe. Luckily, there are many ways to boost immunity in kids naturally.
For starters, breastfeeding your baby aids immensely in building a strong immune system. Studies show that breastfed babies are less prone to allergies, infections, and much more.
Provide Healthy Food
Simply serving food that helps to boost the immune system is an easy way to boost your child’s immunity. Citrus fruits are a popular go-to for sicknesses because vitamin C does wonders for the immune system.
The body does not store vitamin C, so a daily dose is necessary for building immunity. Common citrus fruits that can be added to your meal plans include:
- Clementines
- Oranges
- Lemons
- Grapefruit
- Limes
Red bell peppers are also an excellent source of vitamin C, in addition to improving healthy skin and eyes. Leafy green vegetables aid in providing iron for healthy white blood cells and antibodies. Broccoli, berries, and various other foods are high in antioxidants.
Other healthy options for boosting immunity in children may include:
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Yogurt
- Almonds
- Spinach
- Turmeric
- Kiwi
- Papaya
- Shellfish
- Poultry
Stay on Top of Gut Health
Infections commonly occur due to problems in the digestive system. Maintaining a healthy gut can help in boosting your child’s immunity to various infections.
Probiotic-rich foods can help the growth of good bacteria in the gut while strengthening the intestinal tract. Yogurt is a great solution that most kids will love!
Keep Up With Hygiene
Making sure your child stays clean whenever possible and practices good hand washing is an easy way to prevent infections and other complications.
Taking baths/showers, maintaining clean bedding and clothes, and keeping washed all help out a child’s immune system!
Get Enough Rest
While all people require a good rest and uninterrupted sleep to regulate the body, children are more sensitive to these conditions. Getting at least 10 hours of uninterrupted sleep is critical in keeping your child in the best shape possible.
Proper sleep helps maintain various balances in the body, which in turn helps to lessen the risk of infections and other related problems.
Boost Immunity Outdoors
Children love their playtime, and allowing your child to get extra playtime in the grass can even provide a boost to their immunity. Germs are everywhere, and exposure to these everyday germs will help develop a stronger immune system while forcing the body to adapt.
Even though they may need a good wash when coming indoors, let your child play outside in the different areas of your yard to naturally build their immunity.
Don’t Turn Straight to Antibiotics
Though sometimes antibiotics are necessary, they should be avoided when possible. Antibiotics not only take away the bad bacteria but the body’s good bacteria, too. This leaves children with a compromised immune system.
For more ways to boost immunity in kids, or to discuss any concerns, get in touch with one of our experienced pediatricians.
