As we enter cold and flu season, parents are always looking for ways to keep kids healthy. We know that as the weather gets colder, children are spending more time at home than usual. It means less fresh air and more germs! This is a condition that not only affects children but also your health. The first line of defense against germs and viruses is a healthy diet, adequate sleep and plenty of exercise. A diet rich in nutrients from colorful fruits/vegetables, along with high-quality protein and low sugar, forms the basis of a healthy immune system. If your diet is devoid of essential nutrients, all the supplements in the world won't be enough to keep you healthy — but foods consumed with the right supplements are a powerful combination.
These seven nourishing vitamins and herbs give your child's body an extra boost to help ward off or shorten the duration of illness. They are excellent ways to provide support.
1. Vitamin C:There's a reason why vitamin C comes to everyone's mind without even thinking about keeping kids healthy. Research shows that taking vitamin C daily for prevention can significantly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in adults and children. Vitamin C is also necessary for the proper absorption of iron, another nutrient essential for immunity, from the diet. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers and broccoli, but adding an additional supplement each day during the cold season helps meet additional needs.
2. Goji Berries:Although they are technically a berry, goji berry extracts are often used in supplement form to provide immune support. Goji berries, also known as goji berries, are also used in traditional medicine. Goji berries are high in phytonutrients that can act as antioxidants in the body. They are also sources of vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which are essential for optimal immune health.
3. Probiotics:Since most of our immune cells are found in the gut, it's no wonder that supporting the health of the GI tract is critical for a robust immune system. It's not surprising. There are thousands of types of bacteria in our body. Lactobacillus, one of the most common bacteria found in our gut, has been shown to reduce the number of days a child misses daycare or school due to a cold and reduces fever/cough symptoms. To get the correct dosage for children under twelve, it is very important to find a brand designed specifically for children or infants. You can also include fermented foods such as kefir, sauerkraut or yoghurt in your diet to increase the intake of beneficial bacteria.
4. Vitamin D:Vitamin D is a critical nutrient for immune health. Without enough vitamin D, some immune cells cannot initiate the appropriate immune response. One study found that newborn babies with low vitamin D levels were much more likely to have upper respiratory tract or ear infections than babies with adequate levels of vitamin D. Another study found that children who took vitamin D supplements during the winter months were 58 percent less likely to get flu than those who took a placebo. Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, so supplementation becomes necessary during the winter months as we get much less sun and food sources are very limited.
5. Echinacea:Echinacea, a flowering plant, has studies supporting its use for immune support and preventing respiratory infections in children. Like vitamin C, echinacea can be used to prevent colds and reduce the number of days a child is sick. A meta-analysis found that using echinacea reduced one's chances of catching a cold by 58%.
6. Zinc: Zinc, a mineral necessary for a healthy immune system, is known to help reduce children's colds, absence from school and antibiotic intake. Zinc may also reduce the incidence of diarrhea in children. You can find zinc in protein-rich foods like beef, beans, and even oysters, but if you have a picky eater, supplements may be a good idea. Be careful because too much zinc can cause stomach upset. It may even cause copper deficiency when taken at very high levels.
7. Chamomile:Although chamomile does not directly affect the immune system, it is an excellent herb for calming the nervous system and helping children get adequate sleep. It is known that lack of sleep impairs our immune system and makes it easier to get sick when exposed to a virus, so it is very important to make sure that your child sleeps after 22:00 at the latest. Chamomile can act as a mild sedative to help children fall asleep more easily. It is safe for children and can be consumed in the form of tea. Children are resilient and usually recover from colds quickly. But if you find yourself sick every season, try some of these supplements. You can also find combination products that contain multiple ingredients to make them easier for children to take. Definitely remember that before starting any supplement, especially when supplementing for children, you should meet with your healthcare provider to discuss appropriate dosage and safety!!. Some supplements that strengthen the immune system; For people suffering from autoimmune diseases, their conditions may not be suitable for use or may interact with medications. Food comes first when it comes to a strong immune system, but these supplements can support your kids in the fight against diseases.
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