Top Tips for Kids Immunity
Author: Nicola Miethke (Naturopath & Nutritionist)
Keeping our children’s immunity at its most efficient has probably never felt more important than it does at this current time.
Luckily there are a number of simple things we can do from home that will make a big difference to the health of their immune systems.
1. Exercise, with them!
Exercise can boost their number of natural killer cells and research shows that kids are more likely to maintain lifelong fitness habits if you do it with them. So be a good role model.
2. Eat the rainbow
Proper food choices ensure that your child gets enough vitamins to support the immune system – particularly Vitamins A, C & E from an array of fruits and vegetables. We all know this is easier said than done so supplementing them with a multi-nutrient complex is a great way to fill the gaps!
3. Ensure they are getting adequate protein.
All of our body’s antibodies that help fight off infection and disease are made of protein and therefore without an adequate intake they won’t be able to maintain a healthy immune system.
4. Maintain a good sleep routine.
Sleep deprivation can make our kids more susceptible to illness by reducing their amount of natural killer cells that attack foreign microbes. (3-5yo need 10-13hrs, 6-13yo need 9-11hrs, 14-17yo need 8-10hrs).
5. Limit their sugar intake.
There is evidence to suggest that sugar has the ability to suppress the immune system and weaken the body’s defences thus making them more susceptible to infections.
6. Boost their gut health
70% of the immune system resides in our guts so supporting them with healthy bacteria in the form of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics is a scientifically proven way to support kids’ developing immune systems.
