Boost Children's Immunity

It is virtually impossible to germ-proof children. Germs are abundant and everywhere, especially in places where there are groups of children, such as childcare, preschools, or schools. But a strong immune system can provide a child with powerful natural defenses against the germs that are continually present in their environment.

The following are some ways to boost the immune system:

• Reduce the amount of sugar children consume. Sugar has been shown to reduce white blood cell count, an indicator of immune strength. The function of white blood cells is to fight and destroy germs that can cause disease. Serve whole grains, complex carbohydrates and whole fruits.
• Keep your children hydrated. Offer them plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking enough water can help balance every organ and system in the body- including the immune system-so they are able to perform better.
• Have your children get plenty of sleep at night. Adequate sleep is tied to a healthy immune system. Recommended lengths vary by age, but 10 hours each night is a good average.
• Make sure your children have plenty of opportunities for physical activity. Physical activity can boost the body’s immune response. The American Heart Association recommends children get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, each and every day. Dress them warm and get outside and play.
• Offer your child a varied and balanced diet of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, dairy products and protein sources. No one nutrient will improve a person’s immune response, but a healthy, varied diet will ensure that the immune system will have all the nutrients it needs to ward off disease.
• Protect your children from second hand smoke. Infants and young children who are exposed to second hand smoke are at a higher risk for infections. This may be a result of damage to their developing immune system from second hand smoke.
• Make sure children wash their hands frequently. Dirty hands are a great way to allow germs to enter the body through the mouth, nose and eyes. The best way to combat disease is to prevent it from ever entering the body.

Have a healthy and happy new year!