Your immune system (also called the Lymphatic system) is made up of the “tissues and organs that produce, restore, and carry white blood cells that fight infections and other diseases.” We are exposed to thousands of disease-causing germs each day and children, in particular, are put at risk of getting sick. Infants are born with a strong immune system which can fight off common diseases but as parents, you should still look out for the possible health risks around your family. While you can’t control all the environmental hazards around your child, you can still equip him/her with the vitamins and minerals that he/she may need to stay healthy and fit. Read more about the easy ways to boost your child’s immune system.
Get vaccinations
Vaccines can protect your child from thousands of diseases through the antigens that help fight off germs. Stick to your child’s immunization schedules so your child is protected from vaccine-preventable illnesses like chicken pox, measles, and rotaviruses.
Promote a healthy diet
Your child’s daily food intake can greatly affect how his/her immune system reacts to the harmful antigens in the environment. Integrate fruits and vegetables early on in your child’s diet so he/she won’t have a hard time adjusting to your usual meals at home. Avoid feeding your child fast food, fried meals, and sugary treats which contain no nutritional value. Incorporate foods which are rich in good bacteria like yogurt which can help with your child’s gut health. Children who are picky eaters can be more difficult to feed and can cause unnecessary stress to your family during meal times. Instead of force feeding your kids, opt for a calmer approach when it comes to eating. If you feel like your child isn’t getting enough vitamins and minerals from his/her diet, consider asking your pediatrician about taking supplements like Ceelin Plus which contains important nutrients like Vitamin C and Zinc.
Practice good hand hygiene
Frequent handwashing before meals and after using the restroom can help protect your family from the passing of common gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. Pack a bottle of hand sanitizer or alcohol in your child’s school bag and teach him/her the importance of good hand hygiene so he/she can form the habit early in life.
Get enough rest
Children need to sleep more most especially during his/her first years. Sleep deprivation is said to put your child more at risk of getting the common cold. Kids aged 3-5 years old need 10-13 hours of sleep daily while children between 6 to 13 years need about 9-11 hours. Teens still need quality sleep—about 8-10 hours every day to be precise, since their bodies still haven’t reached their full potential. Being well rested allows your body to develop cytokines which is a protein that reduces inflammation and fights off common infections.
Engage with your child through physical play to encourage an active lifestyle. Spend time with him/her whenever you can and set a good example when it comes to healthy choices. Remember, medical supplements alone won’t completely protect your child from all the possible health risks in the environment. Always consult your pediatrician before administering any kind of medication, including vitamins.
