How to Improve Children's Immune System?
When winter comes, nurseries and schools where children gather together may suddenly become the center of epidemic diseases. This situation, which is always a great source of concern for parents; It can cause diseases such as colds and flu, as well as more serious illnesses, to spread among children. Supporting children's immune systems can help protect against germs they may encounter in the classroom or other social settings. For this, children may need some nutrients and vitamins.
Knowing the best foods and supplements that can help support children's immune system; It can help families when planning nutrition for children. In this article written by Evla experts, you can find tips that can help strengthen children's immune systems and avoid coughs and colds that are almost typical during winter months.
Can Children's Immunity Be Strengthened with Supplements?
In some cases, supplements can be immune boosters for children. However, in general, supporting immunity in children is not through food supplements; It must be through food. However, some children who are picky eaters may have problems getting the micronutrients they need. In such cases, food supplements, vitamins and minerals for children can help support their immune system. So what can be done to support the normal immune functions of children in winter?
Vitamin D
As for individuals of all ages, the primary source of vitamin D for children is the sun. However, it may be difficult to get enough vitamin D from the sun in the sunless winter months, as well as in the summer months when sunscreens are used. Additionally known as a source of vitamin D; Oily fish such as trout, salmon, tuna and sardines are not included in the menus that children like. Therefore, it may be recommended to give children foods fortified with vitamin D in winter. These include fortified foods such as milk, yogurt, orange juice, and non-dairy milk alternatives such as soy or almond milk. These foods can provide about 5% to 25% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin D that the average child needs. But vitamin D is a type of fat-soluble vitamin; In other words, it can be said that it is best absorbed when taken with oil. If the food the child consumes already naturally contains fat, this is not a cause for concern. However, if the food is not fatty enough, it may be recommended to pair it with a meal or snack that contains fat.
Is It Necessary to Give Vitamin D Supplement to Children?
If the amount of vitamin D in your child's blood level is below the normal range and this cannot be brought to the normal level through nutrition, the use of supplements to eliminate vitamin D deficiency in children may be considered. If you think that your child is not getting enough vitamin D or your doctor has recommended you to use vitamin D supplements, you can take a look at products such as Redoxon Kids , which is in the children's food supplements category in the Evla selection and has been specially developed for children, and choose the food supplement your child needs.
Zinc
One of the most important minerals that can support the normal immune system of children is zinc. Zinc is a mineral that is important for the body in many ways. Zinc keeps the immune system strong; It helps wounds heal and promotes normal growth. Found in protein-based foods such as oysters, red meat and poultry, zinc is also found in beans and some nuts. Too much zinc intake may cause complaints such as diarrhea, headache, and loss of appetite. For this reason, families considering using zinc food supplements for children are recommended to read product labels carefully before using these products and consult a doctor for dosage adjustment.
Probiotics
In children, as in adults, the intestines host large amounts of bacteria. It is extremely important that these bacteria, some good and some bad, are in balance. Yoghurt, which is a food that is included in the menu of children and is generally consumed with pleasure, is a good source of probiotics. In addition, kefir and sauerkraut products are also rich in probiotics.
However, in some cases, the use of probiotic food supplements for children may be considered. These products, which help maintain the bacterial balance in the intestinal flora, should be used in light of the information on the label and as recommended by the doctor. Probiotic products such as Enterogermina Kids can help regulate the digestive system and support the immune system.
Although there are many supplements that claim to boost the immune system, there is still uncertainty about whether they are actually beneficial. However, none of them can replace a healthy diet. If your child refuses vegetables or is on a restricted diet, it may make sense to consider a multivitamin that contains iron. It's important to check with your doctor about whether vitamins or supplements are a good idea for your child.
What Else Can Be Done to Support Children's Immunity?
It is important to offer children a healthy diet. A diet consisting of plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein; is considered healthy. Also diet; It should also include dairy products or another source of calcium and healthy fats such as vegetable oils.
Avoid These Foods
Foods to avoid include processed ones, foods with added sugar, and foods containing unhealthy fats, such as saturated fats found in animal products. This doesn't mean your child should completely avoid foods like cookies or ice cream. However, if you want your child to be healthy, it is important that he does not eat such foods every day.
Make Sure They Get Enough Sleep
You should make sure that children get enough sleep. The amount of sleep children need varies according to age. For example, it can be said that babies need 12 to 16 hours of sleep a day, and teenagers need 8 to 10 hours of sleep. Additionally, sleep duration may differ from child to child. You can promote healthy sleep for your child by limiting screen time and sticking to a regular schedule.
Review Their Physical Activities
Children should be active for one hour a day. At this point, being active does not necessarily mean working out or going to the gym. Playing on the playground or going for a walk can also be effective. More is not necessarily and always better. If you have a young child who is extremely active or a teenager who exercises several hours a day, make sure that this activity does not lead to sleep loss or burnout. Both of these can cause problems with the immune system.
Help them manage stress
Stress management can help children be healthier and more resistant to infections. Make sure you allow them to play in their free time and access activities that make them happy. It is also important to come together as a family and create environments where children can express their concerns and address these concerns.
Keep Track of Their Vaccinations
Finally, make sure your child has his or her vaccinations. By consulting your doctor, you can make sure that your child's vaccinations are completed on time and completely. In addition, getting the flu vaccine, which is recommended to be administered once a year, helps protect against increased flu cases during the winter months.
