There’s simply something motivating about the beginning of a new year and the promise of fresh starts. Helping your child build protections against a harsh world is a frequent theme you’ll encounter as a parent.
Choosing the new year to start boosting your child’s immune system is a worthwhile and lasting project that stays with kids for a lifetime. Dr 2 Kids, Smita Tandon MD of Fountain Valley, California, shares your passion for children’s wellness, so Dr. Tandon and her team collected these seven ways to boost your child’s immunity.
Scan through our list and target one or more of these tips, starting with the easiest to implement. Persist with each immunity booster until they become ingrained habits that naturally sustain.
Vaccinations are a safe and simple way to help your child past preventable diseases. School enrollment requires vaccinations, and you can find a list of kindergarten to grade 12 immunizations here.
The body needs sleep to recover and rebuild both physically and mentally. Too little sleep means too little recovery. Check with Dr. Tandon about your child’s sleep requirements and make their bedroom a place of repose to make falling and staying asleep easier.
Exercise, even in the form of play outside, stimulates both circulation and respiratory function, each of which are key contributors to immune system function. Burning off energy also contributes to better sleep.
Even small changes in eating habits can make a difference. Add colorful fruits, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to add immune boosters (antioxidants, vitamins C and D, and zinc) to your child’s diet.
Children perceive time as slower than adults, so 20 seconds spent washing hands may seem minutes long. Do periodic checks of their handwashing habits and redirect as necessary. Follow up when they get lazy about sneezing into tissues and elbows too.
Water is the best hydrator. It helps to keep the nasal lining working well in its role as the “front door” of the immune system. Healthy hydration levels also help to flush pathogens from their systems. High sugar intake suppresses the bacteria and virus-fighting ability of white blood cells, so steer your child away from sugary drinks.
Stress causes chemical changes in the body that suppress the immune system, so reducing stressful elements in your child’s life helps them fight airborne infections. Schedule playtime, relaxation time, and sleep preparation time. Find their stressors, and do what you can to ease their worries. Remember, as kids, these won’t always be logical.
Remember that Dr 2 Kids, Smita Tandon MD is always here when your child needs medical care. Call or click to schedule an in-office or telehealth visit today.
