Boosting your Kid’s Immune System Naturally Over the Cooler Months.

28 Apr 2023
It is that time of year when there are a lot of sniffles, coughs and sore throats going around at schools and day cares. There is not much we can do about the bacteria and viruses our kids are exposed to, but we can strengthen and support their immune systems naturally, which will offer a defence against these threats.

Here are 4 ways you can support immunity over the cooler months:


  1. Support their gut microbiome with an age-appropriate probiotic supplement as well as
    probiotics foods such as sauerkraut, kefir, and yoghurt. 80% of the immune system is in the
    digestive system so populating the gut with daily dose of beneficial bacteria can help to
    boost and regulate the immune system.

  2. Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients for boosting the immune system. Vitamin C
    not only activates neutrophils the white blood cells in our front line of defence, but also
    increases the production of lymphocytes our white blood cells which are important in
    antibody production and cellular immune function. Because our bodies don’t produce or
    store Vitamin C, it is important that we have plenty of it every day in our diet. Good foods
    sources are strawberries, capsicums, broccoli, potato, pineapple, kiwifruit, oranges, and
    kale. Supplementing with an age-appropriate vitamin C over the winter months can give
    extra support. There are many brands available in store suitable for kids, even drops for infants from 6 months and up.

  3. Encourage kids to get outside and play in the sunlight. Research shows that vitamin D, which
    is made when our skin is exposed to sunlight, plays a vital role in activating white blood cells
    that protect the body from illness. Vitamin D is also available as a supplement suitable for
    infants and children.

  4. Elderberry. This immune boosting berry has high levels of naturally occurring flavonoids that
    have potent anti-viral activity. Elderberry extract is found in many immune boosting
    formulas for adults and children. Elderberry is known to shorten the severity and duration of
    colds if you start taking it early enough. A great remedy to always have in your pantry over
    the winter months for the whole family.

By Catherine Garney, Registered Clinical Nutritionist and Natural Health Consultant at Gate Pa
Health shop and Clinic in Tauranga.
www.nutritionforhealthnz.com

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