Getting sick may be part and parcel of growing up, but it does not mean that parents have to completely surrender to these circumstances. There are always ways to boost a child’s immunity levels so that they’re better able to fight of the cold, coughs and the flu! If you’re concerned about the level of your child’s immunity, here are some questions to ask yourself.
1. Is your child well-rested?
The immune system is a complex one. It takes a lot of energy to fend off illnesses as well as to heal them. Tired bodies can’t tap into this system well.
That’s why it’s important that junior gets enough sleep and rest whenever needed, to recharge that growing body so that it’ll be better at fighting off illnesses.
2. Are you serving enough fruits and vegetables daily?
Immune-boosting nutrients such as phyto nutrients, e.g Vitamin C and carotenoids should be consumed everyday. They are abundant in fruits and vegetables.
Growing bodies need them to help increase the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and interferon, an antibody that coats cell surfaces, blocking out viruses.
3. Is your child active or sedentary?
Active bodies are fitter and stronger than inactive ones. Body movements help to excrete bacteria from the lungs and airways and thus may reduce your chance of getting a cold, flu, or other illness.
Exercising alone is no fun for kids though, so do make it a point to include some form of physical activity as a family to keep your child active as possible.
4. Does your child practice good personal hygiene?
Washing hands whenever needed, good toilet hygiene practices, and other basic hygiene practices have to be taught and followed up on till they become a habit.
Keeping themselves and their environment clean will help them fend of bacteria that will make them sick, thus lending their immune system a hand.
5. Is your child constantly in the company of a smoker (or smokers)?
While it goes without saying that smoking is devastating to the health, secondhand smoke is also just as bad for the human body and children in particular are especially susceptible to it. Secondhand smoke significantly reduces the body’s immunity towards illnesses.
Instead, it increases the risk of bronchitis, ear infections, and asthma. If you’re serious about strengthening your child’s immune system, take heed on this one.
