Boosting Kids' Immunity: 4 Essential Steps Before the School Season

Boosting Kids' Immunity: 4 Essential Steps Before the School Season

As the school season approaches, parents are gearing up to prepare their children for the challenges and joys of learning. Amidst the excitement, it's crucial not to overlook one of the most important aspects of a child's well-being – their immune health. A strong immune system not only safeguards kids from common illnesses but also ensures they can make the most of their educational journey.

Here are four essential steps to boost kids' immunity before the start of school:

1. Balanced Nutrition for Immune Power

Proper nutrition forms the foundation of a robust immune system. Before the school season kicks off, focus on providing your kids with a balanced and wholesome diet. Incorporate a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and berries, helps support immune function. Vitamin D, commonly obtained from sunlight and fortified foods, plays a vital role in immunity as well. Additionally, include protein sources like lean meats, eggs, nuts, and legumes, as they are essential for building and repairing tissues, including those related to the immune system.

Limit processed and sugary snacks, as they can compromise immunity. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives like yogurt, hummus with veggies, or homemade granola bars.

 

2. Adequate Sleep – The Immune System's Best Friend

Ample sleep is a potent tool to bolster kids' immunity. During deep sleep, the body releases cytokines, proteins that regulate the immune system's response to infections and inflammation. Lack of sleep can weaken this immune response and make children more susceptible to illnesses.

Establish a consistent sleep routine before school starts. Ensure that your kids get the recommended hours of sleep per night based on their age. Turn off electronic devices an hour before bedtime to promote a peaceful and restful sleep environment.

 

3. Regular Physical Activity for Immune Vigor

Physical activity isn't just beneficial for physical health; it also plays a crucial role in strengthening the immune system. Regular exercise improves blood circulation and supports the healthy functioning of immune cells. Furthermore, physical activity reduces stress hormones, which can negatively impact immunity.

Encourage your kids to engage in daily physical activities they enjoy, whether it's playing in the park, riding bikes, swimming, or participating in sports. Make exercise a fun family activity to motivate everyone to stay active.

 

4. Hygiene Habits – Shielding Against Infections

As kids return to school, they will be exposed to various germs and infections. Teaching proper hygiene habits is an effective way to shield them against illnesses. Ingrain the following habits into their routine:

• Frequent handwashing: Encourage regular handwashing with soap and water, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing.
• Covering coughs and sneezes: Teach kids to cover their mouth and nose with their elbow or a tissue when they cough or sneeze to prevent the spread of germs.
• Avoiding sharing personal items: Advise your children not to share water bottles, food, or any personal items that could transmit germs.

Bonus Tip: Consider Probiotics

Probiotics, often referred to as "good bacteria," play a significant role in gut health and can support the immune system. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented vegetables into your kids' diet can be beneficial. If your child is prone to infections or has recently taken antibiotics, consider a probiotic supplements.

Also - there are many amazing multi vitamins and immune dummies now available, vitamins that your kids will actually WANT to take.  See below for our recommendation or supplements available at Health On Main.

Remember, every small effort towards improving kids' immunity can make a big difference in their overall health and happiness!

PS - Parents, don't forget your vitamins! Germs are shared!!

 

Zinc is an essential mineral that supports general health.* You most likely know it as a popular way to support the immune system.* We’ve made feeling your best every day simple and delicious with these mixed berry flavored gummies containing 11 mg of zinc per gummy. As always, Zinc Gummies are made with the quality, purity, and safety you trust from Nature’s Way.

 

Vitamin D3, the active and preferred form of vitamin D, is a key player in supporting proper immune function and bone health.* Like little drops of sunshine in a jar, these mixed fruit flavored gummies are formulated with 250% Daily Value of vitamin D3. They’re a small, flavourful way to care for the whole you each day.

 

The support you love from Nature’s Way Sambucus, now formulated for kids. Sambucus Kids Gummies blend vitamin C and zinc to help support your little one’s immune system all year long.* The formula also includes our black elderberry extract. Black elderberries have been traditionally used in the winter months. Your kids will love the delicious berry taste, and you’ll love that they’re gluten and gelatin-free with no artificial color.

 

Genestra HMF Fit For School Probiotic Formula helps to reduce incidence of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) symptoms. Also helps to support the immune system.