Children and Immunity
Schools are finally reopening and kids are excited to see their teachers and play with their friends! However exciting it is for the kids, parents, on the other hand, might feel a little apprehensive about what the school year in our “new normal” may bring. Even though kids will to be told to maintain a social distance of six feet apart, wear masks and sanitize their hands repeatedly throughout the day, now more than ever, maintaining a strong immune system is key. As children return to in-person learning this fall, it is important to be prepared. Parents can help their kids prepare for the new routine and improve their immune system with a holistic approach including a balanced diet, a good night’s sleep, exercise, and proper hand-washing. Start the school year off on the right foot by setting a new routine for the whole family, and take comfort in knowing that you are all building your armour against whatever flu and virus season has in store.
BOOST IMMUNITY HOLISTICALLY
A balanced diet
A balanced diet is the foundation of a healthy body and mind. A wide variety of nutrient-dense foods provides us with the fibre, micronutrients, and antioxidants needed for optimal health. Encouraging nutritious food choices as early as possible will lead to better eating habits later in life. Eating an array of fruits and vegetables (think of eating “the rainbow”), healthy protein sources, healthy fats, and grains will provide kids with all they need to strive and improve their immunity. By eliminating processed foods containing, wheat, sugar, hydrogenated oils, and artificial food colouring, you might even notice their attention span and concentration will improve.
A good night’s sleep
A consistent bedtime will not only help children function well during the school day, sleep also plays an important role in immune health. Aim for your child to have at least 7 hours of sleep per night. Limiting screen time two hours before bed is extremely important in improving kids sleep quality. Getting plenty of fresh air on an evening walk is a wonderful way to wind down in the evening, and is also a great opportunity for some family time.
Managing stress
Gone are the stress-free days of going back to school. With social media at kids fingertips, the current pandemic and its associated restrictions, it can all seem overwhelming anticipating what this school year will bring. As research shows that stress impacts immune function, it is imperative that kids (and parents) make time to unwind and get centered. Exercise is an ideal outlet and has been linked to a robust immune system. Choose activities you can do as a family, get outdoors as much as possible, hiking, cycling, playing ball are great activities to do as a family. Yoga and meditation may also be helpful. Fostering connection and supporting our kids emotionally is so important and much easier to do when they feel a strong emotional bond. Doing things as a family where you become their primary attachment is of most importance in creating this connection.
THE ROLE OF SUPPLEMENTS IN IMMUNE SUPPORT
While a good diet and healthy habits are essential to a strong immune system, additional support may be needed due to our modern lifestyles. This can be due to nutritional issues, decreased time spent outdoors, poor gut health, or environmental factors such as soil, water, and air quality.
1.HMF Child + Multi by Genestra or HMF Fit For School
HMF Child + Multi is a great tasting combination of probiotics and vitamins that helps to promote optimal health in children. The gut microbiome is still developing during childhood, and probiotic supplements are an excellent way to support their immune function and set them up for lifelong health.
The end of summer brings shorter, cooler days and more time spent indoors, especially for children who are returning to the classroom. With that comes less daily exposure to sunlight and a resulting drop in vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is required for absorbing calcium from food for healthy bone and teeth development in childhood, and is part of a robust immune system
3. Children’s Trident Sap by NFH
Omega‑3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) play a vital role in the healthy development and functioning of the brain and central nervous system in infants and children. Essential Fatty Acids also play a vital role in immunity and reducing inflammatory responses brought on by environmental factors.
4. Children’s Chewable Vitamins by Genestra
Supports tissue formation, normal growth and development throughout childhood. Contains antioxidant support, produces and repair connective tissues, aids in the development and maintenance of bones, teeth, gums and vision.
Blog Written by: Kacia Mongeau
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