Be an immune system superhero These tips will strengthen your child’s immune system.
1 The right foods: Nutrient deficiencies weaken the immune system and are common in picky eaters. To outsmart a child who dislikes fresh fruit and vegetables, put carrot, beetroot, orange, apple, pear and spinach through a juicer and freeze the juice into ice lolly moulds. (Just don’t mention the spinach.) Inadequate dietary levels of essential fatty acids are another problem for children, EPA, which are only found in fish and some fortified foods. If your child dislikes fish, ensure that they take an omega-3 supplement. Growing children have high protein especially the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and requirements, so provide quality protein in all meals; red meat, poultry, eggs and seafood are rich in first class protein. If you notice any skin, digestive or bowel issues in your child, be alert to the possibility of food allergies or sensitivities – gluten and dairy are common offenders.
2 Create healthy sleep habits: Melatonin is a natural sleep hormone which is released when a child is tired, or the lights are off. However, melatonin production is impaired by stress, a high sugar intake, screen time; inadequate melatonin is also found in children on the autism spectrum. Natural supplements can help, magnesium calms restless babies and hyperactive children by boosting melatonin, while glutamine will help a child sleep.
3 Add nutritional insurance: Top up your child’s nutrient intake with supplements containing a therapeutic dose of these nutrients:
• Vitamin C: Deficiency impairs immunity, resulting in a greater susceptibility to infections and an increased risk of recurrence. • Zinc: This is essential for growth and development, especially of the immune system and brain; zinc also has antiviral properties. • Selenium: This underpins a
strong immune system and provides antiviral and anti- inflammatory benefits. development and optimal cognition. Iodine is also a natural antibiotic.
• Iodine: Vital for brain
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