It is necessary to have a strong immunity as that is what protects us from all sorts of attacks from viruses, bacteria, etc. But when a child is born or is in their early stages of life, their immune system is at a developing stage, therefore they need as much protection as possible especially during this winter season. It becomes essential to increases the need to do the right things to boost child’s immunity.
Winter is setting in and with that, it brings along the spread of cold, cough and viral infections. A strong immune system and warm clothing are the only two things that will protect your child from catching the infection. Since this is not a one-day process, you need to consistently work towards boosting the immunity of your child.
Post covid, the focus on boosting our immunity has increased. To help your child avoid illnesses, it becomes foremost to encourage good habits and take necessary steps to boost child’s immunity from infancy. Read on to find how to increase immunity in children.
1. Breast feeding
It is utmost necessary to breastfeed a child for at least first six months after birth. A baby should only be given the mother’s milk during the start.Nursing has got multiple benefits and has an ability to help fight infections off the baby. Breastfeeding reduces respiratory infections and gastrointestinal infections. Breastfeeding reduces the possibility of allergies too.
2. Opt for a healthy platter
In this winter season, a healthy diet that provides your child with warmth and strength is as well as boosts their immunity is most important.One should encourage their childto eat a rainbow colours- a wide array of fruits and vegetables. A child’s diet should be rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals along with a high fibre.
Fruits that boost immunity are oranges, sweet lime, kiwi, apples, and pears. Various vitamins and minerals present in fruits and vegetables are needed to maintain good health and a strong immunity for a child. A healthy diet should also include yoghurt which is full of healthy bacteria that helps to maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
3. Promote regular handwashing
Around 80 percent of infections are spread by touching the surfaces. Therefore, we should teach our children the proper technique of how to wash hands. Washing hands with soap and water removes bacteria and viruses and thus reduces the risk of infection.
4. Timely vaccination
With malaria, dengue, covid etc on a spread, it is important to strict on immunization schedule and follow your paediatrician’s advice. Parents should complete the schedule of timely vaccinations of flu and pneumococcal vaccinations as they help in tackling infections.
5. Proper sleep
Make sure your child gets enough sleep. Sleep requirements for children vary with age: babies from 0 to 3 months would require sleep of nearly 15 to 16 hours, those between 4 to 12 months require 12 to 15 hours of sleep and after this the sleep requirement reduces gradually in children to about 9 – 12 hours. When the child does not get enough sleep it leads to protein deficiency, cytokines which helps fight infections.
6. Regular exercise
Make your child active by regular exercise or any sort of outdoor/indoor activity that will boosttheir immune system by increasing the number of T cells that help fight infections. Include physical activities like yoga, dance and giving them dance challenges to build stamina, doing a cleaning chore together, etc.
Bottom line:
A lot of difference can be made on your child’s health if started at an early stage. Make sure to prioritize your child’s health over their tantrums.
Also Read: Feeling Sad in Winter? Snack on These Foods to Kick Away Depression
