Many parents are on the hunt for natural immune system boosters for their little ones. In this article, we’ll outline a variety of immune system boosters for kids and what parents should know in making their selection.

A Happy & Healthy Little One

Having a sick child (or worse yet children) is definitely not fun, especially amidst the back to school season. Year-round, but especially during peak illness seasons, it’s important to keep your little one happy, healthy, and thriving with natural immune system boosters! Here are some immune system boosters for kids every parent should try.

Immune Boosting Supplements & Beverages

Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics are known as the “good bacteria” that is essential for good health. Prebiotics serve as a food source for probiotics that especially promote good gut health. Natural foods like yogurt, buttermilk, certain cheeses, and even pickles are a natural source of probiotics that are more easily introduced to children. Some natural prebiotics to explore are yams, bananas, and asparagus.

Sambucas

You may have also heard this referred to as “elderberry” when being referenced in a syrup form. Sambucas (in either capsulated or syrup form) is a natural source of antioxidants that serve as  a great natural immune system booster. They also have been known to help with inflammation and promote heart health.

Fruits and Veggies

This one goes without saying, but keeping your child’s diet packed with the right serving size of fruits and vegetables is a great habit to get into. Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and even broccoli are packed with antioxidants that especially boost immune system health. Strawberries, bananas and oranges are excellent and delicious fruits that you should incorporate as well.

Vitamin D and Zinc

Vitamin D is a popular pick me up for sick children and adults. However, it also serves great as an immune system booster alongside zinc. The proper serving of Vitamin D and zinc is dependent on age, so be sure to consult your doctor prior to introducing supplements. For natural sources, oranges, strawberries, beans, and certain animal-based meat products are beneficial.

Nuts and Seeds

An excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, nuts and seeds are often overlooked as a healthy addition to child’s diet. As a start, try almonds, walnuts, flaxseed and sunflower seeds. It’s of course important to keep age in mind as seeds can be choking hazards for small children.

Immune Boosting Best Practices

Sleep Quality and Quantity

One of the best natural immune system boosters for kids is proper sleep, both in quality and quantity. Young children especially need plenty of rest, as lack of adequate sleep can make them more susceptible to illnesses. This is also true for adults, so catch some Z’s too mom and dad!

Eliminate Second Hand Smoke

Cigarrete smoke is known to contain thousands of harmful chemicals that can result in disease, cancer and even death. However, these risk factors can also stem from second hand smoke in areas of prolonged exposure, so be mindful of what environments your child is exposed to.

Exercise as a Family

Research shows that disease killer cells are boosted as a result of exercise in adults, which also holds true for children (while also promoting cardiovascular health). Make exercise a fun family mainstay to do throughout the week, and encourage them to get active on their own as well.

Reduce the Spread of Germs

Proper hygiene is the best combatant against the spread of germs, especially in high risk environments like school, daycare and recreational areas (parks, playgrounds, etc.). Make sure your child washes their hands regularly, avoids touching their face, and putting their hands in their mouth after a time of play.

Stay Up to Date on Pediatric Visits

When it comes to your child’s health, your pediatrician is here to help you promote, implement and maintain the most healthy lifestyle possible. Make sure your child stays up to date on all scheduled visits and check ups throughout the year. When in doubt about important health-related decisions, always ask your doctor.

My Child is Sick, Help!

If you fear your child may be catching an illness and symptoms are not alleviated with home remedies, visit your nearest Next Level Urgent Care! Unsure of which treatments are handled at urgent care facilities? Click here to see what we treat, or read our article below to learn more.