The end of the summer holidays is always a busy time of year, as kids get ready to return to school and transition back to regular bedtime routines, homework, and tests. These changes can certainly be stressful, and when combined with less sleep and a steady drop in temperatures, children can often find themselves with a weaker immunity, making them more susceptible to colds, illnesses and viruses.
Thankfully, there are a handful of natural ways to help boost their immune system and prevent illnesses, making sure they’re able to stay healthy for a successful start to the school year – and the fun and challenges that await them.
Make a Nutritious, Balanced Diet a Priority
It’s important that kids are taught about the importance of getting into healthy eating habits from a young age. Eating well from an early age can make a positive and lasting impact on health, not least of all by simply keeping germs at arm’s length. Emphasise the value of avoiding processed foods, as well as of eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Limit their intake of sugar, as this is a known immunity suppressant.
Also be sure to start their day with a healthy, nourishing, and balanced breakfast. Good options include porridge with fruit, yoghurt and granola, or a veg-packed omelette. Keep this up throughout the day and continue with a balanced lunch and healthy snacks, such as a sandwich with lean chicken, whole-wheat crackers with cheese, and plenty of fruit.
Finally, finish their day with a healthy dinner of fish or other lean protein while making sure they’re getting plenty of vegetables.
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Supplement with Extra Immune Boosters
Multivitamins are hugely beneficial for children of all ages, not just at the start of cold and flu season, but all year round. To support immunity around back-to-school time, try adding a high-quality vitamin supplement to their routine.
Vitamin C has also been shown to promote immune health. Make sure you always choose supplements and vitamins that are organic, non-GMO-verified and free from any artificial nasties. With Garden of Life, you can always be sure that what you’re giving your children is 100% traceable and organic.
Keep Them Clean
It’s difficult to overstate the importance of hand washing – especially for children. As one of the most effective ways for keeping germs and illnesses at bay, it’s important to encourage your child to lather up regularly. What’s more, make sure kids avoid the habit of touching or rubbing their face – especially the nose, eyes and mouth – to help guard against infection.
At home, make sure you’re regularly cleaning high-contact items, such as doorknobs, computers, taps, and remote controls.
Ensure Kids De-Stress
There’s a direct correlation between stress and a weakened immune response, so it’s especially important to make sure your kids have time to play with friends, relax, and unwind. Encourage your kids to spend time outdoors and unplug from technology. It’s also incredibly valuable for children of all ages to engage in creative activities such as painting, drawing, or learning a musical instrument.
Exercise is also an ideal outlet for kids. It helps to strengthen immunity, manage stress, and protect against childhood obesity. Experts even suggest that children try yoga and meditation, which have been found to boost immunity, improve concentration, lower stress, increase confidence and much more.
While every extra precaution helps prevent kids from getting ill, sometimes it inevitably occurs. Don’t fight it, and instead simply make sure your child stays at home, gets plenty of rest, and stays hydrated.
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