If there is one topic that worries parents, it is their children’s health. With the arrival of cold weather, the dreaded but inevitable flu and colds begin to appear. And when they start to happen one after another, the worry increases even more and the first thing parents want to know is how to boost immunity in children to help ease this discomfort.

It’s not just the flu and cold—children with lower immunity tend to get infections, allergies, and other illnesses more easily than normal, especially those who attend daycare and preschool and are in contact with large numbers of other kids. Obviously, we cannot fully immunize children from catching something, but we can reduce the chances that these issues occur.

Besides proper hygiene such as washing hands thoroughly and not sharing personal items, well-ventilated spaces—especially where many people gather—are recommended to lower the risk of spreading illnesses among children. Vaccines were also developed to immunize and reduce the risks of contamination, and are offered at ages considered most vulnerable. These are precautions that all parents know and are reminded of at every routine pediatrician visit and checkup. But what about diet? Does it have an impact on children’s immunity? The answer is yes! Through a proper diet children get all the vitamins and nutrients they need for better development and to strengthen their immune system.

It is through fruits, vegetables, and the protein found in meat, eggs, and milk that vitamins that strengthen antibodies are consumed, helping keep viruses and bacteria at bay. For example, fruit juices rich in vitamin C like orange, acerola, strawberry, pineapple, and cashew are natural remedies that help keep flu and colds far away. For little ones who don’t eat as they should, the pediatrician may recommend vitamin supplements that work in a similar way to natural vitamins.

Another natural remedy that not only boosts immunity in children but also keeps the whole organism healthy is drinking plenty of fluids. Give lots of water, teas, coconut water, and natural juices to your kids. It’s the best way to keep the body hydrated and lower the risk of respiratory tract infections. For babies, remember the importance of breast milk up to the first 6 months of life. Breast milk not only improves the baby’s immunity but also passes on antibodies from the mother to protect against possible ear infections, allergies, and digestive tract infections.

In general, a child should have a healthy life with healthy habits and live in a healthy environment. Avoid processed foods and always practice good hygiene. The environment should be kept clean and well-ventilated, and let children be children—with moderation. Too much protection can also be an enemy to children’s immunity, since every child needs some contact with the microorganisms in the world for their immune system to function properly.

Playing in the dirt, running barefoot, riding a bike, and playing in public spaces and with other children are the most fun and healthy ways to improve immunity in children. Exercise isn’t just fun; it also helps development and increases levels of natural killer cells that fight off viruses and bacteria that try to invade the body.

How to Maintain Children’s Immunity in Winter?

When the weather starts to change, the sun leaves and that cold wind arrives, parents—especially moms—get even more anxious. After all, it’s during this time that flu and colds hit children, along with coughs, asthma, and respiratory infections. Since it’s not possible to stay inside all winter long, some recommendations can be useful to keep children’s immunity up to date and viruses as far away as possible.

Keeping the body warm and bundled up is something moms already know, even though it’s hard to keep all the layers on the kids. Hats, scarves, socks, and coats are essential pieces to face the cold wind outside. Walking barefoot on a cold floor is out of the question, and washing hair then going out in the wind is not recommended.

The cold season is when most children get sick, which is why the flu vaccine is offered during this period. Babies from 6 months to 5 years, who are considered at the highest risk, can get the shot for free at public health clinics (SUS). Overall, the recommended care is the same as for the rest of the year: a complete diet with vitamins that help strengthen immunity, thorough hygiene, healthy habits, and drinking lots of water. By following these tips, you and your little ones will get through the winter calmly, without those annoying flus and colds.

See also: Childhood Anemia – How to Fight It?

Photos: SCA Svenska Cellulosa A, Stuart Boreham