Not every time your kids’ exposure to germ, bacteria, or virus causes your kid flu or infection. It is because of the immune system – a complex connectivity of cells, organs, tissues, and proteins that work as a network and defend the body against outside invaders.
A healthy immune system is the foundation of good health in children. It protects your little ones from disease and allows them to recover more quickly when they get sick. Here, parents should help children build a healthy immune system. At the same time, routine health checkups are vital for your kids. You might see the top child specialist doctor in Siliguri City.
Here are some practical tips to help you establish a strong immune system for your little loved one.
· Prioritize Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is a must for a healthy immune system in a growing kid. Make sure your child's meals are rich in fruits and vegetables including high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Fruits and veggies like berries, oranges, broccoli, spinach, and carrots include critical minerals such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which cater to better immune function.
For protein, you can give your kid boiled green peas, lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and nut butter. These options provide the body with protein and essential minerals like zinc, which support immune cell production.
Among whole grains, you can try fiber-rich foods such as oats, brown rice, and whole-grain bread to promote gut health, which is essential for their immunity as well. Healthy fats are also vital that your kid can get from avocados, nuts, seeds, nut butter, coconut slices, and fatty fish such as salmon provide omega-3 fatty acids, known to reduce inflammation.
· Establish Good Sleep Habits
Sleep is key to mental and physical functioning in our body. It is essential for the body's repair and regeneration; therefore, supporting immunity in children. Children's sleep requirements vary with age:
Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours daily.
Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10 to 13 hours each day.
School-age youngsters (6-12 years): 9-12 hours each day.
Create a consistent bedtime routine for your kids, limit screen time before bed, and ensure their sleeping environment is dark, quiet, and pleasant. If you find sleep issues in your child, consult the leading child specialist in Siliguri or near you.
· Encourage Physical Activity
Regular exercise increases blood circulation, lung capacity, and general immune function in your child. Encourage your child to participate in activities that they like, such as:
· Football
· Cycling
· Dancing
· Swimming
· Tennis
· Cricket
Help your kid engage in at least one hour of moderate physical exercise each day. However, do not force them to practice strenuous activities and allow them to take a rest between exercise and activities. Make sure your kid is well-hydrated during these activities.
· Help Your Kid Practice Good Hygiene
Teach your child appropriate hygiene practices, which help to limit their exposure to pathogens. Such techniques include:
· Washing their hands with mild soap and water on a frequent basis, especially before meals, after using the restroom, or after playing outside.
· When coughing or sneezing, they use a tissue or their elbow to cover their mouth and nose.
· Avoid touching their face, particularly the eyes, nose, and mouth more frequently.
· Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations
Vaccines as scheduled have an important role in avoiding dangerous diseases. Follow your pediatrician’s recommended immunization because this will protect your kid from infections such as measles, mumps, rubella, and influenza. You might visit the top child specialist doctor in Siliguri City for all-inclusive child care and further advice.
· Look After Hydration
Water is required for every function in the body, including the immune system in your child. Make sure your little ones drink enough water throughout the day to keep hydrated because they are more likely to avoid drinking water often. However, you must not feed them sugary drinks often.
Building a healthy immune system in your child needs persistent healthy behaviors and a supportive environment. Ensure your kids feel relaxed and supported in a good way as stress can affect immunity in anyone. To better understand immunity in kids and get expert care, meet the top pediatrician in Siliguri today.
