7 Foods to Help Boost Your Child’s Immunity
We've all heard it when our kids are sick. "It's just that time of year...it's what happens". Cough, colds and the flu are inevitable at some point in life. Those bugs sure know how to infiltrate our schools, homes and bodies BUT what if we supercharge our kids diet with foods that can boost their immune systems? What if we make them superhero's in their own battle against those superbugs? We think it's worth a try to avoid those runny noses, hacking coughs, vomit covered beds, visits to the emergency rooms, sick days from school and work and constant snuggles (wait...we sort of like that last one).
The foods we offer our children and what they actually consume is crucial in making them the healthiest version of themselves. Their health and behaviour is a direct result of what goes into their little bodies. So lets offer them these 7 Foods to Help Boost Your Child's Immunity.
1. BERRIES, BERRIES, BERRIES
Let's start with BERRIES because, well, there are very few children who don't like them. It will be an easy one to start with.
Do you know what berries are full of? Not just seeds, but antioxidants. Antioxidants can help a body fight oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Another superhero move right there because it keeps kids immune systems fighting! There are so many different berries to choose from that your child is sure to like two or three of them. Try blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries. Try fresh or frozen. Both are great and nutritious.
2. NUTS & SEEDS
Nuts and seeds are jammed packed with nutrition. They may be tiny but they can really up the immunity game for your child. Almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds (gimme all the seeds) have vitamin E, zinc and omega fats that can support a healthy immune system. BONUS!
Offer them combined as trail mix. Grind them and add to yogurt or oatmeal. Toss them into a berry smoothie (you already know how good berries are). Make energy bites with them. The options are endless.
3. KEFIR
You have probably heard about fermented foods and the health benefits. Kefir is an example of just such a fermented food. One that your child milk actually eat. Kefir is rich in probiotics and can be made from cow, coconut or goat milk, or coconut water. Since kefir is fermented, most people who are lactose intolerant can actually drink it. Those probiotics we talked about have actually been show to help prevent cold and flu. Powerful little bacteria that we want our kids tummies to have. There are many plain and flavoured types of kefir and a little goes a long way. Start with a tablespoon or so daily.
4. GREEN THINGS LIKE SPINACH & BROCCOLI
It is well known that green food like broccoli and spinach are nutrition powerhouses. They are full of vitamins and minerals that can boost immunity. Serve them raw, roasted, sauted or add to a smoothie with some berries, milk, kefir and hemp seeds. Now thats some good stuff and includes all the powerhouse foods.
5. CHICKEN SOUP
Chicken soup IS good for the soul and for your child's health. How? One way is that it can temporarily flush out mucous, help to alleviate congestion and thereby decrease the time viruses are in contact with the nasal passage. PLUS, it just FEELS comforting. If your child does not eat meat, you can definitely offer a warm broth with all those wonderful benefits as well.
6. SWEET POTATOES/YAMS
These child friendly beauties are high in beta-cartone. Why does that matter? Well, beta-carotene is converted into Vitamin A in the body, which helps to make skin healthy. Healthy skin is our best first defence against bacteria, viruses and those little germs that make them sick. Roast, boil, or instant-pot them and add to smoothies, baking, soups...your kids will love them.
7. OATS
There is just something about some good old fashioned oats. They know what they are doing in the nutrition department. The are strong and mighty. Oats contain beta glucans. That is something cool sounding right? It's a component of fibre that activates killer cells. These killer cells fight bacteria, viruses, and other intruders in our bodies. It also helps decrease inflammation in the body, therefore helping your little ones heal faster from illness. Try some overnight oats, granola, add to a smoothie, or make some baked fruit crisp.
We know that including these foods will never guarantee a season of no illness. We also know there are so many other factors like proper sleep, hydration, activity, stress and more that play roles. Just try to empower your child to choose healthier options and explain to them how and why certain foods can make them feel better.
