Winter is just around the corner, at the same time, the appearance of the dreaded colds, which tend to affect with special virulence the youngest of the house.  

That’s why we decided to talk about how to strengthen children’s defenses naturally so that you can prepare yourself to face the coldest season of the year as much as possible. 

 

Food and immune system, a proven relationship

A balanced and varied diet, as well as the regular consumption of certain nutrients, helps our defenses to function properly. It is important to pay attention to the diet of our children if we want them to grow up with a strong and prepared immune system. 

 

The best feeding for defenses

In general, we can say that the Mediterranean diet is a very complete and favorable diet to strengthen our immune system. 

High consumption of fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, and nuts plus protein intake coming mainly from white meat (such as chicken and rabbit) or bluefish (such as anchovy or sardine) are key factors for a varied and balanced diet. 

It is also proven that vitamin c, present in citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, or vegetables of the cabbage family among many other foods, contributes to the strengthening of natural barriers against infections. 

The International Society ofImmunonutrition, in this same line, emphasizes the importance of the consumption of fruits and vegetables – due to their antioxidant role – in the strength of our immune system. 

 

The role of breastfeeding

There is also scientific evidence on the importance of breastfeeding in developing a baby’s immune system, as well as to act as an alternative until the baby is fully formed. 

Thus, beyond its nutritional benefits, breast milk constitutes protection for the infant thanks to its richness in immunoglobulins or lactoferrin, among other immunological factors. This is why breastfeeding is the best food for the baby.

 

Defenses and probiotics, scientific evidence?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that appear after the fermentation of food and when consumed in appropriate quantities as part of a meal, they provide multiple health benefits to the consumer 

Some examples of probiotics are yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, or some pickles. 

 

Vitamin D3, another immune system booster

Since 1980 it is known that vitamin D3, in addition to other roles associated with it, as its function in calcium homeostasis, has a fundamental role in the regulation of the immune response of our body. 

That is why maintaining adequate levels of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) in our bodies becomes crucial for strengthening children’s defenses. 

 

We hope you have enjoyed our tips on how to strengthen children’s defenses! Remember that on our website you can find much more related information; you will surely be interested!