6 Supplements to Help Kids Boost Immunity When they Return to Group Programs
Keeping kids healthy is No. 1 on every parent’s to-do list, but recently it has been more challenging than ever. Ensuring your kids have a robust immune system is the first line of defense.
Kids often don’t give a hoot about germs and come in contact with various pathogens as they go about their day, playing with other children and touching everything in sight. Exposure to germs helps the body fight them off in the future and is typically a healthy part of growing up.
Children need specific vitamins and nutrients to build an immune system strong enough to battle the germs they encounter as they engage in sports practices, school, and family social events. They also need adequate rest and plenty of physical activity to be at peak health. This guide will highlight some supplements that help kids boost immunity and stay healthy.
How Do Supplements Help Kids Boost Immunity?
Supplements can be a great way to help boost your kid’s immunity. Dietary supplements can be anything from a chewable gummy to a drink powder or a bar. They add nutrients to a diet that may otherwise be missing or inadequate. They contain essentials like:
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Amino acids
- Botanicals
- Enzymes
- Metabolites
High-quality supplement formulations are backed by science to help ensure that they are delivering the safest, most effective ingredients. They can help provide nutrients that may be difficult to get from a regular diet. It’s always a good idea to consult with a nutrition expert to develop a supplement routine designed to boost your child’s immune system, specific to their needs.
What Are Some Supplements to Help Kids Boost Immunity?
There are many factors that play into a healthy immune system and supplements can be a helpful tool in supporting immune health. While there are many supplements that can promote immune health, here are some of our favorites for helping kids boost immunity.
Vitamin D3
A deficiency of vitamin D3 can lead to an increased sensitivity to colds, flu, and autoimmune diseases. Babies born with low levels of this critical vitamin experience higher rates of upper respiratory infections. It is vital in calcium absorption, and children need at least 400 - 600 IU per day to stay healthy. Fatty fish are one food that is high in vitamin D, but it’s one that kids aren’t always fond of. Milk is another good source, but there are a lot of reasons some kids might not drink milk. Don’t forget good old sunshine – there is plenty of vitamin D packed into a few hours of outdoor play, but that isn’t always an option either. Supplementing with vitamin D3 helps to ensure your child has the building blocks for a healthy immune system.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a biggie for overall good health, as it’s especially important for immune cells. It helps to keep respiratory issues at bay and may even reduce the length of the common cold. A combo of vitamin C and probiotic supplements may help to prevent allergies and flu germs from taking hold in school-age kids. Orange juice, fruits, broccoli and tomatoes are packed with vitamin C. Children need more of this helpful vitamin when they’re sick, but getting them to eat when they don’t feel well is a chore in itself. A daily supplement of at least 250 mg can help provide what they need to stay healthy.
Probiotics
Lots of people mistakenly believe that all bacteria are harmful. Many helpful bacteria, such as those found in probiotics, do good things for our bodies. Probiotics are microscopic organisms we introduce into our bodies to improve immune and digestive functions and help fight off harmful bacteria, like the kind that causes diarrhea. Eating lots of grains, vegetables, and yogurt can help get enough probiotics into your child, but many kids aren’t big on veggies. A probiotic supplement is another way to ensure they’re getting enough beneficial bacteria.
Elderberry
Elderberries come from the sambuca plant and are often made into jams, jellies, syrups and spreads. They have also been used for centuries as a remedy for cold and flu symptoms and constipation. The high antioxidant content helps to protect cell membranes and boost the immune system. Elderberry supplements come in liquid or tablet form, and in drink mixes and gummies.
Zinc
Experts say zinc is an essential mineral for a child’s immune system. Foods like oysters, red meat, poultry, beans and nuts are full of it. It can be tough to get enough of this valuable mineral, especially for kids and those who are on a vegetarian diet. This important mineral strengthens immunity and helps in wound healing because of its ability to produce proteins and DNA. It also plays a prominent role in cell division. A supplement can help provide adequate zinc to ensure your child is protected throughout their daily adventures.
Vitamin B
Promoting growth, strength and memory in children are valuable functions of vitamin B. B vitamins help keep hair, skin, eyes and nails healthy. As well as supporting a healthy immune system, a vitamin B supplement boosts oxygen to the circulatory system and brain, helping with focus and concentration.
These six supplements can help provide nutrients your child needs to keep a healthy, functioning immune system. You can go overboard, so always follow the dosage requirements for your child’s age to stay safe.
Call the Supplement Experts When You Need Help
Making the right decisions about our children’s health is essential. Village Green is an integrative pharmacy specializing in nutritional supplements and providing personalized plans for wellness.
Our respected store is staffed by pharmacists, nutritionists, naturopathic doctors, and clinical herbalists who help customers find the best supplements and right dosages for their health. Contact our team for help with your child’s nutritional support.
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