Kids are more likely to catch colds, coughs, and the flu because they are always around other kids. This is why parents try to find ways to help so they don’t get sick as often by choosing the best foods to boost immune systems.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help boost the immune system by increasing the body’s antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, and unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
There are many great foods you can feed your child to help bolster their immune system. Keep reading.
Berries
Berries are a nutritious way to keep your family healthy. Add blueberries to cereal, smoothies, or snacks. Frozen or fresh berries are a healthy and delicious treat.
Berries are packed with antioxidants, which help keep the immune system fighting against oxidative stress. But you don’t have to limit yourself to blueberries – explore raspberries, cranberries, blackberries, strawberries, and cherries, too.
Citrus
Citrus fruits are high in Vitamin C, essential for a strong immune system. Many kids like to eat oranges and tangerines and drink orange juice for breakfast. As a result, it is easy to incorporate citrus fruit into the diet. Citrus fruit is excellent to eat for breakfast or as a snack because it is healthy and easy to eat.
Leafy Vegetables
Green veggies are essential for kids to eat because they help to build a robust immune system. They are packed with essential vitamins and carotenoids that help the body fight off infection and disease. Try to get your kids to eat at least one green veggie daily. For example, spinach and fenugreek leaves are rich in antioxidants, which help to strengthen the immune system.
Mushrooms
Some mushrooms, like lion’s mane and reishi, contain a special compound called beta-glucans. This compound is known to stimulate the immune system. This can help to boost immunity, especially against apoptogenic diseases.
Mushrooms are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be added to pizzas and pasta for extra flavor or cooked in various ways to create a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe or something a little more sophisticated, mushrooms are a great ingredient to work with.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes help improve respiratory function. Squash or pumpkin is rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and C, magnesium, and manganese.
Root vegetables are vegetables that are grown underground. They are typically hearty and filling, making them a great option for winter stews, oven roasts, mash, and casseroles. Root vegetables are also packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for a healthy meal.
Seeds
Sunflower, flax, and pumpkin seeds are all excellent sources of Vitamin E. You can find these seeds roasted, crumbed, salted, or candied. Cashews, almonds, walnuts, and peanuts are also great sources of Vitamin E.
Yogurt
Eating yogurt and other fermented foods is a great way to promote good gut health. Probiotics, or good bacteria found in these foods, help keep harmful bacteria from taking over the stomach. Not only are they good for you, but they can also be delicious additions to lunch and dinner.
Supplements
Most kids don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables and choose the best foods to boost immune systems, so supplements can help. Vitamin C and echinacea are effective supplements that can be taken daily to help prevent illness.
Echinacea and zinc effectively treat colds and flu because they boost the immune system. Echinacea does this by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which fight infection. Zinc helps the body to heal by speeding up the repair of damaged cells.
Conclusion
Children should limit their intake of sugar and junk food to help boost their immunity, especially during the winter months. Sugar can lower one’s immune system, while the artificial colors and chemicals in junk food can also harm the immune system.
A healthy diet is crucial for a human being. It is essential to eat fruits and vegetables every day to have a strong immune system. This will help your child be able to deal with the demands of their growing bodies.
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