10 important tips to strengthen children's immunity

Stating that the prevalence of infections in winter months is due less to cold weather and more to spending long periods in closed, crowded spaces and the high transmissibility of viruses during coughing, sneezing, or talking, Acıbadem Maslak Hospital Pediatric Health and Diseases Specialist Dr. Serap Sapmaz Deniz noted that for these reasons, strengthening children's immune systems is of critical importance.

At this point, parents must avoid a significant mistake. Recently, influenced by social media, parents who want to strengthen their children's immunity may give them vitamin and mineral supplements they have seen from their social circle or on social media without consulting a physician.

Giving children vitamin and mineral supplements without consulting physicians and without having the necessary tests performed poses a major risk.

Beyond parents using vitamin-mineral supplements without medical advice, it is beneficial for them to know some simple but effective measures to strengthen children's immunity.

TOOTH BRUSHING HABIT

Tooth decay and oral infections can negatively affect the immune system. For this reason, instill a regular tooth brushing habit in children and do not neglect dental check-ups. If they are under 8 years old, brush their teeth again yourself after they have finished, especially the back teeth and the rear surfaces of their teeth.

KEEP VACCINATIONS UP TO DATE

To ensure a strong immune system, make sure you have had all their vaccinations administered in accordance with the vaccination schedule. By getting the flu vaccine, you can also largely protect your child from influenza infections, which are common in winter months. Pay great attention to regular health check-ups to support the immune system and to determine whether there is a vitamin-mineral deficiency.

HOME-COOKED MEALS

Fast food products, which have been consumed very frequently in recent years, contain high amounts of sugar, salt, and additives. These substances not only have addictive properties regarding the sense of taste but also weaken the immune system. Furthermore, they lead to chronic health problems such as obesity and insulin resistance. For this reason, preparing home-cooked meals is highly beneficial for children.

OMEGA-3 RICH FOODS

Feed them foods high in omega-3 for a strong immune system. Eating fish twice a week is also of great importance for mental development and cardiovascular health. Since foods such as walnuts, eggs, meat, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and purslane also contain omega-3, instill the habit of consuming these foods in your child.

ADEQUATE AND QUALITY SLEEP

Since sleep is a process during which children's immune system cells are renewed, energy is stored, and their bodies heal, ensure that preschool children sleep 10-13 hours, school-age children 9-12 hours, and adolescents 8-10 hours. Lack of sleep increases the risk of infection while reducing the immune system's capacity to fight infections.

ENCOURAGING SPORTS

Physical activity is essential for a strong immune system. Regular exercise activates immune cells, making the body more resistant to infections. Activities such as swimming, basketball, football, and cycling are also very important for children.

HAND WASHING HABIT

Hand washing is of critical importance in preventing infections. For this reason, definitely instill a hand-washing habit in your child; teach them to wash their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before and after meals, after using the toilet, and when coming from outside. Also, teach them to cover their mouth with the inside of their elbow, not their hands, when coughing or sneezing.

HIGH PROBIOTIC CONTENT FOODS

Consuming sufficient and balanced amounts from all food groups, especially seasonal vegetables and fruits, and making it a habit to drink water regularly throughout the day play a key role in a strong immune system. Additionally, foods with high probiotic content such as tarhana, kefir, homemade yogurt, garlic, and onions are of great importance for gut microbiota and immunity.

AVOID UNNECESSARY VITAMIN AND MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS

The uncontrolled and frequent use of vitamin and mineral supplements in recent times can lead to very serious dangers. Exposure to high doses of vitamins without determining the child's needs can lead to serious illnesses such as liver and kidney problems. Furthermore, it can reduce the effectiveness of medications, lower the seizure threshold, and create risks such as a predisposition to bleeding disorders.

NATURAL SUPPORTS

You can also benefit from natural mixtures to support the immune system. A mixture you prepare with linden tea, cinnamon bark, and a few drops of lemon can soothe the respiratory tract, while a mixture prepared with a teaspoon of honey and grated fresh ginger will contribute to strengthening their immunity. However, the ginger-honey mixture should not be given to children under 1 year old. Also, since it may cause reactions in allergic individuals, it should be started with a small amount when tried for the first time, and the child must be observed for any reactions.