Babies are born with an immature immune system. As they grow older, their bodies develop the ability to fight the germs, viruses and bacteria. But they’re still at greater risk for colds, flu, ear infections, and other childhood conditions. Vaccines help, but there are other healthy habits that can give their developing immune system a much-needed boost.
Eat more fruits and vegetables
No surprise here. Best bets are carrots, green beans, oranges, strawberries, which are rich in phytonutrients like vitamin C and carotenoids. Phytonutrients help the body produce white blood cells (which fight infection) and interferon (an antibody that coats the surfaces of cells and shields them from viruses). There’s also evidence that regular intake of phytonutrients can also prevent cancer and heart disease. Your child needs about five servings of frutis and vegetables (one serving = two tablespoons for toddlers, and 1 and ΒΌ cup for older kids).
Get sleep
Sleep deprivation weakens the immune system. A baby needs 18 hours of sleep, a toddler needs 12 to 13 hours, preschoolers need 10 hours.
Breastfeed
Mother’s milk is rich in antibodies and white blood cells, and studies show that breastfed babies are at lower risk for ear infections, allergies, diarrhea, pneumonia, meningitis, urinary-tract infections.
Get moving and grooving
Your child needs regular exercise, and you can encourage him to do this by exercising yourself! This can be as simple as playing frisbee together or talking a walk around the block.
Wash your hands!
Teach your child to wash his hands before and after eating, using the bathroom, and going home from school. Bring disposable wipes and anti-bacterial gel when you go outside, and get kids excited about staying clean by getting them colorful soaps and hand towels.
Throw out the toothbrushes
The Academy of General Dentistry encourages you to throw away tooth brushes after you’re sick, since the viruses can stick there (and your child can get reinfected). Germs can even travel from toothbrush to toothbrush.