Soutenir l'immunité chez les enfants de plus d'un an - conseils pratiques pour les parents

Soutenir l'immunité chez les enfants de plus d'un an - conseils pratiques pour les parents

Take care of your toddler’s health to enjoy life to the fullest without unnecessary infections! Supporting immunity in children after 1 year of age is a topic that is certainly of interest to many parents. Frequent illnesses during the preschool period can be bothersome, but there are many ways to strengthen your toddler’s immune system.

Varied and balanced diet

Healthy eating is the foundation of strong immunity. It is worth remembering that a proper diet provides your child with all the necessary nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

Vitamins and minerals: A child’s diet should include products rich in vitamins A, C and D, which support the immune system. Vitamin A can be found in carrots, pumpkin and spinach, vitamin C in citrus fruits, peppers and strawberries, and vitamin D in fatty fish, eggs and fortified products.

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), play a key role in the development of a child’s nervous system, as well as in supporting immunity. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that help the body fight infections. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are rich sources of these fatty acids. If the child does not eat fish, it is worth considering DHA supplementation, especially during periods of increased susceptibility to infections. Studies show that adequate intake of DHA supports the functioning of the immune system, and its deficiency can lead to decreased cognitive abilities and increased susceptibility to infections.

Zinc supplementation during infectious periods

Zinc is one of the most important minerals that affects the development and functioning of the immune system. It is essential for the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting pathogens. Zinc deficiency can lead to increased susceptibility to infections and slowed wound healing. During periods of increased risk of infection, especially in the autumn and winter season, it is worth paying attention to the level of zinc in the child’s diet. Good sources of zinc are meat, fish, eggs and wholegrain cereal products. In the case of deficiency symptoms (such as frequent colds or poor wound healing), it is worth consulting a specialist and considering supplementation.

Probiotics and healthy gut microflora

The condition of the intestines has a huge impact on immunity. A healthy intestinal microflora acts as a protective barrier against microorganisms and supports the functioning of the immune system.

Natural probiotics: Kefir, natural yogurt and specially dedicated probiotic preparations can help maintain the proper bacterial flora of the child’s intestines. However, it should be remembered that probiotics should be selected individually, preferably after consulting a pediatrician.

Vitamin D supplementation

Vitamin D plays a key role in the immunity of toddlers. Unfortunately, its skin synthesis may be insufficient, especially in autumn and winter, when there is little sun. Experts recommend vitamin D supplementation in children aged 1–3 years, especially in the months of September to April. The dose should be 15 μg per day, which will ensure adequate levels of this vitamin.

Regular physical activity

Exercise in the fresh air strengthens the body and allows it to fight infections more effectively. Daily walks, running or playing on the playground affect motor development, but also strengthen the child’s immunity.

Adequate sleep and regeneration

Children aged 1–3 years need about 12–14 hours of sleep per night, including daytime naps. Sleep is a time for the body to regenerate, as well as strengthen immunity. Insufficient sleep can weaken the body’s defenses.
The right choice of sleeping bag is crucial to maintaining the optimal body temperature of the child, which directly affects its immunity. Overheating your toddler while sleeping can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, it is worth choosing sleeping bags with the right thickness, adapted to the season, which will provide thermal comfort without the risk of overheating.

Practice good hygiene, but in moderation

While hygiene is important, an overly sterile environment can limit your child’s exposure to microbes that support immune development. Regular hand washing is crucial, but you don’t have to overdo it with the use of disinfectants on a daily basis.

Supporting a child’s immunity is a process that requires balance – a balanced diet, adequate activity, regeneration and taking care of a healthy intestinal microflora. Take care of regular walks, proper eating habits and enough sleep so that your child can enjoy health every day!

Emilia Adamczyk