Whether you are a parent or a guardian, you know there are two key building blocks children and their development depends on: education and nutrition. While schools and the education system have a larger role to play when it comes to the former, child nutrition is largely the parent’s responsibility. And when it comes to child nutrition and healthy eating, immunity boosting foods have the greatest role to play.
Why do kids need immunity boosting foods? Well, children are more susceptible to infections due to their developing immune systems and exposure to germs in schools, daycares, and other environments. Immunity-boosting foods can enhance their immune response and reduce the risk and severity of illnesses. But that’s not all.
Proper nutrition is essential for a child's growth and development. Immunity-boosting foods are often nutrient-dense and provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other compounds necessary for optimal growth, organ development, and overall physical and cognitive development. Good nutrition also contributes to increased energy levels and overall vitality in children. So, for your kids to be active all-rounders, getting plenty of immune-boosting foods matters a lot.
When it comes to boosting immunity in children, it's important to provide them with a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. While no single food can guarantee a strong immune system, certain ingredients are known to support overall health and immune function. Here are some top immunity-boosting food ingredients for kids and the reasons they are beneficial for child nutrition.
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Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, which is known to enhance immune function by stimulating the production of white blood cells. A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Nutrients in 2020 found that vitamin C supplementation reduced the incidence and severity of respiratory tract infections in children, including influenza and COVID-19.
Berries
Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage and support the immune system. A review published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry highlighted the immune-boosting properties of berries due to their high antioxidant content. Another study in Current Opinion in Food Science in 2022 says that berries are some of the vital foods that deliver immune-supporting nutrients to the body.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria called probiotics, which promote a healthy gut microbiome. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology in 2021 found that probiotics helped reduce the incidence and duration of respiratory tract infections in children. Additionally, yogurt is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for growth and development.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that provides vitamins A, C, and E, as well as antioxidants and minerals. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting immune function. A study published in the Nutrition Reviews in 2020 demonstrated that vitamin E supplementation improved immune responses in children with asthma.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds, are rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and zinc. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, while zinc is involved in immune cell function. A review published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition emphasized the importance of zinc for the immune system, especially in children.
Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and trout are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and support immune function. A study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology showed that omega-3 fatty acids helped regulate the immune response in children.
Garlic
Garlic has been recognized for its immune-boosting properties due to its sulfur compounds, including allicin. Allicin has been shown to have antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food demonstrated that garlic extract enhanced immune function by stimulating the activity of natural killer cells and macrophages in children.
Eggs
Eggs are a nutrient powerhouse, providing high-quality protein, vitamins (A, D, E, and B12), minerals (zinc and selenium), and essential fatty acids. They are particularly rich in choline, which plays a crucial role in immune function. A study published in The Journal of Immunology investigated the impact of choline deficiency on immune responses and found that choline-deficient diets impaired immune cell function in mice, highlighting the importance of choline for immune health.