Supporting children’s immune health holistically

Being struck down with the latest bug going around can stop any child (and their parents) from getting to enjoy their daily activities. Being able to maintain immune wellness can be revolutionary for many families.

The key role of the immune system is to be your body’s protector to fight against bacteria or viruses that may cause harm to you. When a mother is pregnant during those months the immune system is created in the baby.¹ Antibodies, (proteins that protect you when an unwanted substance enters the body), are passed down from a mother to a baby in the womb.² When a child is born, their immune system is immature. Through exposure to foreign pathogenic invaders, the immune system acquires memory as it grows and strengthens.³

Although no one wants to see their child unwell, when a child gets a viral illness, it can be a sign they are exercising their immune system which in turn will make it stronger and more robust in the long term.⁴ Several factors can affect how your child’s immune system works. Lack of sleep, a poor diet or not enough time in nature can negatively impact their immune system and how long it takes to recover.⁵ The gut microbiome in children may support how they absorb nutrients from foods. The microbiome can reinforce antibody production to enhance the effectiveness of the first line defence of mucous membranes found in the nose, mouth and throat (right where those yucky bugs like to enter!).⁶

The powers of nature in overall health cannot be underestimated. With over half the world living in urban areas and the increase in time spent on digital devices, time spent outdoors for children and adults alike is drastically decreasing. Immune function is further finetuned by microorganisms we find in nature. It is integral for children to play in the dirt to restore and enhance their immune health. Some studies have even shown that children who grow up on farms may be less likely to develop conditions such as allergies or asthma.⁷

Sambucus nigra otherwise known as elderberry has a rich history amongst herbalists in supporting those with colds and flus. You can have elderberry tea or juice as way to support your immune system. This gentle yet effective plant has a history of being used for its expectorant properties. (Something that may help thin secretions in the airways to loosen up mucous and make the cough productive.)⁸

Probiotics are known to support the gastrointestinal tract, making them extremely useful when you are looking to ensure your immune system is functioning optimally.⁹ Probiotics are commonly found in of foods, such as yoghurt, miso, tempeh, sauerkraut, and kefir. These foods would make an excellent addition to a well-rounded diet.¹⁰

Diversity in the diet can be a challenge with little ones, however perseverance in increasing variety will enhance their immune health. Weaving plenty of colourful plants such as carrots, pumpkin, spinach and broccoli into the diet can be wonderful to ensure the good bacteria in the gut is thriving. If your little one is fussy, try getting them into the kitchen to help cook, children are much more likely to eat food if they have been involved in the cooking process. A great way to foster this connection is to start with a simple herb garden. Children adore to nurture plants and will begin to love eating what they have created.

The ever-elusive sleep can be tricky for many parents but working on sleep hygiene (no screens one hour before bed, dim lighting, or calming activities such as reading) can support their immunity. When we sleep the immune system releases proteins called cytokines to help fight inflammation and infections. When there is a lack of sleep, cytokine production becomes supressed.¹¹

The pillars of good health must be looked to first when supporting immunity: rest, wholesome foods, gentle movement and hydration. Following on from this, you may like to seek additional support in the form of vitamins, herbal medicines or probiotics.

Please remember, before beginning any new supplement please always speak to your preferred healthcare professional for individual guidance and always read the label and follow the directions for use.