The immune system is the most important system of the body when it comes to preventing diseases. We are all born with different levels of immune systems. But there are many things that can weaken an adequately strong immune system.
The immune system defends the body from developing potentially harmful diseases and conditions caused by bacterial, parasitic, fungal, and viral infections.
When functioning properly, the immune system fights disease-producing organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. All children are continuously exposed to these pathogens, but exposure does not mean a child will get sick.
A strong immune system provides a child with powerful natural defenses against disease. Conversely, a child with a weakened immune system is vulnerable or more susceptible to colds, flu, and more serious illnesses.
Symptoms of Weak Immune System
- Frequent and recurrent pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, meningitis, or skin infections
- Inflammation and infection of internal organs
- Blood disorders, such as low platelet counts or anemia
- Digestive problems, such as cramping, loss of appetite, nausea, and diarrhoea
- Delayed growth and development
- Autoimmune disorders
Factors that Weaken Immune System
- Poor diet
- Lack of sleep
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Excessive use of antibiotics and other medications
- Lack of hygiene
- Dehydrations
Environmental Strengthening of a Child’s Immune system
It is virtually impossible to germproof your child. Germs are abundant everywhere, especially in situations such as daycare or preschool. Being exposed to germs is a part of life, and not necessarily unfavorable. Exposure to different viruses and bacteria can actually strengthen a child’s immune system. Furthermore, acquiring innocuous childhood diseases such as chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella can help to build immunity and give your child lifetime protection against these diseases. Lifetime immunity is important since these diseases can have serious negative effects if acquired as an adult.
Natural ways to Boost Immune System
- Get enough sleep
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds
- Consider probiotics
- Exposure to sunlight
- Intake of garlic and medicinal mushroom
Vitamins that Boost Immune System
- Vitamin C is one of the biggest immune system boosters of all. In fact, a lack of vitamin C can even make you more prone to getting sick. Daily intake of vitamin C is essential for good health because your body doesn’t produce or store it.
- Vitamin B6 is vital to supporting biochemical reactions in the immune system.
- Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps the body fight off infection.
Foods that Boost Immune System
- Citrus foods
- Red Bell Pepper
- Broccoli
- Ginger & Garlic
- Spinach
- Yogurt
- Almonds
- Turmeric
- Green Tea
- Papaya
- Kiwi
- Poultry
- Sunflower Seeds
- Shellfish
Breastfeeding benefits for your baby’s immune system
Human milk provides virtually all the protein, sugar, and fat your baby needs to be healthy, and it also contains many substances that benefit your baby’s immune system, including antibodies, immune factors, enzymes, and white blood cells. These substances protect your baby against a wide variety of diseases and infections not only while he is breastfeeding but in some cases long after he has weaned.