Sick of Your Kids Being Sick?
In this post, we will introduce four nutrients your child needs in their diet to keep them in school and you sane.
Powerhouse Nutrient #1: Zinc
Zinc is a crucial player when it comes to immune function. Be sure your child gets their daily dose of zinc to keep their immune system strong and fight against all the germs that sneak inside daycares and schools.
Zinc deficiencies impair the immune system and can contribute to loss of appetite and slow growth and development.
Zinc can come from food or supplement. We encourage getting most of our nutrients from food, but adding extra zinc in supplement form during cold and flu season is never a bad idea!
Some foods high in zinc are:
· Pumpkin seeds
· Legumes and Lentils
· Meats
· Eggs
Supplements:
We often recommend Organika Lil’ Kids Zinc Spray or Kids Liquid Zinc with vitamin C
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Powerhouse Nutrient #2 (The Dynamic Duo): Zinc + Vitamin C
Research shows that taking both Zinc and Vitamin C together can enhance immune function rather than taken alone.
Therefore, taking Zinc and Vitamin C together during cold and flu season or when under stress or feeling more fatigue when our immune system may be weaker could mean fewer sick days.
Vitamin C is a powerhouse antioxidant; your child should get lots of it daily through fruits and vegetables. One great way to pack lots of Vitamin C is through a Smoothie, and you’re in luck because next month, we break down the science of making the best smoothies your whole family will enjoy!
Powerhouse Nutrient #3: Protein
We talk a lot about protein for growth and development, but a protein deficiency can significantly impair the immune system. Proteins are essential to supporting our fighter cells (T cells, B cells and antibodies) to fight off germs and viruses as soon as they enter the body.
Proteins are one of the most challenging foods for a selective eater, mainly if texture sensitivity exists.
But once your child starts to accept a few new protein-rich foods into their diet, hitting their daily protein goal won’t be challenging.
Powerhouse Nutrient #4 (aka The Sunshine Vitamin): Vitamin D
Vitamin D is well known for its role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus for bone health. But it also plays a vital role in supporting the immune system to fight off bacteria and viruses that enter the body.
Vitamin D deficiencies can be expected in places that have limited sunlight or in people that are limited to sun exposure. Also, people with darker skin may have lower levels of vitamin D. This is due to melanin or the amount of pigmentation in their skin.
Vitamin D is a nutrient that is very difficult to get through food; therefore, supplementing with Vitamin D is your best option.
Struggling with how to get your child to accept any of the above foods or supplements?
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