{"id":10650,"date":"2022-10-29T09:03:25","date_gmt":"2022-10-29T14:03:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gncholdings.wpengine.com\/learn\/beauty\/tips-for-kids-immune-health\/"},"modified":"2023-01-30T11:47:51","modified_gmt":"2023-01-30T16:47:51","slug":"tips-for-kids-immune-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/development.gnc.com\/learn\/wellness\/tips-for-kids-immune-health.html","title":{"rendered":"Tips for Kids Immune Health"},"content":{"rendered":"

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As we begin to send our kiddos back out into the real world, we must make sure we are doing everything possible to set them up for success. While so many young children are out developing valuable life skills and experiences from social interactions, they\u2019re also bringing home some unwelcomed guests in the form of germs.<\/p>\n

Immune System Overview<\/h2>\n

The immune system is an essential tool that helps to keep our bodies happy and healthy. It is naturally present in all humans and plays a key role in working to fend off sniffle-causing microorganisms. When pathogens see an opportunity, they quickly pounce, hoping to find a new home inside of our body. Fortunately, this is when our natural defense system kicks into action, recognizing and responding to these foreign invaders.<\/p>\n

Why is immune health important for children?<\/h2>\n

Kids are a primary target for invading microorganisms for 2 main reasons:<\/p>\n

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  1. Children have immature immune systems<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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    1. While newborns naturally possess some form of an immune system, it takes time to truly develop into a fully functioning defense mechanism. It takes years of practice for our immune systems to acquire a proper understanding and memory for how to deal with foreign invaders.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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      1. Children come into contact with\u2026 everything!<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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        1. Kids play with other kids \u2013 and dirt! Unfortunately, our youngsters often forget what it means to practice proper hygiene.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          For these reasons, we should emphasize the importance of handwashing and cleaning up after ourselves. But what about when we\u2019re not there? Despite our best efforts, kids need to develop some sort of independence. They need to go out into society; live, learn, and experience all of what life has to offer. To further set them up for success, let\u2019s take a look at the impact that food can have on the development of a stellar immune system.<\/p>\n

          Foods For Immune Health<\/h2>\n

          Food can be a tough battle, especially with younger children who may be picky eaters. For this reason, we need to provide options. Here are some of the best examples of foods to help boost the immune system in kids.<\/p>\n

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          1. Berries<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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            1. Nuts and Seeds<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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              1. Citrus Fruits<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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                1. Fatty Fish<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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                  1. Green Leafy Vegetables<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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                    1. Yogurt, Kefir, and other Probiotics<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                      Tips For Immune Supporting Foods<\/h3>\n

                      Some tips for effectively implementing new immune-bolstering foods into the diet of children include:<\/p>\n