Strengthening Our Kids' Immunity: 5 Easy Tips for This Winter

Winter is a beautiful season of hibernation, snuggling up and sitting by the fire with a warm tea, however it can also bring with it more colds and flus and other illnesses that our kids and ourselves can easily pick up. Parents need to make sure their kids have a strong immune system to battle these illnesses. Here are five easy tips to strengthen your kids' immunity during this winter.

Get Proper Nutrition:

Proper nutrition with a balanced diet can help strengthen children's immunity. Vitamins A, C, D, and E, and minerals like zinc are crucial for proper immune function. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein in your child's diet. Foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, spinach, and nuts and seeds, are rich in immune-boosting nutrients.

Hydration

Drinking adequate water plays a significant role in improving the immune system. Always ensure your kids drink enough water throughout the day as it helps flush waste from their body and keeps them hydrated. A child's intake of water should be at least 7 - 8 glasses a day. If your kid doesn't like drinking plain water, add a slice of lemon or orange to add flavour. Alternatively, you can cold brew our herbal blends to create a healthy iced tea - my kids love our Hibiscus Lemon Myrtle blend.

Get Sufficient Sleep:

Children need sufficient sleep for their physical and mental growth, lack of sleep can also weaken their immunity. Make sure they get the recommended amount of sleep for their age group. Preschoolers need 10-13 hours, school-going kids need 9-11 hours, and teenagers need around 8-10 hours of sleep every night.

Physical Activity:

Regular physical activity helps in strengthening the immune system by enhancing blood circulation and reducing stress. Encourage your children to play outside, indulge in outdoor sports, or take them for a walk in the park. Even 30 minutes of walking or playing can help.

Hygiene

Proper hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of infections. Children need to wash their hands frequently with soap and water to kill germs. Encourage them to cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and avoid touching their face with their hands. Teach them to use tissue paper while blowing their nose and dispose of it properly. Also, keep their environment clean. 

Winter can be tough on kids, but with a little effort, we can help strengthen their immunity. By following the above tips, we can ensure that our children stay healthy and happy during this season. Remember, Strong immunity means fewer illnesses and more fun times with family!