As another school year begins under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents are wondering what they can do to keep their children healthy. Is there a method to strengthen the immune system and protect against COVID-19 and other illnesses?
The answer is yes, but no magic wands or supplements are available. Taking the required actions to stay healthy is the best method to maintain the immune system healthy. It's tested and true, as monotonous as it may sound.
Here are some things you can do to keep your kids healthy this school year.
Give them a balanced diet.
By "healthy," I mean a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (five servings a day are suggested, with vegetables taking up half of each meal plate), whole grains, and lean protein. Dairy or another source of calcium, as well as healthy fats like vegetable oils, are all part of a balanced diet. Processed meals, foods with added sugar, and foods with bad fats, such as saturated fats found in animal products, should all be avoided. That doesn't rule out the possibility of your child eating cookies or ice cream in the future. However, if you want your child to be healthy, he or she should not eat those things daily.
Many supplements promise to improve your immune system's performance.
While the jury is still out on whether or not most of them are effective, none of them can replace a balanced diet. Whether your child refuses to eat veggies or has a restricted diet, a multivitamin with iron may be beneficial; consult your doctor to see if vitamins or supplements are appropriate for your child.
Make certain they receive enough rest.
Sleep is necessary for all of us, including children, to rejuvenate and recharge our bodies. The quantity of sleep a child requires varies by age (from 12 to 16 hours per day for infants to eight to ten hours for teenagers) and each child (some just need more than others). Limiting screen time for teens can help them sleep better.
Encourage them to participate.
Exercise keeps us healthy and lowers our risk of being ill. Every day, children should be active for at least an hour. "Active" does not have to mean sports or going to the gym; it could just mean taking a walk or playing on the playground. If your child is a serious athlete who exercises several hours a day, ensure sure the training isn't depriving him or her of sleep or causing burnout, both of which can contribute to immune system issues.
Control your anxiety.
Stress makes us sicker and more susceptible to infection. Ascertain that children have free time to play, as well as access to activities and people who bring them joy (or whatever version of that the pandemic allows). Spend quality time with your family and provide an opportunity for your children to discuss any concerns they may have. Many children have become melancholy or nervous as a result of the epidemic, so chat to your doctor if you have concerns about your child's moods or emotional health.
Ascertain that they are up to date on any necessary immunizations.
Immunizations shield us from a wide range of diseases. Check with your doctor to check if your child's vaccines are up to date. The flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months and older every year, but it will be especially crucial this year: not only is the combination of influenza and COVID-19 scary, but every cold symptom this winter means missed school or work while waiting for test results. Also, please vaccinate everyone in your household who is COVID-19-eligible; it is safe and makes a great impact in preventing serious disease.
Also read What parents should know about the COVID vaccine
Remember to take modest precautions.
Simple steps can be taken by everyone in the family to help them stay healthy. Please wash your hands. Coughs and sneezes should be covered with your elbow. To the degree possible, stay away from sick people. Masks can also be useful, particularly in congested interior environments.
If your kid has a health condition that makes fighting an illness more difficult, talk to your doctor about any additional or alternative precautions you should take.
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