Winter-proofing your toddler’s immune system

It’s common for some young children to get up to 8 or 10 colds a year before age 2, according to the journal Paediatrics & Child Health. They are especially vulnerable between 6 and  18 months, when the protection of antibodies they inherited from you wanes and they encounter many infections for the first time. This happens most often in winter, when they are indoors and in closer contact with other children in play groups or crèches.

To help build and support their immune systems:

1. Provide a healthy diet

“Children’s micronutrient needs are shaped by rapid growth, high energy expenditure and their developing immune systems,” says Johannesburg-based dietitian Lila Bruk. Aim to give them at least five servings of vegetables and fruit a day (rich in antioxidants and fibre for a healthy gut, which is key to immunity); whole grains; a little lean protein (red meat is high in iron and zinc to support the immune system); dairy for calcium (live plain yoghurt also has probiotics for the gut); and healthy fats (from avocado, vegetable oils like olive and canola, and oily fish like sardines and pilchards). Avoid processed foods and those with added sugar or trans fats. If you are worried that they may not be getting the vitamins and minerals they need, speak to your healthcare provider, who can assess them and request a blood test if necessary. They may suggest supplements, but these should not be given without consultation.

2. Keep them well hydrated

In winter when they don’t sweat as much, children may not feel the need to drink as much. However, water is essential – it carries oxygen to the cells, helping the immune system function effectively and enabling other critical body processes. Keep little ones hydrated by offering water, warm soups, and safe, caffeine-free herbal teas such as rooibos. This is high in antioxidants and essential minerals, including zinc, manganese and magnesium, says the Rooibos Council, and these play important roles in immune function.

3. Encourage them to be active

Studies suggest that among its many benefits, exercise may help increase circulation of white blood cells that fight infection. “Take children on walks, and encourage bike rides and ball games,” says Dr Susan Annandale, a Grotto Bay-based paediatrician.

4. Make sure they get enough sleep

Studies suggest that among its many benefits, exercise may help increase circulation of white blood cells that fight infection. “Take children on walks, and encourage bike rides and ball games,” says Dr Susan Annandale, a Grotto Bay-based paediatrician.

5. Teach them good hygeine

It’s important that little ones learn to wash their hands frequently with soap and water, especially after they use the toilet, before they eat, and when they come in from outdoors. When out, carry disposable wipes or hand sanitiser.

6. See they are vaccinated

“Vaccination is a vital part of keeping your child healthy, particularly in the first years of life before their immune system has fully developed,” says Dr Annandale. Make sure they are up to date with their scheduled shots – check out the Department of Health childhood vaccination schedule. “Also take them for an annual flu shot from when they are six months old, and ensure adults in the family and caregivers have their shots, too.”

Childhood immunisations and flu shots are available at Clicks clinics, visit Clicks Clinics online https://clicks.co.za/clinicBooking

Sources

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2722603/

2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6523821/

3. https://www.health.gov.za/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/epi-schedule.pdf

4. https://clicks.co.za/clinicBooking