When it comes to keeping kids healthy, parents are always looking for the best vitamins and supplements to boost their children's immune system. Probiotics, vitamin D, vitamin C, iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E are all important for a strong immune system. But what are the best sources of these vitamins and minerals? And what supplements should parents consider for their children? Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can be found in certain foods such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables. Studies have shown that probiotic supplements can help reduce the number of sick days in children.
Vitamin D is essential for bone growth and other body processes, but breast milk doesn't provide babies with enough of it. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies who are fully or partially breastfed receive 400 IU of vitamin D supplements per day for their first few days of life. Vegetarian and vegan diets can cause nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. To make sure your child is getting enough of these nutrients, you can get vitamin D from food sources such as salmon, egg yolks, dairy products, and some cereals.
Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that plays an important role in the body's healing process. Our bodies don't produce it, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements. Vitamin D strengthens the immune system thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Our skin uses UVB light from the sun to create vitamin D, which stays in our blood at least twice as long as the vitamin D we ingest. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble compound with antioxidant properties that exists in eight forms.
Parents should be careful to avoid supplementing children with too much iron, as this can cause constipation. Zinc is a mineral that feeds the immune system but is considered a “trace element” so we only need a small amount. It's relatively easy to meet our body's nutritional needs since zinc is present in many foods. A gummy immune-supporting vitamin with black elderberry, vitamin C, and zinc is a great way to get these nutrients into your child's diet. Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and other vitamins such as vitamin C and dietary fiber. A liquid vitamin C formulated for children aged 6 months to adolescents is another option for boosting immunity.
Vitamin C supplements may help reduce the duration of colds and flu symptoms in adults and children. However, parents should be careful not to give their children too much iron or vitamin C as this can cause constipation. Wellvites is a vitamin C gummy that comes in a soft, chewy and tasty form without added sugar or sweeteners. It's naturally vegan and free of added sugar. If you decide to give your child a daily dose of vitamin C or one of the vitamins that fight immunity, you may consider giving your child an additional multivitamin complex to support their cognitive and physical growth. Vitamins C, A, D, E and B6 can help boost your child's immune system if they are obtained from many natural sources.
If your child is a picky eater or has a medical condition that affects nutrient intake, you can see a pediatrician for the right vitamin supplement. Washing your hands with alcohol-based soap or disinfectant doesn't directly improve your child's immune system but it does reduce the chance of being infected by germs that your immune system would otherwise have to fight. Fortified foods such as milk, yogurt, orange juice and alternatives to non-animal milk (such as soy or almond milk) provide 5 to 25% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin D. A great-tasting black elderberry syrup specially formulated for children to provide daily or seasonal immune support is another option for boosting immunity. Beta Kids is a gummy supplement made specifically for children to help boost their immune system and reduce the total number of days a child gets sick and needs to miss school. These vitamin C gummies are formulated to aid the absorption of iron, another essential nutrient for immunity. Knowing the best vitamins and supplements for boosting kids' immunity can help parents plan meals and snacks that will keep their children healthy all year round.
