Flu season is here, and children in particular struggle with around 8-9 infections each year. Strengthening the immune system is crucial during this time. This article will discuss the development of children's immune systems, the causes of weakened immunity, and ways to strengthen it sustainably.
How is my child's immune system developing?
Our immune system is complex and multifaceted. It's a long process that begins in the womb before the immune system is fully developed. The placenta supplies the unborn child with important antibodies that protect its small, delicate system from its first contact with bacteria and other pathogens. This supply continues through breast milk. The newborn is equipped with antibodies to a greater or lesser extent, which the mother developed through contact with specific pathogens. This means that these defense mechanisms can vary depending on the environment. However, this protection weakens again during the first year of life, as the child's body becomes more independent and is now on its own. The immune system is therefore still very weak and has a basic foundation upon which it gradually builds.
What does "immunization" mean?
This passive immunization, which begins in the womb, provides two crucial components: the so-called killer cells and phagocytes. These belong to the white blood cells and are, so to speak, omnivores, as they can recognize and destroy a range of dangerous pathogens. Although we are born with a non-specific immune system, this too becomes stronger and more successful in its task over time.
In addition to the non-specific immune response, there is the specific immune response, which is the main artery in the development of the immune system. This defense mechanism can specifically recognize each pathogen and thus marks it with specific antibodies. These antibodies can then immediately identify the intruder upon repeated attacks. Once this association has been made, the pathogen is passed on to phagocytic and killer cells as nourishment. In this way, an infection can be fought off quickly and effectively. If such an encounter has occurred, the body can develop specific immunity, for example, against measles, mumps, etc.
What are the causes of a weakened immune system in children?
In the beginning, a small body has to fight off a whole host of enemies... Whether in playgroups, playing in the sandbox, or at school – children are constantly in contact with other children and the outside world. This means they are constantly exposed to bacteria and viruses from their environment.
This topic is omnipresent in schools and kindergartens – whether it's middle ear infections, colds, or respiratory infections – gastrointestinal infections are also included. The motto here is: obstacles and difficulties only make your child stronger! Every new infection contributes to better equipping the immune system. It's a very strenuous process for the body to reach this point, but at the same time, it's also crucial, vital training for a robust bodily system.
Especially during the cold winter months, the immune system is more vulnerable. At this time, the body can wage a real battle against infections and thus easily become susceptible to them. Young children are often in close physical contact with others and cannot understand and adhere to hygiene measures such as regular handwashing and blowing their nose as well as adults.A lack of essential nutrients, psychological and physical stress, or insufficient sleep are also often triggers for this chain reaction. With each new attack, the immune system loses strength and energy. Therefore, it is all the more important to actively support the body with good nutrition and additional vitamins. The whole family can participate, as the parents' immune systems are also challenged, but ultimately strengthened, by contact with new pathogens.
How can I strengthen my child's immune system?
A strong immune system needs fuel to work diligently and effectively. This fuel comes in the form of valuable nutrients, mostly from the right foods. However, despite the abundance of food in our modern society, the immune system often suffers from such a "fuel deficiency."
But why is this the case? The reason can actually be traced back to the fact that we have almost too much choice and therefore make decisions that aren't necessarily the best for our health. Children, in particular, place more value on taste than on the health effects of consuming certain foods. That's why they are known for having relatively unbalanced diets. Of course, you can't really blame them. What child doesn't love bright colors and sweets?! Although popular children's products offer a wide variety of colors and playful shapes, the essential nutrients are often very low or even completely absent.
A long-term study by the Robert Koch Institute shows that children in Germany eat too little fruit and vegetables compared to the generally recommended amounts. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) also found that German children consume too little fruit and vegetables on average. Therefore, parents must see it as their responsibility to familiarize their children with healthy eating, develop an understanding of the exciting variety of healthy foods, and thus give them a good foundation for the future.
Introducing children to a healthy diet can sometimes prove difficult, because children ask themselves: Why should I eat something I don't like? A valid question.
How can I get children excited about healthy eating?
“Motivation instead of coercion” has always proven effective. Forcing children to finish their food can have the opposite effect of fostering a positive attitude towards healthy eating. Experts continue to advise against using food as a reward or punishment. Many remember from childhood having to “earn” something sweet, especially if it meant eating the “bad” vegetables first. Sweets become associated with something positive, while fruits and vegetables are linked to something negative. Finding a balance by not forbidding all sweets or unhealthy foods, but allowing them in moderation, is a very effective approach. It's all about the quantity. Finding a middle ground is also excellent discipline training!
Furthermore, children can be involved in shopping and cooking in a playful way. Regularly trying new things also brings more fun and variety to children's eating habits. In this way, "the unknown" is better accepted and not immediately rejected without giving the food a chance.
It can actually take up to seven attempts before a child can clearly express their opinion about a particular food – or whether they dislike it. If all else fails, you can also try hiding the unwanted vegetables – for example, in sauces, soups, or purees.In any case, it is important that you set a good example and celebrate the meal together at the table, if possible!
What exactly does my child's immune system need?
Vitamins and trace elements are the necessary building blocks for stimulating the immune system. They are responsible, for example, for the formation of new immune cells and substances. A proper diet provides the body with important micronutrients. We have listed some examples:
- Iron: whole-wheat bread, spinach
- Vitamin D: Salmon, eggs
- Selenium: Kohlrabi, broccoli
- Zinc: Cheese, potatoes
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, bell peppers
With very few exceptions, the human body is unable to produce vitamins, trace elements, and minerals itself. This means our bodies are almost entirely dependent on the nutrients we obtain through food. Adequate intake is not only important during growth; micronutrients are essential throughout life. Metabolism, energy balance, the nervous system, and ultimately the entire immune system depend on these building blocks.
If vitamins and minerals are not consumed in sufficient quantities, dietary supplements can be used to supplement intake. Our dietary supplement Dailybacs® Kids Contains live bacterial strains that promote a balanced gut flora in children and can strengthen the immune system. Even at a young age, taking beneficial bacteria offers numerous advantages for the immune system and the prevention of allergies. Dailybacs® Kids They are true all-rounders, as a special selection of highly effective ingredients is concentrated in a single sachet: a formulation of beneficial bacteria for improved digestion and thus improved nutrient absorption. These elements also contribute to specific mechanisms. Iodine, for example, is a mineral that supports normal growth in children. That's why we developed our Dailybacs® Kids specifically for children's needs.
Besides diet, children's immune systems can also be strengthened with other methods. Here are a few valuable tips:
- Lots of exercise Team sports like football or volleyball are a lot of fun and provide both exercise and balance. Physical activity is important for a strong immune system.
- Get some fresh air Regardless of the weather, you should definitely take every opportunity to get outdoors with the right equipment. Contact with the environment strengthens the body through thermoregulation, thus protecting it against infections. Other stimuli, such as dirt and other organisms, are important companions in the development of the immune system.
- Quiet time When you're bored, you have to rely on your own creativity. Such moments are also important, because a tightly planned week can build up stress and thus weaken the immune system.
- Sufficient sleep Even children attending primary school need 10-11 hours of restful sleep.
- Supporting the gut flora - With probiotics, fiber, vitamins, trace elements, and plant-based protein for the formation of antibodies and immune cells. Of course, a balanced diet is also essential. Dietary supplements can provide the missing nutrients and slightly boost absorption.
- Regular hygiene, but not obsessive hygiene. Teach children to wash their hands regularly from an early age. A little tip: There are many lovely children's books that explain this clearly. On the other hand, an obsession with hygiene should be avoided – because an overly sterile environment doesn't provide the immune system with enough stimuli to train its defenses more effectively.
- Drink enough fluids Water or unsweetened tea. The mucous membranes need to stay moist to ward off pathogens. They dry out easily in winter because we spend a lot of time in heated rooms where the humidity is very low.
- Kneipp cold-warm baths Applying heat to children's legs activates the immune system. You should pay very close attention to the temperature, as too large a temperature difference can overwhelm the body. Children are more sensitive to temperature changes than adults.
Can probiotics support my child's immune system?
The gut flora is an important component of the immune system. Various genetic, environmental, and dietary factors can influence the gut microbiome-immune system axis as early as the first three years of life. For infants who have already been exposed to certain risk factors (genetic predisposition, cesarean section, lack of breast milk, medication, etc.), taking probiotics seems particularly beneficial. Probiotics can positively support the optimal development of the immune system, strengthen the body's natural defenses, and better protect children from infections. Learn more about probiotics in our article. Probiotics - Everything you need to know.
With the tips mentioned above, your children's immune systems should not only be prepared for the cold winter months, but a strong foundation should also be established that will last into adulthood. With continuous support through proper nutrition, probiotics and essential micronutrients, a healthy balance, and plenty of fun, nothing will stand in their way!
