Your body immune system is your first line of defence against illnesses. Strong immunity is important to prevent diseases caused by harmful microorganisms including bacteria and viruses. In general, practising a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to enhance your immune system. ELFA’s in-house food, nutrition and hygiene specialist, shares with you in details on what is good for your child’s health!
A healthy immune system starts with your diet. A daily diet rich in antioxidants which are abundant in many fruits and vegetables enables your body to combat free radicals from damaging cells. The antioxidant micronutrients include vitamins A, C, and E, copper, zinc, and selenium. Healthy fats include omega-3 fatty acids from oily fish has anti-inflammatory properties to help regulate immunity. Probiotics have been shown to boost immune cells and promote the production of natural antibodies to build resistance. For an additional immune boost, you may add natural anti-inflammatory herbs and spices such as garlic, ginger, and turmeric to your meals. Lastly, staying hydrated helps your body to eliminate toxins naturally. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day.
Learn how to prepare healthy meals with our specially crafted Immunity Booster Recipes for Kids.
A healthy diet keeps immunity strong. ELFA’s health meals are certified under Health Promotion Board’s Healthy Meals in Pre-schools Programme (HMPP).
Regular exercise is the other key towards a healthy lifestyle. Exercise improves your health and contributes to a healthy immune system. Engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on five or more days every week helps to detoxify body and relieve stress.
Exercising is a core component of maintaining bodily health.
Chronic stress suppresses the immune response of the body. Therefore, to build immunity, manage and keep your stress level low through regular exercising, being happy, laughing more, and staying positive.
Getting adequate sleep is helpful for your immune function. Sleep of 7-8 hours a day enables your body to perform physical and energy recovery for a stronger body to ward off diseases.
Exposing to the natural sunlight for 15 minutes daily will ensure sufficient production of Vitamin D in your body. Vitamin D is essential as it helps in the production of antibodies to fight against infections. Remember to avoid direct sunlight after 10am and before 4pm to prevent the harmful UV rays from damaging your skin cells.
Suitable outdoor excursions and playtime are arranged for children during peace times to ensure children are exposed to sunlight.
Personal hygiene also plays a part. Simply keeping your hands clean is one of the best ways to prevent being infected with diseases. Hence, it is important to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 30 seconds. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if there are no hand washing facilities available.
Consistent efforts are what you need to ensure immunity for a stronger body defense system against infections.
References:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/
https://www.healthhub.sg/