Tips to boost your child's immune system and help prevent swine flu

stock.xchng

The swine flu has certainly caught the attention of the nation and many are wondering what can be done to protect themselves and their families. While there is a vaccine available, it is extremely under tested and controversial. The best way to protect your family and yourself from any virus is to boost your immunity and make sure it remains strong.

With children back in school they will be exposed to many more germs than during the summer.

Below are 10 tips to keep your child’s immune system strong, which is the best defense against the swine flu virus- or any virus for that matter. Apply and use these same tips and strategies to protect yourself.

1) Get plenty of sleep

Many school children are deprived of sleep. It is impossible for the immune system to remain strong if the body is not getting adequate rest. Make every effort to establish a bed time routine for your children.

2) Get your daily does of vitamin D

There are a multitude of studies that show that vitamin D prevents numerous infectious diseases, including swine flu. Dr. William Grant, director of Vitamin D research, notes that “most Americans (about 85%) do not get enough vitamin D.”  It is important to get the correct form and amount  of Vitamin D.
 

3) Eat/drink powerful immune boosting superfoods such as spirulina and chlorella

 Suggested super-immune boosting products: Naked Juice,  Adwalla, Living Fuel, Boku supefood

4) Get your Omega 3’s

Omega 3's are vital in supporting the immune system. You can get them by eating wild caught salmon, flax seed and walnuts. It is recommended that children and adults take an Omega 3 supplement as most people do not eat enough Omega 3 rich foods to protect themselves: Go here for information on the best high quality source available.

5) Eat high quality protein

Protein is found in lean meat (choose organic, grass fed for the highest quality and healthiest option), fish, eggs and beans.  Sun warrior protein is a high quality product you can blend with water.

6) Avoid chemicals in your food

 When possible choose organic

7) Avoid artificial sweeteners such as aspartame

8) Give your kids healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables

If your kids are used to salty, sweet processed foods, try to retrain their taste buds by gradually incorporating fruits and veggies.  For a quick, on-the-go healthy snack try Jay Robb food bars which are packed full of nutrients

9) Make sure to get your Vitamin C and A

Vitamin C is essential to a healthy immune system. Kiwi’s are packed full of vitamin C. Other food sources include oranges, papayas, mangos, broccoli and peppers.

Your body also needs plenty of vitamin A.  Food sources include sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, cantaloupe and egg yolks.

10) Eat plenty of garlic and these top 10 immune boosting foods

Additional Tip from Health with Dana: In addition to the 10 tips above, never underestimate the importance of drinking plenty of water!