Back-to-school often means back-to-school bugs as it’s inevitable that they will be exposed to colds, flu and various other “germs” when sitting in a classroom all day.
This can lead to days off school and days off work for parents. Here are some ways you can naturally increase their (and your) immunity.
Vitamin C
Probably the most well-known nutrient for immune defence vitamin C helps support a normal healthy immune system by helping to protect cells and keep them healthy. This vitamin can easily obtain through diet as it is abundant in many foods, such as:
- citrus fruit
- red and green peppers
- strawberries
- blackcurrants
- broccoli
Daily requirements
1-10 years – 30mg
11-14 years – 35mg
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for activating immune defences and without sufficient intake, the immune system will not be able to react to fight off infections in the body.
The best source of vitamin D is through the skin’s exposure to sunlight, though food sources include:
- Oily fish
- Red meat
- Egg yolks
Dosage recommendations
The UK Department of Health recommend that we all supplement vitamin D throughout the winter months, with children under 5 years old considered an ‘at risk’ group for vitamin D deficiency, it is recommended that they should be given a daily supplement all year round.
Though with an estimated 1 in 6 children in the UK suffering from low levels due to lack of sunlight and and the inability to obtain sufficient levels through diet alone, a daily supplement should be considered for children of all ages.
Our vitamin D requirements vary as we grow older, so we’ve created a range of vitamin D products to support your child through their formative years.
0-3
years
D400 Infant
Simple and pure combination of vitamin D and coconut oil to support healthy bone and teeth development.
3-12
years
D400 Junior
Boost your child’s immune system and combat school bugs with our great tasting oral spray.
Selenium
A less well-known mineral that contributes to a healthy immune system is selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that lowers oxidative stress in the body, reducing inflammation and enhancing immunity.
Good sources of selenium include:
-
brazil nuts
-
fish
-
meat
-
eggs
Daily requirements
4-6 years – 20mcg
7-10 years – 30mcg
11-14 years – 45mcg
Help boost their natural immunity with our MultiVit Junior Oral Spray, containing 14 essential nutrients including Vitamin C, D and Selenium.
