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Baby's Immunity: Ways To Boost Your Baby's Immune System

Team AckoDec 2, 2024

Your baby's immune system is a network of specialised cells, tissues, and organs that process the body to provide resistance and fight against disease-causing pathogens by producing antibodies to various toxins and infectious agents. Its functioning is the same as that of adults.

Contents

Ways to Boost Your Baby's Immune System
Ways to Boost Your Baby’s Immune System: Tips to Remember
Wrapping up!
Frequently Asked Questions

While they are born with some innate immunity, which helps protect against infections, babies do not yet have the full range of defence mechanisms that older children and adults have. The primary defence in newborns comes from antibodies passed through the placenta during pregnancy and from colostrum (the early breast milk). Over time, as babies encounter various pathogens, their immune system begins to adapt and develop more robust protection.

Ways to Boost Your Baby's Immune System

By adopting these healthy habits, you can give your babies an immunity booster that will protect them against infections.

1) Breastfeeding: Breastmilk contains turbo-charged immunity-enhancing antibodies and white blood corpuscles. Research says that colostrum, the thin yellow ‘pre-milk’ that flows from mothers' breasts during the first few days after birth, is highly rich in ‘disease-fighting antibodies’. When the mom breastfeeds her baby for a year or so, it boosts the baby’s immune system. If this is not possible for some moms, breastfeeding their babies for at least 2 to 3 months will supplement their babies’ immunity, which they would have received in utero.

Nursing moms must take the prescribed amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics regularly to boost their baby’s immune system through breast milk. These must be coupled with a wholesome diet that is full of leafy greens, ginger, garlic, turmeric, plenty of fruits, especially oranges and strawberries, and all vegetables, mainly carrots, green beans, red bell peppers, broccoli, mushroom, yoghurt, almonds, and broth.

These contain immunity-boosting phytonutrients such as vitamin C and carotenoids. Studies show that a diet rich in phytonutrients can increase the production of infection-fighting white-bold cells and interferon in our body. Interferon is an antibody that is believed to coat the cell surfaces by blocking out viruses. This is an essential kids' immunity booster.

2) Formula Feed: Oligosaccharides in breastmilk act as a probiotics, which means they feed the gut-friendly bugs that help in digestion, thus allowing them to flourish and boost the immune system in babies. Scientists have added Galacto Oligosaccharides (GOS) and Fructo Oligosaccharides (FOS) to formula milk. This helps formula-fed babies develop a healthy balance of beneficial gut bacteria, similar to that of breastfed babies.

3) Ensure That Your Baby Gets Fresh Air and Sunshine in Abundance: Vitamin D is essential for bone-building and immune support for kids. It is obtained mainly from exposure to the sun. During winter, it is sufficient for your baby to be exposed to the sun for 20 minutes. Making your way to the nearest park with your baby will expose them to fresh air, clearing their lungs and boosting their immune system.

The National Health Service - NHS recommends that all babies aged 6 months and above should take a supplement containing 7 to 8.5 micrograms of vitamin D. Babies who are fed formula milk do not require these vitamin drops as formula milk is fortified with vitamin D. Regular outdoor activity can be a powerful kids immunity booster.

4) Boost Sleep Time: Studies show that sleep deprivation can be harmful by reducing natural killer cells and immune-system weapons that attack the microbes.Ensure that the babies enjoy the recommended sleep duration to boost their immune system. So, how much sleep do babies need?

A newborn needs 8 hours of sleep during the daytime (preferably 3 naps) and 8 hours at night.
A 1-month-old baby needs 6 to 7 hours of sleep during the daytime (3 naps) and 8 to 9 hours at night.
A 6-month-old baby needs 3 hours of sleep during the daytime (3 naps) and 11 hours at night.
12-month-old babies need 2 to 2 ½ hours of sleep during the daytime (2 naps) and 11 hours at night.

As a parent, you should make sure to provide the recommended sleep cycle for your baby to boost the immune system. Immune support for kids is critical during the early stages of development.

5) Massage:After a gentle massage to soothe your baby’s body ache, lull him to a sound sleep. You can use massage oils like olive, mustard, almond, coconut, and sesame oil according to your baby’s skin type and seasons. This soothing practice can act as an additional kids' immunity booster by promoting relaxation and immune health.

6) Essential Oils:These are suggested for external use only. For babies older than 3 months, some essential oils like chamomile, eucalyptus oil, dill oil, distilled lemon, and lavender can be used to encourage sleep and relieve symptoms of colic. Remember, each essential oil is different, and before applying it to your baby, it is essential to understand its uses, the proper dilution ratios, and application methods.

7) Eliminate Sugar in the Diet : It is best to avoid sugar in your baby’s diet to boost the immune system. Refined sugar largely affects the immune system. You can very well substitute sugar with honey, jaggery, maple syrup, coconut palm sugar, and date sugar, along with the natural sweetness of fruits and veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beetroots. These provide immune support for kids and promote better overall health.

8) Say ‘No’ to Antibiotic Medicines: Do not request your paediatrician to prescribe antibiotics to treat your baby’s common cold. Remember antibiotics treat illnesses caused by bacteria, not illnesses caused by viruses.

9) Well Hydrated: Hydration is a natural kid's immunity booster. Water helps the kidneys to flush out toxins and other infectious agents from the body. Babies around 6 months can be provided with carrot juice, smoothies, and soups to keep them well hydrated.

Ways to Boost Your Baby’s Immune System: Tips to Remember

In addition to the basics, consider adding a few more habits to provide immune support for babies. Keeping a clean environment and practising good hygiene can help prevent infections. Regular tummy time is essential for developing strong muscles, which contribute to overall health. Natural remedies like a warm saltwater nasal rinse can help clear the airways and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Finally, maintaining a calm and stress-free environment can help regulate your baby’s developing immune system.

Wrapping up!

While babies are born with some immune system defences, supporting their development with healthy habits is important. Breastfeeding, maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring sufficient sleep, practising good hygiene, and spending time in the sun can all contribute to a robust immune system. These practices can help your baby stay healthy and effectively fight infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a list of FAQs about Ways To Boost Your Baby's Immune System

How can I make my baby's immune system stronger?

Breastfeeding is a crucial first step in boosting your baby's immune system, as it provides essential antibodies. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can further strengthen their immune function. Ensuring adequate sleep and scheduling regular check-ups with your paediatrician are also important. Additionally, keeping your baby up-to-date on vaccinations and practising good hygiene can help prevent infections.

What foods are good for my baby's immune system?

A balanced diet is key to a strong immune system. Fruits and vegetables, packed with antioxidants and vitamins, can help boost immunity. Lean proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, including immune cells. Whole grains provide fibre and other nutrients that support overall health, while dairy products offer calcium and vitamin D, important for bone health and immune function.

Why is my baby's immune system weak?

Several factors can contribute to a weak immune system in babies, including premature birth, chronic illnesses, malnutrition, and lack of breastfeeding. Premature babies may have underdeveloped immune systems, while chronic illnesses can weaken the body's defences. Malnutrition can impair immune function, and breast milk provides essential antibodies that help protect babies from infections.

Which food can increase a child's immunity power?

While no single food can dramatically boost immunity, a balanced diet is key. Incorporating a variety of foods from the different food groups mentioned above can help strengthen your child's immune system.

What is the best immunity booster for kids?

The best immunity booster for kids is a combination of factors: a balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise, stress management, and staying up-to-date on vaccinations. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides essential nutrients. Sufficient sleep helps the body rest and repair, while regular exercise can boost the immune system. Managing stress can positively impact immune function, and staying up-to-date on vaccinations is important for protecting against infectious diseases.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

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