How to Prevent Colds in Children
With flu season coming soon, it’s easier for kids and older people to get sick. The main reason is due to a lack in the development or function of the immune system. Here, we’ll show you how to prevent colds in children.
Knowing more about the immune system
The immune system is made up of a set of organs and cells responsible for fighting against viruses and microorganisms. At minimal contact with any unknown external agent, it triggers the chain reaction of different cells; we’re talking about macrophages, lymphocytes and antibodies.
Some of these cells make substances to destroy viruses and cause the characteristic symptoms of colds, such as:
- Mucus and nasal congestion
- Fever
- Headache and tiredness
- Sore throat and cough
Vitamin C and colds in children
Although lots of people think that vitamin C is essential to prevent colds, there isn’t enough evidence to take supplements or consume more of it. What they’ve found is that this vitamin reduces the duration of colds and the severity of symptoms because of its antioxidants.
In addition, the only ones who can avoid colds by taking more vitamin C are athletes. This is because of the high stress they experience.
Antioxidants and colds in children
In addition to vitamin C, there are other vitamins that are involved in fighting infections and colds. These are vitamin E, selenium and zinc. Actually, they neutralize free radicals that the body makes as a result of stress and cellular reactions produced throughout the day. In this sense, they activate antibodies and lymphocytes to attack viruses.
Follow a healthy diet to prevent colds in children
At this point, following a healthy diet based on fruits, vegetables and leafy greens is essential to avoid colds in children and in anyone. This way, the body’s defenses work properly.
Other food groups to eat are unsalted nuts since they give us selenium, vitamin E and magnesium. In addition, you can complement meals with a tablespoon of seeds (mainly sesame and pumpkin). In this case, we recommend you grind them to get the nutrients better.
Similar to citrus fruits – lemons, oranges, tangerines and kiwis – peppers also have vitamin C.
Also, don’t forget to consume water, broths or soups. They’re comforting when you’re dehydrated from your lack of appetite.
Finally, use extra virgin olive oil for seasoning and cooking since it’s one of the best antioxidants out there.
In conclusion, we hope that you put these tips into practice and inform yourself in advance before trying any home remedy you see on the internet.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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