Colds and flus run rampant during the winter months, and children can be more susceptible because their immune systems are still developing and they are around other kids, so it spreads easily. Fortunately, there are things you can do as a parent to reduce the chances of your child getting sick, or at least lessen the severity of the illness. If your child does fall ill, there are at-home remedies to ease their discomfort.
Help Them Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important factors in fighting illnesses. Sleep is when the body heals and refreshes, so getting more shut eye is imperative when someone does not feel well. The issue with having the cold or flu is that the symptoms can make it hard to relax and sleep. If this is the case, lavender oil roll on for sleep is a natural way to help your child fall asleep, and you can use it when your little one is feeling ill or whenever he or she is having trouble relaxing before bedtime.
Keep Their Diet Healthy
Good nutrition is another key element in preventing illness and recovering quickly from the flu or cold. Feeding your child a diet made up of organic and unprocessed foods help supply the body with the essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients necessary to build a strong immune system and fight off illness.
Fruits and vegetables are great choices, and you can serve them a wide variety of ways, such as raw, cooked, in smoothies or soups, and served with yogurt or hummus. You should keep sugar to a minimum, as it suppresses the immune system, and you should try and avoid it completely when your child is sick.
At-Home Remedies
If your child does catch a cold or comes down with the flu, there are things you can do to reduce symptoms. Start with an elderberry immune booster at the first signs of illness, as this can prevent serious symptoms. Other remedies include:
- Steam from a bath, shower, or bowl of hot water
- Clear liquids, such as water, broth, coconut water and decaffeinated teas
- Essential oils, such as lemon, tea tree, chamomile, eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, thyme, and cinnamon
Boost Their Immune System
Having strong immunity helps in a couple of ways: Prevents illness and reduces the severity of illness. The signs of a strong immune system include:
- Quick recovery from illnesses
- Fewer colds and flus
- Energy to last through the day
- Restful sleep
If your child has signs of a weak immune system, there are ways to make it stronger. Although whole foods are often the best way to deliver essential nutrients to the body, you may need to supplement if your child is a picky eater. Important ones for immunity are vitamin C, vitamin D, B vitamins, vitamin A, zinc, iron, and selenium. There are various forms of these supplements, based on your child’s age. Use drops for a baby, gummies for younger children, and chewables or pills for older children. Exercise and fresh air are also good immune boosters.
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