Immune Support For Children, Newborn to 2 Years:
In infancy, the most important source of protection from disease comes
from human breast milk. Protection from maternal antibodies has been
shown to continue for up to several months after weaning. In the first
few years of life, the child's immune system matures in developmental
stages- which begins with the crucial time period in the first year
when the natural intestinal flora becomes firmly established. The
child's immune system learns to differentiate between organisms that
are "friend" or "foe" during this crucial time period. Natural immunity
is then gained by exposure to common viruses, bacteria and fungi/yeasts
in the environment.This natural immunity is what will protect the child
later in life from re-infection from many different types of organisms.
Therefore, one of the most important supplements for supporting the
immunity of infants is a good infant probiotic, such as HLC Neonate by Pharmax.
It can be applied directly to the nipple of the mother or the bottle,
and then given to the child to nurse. The other important supplement is
vitamin D, shown to be increasingly deficient in infants and older
children in the U.S. The American Academy of Pediatrics has raised its
recommended levels to 400IU per day instead of 200IU per day for
infants and children. Baby D Drops by Carlson is an excellent choice.
For
all children (and adults), it is important to remember to avoid the
things that can sap power from the immune system- such as eating sugary
foods and consuming sodas. Stress and lack of sleep can also wreak
havoc on the immune system, even a single late night can put one at
greater risk of infection!
When your child does occasionally get a common virus, it is
important to remember that this is a normal part of life. In addition
to offering more rest, fluids, nourishment (in fitting with child's
appetite), and TLC, your additional efforts at immune support will
still help him/her get through illness more quickly and with less
discomfort. |
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