Nutritional benefits to increase the child's immune system

The immune system or immune system has an important role because it functions as the body's defense against diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites or fungi. The immune system can continue to work actively and normally if it is supported by adequate nutritional intake. But do you know how nutrition affects a child's immune system? Here's the explanation.

Important nutrition to support the child's immune system

In addition to adequate amounts of protein, carbohydrates and fats, micronutrients are also needed for the formation of a strong immune system. The micronutrients in question are:

Vitamins A, C, D, E, B2, B6, and B12,
Folic acid,
Iron,
Selenium,
Zinc.

The immune system can be strengthened by replacing the aforementioned deficiency of mineral vitamins, so that the body's resistance increases, and supports a faster healing process.

However, food intake is not necessarily sufficient. Therefore, apart from micronutrients, several studies mention the benefits of formula milk containing Polydextrose, GOS, and Beta-glucan on immunity.

Children aged 3-4 years who consume formula milk containing PDX / GOS and beta-glucan are shown to experience fewer episodes of acute respiratory infections and even if they have an ARI, the duration of illness will be shorter.

Beta-glucan can increase the body's defense system by activating the complement system and strengthening the work of the body's defense cells.

In ongoing research, it is suspected that beta-glucan is a potent immunomodulator that has anti-infective properties. The mechanism is still being studied.

The immune system can decrease when the nutrition for children is not fulfilled

The immune system is needed by children in order to protect themselves against disease. If the immune system is not working properly, the child will often get sick, appetite decreases, so that the child's development can be disturbed.

The immune system can decrease if your little one:

Having an immune system disorder from birth
Experiencing a viral infection that attacks the immune system, for example, such as HIV
Experiencing malnutrition or malnutrition

According to research conducted by Rytter et al, children who are malnourished will easily experience infection due to immune system disorders, so that the mortality rate in malnourished children who experience infection increases.

A decrease in the child's immune system due to lack of nutrition can be indicated by:

Easy to experience recurrent infections such as coughs, bronchitis, flu or colds (pain accompanied by a cold)
Easy to experience gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, bloating, or stomach pain
Easy to experience infections such as ear infections, pneumonia, sinusitis
Tiring easily

The impact of decreased immune system due to lack of nutrition

When your little one's body defenses are compromised, this can have an impact on various health conditions, including:

Children are prone to disease,
Causing decreased appetite,
The intake of protein, vitamins and minerals needed by children also decreases,

In addition, children who lack nutrition also cause disruption in growth and development. Then if he falls sick, it will be difficult for him to recover, or the duration of illness will be longer which then increases the risk of death.

In other words, nutrition for a child's immune system must always be considered. Mothers can make efforts to increase the immune system by:

Provides age-appropriate, nutrient-rich food sources
Encourage children to exercise or do physical activity
Get adequate sleep or rest
Create a home atmosphere or a pleasant environment so that it is stress free

Nutrition is one of the main foundations for growing children. By paying attention to their intake, your little one will be protected from the immune system working properly.