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Immune Boosting Vitamins for Children

When cold and flu season hits, it's important to know what foods and supplements can help boost children's immune systems. Preventing illness is easier than getting rid of it, so it's smart to feeding your child nutritious foods. Along with frequent hand washing and avoiding people who are sick, eating healthy can help protect your child from winter illnesses.

  1. Vitamin C

    • Vitamin C is well known for its immune-boosting power. It is also one of the least expensive supplements and is found in foods such as potatoes, oranges, green peppers and tomatoes. Vitamin C increases the body's production of white blood cells, which fight infection. Studies at the National Institute of Health found it also reduces the risk of colon and breast cancer in adulthood.

    Vitamin E

    • This vitamin is an antioxidant, seeking out and killing cancer cells as they are produced. It is effective against heart disease as well. Vitamin E increases the body's production of B-cells (white blood cells produced in the bone marrow), which fight infection. A benefit for adults: Vitamin E reduces signs of aging, which occur due to a natural decline in immune response. Foods rich in vitamin E include cereal made with whole grains, nuts and tomatoes.

    Bioflavenoids

    • Bioflavenoids protect cells from pollutants in the environment, including toxins and germs. Bioflavenoids also reduce cholesterol's ability to adhere to arterial walls and create plaque and blockages that lead to heart disease. Foods rich in bioflavenoids include citrus fruit, soy and red grapes.

    Beta Carotene

    • Beta carotene, found in sweet potatoes, carrots and winter squash, helps the body fight infection and protects the heart from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals cause cell damage which leads to infection and in extreme cases, cancer. Beta carotene protects the body against cancer by helping the immune system kill cancer cells.

    Zinc

    • Zinc helps strengthen white blood cells. Too much zinc may actually increase infections, however, so be careful not to give your child too much. Recommended dietary allowances for zinc in children vary from 3 mg to 11 mg, depending on the child's size and age. Instead of lozenges or supplements, try protein-rich zinc sources such as beef, lamb or pork. If you prefer vegetarian sources, feed your child whole-grain cereals and pumpkin seeds.

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