The basics of immune health, continued…
Iron
More common in children than you might think, iron deficiency impairs the immune systems capacity to fight infections. It is especially needed during the growth spurts of infancy and adolescence and pregnancy.
Good sources are: red meat, green leafy vegetables, blackstrap molasses, brewers yeast, eggs, kelp, and millet.
Zinc
Poor wound healing and frequent infections may reflect a deficiency in zinc. It is said that our soil levels of zinc are very low and may be contributing to an increase in the incidence of zinc deficiency.
Apart from oysters, which may not be popular, sources of zinc include fish, red meat, wholegrains, nuts and seeds, and legumes.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays an essential role in human health and one of its most important functions is within the immune system. Among other things it enhances white blood cell function and activity.
Best foods for Vitamin C: capsicum, kiwifruit, broccoli, citrus fruits, brussel sprouts, berries, and green leafy vegetables.
Nurture immunity naturally
Prevention really is the best cure where immunity is concerned. And if getting the right foods into your child causes World War 3 every night, you may want to supplement, or use herbal medicine. For kids under five see a registered naturopath for good advice on what’s appropriate for your child. Choosing the wrong medicine or giving the wrong dose may do more harm than good.
Handy home remedy for a cough
(for 3 years and older)
Dice ½ onion and place in a glass jar,
Cover with honey, preferably manuka, and,
Soak for 4 hours or more.
Give your child 1 teaspoon of the onion honey (not the actual onion) 3 times a day. Great for an uncomplicated cough in kids 3 and older.
Annaliese Jones – Naturopathy, Nutrition, Herbal Medicine. Annaliese has a Bachelor of Health Science and Advanced double Diplomas in Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine, plus 15 years clinical experience. Annaliese brings both science based medicine and traditional healing wisdom together. The best of both worlds!
This article originally appeared in Issue #3 of The Natural Parent Magazine.
