Your toddler's immune system is essential for fighting off germs and bacteria that can cause illness, reports KidsHealth. If his immune system is not as strong as it should be, your toddler may be more susceptible to getting colds, flu or other infections. The cells that make up the immune system need plenty of nutritious foods and activity to keep it strong and you can take steps to ensure that your toddler's immune system is as effective as possible.
Step 1
Feed your toddler foods high in protein. Offer your toddler nuts, beans, lean meats, nut butters and low-fat diary products to ensure that she gets plenty of protein. Protein is necessary for energy and the more energy your little one has the more likely she will be able to fight off infection, note Lucy Burney and Noelle Sheehan, authors of "Boost Your Child's Immune System: A Program And Recipes For Raising Strong, Healthy Kids."
Step 2
Serve plenty of fruits and vegetables. Offer several servings of fruits and vegetables, such as berries, apples, bananas, carrots and green beans, because they are filled with essential nutrients that will keep your toddler's immune system strong and healthy so he is able to fight off infection.
Step 3
Encourage your toddler to get plenty of exercise. Regular physical activity will keep your toddler's heart and blood pumping so her body is able to fight off germs. Take her outside to run around or ride a tricycle. Play some music and dance together or take a nature walk around the neighborhood.
Step 4
Send your child to bed on time. Make sure your toddler gets between 11 and 13 hours of sleep each day to keep his body strong and healthy. Put your child down for a midday nap if he does not sleep this long during the night.
Tips and Warnings
- Make a fruit smoothie for a snack or for breakfast as a toddler-pleasing way to increase how many servings of fresh produce she gets. The playground is a good way for your toddler to get the exercise necessary to boost her immune system. Encourage her to run around, go down the slides and swing as age appropriate ways to get her moving. Offer your child a variety of foods to ensure that she gets all of the vitamins and minerals she needs to keep her immune system in good working order.
- If your toddler seems to get sick a lot or has a hard time recovering from illness, make an appointment with your toddler's doctor. A pediatrician can recommend supplements and other ways to improve your toddler's immune system. A fever can be a worrisome event for parents, but Burney and Sheehan urge you to remain calm because a fever is actually a sign that your toddler's immune system is working. If the fever is above 100.4 degree F or lasts for more than a day or two, make sure to call your toddler's doctor.
References
- KidsHealth: Immune System
- "Boost Your Child's Immune System: A Program And Recipes For Raising Strong, Healthy Kids"; Lucy Burney and Noelle Sheehan; 2005
