For children, a new school year means another adventure filled with exciting challenges, new experiences and plenty of fun with friends. For parents, however, it can be a busy time, with their child’s health becoming an even greater priority, particularly as autumn and winter approach.
Before your child heads back to the classroom and starts learning new things, it’s worth building healthy everyday habits that support their wellbeing.
What should you include in your child’s daily diet?
A good helping of antioxidants
Vitamin C is probably one of the first nutrients that comes to mind when we think about immune health - and for good reason. Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system and helps protect cells from oxidative stress. It also contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of bones.
Which foods contain the most vitamin C? Contrary to popular belief, lemons are not actually among the richest sources. Blackcurrants are particularly high in vitamin C, while other good sources include parsley, peppers and strawberries.
Good health starts with nature
Many parents look for natural ways to add variety to their child’s diet, often turning to ingredients they remember from their own childhood. Nature offers a wide range of valuable nutrients, which is why it’s worth including plenty of different fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods in your child’s everyday meals.
Aronia berries, also known as chokeberries, are a source of naturally occurring plant compounds, including polyphenols, and can be an interesting addition to a varied diet.
Elderberries can also be incorporated into everyday diets. They naturally contain plant compounds, including polyphenols, and are commonly found in juices, syrups and other products made from appropriately processed berries.
Tangy cranberries, which are often enjoyed dried, contain vitamin C as well as naturally occurring plant compounds. Try adding them to porridge, yoghurt or other meals to bring a little more variety to your child’s daily diet.
Next stop: the gut
The gut and the microbiota that live there play an important role in the normal functioning of the body. That’s why it’s a good idea to include foods such as fermented vegetables, nuts, vegetables and fibre-rich wholegrains in your child’s diet.
Another ingredient sometimes found in children’s supplements is lactoferrin. Lactoferrin is a protein that occurs naturally in the human body. If you choose a supplement containing lactoferrin, make sure it is suitable for your child’s age and always use it according to the instructions on the label.
Don’t forget about zinc!
Zinc is found in many foods and performs a number of important functions in the body. It contributes to the normal function of the immune system, helps protect cells from oxidative stress and contributes to normal cognitive function.
It is therefore worth making sure your child gets an appropriate amount of zinc as part of a varied and balanced diet.
The sunshine vitamin - and not only from the sun
Spending time outdoors and staying active are important parts of a healthy lifestyle. During the summer months, outdoor play also means more exposure to sunlight, which allows the body to produce vitamin D through the skin.
Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and helps maintain normal bones. During autumn and winter, when exposure to sunlight is more limited, it is particularly important to pay attention to your child’s vitamin D intake.
How much vitamin D do children need? This depends on factors including their age. In the UK, it’s best to follow the latest NHS recommendations on vitamin D supplementation and always use supplements according to the instructions on the label.
Step confidently into healthier habits - and a new adventure!
The start of a new school year is a great opportunity to focus on healthy everyday habits for the whole family. A varied diet, enough sleep, regular physical activity and an adequate intake of important nutrients all help provide a strong foundation for busy days filled with learning and play.
Vitamins C and D, as well as zinc, contribute to the normal function of the immune system, so it’s worth paying attention to their presence in your child’s everyday diet.
Start the new school year with confidence - and with healthy daily habits firmly in place!
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Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Always use supplements in accordance with the information provided on the label.
