The first autumn days pull parents back into the succession of busy weekdays, and as the cool mornings arrive and noses turn red, boosting immunity becomes increasingly important. Some swear by natural methods, herbs, and regular honey consumption, while others try to keep their children fit with gummy vitamins, chewable tablets, or various dietary supplements - and of course, in institutions. 

But do preschoolers need any form of immune boosting? How can we ensure that our child is resistant to autumn-winter ailments? Smart immune boosting with the help of Éva Ambrus, the host of ManóMenü!

Starting preschool and the immune system

In the great reunion following the few weeks - or, in the presence of older siblings and a caring family, even months - of summer break, various childhood illnesses, colds, and coughs almost immediately appear. The reason for this is that when children (re)enter the community, the elements of their unique bacterial flora mix, thereby posing a challenge to the immune system. This is partly advantageous, as the increased infection pressure promotes the development of the immune system in the long term, but it is also disadvantageous because various illnesses occur more frequently in the initial period.

It is natural for us as parents - especially as employees returning from parental leave - to dread the inconveniences caused by frequent illnesses, but in reality, there is not much we can do beyond acceptance. However, there is still something in our hands to protect the immune system!

A balanced diet is the best immune booster

If the mother eats healthily and variedly, the only necessary immune-boosting 'vitamin' for babies up to six months old is breast milk itself. No additional supplementation is needed in the initial period, except for the mandatory vitamin K and the strongly recommended vitamin D drops.

Since a large part of the population in our country is deficient in vitamin D and the number of sunny hours is not sufficient for the body to produce the vitamin D needed for balanced functioning, vitamin D supplementation is recommended later as well. However, with a properly composed diet rich in vegetables, fruits, unrefined carbohydrates, and proteins, there is no need for additional immune boosting in preschool age.

However, if our child follows a diet for any reason, if we lead a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, always consult with the family doctor or pediatrician about the necessary mineral and vitamin supplementation!

Vitamin D Supplementation for Ensuring Immune Strengthening

According to a 2013 study, by the end of the winter season, about 95% of Hungarian people suffer from symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, which is why vitamin D supplementation is strongly recommended for everyone between November 1 and March 31. The required amount may vary depending on age, with blood tests available for adults and general recommendations for children.

The recommended daily amount of vitamin D for premature infants is two drops of Vigantol daily, and for full-term infants, one drop, preferably dripped onto the tongue during breastfeeding. After one year of age, the dosage in healthy periods is one drop daily, but in case of illness, the amount can be temporarily doubled for a week.

Be Cautious with the Use of Immune-Boosting Vitamins!

Most parents want to maintain their child's health, which is why multivitamins, gummy vitamins, dietary supplements, and other immune boosters are extremely popular among families with young children. However, it is important to know that using these products regularly over a long period can do more harm than good to your child! 

Vitamins taken in large quantities are not automatically stored in the body but are excreted with urine. This unnecessarily burdens the digestive and excretory systems, continuously working our bodies, while these products would be more than sufficient if used only periodically, in a course-like manner.

Remember! The best thing we can do to strengthen our child's immune system is to provide a healthy, varied, and exciting diet, avoid refined carbohydrates and excessive sugar consumption, ensure the child's emotional-psychological balance, regular rest, and daily vitamin D needs. Moreover, set a good example and don't forget about yourself!