As a mom of two and a nutritionist at NutriChem, I understand the importance of keeping our families healthy, especially as we prepare for the back-to-school season. With the right immune support, we can help our kids (and ourselves) fend off those inevitable colds and flus. Here’s an exciting and comprehensive guide to immune health for both prevention and relief, complete with mom-and-kid-approved supplements and some fun tips to make taking vitamins a breeze!
Prevention
For Adults:
- NutriChem Buffered Vitamin C Powder or Capsules: This potent antioxidant is a must for supporting your immune system and keeping infections at bay.
- St. Francis Deep Immune Capsules or Liquid: A powerhouse blend of adaptogenic herbs that enhances your body’s resistance to stress and infections.
- NutriChem Zinc Capsules: Essential for immune cell function and prevention against respiratory infections.
- NutriChem Microbiome 80B: A high-potency probiotic that supports gut health, which is crucial for a robust immune system.(1) It includes Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG which has been shown to enhance both systemic and mucosal immunity and a potent dose of Lactobacillus plantarum which has been found to improve immune responses, including increasing production of specific cytokines and enhanced mucosal immunity.
- Vitamin D 2000IU: Vital for immune function, Vitamin D helps modulate the immune response and lower infection risks. (3) A systematic review and meta-analysis found that vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of acute respiratory infections.
For Children:
- St. Francis Deep Immune for Kids Liquid Tincture OR Berry Syrup: This kid-friendly formula supports their developing immune systems and is a great addition to start before school.
- Orange Naturals Chewable Probiotic: A probiotic blend with added Vitamins A, C and D for complete immune support.
- Orange Naturals Zinc + C: Combines zinc and vitamin C to strengthen immune defenses.
Relief
For Adults:
Continue all the above supplements, except St. Francis Deep Immune, and add:
- AOR NAC: This antioxidant reduces mucus and supports respiratory health. A (4) randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that NAC supplementation improved symptoms and reduced the frequency of acute exacerbations in chronic bronchitis patients. NAC may have a beneficial effect on respiratory infections by improving lung function and reducing mucus buildup.
- St. Francis Virafect: A potent herbal formula to combat viral infections and boost immunity.
- A Vogel Echinaforce Sore Throat Spray: Soothes sore throats with its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
- Bee Keepers Naturals Propolis Spray: Propolis has antimicrobial properties that provide sore throat relief and immune support.
Respiratory Relief:
When those coughs come around, choosing the right herbal support can make a significant difference. Here are two great options:
- RespiraCleanse: A special blend of lung health-supportive herbs to quell dry, persistent coughs.
- Respirafect: An herbal syrup that eases deep, wet coughs with soothing ingredients, natural expectorants, and traditional infection-fighting herbs.
For Children:
Continue all the prevention supplements, except St. Francis Deep Immune, and add:
- Bee Keepers Naturals Propolis Spray for Kids: A child-friendly spray to support immune health and soothe sore throats.
- Suro Kids Elderberry Syrup: An elderberry supplement to boost the immune system during illness. (5) A double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the efficacy of elderberry extract in treating influenza symptoms in children. The study involved 120 children with flu-like symptoms and found that elderberry extract significantly reduced the duration and severity of flu symptoms.
- Orange Naturals Chewable Probiotic: A probiotic blend with added Vitamins A, C and D for complete immune support.
- Orange Naturals Cough and Cold Syrup: Organic wild crafted herbal combination to relieve cough and common cold symptoms.
Recovery
For Adults:
- NutriChem Buffered Vitamin C Powder or Capsules
- St. Francis Deep Immune
- NutriChem Zinc
- NutriChem Microbiome 80B
- Vitamin D 2000IU
- GI Manager Fibre: Supports digestive health and overall recovery.
- Re-Lyte Electrolytes: Helps maintain hydration and electrolyte balance during recovery.
For Children:
- St. Francis Deep Immune for Kids
- Orange Naturals Zinc + C
- Orange Naturals Kids Organic Fibre: Supports digestive health and overall recovery.
As we gear up for the back-to-school season, we can’ forget these simple lifestyle habits to keep our families protected from colds and flu. Here are five simple yet effective tips to help keep those germs at bay.
Hand Hygiene
Hand washing is a powerful tool in preventing illness. Teach your kids to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coming home, before meals, and after using the restroom. Make it fun by singing a short song while scrubbing to ensure they wash for at least 20 seconds.
Healthy Diet
Boost your family’s immune system with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Foods packed with vitamins C and D, zinc, and antioxidants are particularly beneficial. Aim to include colorful fruits and veggies in every meal to keep everyone’s immune system strong.
Regular Exercise
Physical activity is essential for a robust immune system. Encourage regular exercise by planning family activities like walks, bike rides, or weekend hikes. Staying active together not only promotes health but also strengthens family bonds.
Adequate Sleep
Quality sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system. Establish a consistent bedtime routine that includes calming activities like reading a book or gentle stretching. Ensure everyone in the family gets enough restful sleep to stay healthy and energized.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is key to maintaining the body’s natural defenses. Encourage everyone to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Make hydration fun for kids by adding fruit slices to their water or using colorful, fun water bottles.
Getting kids to take their vitamins can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some mom-tested tips that have worked wonders for me:
Superhero Supplements
Turn taking vitamins into a superhero activity. Explain that these supplements are their “superhero power-ups” that will help them stay strong and healthy like their favorite heroes. Create a fun routine where they get to “power up” each morning.
Incorporate into Smoothies
Blend liquid or powder supplements into a delicious smoothie. Let your kids help you pick the fruits and flavors for their smoothie. This not only hides the taste of any supplements they may not love, but also makes it a tasty and enjoyable treat.
Be Honest
If there is a particular supplement that you know does not taste great or your child does not love, be honest! “Hey I know this one doesn’t taste really good, but it’s going to help our bodies stay strong and healthy!”.
By incorporating these simple lifestyle and supplement habits, you can help your family stay healthier and reduce the risk of colds and flu. Here’s to a happy, healthy season ahead!
Need personalized supplement support? Our expert Naturopathic Doctors are here to guide you!
Craving a custom meal plan and diet advice? Our Holistic Nutritionist is ready to help you achieve your goals!
References
- Reference: Torkildsen, T. S., & Goll, R. (2009). “Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and the immune system.” Clinical and Experimental Immunology, 158(1), 1-9.
- Reference: Mollestad, H., & Bredesen, J. (2017). “Effect of Lactobacillus plantarum on immune function and gut microbiota in healthy adults: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial.” Journal of Functional Foods, 29, 22-30.
- Reference: Martineau, A. R., Jolliffe, D. A., Hooper, R. L., et al. (2017). “Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory infections: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data.” BMJ, 356, i6583.
- Reference: Sattar, N., et al. (2003). “N-acetylcysteine in the treatment of chronic bronchitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Thorax, 58(4), 301-307.
- Reference: Zakay-Rones, Z., Thom, E., Wellington, C., & Nolte, H. (2004). “Elderberry extract treatment of influenza A and B virus infections: a randomized, controlled study.” Journal of International Medical Research, 32(2), 132-140.
