A quick scroll through your Facebook feed could lead you to believe that the health of your child’s immune system hinges on a simple “for or against” opinion on the subject of vaccinations. In actuality, there are countless ways to enhance their immunity. These techniques are not nearly as well-funded nor polarizing, and therefore don’t receive the same quantity of air time. However, for more information from CDC whistle blowers, scientists and doctors on how vaccines destroy immune systems and have created an epidemic of neurodevelopmental and autoimmune disorders, we recommend watching the movie “Vaxxed”.

When it comes to boosting the immune system, chiropractic adjustments top the list. They help reduce or eliminate pressure on your nerves—the same ones responsible for your everyday bodily functions. Chiropractic will help eliminate pain and inflammation, reduce fatigue and restore normal nerve flow to all your organs. (Read more about chiropractic care specifically for children.)

We cannot emphasize enough, the need for whole, organic, non GMO food in your child’s diet. As naturopathic physician Dr. Julie Durnan explains, “Children’s immune systems can take a hit if they’re constantly being bombarded with food intolerances, additives, preservatives, and sugar. When a child has a food allergy, her digestion suffers, inflammation is ramped up, which makes fending off viruses and bacteria much more difficult. It’s a similar story when a child takes in more additives and preservatives than her body can deal with. Sugar has been shown in many clinical trials to actually suppress immunity. To keep kids well, limit their overall intake of additives, sugar, and find out which foods are allergens.”

When paired with a healthy diet; herbs, nutrients, probiotics and juicing can be powerful tools for parents to easily boost their child’s immune system safely and effectively.

Feeling stressed, over-scheduled and burned out? Imagine how your child feels. Children are not immune to stress. They respond to stress exactly like an adult; their cortisol and adrenaline rises. When this elevation in stress hormones is sustained, their immune systems’ response is lowered. Be sure to build in down-time and periods of rest. Speaking of down time….

It’s crucial to monitor your child’s screen time. With all of the outlets that vie for children’s attention, parents must manage the time spent with media. Studies show children are spending an average of seven hours a day on entertainment media, including televisions, computers, phones and other electronic devices. It is up to each family to craft the parameters that feel right for them. This might include establishing “screen-free” zones at home by removing televisions, computers or video games from a child’s bedroom. A small change might be turning off the television during dinner. Children and teens should engage with entertainment media for no more than one or two hours per day, and that should be high-quality content. Fill this void with time outdoors, reading, hobbies and and creative play. Media should be avoided for infants and children under age 2. A child’s brain develops rapidly during these first years, and young children learn best by interacting with people, not screens.

If you have been following our blog series over the last month, you have likely noticed that many of the practical tips seem to make frequent appearances. This is no accident! If you haven’t had an opportunity to follow along and would like to catch up, we’ve included links to each of the posts:

02/29 – Is Your Child Part Of The 54%? Why you should refuse to accept the new normal
03/07 – Advocating For Your Child – Become an indispensable member of your child’s health team
03/14 – Are You Ignoring A Crucial Element of Your Child’s Health? Making nutrition a priority
03/21 – Gut Check-Simple steps to heal the gut and support the body

As we conclude this series, we would like to hear your thoughts. What information surprised you? What would you like to know more about? Click over to our Facebook page and let us know if there is a topic you would like to see covered on our blog in the future.