How to boost your baby's immune system naturally

We only tend to think about our immunity when it's low and we're unwell, and any parent knows having a sick child is so much worse than being sick yourself.

Having a healthy immune system means our body is better able to fight off illnesses, so it makes sense to think about ways you can boost your baby's immune system as early as possible.

"We want our children to have healthy immune systems so they can thrive in their development," says naturopath Rachel Aldridge from In Nature's Hands.

"A healthy immune system and a thriving gut microbiome when they are young can help reduce illness not only now but when they are older."

It's never too early to start thinking about your baby's immune system, says Aldridge.

"Did you know, your baby starts to acquire gut bacteria from you whilst in utero?" she says.

"It is essential you nourish yourself while pregnant with a diet high in fresh foods and key nutrients to help support yours and your baby's health."

After your child is born, there are other steps you can take to help boost their immunity…

Breastfeeding

"If you are able to do it, breastfeeding is a great way to support your child's immune system as they get the benefit of learning from your immune system through the antibodies in the breast milk," says Aldridge.

Ensure they're getting enough sleep

Although sometimes easier said than done, encouraging your baby to get enough sleep helps them to produce proteins called cytokines that help fight infection and reduce inflammation.

Babies start out needing up to 16 hours of sleep a day, and this reduces to 11-14 hours by the time they turn two.

Encourage them to "eat the rainbow"

Offer your child a varied diet of fruits and vegetables, with plenty of wholegrains, which can support the growth of beneficial microbes that stimulate immune cell activity.

"Foods high in vitamin C are great for immunity, such as kiwifruit, citrus fruits, strawberries, sweet potato and broccoli," says Aldridge.

"And so are foods high in zinc such as red meat, legumes, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, cashews and eggs."

Introduce probiotics

"With 70–80 per cent of the immune system in the digestive tract, it's essential we support a happy gut," says Aldridge.

"Introducing bone broth as one of your baby's first foods can help."

Exercise as a family

Creating a home environment that includes daily physical activity is a good way to promote good long-term health for your child, including stimulating cellular immunity.

While you can't protect your child against all diseases, following these tips is a great start to boosting your child's immune system.

And, of course, it's also important to stay up to date with immunisations so you can give your child a healthy start in life.

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*Always read and follow the directions for use. Seek medical advice for children under 3 months. Incorrect use could be harmful

** The information in this article should not be construed as medical advice. Please always consult your doctor or other medical professional to receive advice which is specific to yours or your child's medical condition