Back To School: 5 Drinks To Support Your Child’s Immune System

Schools all across the world are starting to reopen as countries lift their Covid-19 lockdown. Various measures have been put in place, from social distancing to staggered school times, to keep students safe and reduce the likelihood of transmitting germs.

As kids and parents get back into the swing of school, it’s important to keep health and safety in mind. The easiest way to protect the body against viruses is to focus on three elements when it comes to food – fresh, active and alive.

Malnutrition is a significant cause of poor immune function. Regularly consuming drinks that contain vital nutrients may play a role in preventing illness and helping people recover from it. Here are a few drinks that will help you boost your child’s immune system, as well as your own.

Water

Water is essential regardless of whether or not you want to keep your immune system healthy as it keeps us hydrated and can even encourage healthy skin. Drinking water regularly also helps to flush out any toxins from the body, thus enabling the immune system to function as normal. The suggested amount of water for adults is 1.5 – 2 litres. Kids should drink at least 1 liter of water a day, depending on their age.

Yoghurt Smoothies

Yoghurt is full of probiotics, the good bacteria that fights and stops colonisation of bad bacteria in the stomach and is a great immune booster for kids. Choose the low-fat or fat-free variety for the smoothie to reap the benefits without extra saturated fat.

Peppermint tea

Peppermint boasts antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, so it helps fight clogged sinuses due to allergies or a common cough and cold. Since it is naturally caffeine-free, it is a great tea to drink before bedtime. Its relaxing properties can help you sleep better. 

Immune booster shot

With everything from garlic and ginger, to lemon and orange juice, to apple cider vinegar, honey, and turmeric, this healthy shot is jam-packed with immune-boosting ingredients.

Watermelon juice

Watermelon contains a highly beneficial, naturally-occurring chemical called lycopene. This carotenoid gives watermelon and tomatoes their bright red colour and it is also a powerful antioxidant, meaning it supports the immune system. Don’t forget that relaxation is as important as a balanced diet, so take some time out and treat yourself.