Back-to-School with Mary Ruth's - Child Immunity

At a Glance: As the school year begins, ensuring our children are healthy is crucial for both academic and social success. A strong immune system helps them avoid missing school, which is essential for building friendships and starting on the right foot. Focus on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, complemented by child-friendly supplements like Mary Ruth’s liquids and gummies, which are ideal for children who struggle with pills. Additionally, establish consistent sleep routines and manage stress to keep the whole family healthy during this busy season.

As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s crucial to ensure our children’s immune systems are strong and ready to handle the increased exposure to germs. Starting the school year healthy is not only important for academic performance but also for social development. Being present from the beginning helps children form friendships and start on the right footing, which can significantly impact their overall school experience.

Nutrition and Supplements: The Foundation of Immunity

A robust immune system begins with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and vitamins C and E. These nutrients play critical roles in maintaining a healthy immune response. Zinc supports the development and function of immune cells, while vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Even with a well-balanced diet, some children may need additional support, especially during the busy back-to-school season. This is where supplements come in. Mary Ruth’s offers a variety of child-friendly supplements in liquid and gummy forms, making them easier and more appealing for children who struggle with pills or capsules. Here are some of our top MaryRuth recommendations:

MaryRuth’s Liquid Morning Multivitamin. This vegan multivitamin provides essential vitamins and minerals to support immune function, energy levels, and overall health. The liquid form is perfect for children who have difficulty swallowing pills, taken with breakfast​.

MaryRuth’s Probiotic Drops. Probiotics support gut health, which is crucial for a strong immune system. This liquid probiotic contains 12 strains of beneficial bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome. The liquid form makes it easy to mix into water or juice, ideal for children who dislike capsules. Taken on an empty stomach, either in the morning or before bed​.

MaryRuth’s Iron Liquid. Iron is essential for blood production and overall cellular health, which are vital for a robust immune system. MaryRuth’s Iron Liquid is highly absorbable and gentle on the stomach, with a berry flavour that appeals to children. The liquid form ensures easy ingestion, especially for younger children. The recommended dose is generally 15 ml (1 tablespoon), taken with a meal​.

MaryRuth’s Vitamin D3+B12 Gummies. These gummies provide vitamin D3 for immune function and bone health, and B12 for energy and neurological support. The flavoured gummies are a tasty and convenient way for children to get these nutrients, making supplementation an enjoyable experience.

The Importance of a Nutritious Breakfast and Packed Lunch

A nutritious breakfast is key to providing our children with the energy and nutrients they need to perform well throughout the day. Include a combination of whole grains, protein, and fruits or vegetables. If your child prefers a packed lunch, ensure it’s well-balanced with lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Hydration is equally important, so include a water bottle to encourage regular water intake. As with adults, our preferences change, so don’t be discouraged if you need to “keep on your toes” in regards to experimenting with what your child will eat.

Establishing a Consistent Sleep Routine

Sleep is essential for maintaining a strong immune system. During sleep, the body produces proteins (cytokines) that help fight off infections and inflammation. Ensuring our children get enough sleep will help keep their immune system in top condition. Recent research indicates that consistent, good-quality sleep plays a significant role in the production and regulation of immune cells. Sleep deprivation, even in the short term, can increase markers of inflammation and decrease the immune system’s effectiveness​ (National Institutes of Health (NIH), 2022)​.

To establish a healthy sleep routine, aim for a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. This consistency helps regulate the body’s internal clock. Encourage activities that promote relaxation, such as reading or taking a warm bath, and limit screen time before bed to avoid disrupting sleep. They will be tired as they start / return to school, prioritise sleep.

Managing Stress for Better Immunity

The transition back to school can be stressful for both children and parents. Chronic stress can weaken our immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness. It’s important to manage stress through regular physical activity, mindfulness practices, and open communication about any concerns or worries your children may have. Studies show that stress impacts the immune system by affecting sleep quality and overall immune function. Therefore, stress can lead to a weakened immune response, further underscoring the importance of stress management for overall health​ (Frontiers for Young Minds, 2023)​.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Family Health

As families prepares for the new school year, taking a proactive approach to health can make a significant difference. By prioritising nutrition, incorporating child-friendly supplements from MaryRuth’s, establishing healthy sleep routines, and managing stress, we can help ensure that our children start the school year on the right foot—healthy, happy, and ready to thrive.

Supporting our children’s immune systems isn’t just about preventing illness; it’s about setting them up for success in all areas of life. With a strong immune system, they can focus on learning, growing, and enjoying their school experience to the fullest.

References:

National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2022, September 21). NIH-funded study shows sound sleep supports immune function. NIH News Releases. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-study-shows-sound-sleep-supports-immune-function

Yale Medicine. (2023, March 13). How sleep affects your immune system. Yale Medicine News. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/how-sleep-affects-immunity