Boosting your immune system is more important than ever.
Not only is it cold and flu season – but we are in the middle of a pandemic.
While taking care of yourself is always important, the current circumstances ask us to draw a little bit more attention to the immune-boosting practices that will help your health. You can take small steps every day to build up your immune system. And if you are pregnant or a new mom, your immune system isn’t the only one you need to worry about! Make sure you are doing what you can to keep your baby healthy, so that they can grow up strong.
Much of the advice will sound like simple common sense, but we know that, as a mom, sometimes these simple things can fall by the wayside because we get so busy! It’s important to be intentional about self care and the food you put into your body. What are some simple ways to boost your immune system, and to keep your child healthy?
Let’s take a look! IF YOU ARE PREGNANT:
Get plenty of sleep!
It might seem impossible if pregnancy-related insomnia plagues you, but try to get 8 hours of sleep each night. The benefits of having good sleep are MANY!
Drink plenty of water
Proper hydration keeps everything operating as it should, including your immune system.
Exercise
Even light exercise a few days a week can prove beneficial to your immune system. Talk with your doctor about how much and how intense your exercise should be. During pregnancy, low impact is best.
Take a good prenatal vitamin
Vitamin C is the well-known defender of the immune system, and Zinc is very important for you, too! Read our blog on other important pregnancy-related nutrition tips. In addition to Vitamin C, Vitamin D as well as elderberry are known to boost immunity. Be sure your nutrition is balanced. Cravings can be crazy, and it’s ok to give in, but be sure you are also getting real nutrition each time you eat. Be sure to talk to your doctor about adding supplements to your diet. (More good advice here: https://www.today.com/health/how-boost-your-immunity-dr-oz-shares-advice-coronavirus-spreads-t175593
FOR YOUR BABY:
Incorporate more fruits and veggies into their diet
If your child eats baby food, try blending in more vitamin C-rich foods, like citrus fruits and green vegetables. For newborns, there are even Vitamin C and D liquid drops! (Talk with your Dr. for specifics on what’s best for YOUR newborn). More details here: https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/discharge-instructions-giving-your-newborn-liquid-vitamin-supplements
Breastfeed if possible
Did you know that breastfeeding can boost your child’s immune system? It’s true! If breastfeeding isn’t working, make sure you are using a formula that is fortified with the essential vitamins and nutrients.
Try a probiotic for baby (be sure to check with the pediatrician).
We know that gut health is important for adults, and the same rings true for your child! A healthy gut leads to better health overall.
If you are breastfeeding, taking a daily probiotic yourself also gives baby the benefits!
Staying healthy doesn’t have to be hard. Take proper steps every day to keep yourself operating with a strong immune system. If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, please get tested and quarantine yourself as is necessary to prevent further spread. See a doctor for direct guidelines and official resources regarding testing and prevention. For all other pregnancy-related health questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can reach us by phone at 614.444.4411 (text or call!) or on using the live chat feature.
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