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Tallahassee Parents,
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Among all the current challenges parents and kids are dealing with, cold and flu season is approaching and there are some steps you can take to fight these viruses.
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YOGURT
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It’s smart to give your kids some kind of probiotic on a regular basis. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help strengthen the immune system. Food sources include yogurt and kefir (a cultured dairy drink), or ask your child’s doctor about a children’s probiotic supplement.
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SWEET POTATOES
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Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A, a key immune system nutrient that helps keep tissue in the mouth, intestines, and respiratory tract healthy. Just a half cup of cooked sweet potatoes has double the A that kids need every day. Other sources include carrots, red bell peppers, mango, and dried apricots are also packed with vitamin A.
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BEEF AND PORK
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Meat is naturally high in protein, a critical component of the immune system. Beef and pork are also some of the richest food sources of zinc, a mineral used by the body to make T-cells, which play a starring role in immunity. Other sources of zinc are cashews, chickpeas, and kidney beans.
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CHICKEN SOUP
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Grandma was right: There’s something about chicken soup (even the store-bought kind!) that makes you feel better when you’re sick. Researchers think there may be multiple substances in chicken soup that have beneficial medicinal powers, like anti-inflammatory abilities that can help soothe a respiratory infection.
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A WARM DRINK
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Got a miserable, sniffly kid? Studies have shown people with symptoms of colds and flu who sipped on a hot drink said it immediately eased their runny nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat, chills, and fatigue. For little ones, brew up some decaf tea with a drizzle of honey, which may help make a sore throat and cough feel better too.
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The last thing that isn’t a food is sleep!!! Often neglected, but incredible important. As the year ends, holiday parties, events and travel pick up. Sleep patterns get disrupted and immune systems weaken.
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f you are interested in contacting Brad Fantle for speaking engagements you may reach him by email at tigerrocktally@gmail.com. He is a 7th Degree Black Belt with Tiger Rock Martial Arts, has 25 years experience working with children and teaching self-defense, an ADHD Coach and has a BA in Sports & Fitness from the University of Alabama
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