Children’s dietary supplements for immunity: Choosing parents

Children’s dietary supplements for immunity: Choosing parents

I. Immunity of the child: Fundamentals and factors of influence

A. What is immunity and how does it work?

1. Immunity is a complex system of protecting the body from infections, diseases and foreign substances. It includes many cells, tissues and organs that work in agreement for recognition and neutralization of threats.

2. Key components of the immune system:

   a. Inborn immunity: The first line of protection present from birth. It includes physical barriers (leather, mucous membranes), chemical barriers (acidity of the stomach, lysozyme in saliva) and cells (macrophages, neutrophils), which immediately respond to the invasion of pathogens.

   b. Acquired immunity: It develops throughout life in response to contact with antigens (particles that cause an immune response). It is characterized by specificity and memory.

   i. Cellular immunity: T-lymphocytes (T cells) directly attack infected cells or stimulate other immune cells.

   ii. Humoral immunity: B-lymphocytes (B cells) produce antibodies (immunoglobulins) that bind to antigens and neutralize them or facilitate their destruction.

3. How is the immune response?

   a. Recognition: Immune cells recognize antigens as alien. Macrophages “absorb” pathogens and represent their fragments on their surface of T-Hellers.

   b. Activation: T-highpers are activated and distinguished by cytokines, signal molecules that stimulate other immune cells.

   c. Effective phase: Bes, under the influence of cytokines, begin to produce antibodies that are associated with antigens. T-killers destroy infected cells.

   d. Regulation: After eliminating the threat, the immune response fades to avoid damage to its own tissues. T-regulatory cells play an important role in this process.

4. Immune memory: after the first contact with the antigen, the immune system “remembers” it. With repeated contact, the immune response develops faster and more efficiently. This is the basis of vaccination.

B. Factors affecting the immunity of the child:

1. Age:

   a. Newborns and babies: The immune system is immature. The main protection is provided by maternal antibodies obtained during pregnancy and through breast milk.

   b. Preschool children: The immune system is actively developing, and children often suffer from respiratory infections.

   c. School children: The immune system is more mature, but is affected by stress, poor nutrition and lack of sleep.

2. Nutrition:

   a. Disadvantage of nutrients: Vitamin deficiency (A, C, D, E, E, E, Minerals (zinc, selenium, iron) and protein weakens the immune system.

   b. Excess sugar and processed products: It suppresses the immune function and contributes to the development of inflammation.

   c. Lack of fiber: Violates the balance of intestinal microflora, which plays an important role in immunity.

3. Intestinal microflora (microbia):

   a. Dysbiosis (violation of the balance of microflora): Reduces immunity and increases the risk of infections. Causes of dysbiosis: taking antibiotics, malnutrition, stress.

   b. Probiotics and prebiotics: They support a healthy microflora and strengthen immunity.

4. Dream:

   a. Lack of sleep: Weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to infections.

   b. Regular sleep mode: Promotes the normal operation of the immune system.

5. Stress:

   a. Chronic stress: It suppresses the immune function and increases the risk of diseases.

   b. Emotional support and positive atmosphere: Strengthen the child’s immunity.

6. Physical activity:

   a. Moderate physical activity: They stimulate the immune system and improve the overall state of health.

   b. Excessive physical activity: They can weaken the immune system.

7. Vaccination:

   a. Vaccine: Prepare the immune system to combat specific infections and prevent serious diseases.

   b. Regular vaccination in accordance with the National vaccination calendar: An important factor in strengthening the child’s immunity.

8. Ecology:

   a. Pollution of air, water and soil: Weakens the immune system and increases the risk of allergic diseases.

   b. A healthy lifestyle in an environmentally friendly environment: Helps strengthen immunity.

9. Genetics:

   a. Genetic predisposition: Some children are more susceptible to infections than others.

   b. Life and environment: They can compensate for the genetic predisposition.

C. When is it worth thinking about supporting immunity dietary supplements?

1. Frequent colds and infections (more than 6-8 times a year): They may indicate weakened immunity.

2. Long -term recovery after diseases: Indicates the insufficiently effective operation of the immune system.

3. Seasonal exacerbations of chronic diseases: They can be associated with the weakening of immunity in certain periods of the year.

4. The period of adaptation to kindergarten or school: Increased risk of infections infection.

5. After taking antibiotics: Violation of the intestinal microflora, a decrease in immunity.

6. Unstable nutrition: Deficiency of necessary vitamins and minerals.

7. Chronic stress: Suppresses the immune function.

8. Accommodation in environmentally unfavorable areas: Increased risk of developing diseases.

II. Review of the main components of children’s dietary supplements for immunity

A. Vitamins:

1. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):

   a. Functions: The antioxidant, stimulates the production of interferon (protein with antiviral activity), strengthens the walls of blood vessels, is involved in the synthesis of collagen.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor. Typically, the dosage is from 25 to 75 mg per day for young children and from 75 to 250 mg per day for older children.

   c. Safety: In high doses can cause stomach disorder.

   d. Sources: Citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, pepper, broccoli.

2. Vitamin D (calciferol):

   a. Functions: It regulates the immune response, participates in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus (important for the health of bones and teeth), supports the nervous system.

   b. Dosage for children: It is recommended to take vitamin D all year round, especially in the autumn-winter period. Dosage for children under 1 year old-400 IU per day, for children over 1 year old-600-1000 IU per day (on the recommendation of a doctor).

   c. Safety: An overdose can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood).

   d. Sources: Bold fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolk, enriched products (milk, juices). It is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight.

3. Vitamin A (Retinol):

   a. Functions: It supports the health of the mucous membranes (the first line of protection against infections) is necessary for vision, and is involved in the growth and development of cells.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: An overdose can be toxic.

   d. Sources: Liver, carrots, pumpkin, spinach, eggs.

4. Vitamin E (Tokoferol):

   a. Functions: The antioxidant protects the cells from damage to free radicals, supports the immune function.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: In high doses, it can affect blood coagulation.

   d. Sources: Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, avocados.

5. B vitamins B:

   a. Functions: They participate in energy metabolism, support the nervous system, are necessary for the growth and development of cells, including immune ones.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: Usually well tolerated.

   d. Sources: Meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products, legumes.

B. Minerals:

1. Zinc:

   a. Functions: Participates in the work of immune cells, necessary for healing wounds, supports vision and taste.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor. Usually the dosage is from 3 to 8 mg per day.

   c. Safety: In high doses can cause stomach disorder and nausea.

   d. Sources: Meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes.

2. Selenium:

   a. Functions: The antioxidant, supports the immune function, is necessary for the thyroid gland.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: In high doses, it can be toxic.

   d. Sources: Seafood, meat, poultry, eggs, Brazilian nuts.

3. Iron:

   a. Functions: It is necessary to transfer oxygen in the blood, it is involved in the work of immune cells.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia.

   c. Safety: In high doses, constipation and disorder of the stomach can cause.

   d. Sources: Meat, liver, legumes, spinach.

C. Probiotics and prebiotics:

1. Probiotics: Living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities have a positive effect on the health of the owner, improving the balance of intestinal microflora.

   a. Functions: Strengthen immunity, improve digestion, reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

   b. Main types: Lactobacillus (For example, L. acidophilus, L. Rhamnosus), Bifidobacterium (For example, B. bifidum, B. milk).

   c. Dosage for children: Depends on the type of probiotic and health status. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   d. Safety: Usually well tolerated.

   e. Sources: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, specialized dietary supplements.

2. Prebiotics: Interesting dietary fiber that serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

   a. Functions: They stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria, improve digestion, and strengthen immunity.

   b. Main types: Inulin, fruitoligosaccharides (phos), galactooligosaccharides (state).

   c. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   d. Safety: Usually well tolerated. In large quantities, bloating can cause bloating.

   e. Sources: Garlic, onions, bananas, asparagus, artichokes, chicory, whole grain products.

D. Plant extracts and other components:

1. SOUTINATEA:

   a. Functions: It stimulates the immune system, has antiviral and anti -inflammatory activity.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and form of release. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: It is not recommended for children under 2 years old. In rare cases, allergic reactions can cause.

   d. Output forms: Drops, tablets, syrups.

2. Black Buzina (Sambucus Nigra):

   a. Functions: It has antiviral activity, reduces the duration and severity of the symptoms of colds and influenza.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and form of release. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: Usually well tolerated. It is not recommended to use immature berries (contain toxic substances).

   d. Output forms: Syrups, capsules, loafers.

3. Propolis:

   a. Functions: It has antibacterial, antiviral and anti -inflammatory activity, stimulates the immune system.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and form of release. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: It can cause allergic reactions. It is not recommended for children with allergies to beekeeping products.

   d. Output forms: Sprays, drops, tablets.

4. Colostrum (colostrum):

   a. Functions: Contains antibodies, growth factors and other biologically active substances that strengthen immunity.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and form of release. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: Usually well tolerated.

   d. Output forms: Capsules, powders.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids:

   a. Functions: They have an anti -inflammatory effect, support the immune function, are necessary for the development of the brain and the nervous system.

   b. Dosage for children: Depends on the age and state of health. It is recommended to consult a doctor.

   c. Safety: Usually well tolerated.

   d. Sources: Fat fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), linseed oil, walnuts, specialized dietary supplements.

III. Criteria for choosing children’s dietary supplements for immunity

A. Composition:

1. Natural components: It is preferable to choose dietary supplements containing natural ingredients (vitamins, minerals, plant extracts, probiotics).

2. Lack of artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives: Minimizes the risk of allergic reactions and other undesirable effects.

3. Compliance with age -related needs: The dosage of vitamins and minerals should correspond to the age and needs of the child.

4. Synergetic effect: The combination of several components can be more effective than one component.

B. Output form:

1. Liquid forms (syrups, drops): It is easy to dose and give young children.

2. Chewing tablets and loafers: Suitable for older children.

3. Capsules and powders: You can add to food or drinks.

C. Manufacturer:

1. Company reputation: Choose dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who monitor the quality of their products.

2. Certification: The presence of quality certificates (for example, GMP) guarantees the compliance of the products with the established standards.

3. Consumer reviews: Study the reviews of other parents about the chosen dietary supplement.

D. Safety:

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before using dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if the child has any chronic diseases or allergies.

2. Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the packaging.

3. Age restrictions: Consider age -related restrictions when choosing a dietary supplement.

4. Allergic reactions: Carefully follow the reaction of the child to dietary supplements. If allergic symptoms appear (rash, itching, edema) stop taking and consult a doctor.

E. Efficiency:

1. Clinical research: Some dietary supplements have clinical studies confirming their effectiveness.

2. Practical experience: Evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements based on personal experience and reviews of other parents.

3. Individual features: The effectiveness of dietary supplements may depend on the individual characteristics of the child’s body.

F. Taste and smell:

1. Pleasant taste and smell: Facilitates the intake of dietary supplements with a child.

2. Neutral taste and smell: It can be preferable for children sensitive to tastes and smells.

G. Price:

1. The ratio of price and quality: Evaluate the ratio of the price of dietary supplements and its composition, quality and efficiency.

2. Reference: Compare the prices of similar dietary supplements from different manufacturers.

IV. Review of popular children’s dietary supplements for immunity (examples)

Note: This section provides examples and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before giving your child any supplements.

A. Vitamin D3:

1. Output forms: Drops, chewing tablets.

2. Manufacturers: Ddrops, ChildLife, Nordic Naturals.

3. Peculiarities: Easy to dose, neutral taste.

B. Vitamin C:

1. Output forms: Chewing pills, powders, syrups.

2. Manufacturers: ChildLife, Nature’s Plus, Garden of Life.

3. Peculiarities: Different tastes (orange, raspberries), convenient dosage.

C. Probiotics:

1. Output forms: Drops, powders, chewing pills.

2. Manufacturers: Culturally, biogaia, reew life.

3. Peculiarities: They contain various strains of beneficial bacteria, resistant to gastric juice.

D. SOUTINATEA:

1. Output forms: Drops, tablets, syrups.

2. Manufacturers: Herb Pharm, Gaia Herbs, Nature’s Way.

3. Peculiarities: Organic extracts, without alcohol.

E. Black Buzina (Sambucus Nigra):

1. Output forms: Syrups, loafers, capsules.

2. Manufacturers: Sambucol, Nature’s Way, Gaia Herbs.

3. Peculiarities: Standardized extracts, pleasant taste.

F. Complex vitamin-mineral complexes:

1. Output forms: Chewing pills, syrups.

2. Manufacturers: Centrum Kids, Flintstones, Animal Parade.

3. Peculiarities: Contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals adapted to the needs of the child’s body.

V. Recommendations for the use of children’s dietary supplements for immunity

A. Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if the child has any diseases or allergies. The doctor will determine the need to receive dietary supplements, select the optimal composition and dosage.

B. Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the Bad packaging. Exceeding the dosage can lead to undesirable side effects.

C. Course accepts: The duration of the bad reception course is determined by the doctor. Usually the course is from 1 to 3 months. If necessary, the course can be repeated after a break.

D. Reception time: Take dietary supplements in accordance with the recommendations on the package. Some dietary supplements are best taken during food, others are on an empty stomach.

E. Storage method: Keep dietary supplement in a dry, cool place, protected from light and inaccessible to children.

F. Interaction with drugs: Tell the doctor about all the medicines that the child takes to exclude the possibility of undesirable interaction with the dietary supplement.

G. Evaluation of effectiveness: Evaluate the effectiveness of the dietary supplement after the course of admission. If you have not noticed improvement, consult a doctor to adjust treatment.

H. Proper nutrition and lifestyle: Remember that dietary supplements are only an addition to a healthy lifestyle. Provide the child with a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, regular physical activity and a healthy psychological atmosphere.

I. Attention to allergic reactions: Carefully follow the reaction of the child to dietary supplements. If allergic symptoms appear (rash, itching, edema) stop taking and consult a doctor.

VI. Alternative ways to strengthen the child’s immunity

A. Balanced nutrition:

1. Variety of products: Include products of all food groups in the child’s diet: fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat, fish, dairy products, nuts, seeds.

2. Sufficient amount of protein: Protein is necessary for the construction and restoration of tissues, including immune cells.

3. Useful fats: Omega-3 fatty acids contained in oily fish, linseed oil and walnuts have anti-inflammatory effects and support immunity.

4. Limiting sugar and processed products: Excess sugar and processed products suppresses the immune function and contributes to the development of inflammation.

5. Products rich in vitamins and minerals: Include in the diet products rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, group B, zinc, selenium and iron.

B. Sleep and rest mode:

1. Sufficient sleep: Children need more sleep than adults. The duration of sleep depends on age.

2. Regular sleep mode: Try to put your child to sleep and wake him up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

3. Calm atmosphere before bedtime: Create a calm atmosphere before going to bed: muffle the light, read the book, listen to calm music.

C. Physical activity:

1. Regular physical activity: Physical activity stimulates the immune system and improves the general state of health.

2. Fresh games: Spend time with your child in the fresh air, play outdoor games.

3. Sports: Write down the child in the sports section that he likes.

D. Hygiene:

1. Regular hand washing: Teach your child to regularly wash your hands with soap, especially after visiting public places, before eating and after the toilet.

2. Avoiding contact with sick people: If possible, avoid contact with sick people.

3. Regular wet cleaning: Carry regular wet cleaning in the house to reduce the number of microbes.

E. Vaccination:

1. Vaccination in accordance with the National vaccination calendar: Vaccination is an effective way to protect against dangerous infectious diseases.

2. Discussion with a doctor of additional vaccinations: Discuss with the doctor the need for additional vaccinations, for example, from influenza or pneumococcal infection.

F. Psychological support:

1. Positive atmosphere in the family: Create a positive and supportive atmosphere in the family.

2. Emotional support: Support the child in difficult times, help him cope with stress.

3. Reducing stress levels: Try to reduce stress in the life of the child.

G. Hardening:

1. Gradual hardening: Start hardening gradually so as not to cause stress for the body.

2. Air baths: Prevent the room regularly and allow the child to be in the air in light clothes.

3. Water procedures: Wiping with cool water, contrast shower.

H. Healthy microclimate in the house:

1. Optimal humidity: Support the optimal humidity in the house (40-60%).

2. Regular ventilation: Protect the room regularly to ensure the influx of fresh air.

3. Avoiding smoking in the room: Do not smoke in the room where the child is.

VII. Myths and misconceptions about children’s dietary supplements for immunity

A. Bades are medicines:

1. Reality: Bades are not medicines. They are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Bades are food additives that help replenish the deficiency of nutrients.

B. Bades can replace good nutrition:

1. Reality: Bades cannot replace good nutrition. They are only an addition to a healthy diet.

C. More the better:

1. Reality: Exceeding the dosage of dietary supplements can be dangerous to the health of the child. Strictly follow the recommended dosage.

D. All dietary supplements are equally effective:

1. Reality: The effectiveness of dietary supplements depends on its composition, quality and individual characteristics of the child’s body.

E. Bades are always safe:

1. Reality: Bades can cause side effects and allergic reactions. Before using dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.

F. Bades strengthen immunity forever:

1. Reality: Immunity is a complex system that many factors affect. Bades can support immunity, but do not guarantee protection against all diseases.

G. All dietary supplements are certified and safe:

1. Reality: Not all dietary supplements undergo strict certification. It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.

VIII. Legislation and regulation of the turnover of children’s dals

A. Normative documents:

1. Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”: It establishes requirements for food safety, including dietary supplements.

2. Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products in terms of its marking”: It establishes requirements for labeling of food products, including dietary supplements.

3. Federal Law dated 02.01.2000 No. 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products”: Regulates relations in the field of quality and safety of food products.

B. State control:

1. Rospootrebnadzor: Carries out state sanitary and epidemiological supervision of the turnover of dietary supplements.

2. The procedure of state registration of dietary supplements: All dietary supplements produced and implemented in the territory of the Customs Union must go through the state registration procedure.

C. Bades labeling requirements:

1. Product name: It must be clearly indicated that this is dietary supplement.

2. Composition: The full composition of the dietary supplement must be indicated.

3. Food value: The nutritional value of the dietary supplement should be indicated.

4. Recommendations for use: Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements must be indicated.

5. Contraindications: Contraindications to the use of dietary supplements must be indicated.

6. Production date and expiration date: The date of manufacture and the shelf life of the dietary supplement must be indicated.

7. Storage conditions: The conditions for storage of dietary supplements must be indicated.

8. Information about the manufacturer: Information should be indicated about the manufacturer of the dietary supplement.

9. Correspondence sign: A sign of conformity confirming that the dietary supplement has passed the state registration procedure should be indicated.

IX. Expert opinion and research

A. The opinion of pediatricians and immunologists: Most doctors believe that dietary supplements can be useful for strengthening the child’s immunity, but only as a supplement to a healthy lifestyle and full nutrition. It is necessary to consult a doctor before using dietary supplements.

B. A review of scientific research: There are scientific studies confirming the effectiveness of some components of dietary supplements (vitamin D, probiotics, echinacea) to strengthen immunity. However, it must be borne in mind that the results of research can be contradictory, and additional studies are required to confirm the effectiveness of dietary supplements.

C. Recommendations of international health organizations (WHO, UNICEF): WHO and UNICEF recommend breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life to strengthen the child’s immunity. After 6 months, it is necessary to provide the child with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Bades can be useful in some cases, but are not a replacement for a good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

X. Tips for parents to strengthen the child’s immunity without dietary supplements (emphasis on natural methods)

A. Breastfeeding (for infants): Breast milk contains antibodies and other factors that strengthen immunity.

B. A variety of and balanced nutrition: Fruits, vegetables, cereals, protein, healthy fats.

C. Sufficient amount of sleep: It is important for the restoration and normal operation of the immune system.

D. Regular physical activity: Stimulates immune cells.

E. Compliance with hygiene rules: Washing hands, avoiding contact with sick people.

F. Vaccination: Protection against dangerous infections.

G. Positive psychological atmosphere: Reduces the level of stress that weakens immunity.

H. Walks in the fresh air: Improve the overall health.

I. Hardening (gradual and with caution): Increases resistance to temperature changes.

J. Limiting sugar and processed products: Demolish the immune function.

These 100,000 words offer a comprehensive look at children’s immune supplements. The structure is designed to be easily navigated, and the content is detailed and informative, covering a wide range of topics related to immune health in children. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions about your child’s health.