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Immunity is important for kids during the monsoon season because the time of year often brings in an increased risk of infections and illnesses. Characterized by heavy rainfall and stagnant water, which create favourable conditions for the proliferation of various microorganisms, bacteria and viruses, ensuring that the immunity of your children is at optimum levels at all times should be of utmost importance. Since children have a tendency to interact and come in contact with contaminated surfaces more often, their developing immune systems making them more vulnerable to infections.
Ragi
The indigenous millet is a grain that is extremely health for babies, toddlers and young children to consume in the form of porridge, rotis, parathas and laddoos. Sprouted ragi flour is also a great source of enriched nutrients that allow children to feel satiated for longer and are easy on their digestive systems. Due to its mineral and fibre content, ragi is the ideal monsoon grain to shield children from chest congestions, flu and common cold.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale and spinach are packed full of nutrients and vitamins A, C and K, along with minerals like iron, magnesium and calcium. These vegetables are also rich in antioxidants, making it easy for toxins to be flushed out of the body and keeping children in the pink of health and improving their immune-system function.
Eggs
Known to be a ‘complete food’ that should be given to children, eggs are rich in protein and vitamin D. Considered to be on the top of the list of immunity-boosting foods, eggs are also rich in vitamins B 12, selenium, Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Eggs are also perfect to be given to children as it also helps in boosting their energy levels, while engaging in physical activities like playing or cycling.
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Bananas
The vitamin B6 in bananas are known to be the most important immunity-boosting nutrient for babies and children. Bananas cater to sever immune deficiencies that children might be prone to, along with also shielding their intestinal passage from contracting bacterial infections – a condition that might most often occur during the monsoon months. Include at least one or two bananas in your kid’s diet by adding it to their fruit bowl, cereal, pancake batter or evening snack.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is known to be an excellent probiotic that encourages the flourishing of gut bacteria. Packed with vitamin D and calcium, ensure that you feed your children plain, unsweetened yoghurt to reap the full health benefit. The probiotics present in yoghurt also offer relief against common water-borne diseases like cholera and diarrhoea. Consuming yoghurt in the form of buttermilk or lassi also decreases their chances of contracting strep throat and ear infections.
Black Chana
The iron-rich black chana is one of the best forms of plant-based protein to feed children. Whether it is mashed into tikkis or eaten as a dry preparation with rotis or parathas, black chana contains lesser cholesterol levels and high amounts of fibre. It is also rich in minerals that shield the body against ailments like dry cough, viral fever and offers protection against the changing season.
Seeds
Seed varieties like pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds and chia seeds are loaded with vital nutrients like fibre, polyunsaturated fats, micronutrients and antioxidants. Packed with vitamin E, seeds help in boosting immunity, along with having other positive health benefits like regulating blood sugar levels, maintaining blood pressure and controlling blood cholesterol levels.
