While food should never be a substitute for a doctor’s care, a child's diet can have a dramatic impact on their immune system function. Below are three foods to boost your child's immunity, as well as a few, pediatrician-approved ways to incorporate these foods into your child's diet.

3 Foods to Improve a Child's Immunity

1. Yogurt

Yogurt contains gut-friendly probiotics that help maintain good digestive health. But there is also evidence that probiotic-rich foods can also enhance immune function and prevent colds and flu. Fortunately, yogurt is one of the easier foods to add to a child's regular meal rotation. Available in a variety of delicious flavors and full of sweet tartness and sharp tang, yogurt can be enjoyed by itself, in a smoothie, or frozen.

2. Fatty Fish

Many varieties of fatty fish are abundant in omega-3 acids, which can be beneficial for several bodily systems and organs, including the heart, brain, and immune system. Omega-3s increase the production of the white blood cells necessary for fighting illness and disease. Salmon, tuna, and trout are all high in omega-3s, but the question for most parents is how to make these fish palatable for kids. Pediatricians suggest starting out small by adding some tuna to the classic kids' favorite mac-and-cheese or lightly bread and bake some homemade "sticks" of trout.

3. Chicken Soup

Pediatricians say chicken soup is good for the immune system. Typical chicken soup recipes contain fresh vegetables, poultry, and broth that have high antioxidant properties. Research shows that antioxidant-rich foods increase the immune response, which is why chicken soup has been a trusted and comforting cure-all for generations. Even better, most kids tend to love it. If your child is apprehensive, consider adding some noodles or macaroni in fun shapes.

By infusing your child's diet with these types of foods, you can help them better fight off colds, flu, and other illnesses. Tinkelman Pediatrics is here to help your child on their health and wellness journey. They provide children's medical services and pediatric care to patients 21 years of age and under throughout the Brockport, NY, area. Call (585) 637-0060 to schedule an appointment with a pediatrician or visit their website to learn more about their services.