Author: Megan Jones (Adv.Dip.NutMed, BHsc.NutMed)
It’s that time again – back to school, new backpacks, fresh lunchboxes, and the inevitable return of those pesky bugs that seem to multiply overnight. If your child’s immune system had a LinkedIn profile, it’d list “germ magnet” as a skill! But rest assured, with a few simple strategies, you can help your little one stay strong and healthy all term long.
Why do kids catch everything?
Schools are like petri dishes for germs. Close quarters, shared spaces, and a mix of immune systems make it easy for bugs to spread. Plus, kids’ immune systems are still learning the ropes, so they’re more susceptible to catching colds, flu, and other common illnesses.1
Boosting immunity: The school survival kit
Here are some practical, parent-approved tips to help your child’s immune system shine:
1. Prioritise quality sleep
Sleep is like the ultimate immune booster.2 Kids need plenty of restful sleep to help their bodies fight off infections. Try to establish a calming bedtime routine and stick to regular sleep schedules – even on weekends.
2. Focus on nutrition
A colourful plate equals a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals!3 Encourage plenty of fruits and veggies rich in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants. These nutrients help strengthen the immune system and protect against infections.4 Think berries, citrus, carrots, leafy greens, and nuts. Of course, no one’s plate is perfect every day! That’s where Kids Good Stuff by Nuzest comes in – a nutritional support made with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based goodness to help keep kids thriving.
3. Hydration is key
Water helps flush out toxins and keeps the mucous membranes moist5 – those membranes are your child’s first line of defence against invading germs. Make sure they have a reusable water bottle handy throughout the day.
4. Hand hygiene habits
The classic but effective – regular handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to reduce germ spread.6 Teach kids to wash their hands before eating and after bathroom breaks, and keep some hand sanitiser in their bags for on-the-go.
5. Supportive supplements (when needed)
Sometimes diet alone doesn’t cut it – especially during stressful or busy times. A good-quality multinutrient supplement designed for kids can help fill nutritional gaps and support immune health. Look for products with key ingredients like vitamin D, zinc, and microbiotics that nurture the gut-immune connection.7
6. Keep the backpack (mostly) germ-free
That backpack goes everywhere. Wipe it down weekly, and if it’s machine washable, even better! Lunchboxes and water bottles? Wash those daily to avoid funky science experiments.
Extra immune tips for busy families
- Dress for the weather: Keeping kids comfortable and dry helps prevent colds.8
- Encourage physical activity: Fresh air and exercise boost circulation and immune response.9
- Minimise sugar and processed snacks: These can suppress immune function.10
The bright side of bugs
While no parent loves to see their child under the weather, remember that these early exposures help build a stronger immune system. With the right support, your child can learn, grow, and play through the season with fewer sick days and more smiles.
For extra peace of mind, Kids Good Stuff by Nuzest makes it easy to top up those all-important nutrients every day. Made with plant protein, real food ingredients, and over 25 essential vitamins, minerals, microbiotics, and other nutrients that are vital to good health, it’s designed to fill the nutritional gaps of even the fussiest eaters – without artificial nasties. Just one daily serve of Nuzest Kids Good Stuff can help support immunity, energy, and healthy growth, so your child can focus on learning (and you can stress less about sick days).
So, here’s to a healthy, happy school year – armed with good habits and a strong immune system ready to take on whatever bugs come their way!
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10146091/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30920354/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7473347/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7019735/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6723611/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8394668/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7288613/#sec8
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/12/7/936
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8782560/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36198287/
