Winter Wellness Tips for Kids

The winter months and the hangover from all of the holiday foods and treats can come back to haunt us

in January. This can put a particular toll on children, as the cold weather combined with lots of sweets

and returning to school can put the immune system into overdrive. Taking advantage of a few tips can

help keep those immune systems running properly, keeping your kid healthy and happy as we plow

forward toward the spring.

Get Back to Nutrient-Rich Diet

While the holidays are a time to splurge, the threats of the winter months haven’t gone away once the

calendar turns to the new year. By providing your children with a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet,

you can really support the immune system. These diets include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean

proteins, and whole grains. Foods that are rich in vitamins C and D, zinc, and antioxidants can also play a

crucial role in supporting the immune system.

Hydration is also important during the winter months. The cool air outside leads to people running their

furnace, and indoor heating can lead to dry air within the home. That dry air can contribute to

dehydration. Proper hydration is important to supporting your overall health while keeping the immune

system functioning properly.

Proper Alignment Means System Optimization

Chiropractors focus on the spine, and a properly aligned spine allows for wide open communication

between your nervous system and immune system. Correcting any misalignments will enhance your

nervous system to deliver enhanced immune response. Proper alignment allows your body to recognize

and fight off pathogens, leading to a more robust immune system.

As everyone returns from their travel over the holidays, there is more exposure to potential threats. By

making sure your immune system is in prime shape to ward off threats during the tail end of cold and flu

season. Combined with proper diet and exercise, this holistic approach can support your immune

system, and your overall well-being.

Get Enough Exercise & Sleep

Promoting regular physical activity for your children is extremely important, particularly in the winter

months. Colorado is lucky enough to have milder winters compared to some places, but cold stretches

can hit us hard, too. While Colorado has plenty of options for outdoor activities, there are also a number

of indoor sports people can take advantage of that are family-friendly, as well. Anything that will get

your heart rate moving will help, as exercise is commonly linked to a stronger immune system.

Sufficient sleep is just as important, and it’s imperative for children to maintain a consistent sleep

schedule. Getting your children to bed on time (using age-appropriate bedtimes, of course) is as

essential as getting regular exercise. Quality sleep is required for the body to rest and recover – and

both of those will strengthen your immune system.

There are a number of ways to help your child maintain their well-being during the winter months. For

more information on how to keep your child’s immune system firing on all cylinders during these cold

months, reach out to Dr. Morgan Sheridan at Foundation Chiropractic today.