“Doctor, could I have something for my immunity?”

I am often asked: ‘Doctor, is there anything for immunity? Something to make my child less prone to illness?’

There are many products available on the market in various forms that claim to be a remedy for all infections.

Which ones should you choose?

If you want something that is proven and safe, I recommend:

• 60–120 drops (one minute each) of outdoor activity every day
  (there is no such thing as bad weather for a walk)
• 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day
  (preferably raw/pickled, whole, not juice/compote)
• 2 portions of oily fish a week
• 9–11 hours of healthy sleep a day
  (depending on the child’s age)
• A daily dose of closeness
  (stress has a very negative effect on immunity)

A child’s long-term immunity is the result of daily choices from an early age.
Our choices will shape the child’s habits for life.

‘What if they get cold and catch a cold on a walk?’

This may indeed happen, but it will be part of the process of building long-term immunity, from which the child will benefit for years to come. Don’t let the occasional cold ruin the habit of walking and playing outside, regardless of the weather.