How to Safeguard Children from Swine Flu with Nutrition & Food?

With the current comeback of swine flu in Delhi, hospitals are crowded with swine flu patients. People especially parents are worried about their child’s safety as children under five years of age are most vulnerable to this disease.

Many parents are taking extra precaution by teaching their kids to maintain hygiene habits, putting them pollution mask, telling them to avoid meeting people if they seem sick, avoiding going in crowded places etc. BUT do you know swine flu can also be prevented by adding certain nutrition in your child’s daily diet?

Delhi’s top Pediatric Nutritionist and dietician, Avni Kaul in this article same wonder foods that should be given daily to the child to safeguard them from the swine flu virus.

 1. Tulsi: Both Ayurveda and medical science believe holy basil has the power of not only keep the dreaded swine flu at bay but it can also help in the fast recovery of an afflicted person. Every morning (empty stomach), give your child 3-4 fresh basil leaves, crush and mix with one spoon of honey. So your child gets a daily done of anti-viral properties of basil leave and antioxidant from honey too.

2. Vitamin C: Vitamin C boosts the body’s immunity system body that can prevent swine flu infection. Hence you give your child one glass (minimum 200 milligrams) of homemade orange or Kinnow juice. Also give your child grapes, kiwi, and other seasonal fruits. Also, try to Amla and chyawanprash to boost your child’s immune system.

3. Garlic: Raw garlic is loaded with a sulfur compound Allicin that boosts the white blood cell (WBC) population in the body. WBCs, also called leukocytes, are an important part of the immune system. These cells also help fight infections by attacking germs, bacteria, and viruses including swine flu. You can mix raw garlic in green tea and give it frequently to your child during the winter season

4. Broccoli: Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse that can help both in preventing and fast recovery from swine flu. Giving your child just one serving of broccoli can provide them with immune-boosting vitamins C and E, along with calcium and fiber. You can give your child broccoli soup or add boiled broccoli in their main meal.

About the author: Avni Kaul is one of the top Nutritionist in Delhi , India, and a wellness coach. She is a certified nutritionist as well as a Diabetes Educator and specializes in weight management, child nutrition, skin and beauty health, thyroid disorder, cardiovascular health, diabetic management, wedding nutrition, sports nutrition, and corporate wellness.