Children’s health: Fundamentals of strong immunity

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Children’s health: Fundamentals of strong immunity

I. Understanding immunity: Health foundation

A. What is immunity?

Immunity is a complex biological system designed to protect the body from harmful factors, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and toxins. It is like a vigilant guard, constantly scanning and neutralizing the threat. In children, the immune system is in the process of formation and ripening, which makes them especially vulnerable to infections. Understanding the basics of immunity is necessary to maintain the health of the child and reduce the risk of diseases.

B. Types of immunity:

  1. Inborn immunity (natural): This is the first line of defense of the body that has existed from the moment of birth. It includes physical barriers (leather, mucous membranes), chemical barriers (acidity of the stomach, lysozyme in saliva), as well as cells of the immune system, such as macrophages and natural killer (NK cells), which non-specificly destroy pathogens. Congenital immunity reacts quickly, but does not have immunological memory.

    • Physical barriers:
      • Leather: An impenetrable barrier that prevents the penetration of microorganisms.
      • Mucous membranes: They cover the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract and the genitourinary system, delaying and removing pathogens with mucus and cilia.
    • Chemical barriers:
      • Acidity of the stomach: It destroys most bacteria entering the stomach with food.
      • Lizocim: Contained in saliva, tears and other body fluids, destroying the cell walls of bacteria.
    • Cells of congenital immunity:
      • Macrophages: “Absorb” and digest pathogens and dead cells.
      • Natural killers (NK cells): Destroy cells and tumor cells infected with viruses.

  2. Acquired immunity (adaptive): It develops throughout life in response to the effects of antigens (substances recognized by the immune system as alien). It is characterized by specificity (the ability to recognize specific antigens) and immunological memory (the ability to quickly and effectively respond with repeated exposure to the same antigen). The acquired immunity is divided into:

    • Active immunity: It develops as a result of the effect of antigen on the body, or naturally (after the disease), or artificially (after vaccination).
      • Natural active immunity: It occurs after the disease. The body produces antibodies and memory cells that provide protection against re -infection with the same pathogen.
      • Artificial active immunity: It develops after vaccination. The vaccine contains weakened or killed pathogens, which stimulate the immune system to the production of antibodies and memory cells without the development of the disease.
    • Passive immunity: It is provided with ready -made antibodies received from the outside. It does not provide prolonged protection, since antibodies are gradually destroyed.
      • Natural passive immunity: It is transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy (through the placenta) or with breast milk. Provides newborn protection against infections in the first months of life.
      • Artificial passive immunity: It is ensured by introducing serum containing ready -made antibodies (for example, with a bite of a poisonous snake).

C. The cells of the immune system:

The immune system consists of many cells, each of which plays a certain role in protecting the body.

  1. White blood cells (white blood cells): The general name for various cells of the immune system.
  2. Lymphocytes: The main cells of the acquired immunity.
    • T-lymphocytes: There are several types:
      • T-HELPERS (CD4+ cells): Coordinate the immune response, activating other cells of the immune system.
      • Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CD8+ cells): Destroy cells and tumor cells infected with viruses.
      • T-regulatory cells: Sold the immune response, preventing autoimmune reactions.
    • B-lymphocytes: Produce antibodies that neutralize pathogens and facilitate their destruction by other cells of the immune system.
  3. Macrophages: “Absorb” and digest pathogens and dead cells. They play an important role in congenital immunity and activate T-lymphocytes.
  4. Neutrophils: The most common leukocytes are the first to arrive at the place of infection and destroy pathogens.
  5. Eosinophils: They fight parasitic infections and participate in allergic reactions.
  6. Basophils: They participate in allergic reactions, secreting histamine and other inflammation mediators.
  7. Dendritic cells: “Represent” antigens T-lymphocytes, launching an adaptive immune response.

D. The organs of the immune system:

The organs of the immune system are places where immune cells develop, ripen and function.

  1. Central organs:
    • Bone marrow: The formation of all blood cells, including immune cells.
    • Timus (thymus iron): The ripening place of T-lymphocytes.
  2. Peripheral organs:
    • Lymphatic nodes: They filter lymph and contain lymphocytes that are activated when antigens are detected.
    • Spleen: He filters blood, removing old and damaged blood cells, and also contains lymphocytes that are activated when antigens are detected.
    • Tonsils and adenoids: Located in the throat and protect the respiratory tract from infections.
    • Payerovs Plashki: They are located in the small intestine and protect against infections that fall from food.

II. Factors affecting the immunity of the child

A. Genetics:

A genetic predisposition plays a significant role in determining the strength of the child’s immune system. Some children are more susceptible to certain infections due to the hereditary features of the immune response. However, genetics is not a sentence, and the way of life and the environment can have a significant impact on immunity.

B. Age:

The child’s immune system is in the process of formation and maturation during the first years of life. Newborns receive passive immunity from the mother, but it gradually weakens. Own immunity begins to actively develop after vaccination and infections. Children of preschool and primary school age are especially vulnerable to infections, since their immune system has not yet been fully formed.

C. Nutrition:

Proper nutrition plays a decisive role in maintaining the health of the immune system. The lack of nutrients can weaken the immune response and increase the risk of infections.

  1. Vitamins:
    • Vitamin A: It is necessary to maintain the health of the mucous membranes, which are an important barrier against infections. Contained in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, eggs and liver.
    • Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Stimulates the activity of immune cells. Contained in citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, broccoli and sweet pepper.
    • Vitamin D: Plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of infections. It is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. Contained in oily fish, eggs and enriched products.
    • Vitamin E: An antioxidant that protects the cells from damage. Contained in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.
  2. Minerals:
    • Zinc: It is necessary for the normal functioning of immune cells. Zinc deficiency can weaken the immune response. Contained in meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds and legumes.
    • Selenium: An antioxidant that protects the cells from damage. It is necessary for the normal operation of the immune system. Contained in Brazilian nuts, tuna, eggs and mushrooms.
    • Iron: It is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen to cells. Iron deficiency can weaken the immune response. Contained in meat, poultry, fish, legumes and green leafy vegetables.
  3. Protein: It is necessary to build and restore cells of the immune system, as well as for the production of antibodies. Contained in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.
  4. Probiotics: Useful bacteria that live in the intestines and support the health of the digestive system. They can also strengthen the immune system, stimulating the production of antibodies and cells of the immune system. Contained in yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and other fermented products.
  5. Prebiotics: Drill fibers that serve as food for probiotics. Contained in onions, garlic, bananas, asparagus and other products.

D. Dream:

A sufficient dream is crucial for the health of the immune system. During sleep, the body produces cytokines – proteins that help fight infections. The lack of sleep can weaken the immune response and increase the risk of diseases. The recommended duration of sleep for children of different ages:

  • Newborns (0-3 months): 14-17 hours a day.
  • Infants (4-11 months): 12-15 hours a day.
  • Children of an early age (1-2 years old): 11-14 hours a day.
  • Preschool children (3-5 years old): 10-13 hours a day.
  • School children (6-13 years old): 9-11 hours a day.
  • Teenagers (14-17 years old): 8-10 hours a day.

E. Stress:

Chronic stress can negatively affect the immune system, suppressing its activity and increasing the risk of diseases. It is important to teach children to cope with stress using various methods such as physical exercises, games, creativity and communication with friends and family.

F. Physical activity:

Regular physical activity strengthens the immune system, improves blood circulation and stimulates the production of immune cells. Children should engage in physical exercises for at least 60 minutes a day.

G. Vaccination:

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect children from infectious diseases. Vaccines contain weakened or killed pathogens, which stimulate the immune system to the production of antibodies and memory cells without the development of the disease.

H. Breast-feeding:

Breast milk contains antibodies, growth factors and other substances that strengthen the child’s immune system. Breastfeeding is recommended during the first six months of the child’s life.

I. Environment:

Air pollution, smoking, mold and other environmental factors can negatively affect the immune system of the child. It is important to create a healthy environment for a child.

III. Strengthening the child’s immunity: Practical advice

A. Nutrition:

  1. A variety of diet: Provide the child with a variety of diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, protein and healthy fats.
  2. Limiting sugar and processed products: Limit the consumption of sugar, processed products and fast food, as they can weaken the immune system.
  3. Sufficient water consumption: Make sure that the child consumes a sufficient amount of water to maintain hydration of the body.
  4. Products rich in vitamins and minerals: Include in the diet products rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc, selenium and iron.
  5. Probiotics and prebiotics: Include products containing probiotics and prebiotics in the diet to maintain intestinal health.

B. Dream:

  1. Regular sleep mode: Set a regular sleep mode for a child to provide him with a sufficient amount of sleep.
  2. Comfortable sleeping: Create a comfortable sleeping atmosphere, providing silence, darkness and coolness in the room.
  3. Restriction of screen time before bedtime: Limit the screen time before bedtime, since the blue light from the screens can disrupt the production of melatonin – sleep hormone.

C. Stress:

  1. Creating a calm atmosphere: Create a calm atmosphere for the child to reduce stress.
  2. Training in relaxation methods: Teach your child relaxation methods such as breathing exercises and meditation.
  3. Support and communication: Provide your child support and the opportunity to communicate with friends and family.

D. Physical activity:

  1. Regular physical exercises: Encourage the child to regular physical exercises, such as running, jumping, swimming and playing in the fresh air.
  2. Active lifestyle: Support an active lifestyle by walking, driving on a bicycle and playing sports with the child.

E. Hygiene:

  1. Regular hand washing: Teach the child to regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after visiting the toilet.
  2. Avoiding contact with patients: Try to avoid contact with sick people to reduce the risk of infection.
  3. Regular cleaning and ventilation of the premises: Remove and ventilate the rooms regularly to reduce the concentration of microbes in the air.

F. Vaccination:

  1. Compliance with vaccination schedule: Follow the vaccination schedule recommended by the doctor to protect the child from infectious diseases.
  2. Discussion of vaccination issues with a doctor: Discuss all issues and fears related to vaccination, with a doctor.

G. Stay in the fresh air:

  1. Regular walking in the fresh air: Provide the child regular walks in the fresh air to get a sufficient amount of vitamin D and strengthen the immune system.
  2. Sunny baths (with caution): Provide the child with sunbathing, observing precautions to avoid sunburn.

H. Refusal of bad habits (for adults):

  1. Refusal of smoking: Refuse smoking, since passive smoking can negatively affect the child’s immune system.
  2. Moderate alcohol consumption: Observe moderation in alcohol consumption, as alcohol abuse can weaken the immune system.

IV. Common myths about immunity

A. “Immunity can be increased by pills.”

Most immunomodulators available in pharmacies do not have proven efficiency and safety. Strengthening immunity is a comprehensive process that includes proper nutrition, sleep, physical activity and a decrease in stress.

B. “The more drugs, the better for immunity.”

Excessive use of drugs, especially antibiotics, can disrupt the balance of intestinal microflora and loosen the immune system. Antibiotics should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor and strictly observed the dosage and duration of treatment.

C. “A cold is a sign of weak immunity.”

A cold is a viral disease that can affect even children with severe immunity. The frequency of colds depends on many factors, including the age, season of the year and contact with other children.

D. “Vaccinations weaken the immunity.”

Vaccinations do not weaken the immunity, but on the contrary, strengthen it, teaching the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens.

E. “If a child is often sick, he has a weak immunity.”

Frequent diseases in childhood can be associated with immunity of the immune system and adaptation to new microbes. In most cases, as the child grows, the immunity is strengthened, and the frequency of diseases decreases. However, if a child often suffers from severe infections, you must consult a doctor to exclude immunodeficiency.

V. When to see a doctor

Contact the doctor if the child has the following signs:

  • Frequent and severe infections (more than 6-8 times a year).
  • Slow growth and development.
  • Chronic diarrhea or constipation.
  • Repeating infections of the ear, nose or throat.
  • Inexplicable skin rashes or itching.
  • Increased lymph nodes.
  • Autoimmune diseases in a family history.
  • Unusual reactions to vaccination.

VI. Conclusion

Strong immunity is the key to the health and well -being of the child. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, physical activity, vaccination and decrease in stress are the main factors that contribute to the strengthening of the immune system. It is important to remember that immunity is a complex system, and to maintain it requires an integrated approach. In case of any health problems, you must consult a doctor for consultation and treatment.

VII. Important additions

  • Consultation with a pediatrician: Regular consultations with a pediatrician are necessary to assess the health of the child and obtain individual recommendations for strengthening immunity.
  • Individual approach: It is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the child, such as age, genetic predisposition and lifestyle, when choosing methods for strengthening immunity.
  • Caution with folk remedies: Before using folk remedies, to strengthen immunity, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since some of them can be ineffective or even harmful to the child.
  • Maintaining a positive mood: Positive mood and optimism contribute to the strengthening of the immune system. Support the child and create a positive atmosphere in the family.

VIII. Additional resources

  • Site of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation: Contains information about vaccination, prevention of infectious diseases and a healthy lifestyle.
  • The site of the Union of Pediatricians of Russia: Contains information about the health of children, the prevention of diseases and child care.
  • Books and articles about children’s health: There are many books and articles about children’s health in which you can find useful information about strengthening immunity.
  • Online forums and support groups for parents: At online forums and support groups for parents, you can get advice and support from other parents, as well as ask doctors and specialists.

This comprehensive article provides a detailed overview of children’s immunity, covering its fundamentals, influencing factors, practical tips for strengthening it, debunking common myths, identifying when to seek medical attention, and highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to children’s health. It also includes references to official resources for parents. The information is presented in a structured manner with clear headings and subheadings, making it easy to navigate and understand.

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