A few weeks ago, one of the moms in our virtual community shared some fantastic news during our check-in. Her update was all smiles and virtual high-fives. Her little trooper hadn't missed a single day of school due to illness this year! The only absences were for a much-needed family vacation, which, let’s be honest, is the best reason to miss school.
Now, with the new school year just around the corner, I’m sure many of you are gearing up for the usual: books, homework, and—cue the dramatic music—runny noses and sick days.
As much as I’d love to tell you I’ve found a magic solution for making math homework fun or getting your kids to actually read that novel instead of just watching the movie (sorry, I can’t work miracles!). What I can do is help you give their immune system the boost it needs.
Because let’s be honest, the only thing worse than dealing with school projects is doing it while your kid is sneezing all over your favorite sweater.
Here’s the good news: a healthy, school-year-ready immune system is totally possible, and the right foundation of supplements is key. But, and this is a big but, it takes time—something I explained in detail in my article, What Nobody Tells You About Boosting Your Child’s Immune System.
That’s why now—yes, right now—is the perfect time to start!
Think of it as the back-to-school prep you actually want to do, because it means fewer sick days and more peace of mind for you.
So, without further ado, here are my top back-to-school supplement recommendations. And trust me, you don’t want to procrastinate on this one—whether it’s homework or your child’s health, getting a head start is always the way to go.
Let’s dive into the specifics and start laying the groundwork for a healthy, happy school year ahead!
My Top 3 Immune Boosting Supplements for Back-To-School
1. Probiotics: Supporting Your Child’s Gut and Immunity
When it comes to a strong immune system, a healthy gut is key. Think of your child’s digestive system as the “command center” for immune defense - where the body learns to distinguish friend from foe. That’s where probiotics come in.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help keep the gut microbiome balanced. They can support digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and even influence mood and focus - yes, a healthy gut can help kids stay sharp in class!
Fermented foods are a fun and natural way to introduce probiotics. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso all provide a boost of friendly bacteria. If your kids aren’t big fans of these foods yet, a high-quality probiotic supplement can fill the gap and keep their gut and immune system running smoothly.
For example, specific strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have been shown to help maintain a healthy immune response during cold and flu season. Starting with a daily dose tailored for your child’s age can make a noticeable difference over time.
If you’re not sure which probiotic supplement is best for your child, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Be sure to download my FREE Probiotics for KIDs Guide to get all the details.
2. Vitamin D3: The Sunshine Nutrient You Can’t Skip
Vitamin D3, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” plays a crucial role in immune health. It helps your body produce natural compounds that can fight off infections and keep the immune system alert.
Even though spending time outside is great, many children (and adults!) don’t get enough sunlight to maintain optimal vitamin D levels - especially in winter or in areas with less sun exposure. That’s where supplementation comes in.
A safe, age-appropriate dose of Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) can help maintain strong bones, support healthy immune function, and potentially reduce the likelihood of seasonal infections. While exact dosing can vary depending on your child’s weight, a general approach is to follow pediatric guidance and consider getting levels checked with a simple blood test for accuracy.
3. Zinc: A Mineral That Matters
Zinc is a little mineral with a big job. It’s essential for the development and function of immune cells that help fight infections. When children get enough zinc, their immune system can respond more effectively to everyday germs.
Zinc is naturally found in foods like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, beef, and lentils, making it easy to include in snacks and meals. For kids who may not get enough through diet alone, a supplement can help fill the gap - especially during back-to-school season when exposure to viruses is higher.
Zinc works at the cellular level, helping immune cells detect and respond to invaders, and may even interfere with the replication of certain viruses. Ensuring your child gets a consistent, age-appropriate dose can support overall immunity and help them bounce back faster from minor illnesses.
Whether through food or supplements, getting enough zinc is essential for keeping your child’s immune system strong and ready to take on whatever comes its way.
Don’t Wait - Start Boosting Your Child’s Immune System Now!
I cannot stress this enough—please don’t procrastinate (whether it’s on homework or your child’s immune system!). 🤣
The new school year is just around the corner, and with it comes the inevitable exposure to all those germs in crowded classrooms.
But here’s the good news: you can give your child’s immune system the support it needs to stay strong and healthy.
The key is to start NOW. Giving the body time to build up its defenses before the school year kicks into high gear is crucial. I recommend starting these supplements one at a time, spacing them out by 5-7 days before introducing the next one.
This approach allows you to monitor how your child responds to each supplement, so if there’s any kind of reaction, you’ll know exactly which supplement is the cause—whether it’s a positive response or something that needs adjusting.
So, go ahead and get started. Your future self—and your child’s immune system—will thank you!
Much Love and Healing,
xx Bettina
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