Seasonal Change Can Weaken Children’s Immunity; Expert Suggests Diet and Lifestyle Tips
Nutrition dietitian and child care expert Dr Archita Mahajan, who holds a Master’s degree in Food Nutrition and Dietetics and has been nominated for the Padma Bhushan National Award, has highlighted the importance of strengthening immunity during seasonal transitions.
Dr Mahajan, honored by the Punjab Government, Himachal Pradesh Government, and Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta, explained that immunity in children and adults often becomes weaker as winter ends and summer approaches.
According to her, sudden temperature fluctuations and increased exposure to allergens during seasonal change make the body work harder to maintain balance, which weakens the immune system. As a result, illnesses such as viral fever, cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, sinus infections, and asthma tend to spread more rapidly.
Why Immunity Weakens During Season Change
When the weather shifts from cold to warm, the body experiences rapid changes in temperature. This forces the immune system to adapt quickly, reducing its ability to fight infections effectively.
Experts recommend focusing on immunity-boosting foods and healthy lifestyle habits during this period to prevent seasonal illnesses.
What to Eat to Boost Immunity
1. Vitamin C–Rich Foods
Consume amla, lemon, oranges, kiwi, and broccoli, which are rich in Vitamin C and help strengthen immune defense.
2. Broccoli – A Superfood
Broccoli contains essential minerals such as potassium, selenium, magnesium, and calcium that support overall immunity and body function.
3. Herbal Ingredients and Spices
Ginger, garlic, turmeric, and tulsi possess antiviral and antibacterial properties that help protect against infections and throat problems.
4. Vitamin D and Sunlight
Spending around 30 minutes in morning sunlight helps the body produce Vitamin D, essential for respiratory health. Fortified milk, mushrooms, and eggs are also beneficial sources.
5. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds provide Vitamin E and healthy fatty acids that strengthen immune response.
6. Gut Health Support
Probiotic foods such as yogurt or kefir improve digestion and enhance immunity by maintaining a healthy gut.
Lifestyle Changes for Strong Immunity
Dr Mahajan emphasized that diet alone is not enough. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is equally important:
- Practice yoga, pranayama, and meditation to reduce stress
- Get 7–8 hours of quality sleep daily
- Stay physically active with regular exercise
- Drink adequate water throughout the day
Experts advise parents to pay special attention to children’s nutrition during seasonal transitions to reduce the risk of infections and maintain overall health.
