Dr Archita Mahajan, a renowned Nutrition Dietitian and Child Care expert with a Master’s Degree in Food Nutrition and Dietetics, has shared important health advice for parents as the winter season transitions into summer. She is a nominee for the prestigious Padma Bhushan National Award and has been honored by the Punjab Government, the Himachal Government, and Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Shri Kavinder Gupta.
According to Dr Mahajan, children’s immunity tends to weaken as winter ends and temperatures begin to fluctuate. Sudden changes in weather force the body to work harder to maintain balance, weakening the immune system. As a result, viral fever, cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, sinus infections, and asthma cases increase rapidly during this period.
She emphasized that strengthening immunity through proper nutrition is essential to prevent seasonal illnesses.
Why Immunity Weakens During Seasonal Change
When winter transitions into summer, the body experiences rapid temperature shifts and increased exposure to allergens. These environmental changes stress the immune system, making children more vulnerable to infections.
Immunity Boosting Foods for Children
Dr Archita Mahajan recommends the following foods to naturally strengthen immunity:
1. Vitamin C Rich Foods
Amla, lemon, orange, kiwi, and broccoli are rich in Vitamin C, which helps fight infections and strengthens immune response.
2. Broccoli – A Superfood
Broccoli contains essential minerals like potassium, selenium, magnesium, and calcium that support overall immunity and health.
3. Herbal Ingredients and Spices
Ginger, garlic, turmeric, and tulsi have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. They help protect against throat infections and respiratory issues.
4. Vitamin D Sources
Morning sunlight exposure for at least 30 minutes is essential for respiratory health. Fortified milk, mushrooms, and eggs are also good sources of Vitamin D.
5. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds provide Vitamin E and healthy fatty acids, which are important for immune defense.
6. Gut Health Matters
Probiotics like curd and kefir improve gut health, which plays a crucial role in strengthening immunity.
Lifestyle Tips to Improve Immunity
Dr Mahajan also stressed the importance of:
- 7–8 hours of quality sleep
- Regular exercise
- Yoga, pranayama, and meditation to reduce stress
- Drinking adequate water daily
She concluded that a balanced diet combined with a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of seasonal infections in children.
