Back-to-School Immune Boosters: A Must-Have Supplements for Kids

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Back-to-School Immune Boosters: A Must-Have Supplements for Kids

By Alpro Pharmacy

February 18, 2025

Ringgg~ as the school bell rings and kids return to their classrooms, they are not just bringing homework but also being exposed to germs. In school, kids often share stationery, walk in crowded hallways, share food and drink, and gather in assembly. All these activities make germs easy to transmit to each other.

Unsurprisingly, the start of the school year often coincides with a spike in illnesses. In a recent survey, more than two-thirds of children missed at least one school day because of illness. [1]

As concerned parents, this raises an important question:

How can we fortify our children’s immune systems to help them stay healthy and thrive?

While a balanced diet and good hygiene are important, natural and safe supplements can offer an extra layer of protection.

1. Probiotics

Inside our human body, live good bacteria that aid in food digestion, making vitamins, and eliminating disease-causing cells. These good bacteria are called probiotics. They strengthen the gut lining, stimulate immune cells, and promote the production of antibodies that fight infections.

Probiotics enhance the body’s ability to keep off illnesses by supporting our healthy gut. It may be helpful to know that there are different strains of probiotics to consider when choosing one for your child. For example, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus aids gut health and reduces the risk of diarrhea. Whereas, Bifidobacterium Lactis helps boost immunity and improves digestion.[2]

Do seek help from your pharmacist to choose the best probiotic for your child’s specific health needs and age.

2.Tiger Milk Mushroom (Lignosus Rhinocerus)

Tiger Milk Mushrooms (TMM) have been used for a long time by indigenous communities in Southeast Asia regions as traditional medicine for different ailments such as respiratory disorders. It promotes a balanced immune reaction, reducing the risk of overactive responses that can cause inflammation.

This mushroom has antioxidant properties that help protect immune cells from damage by free radicals, ensuring they function effectively. TMM also combats bacteria and viruses by enhancing the body’s natural defences.[3]

For children, the recommended dosage of TMM varies by age. Younger kids under 5 may take a quarter to half the adult dose, while those aged 5 and older typically take 150–300 mg daily. In summary, TMM supports immunity through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and respiratory health.

3. Elderberry

Elderberry supports immunity through its rich antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins, which protect immune cells from damage and enhance their function. It stimulates cytokine production, which boosts the body’s defence against infections and has antiviral properties by preventing viruses from entering cells and replicating.

Studies have shown that elderberry can reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu while relieving respiratory symptoms like congestion and cough.[4] For kids, a daily dose of 150–300 mg of elderberry extract is typically recommended, but it’s always best to follow product guidelines or consult a pharmacist.

Elderberry is available in kid-friendly forms like gummies, syrups, or chewable tablets, making it an easy and enjoyable way to boost immunity.

4. Bluegreen Algae

One powerful immune-support option for kids is a supplement made from patented microalgae extract. This unique ingredient works by inhibiting viruses from attaching to cells, providing a first line of defence against common infections. Packed with bioactive peptides, amino acids, and essential nutrients, it strengthens the immune system and supports overall health.

A daily dose of 250–500 mg of this microalgae extract is typically recommended for children, depending on their age and nutritional needs. [5] This simple addition to their routine helps fortify their immunity and keeps them resilient against increased exposure to germs during the school year.

5. Colostrum

Another excellent immune-boosting option for kids is colostrum, a natural substance derived from the first milk produced by mammals after giving birth. Rich in antibodies, growth factors, and immune-supporting nutrients, colostrum helps enhance the body’s natural defences and promotes overall wellness.

Colostrum is particularly beneficial for supporting the gut, which houses a large portion of the immune system. It helps maintain a healthy intestinal barrier and balances gut bacteria, contributing to better immunity and digestion. For children, a daily dose of 500–1,000 mg of colostrum powder is generally recommended, but the exact amount may vary based on the child’s age and needs.[6] It’s available in easy-to-consume forms like chewable tablets, powders, or capsules, making it a practical addition to their back-to-school routine.

6. Vitamin D

It is often called the “sunshine vitamin” because our skin produces vitamin D when sunlight exposes it. Vitamin D strengthens the immune system by activating key defence cells, boosting infection-fighting proteins, reducing inflammation, and helping the body respond effectively to germs.

Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency has been linked to a weakened immune system functioning with an increased risk of infections and a susceptibility to autoimmune disease.[7] Children should spend 10 to 15 minutes in sunlight daily to support natural vitamin D production.

However, since factors like limited outdoor time, sunscreen use, and seasonal changes can reduce sun exposure, a vitamin D supplement is often recommended to ensure adequate levels for healthy growth, bone development, and the immune system.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), also the minimum requirement of Vitamin D: [8]

0-12 months old: 400IU/day
1 year and older: 600IU/day

7. Vitamin C

It is a water-soluble nutrient that helps the body function and stay healthy. Vitamin C makes our white blood cells function more effectively, which is crucial in fighting infections. Besides, it also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it helps in collagen synthesis, which is important for skin health and wound healing.

The recommended dosage of vitamin C depends on age: [9]

Children 1–3 years: 15mg/day
Children 4–8 years: 25mg/day
Children 9–13 years: 45mg/day

8. Zinc

It is an essential micronutrient that keeps our immune systems strong, helps heal wounds, and supports normal growth. Zinc supports immune function by aiding in developing and activating white blood cells such as neutrophils and natural killer cells.[10] Since the body does not store zinc, obtaining it regularly through diet or supplementation is important. Zinc supplementation for children exists in many forms such as chewable tablets, gummies, syrup, and powder. Thus, choose the form that is suitable for your child.

The recommended intake of zinc depends on age: [11]

Children 1–3 years: 3mg/day
Children 4–8 years: 5mg/day
Children 9–13 years: 8mg/day

Conclusion

In conclusion, a strong immune system is the best defense for your child as they return to school and face daily exposure to germs and diseases. Natural and safe supplements like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, probiotics, tiger milk mushrooms, and elderberry can provide the extra support they need to fight off infections, reduce the severity of sickness, and sustain overall health.

Combined with a healthy balanced diet, regular physical activity, and good hygiene habits, these supplements can help build a strong foundation for your child’s well-being. By taking these simple yet effective steps, you can ensure your child stays healthy, energized, and ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the school year. Proactive care today means a healthier, happier tomorrow for your little one!

References

1. Survey results (no date) NSCH 2022: Number of school days missed due to illness or injury during the past 12 months, Nationwide. Available at: https://www.childhealthdata.org/browse/survey/results?q=10363&r=1 (Accessed: 06 December 2024).

2. Office of dietary supplements – probiotics (Dec 2024) NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Probiotics-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=In%20addition%2C%20treatment%20with%20Lactobacillus,in%20those%20with%20mild%20forms. (Accessed: 06 December 2024).

3. Tan ESS, Leo TK, Tan CK. Effect of tiger milk mushroom (Lignosus rhinocerus) supplementation on respiratory health, immunity and antioxidant status: an open-label prospective study. Sci Rep. 2021 Jun 3;11(1):11781. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-91256-6. PMID: 34083710; PMCID: PMC8175741.

4. Tiralongo E, Wee SS, Lea RA. Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients. 2016 Mar 24;8(4):182. doi: 10.3390/nu8040182. PMID: 27023596; PMCID: PMC4848651.

5. Ku CS, Yang Y, Park Y, Lee J. Health benefits of blue-green algae: prevention of cardiovascular disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. J Med Food. 2013 Feb;16(2):103-11. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2012.2468. PMID: 23402636; PMCID: PMC3576896.

6. Ghosh S, Iacucci M. Diverse Immune Effects of Bovine Colostrum and Benefits in Human Health and Disease. Nutrients. 2021 Oct 26;13(11):3798. doi: 10.3390/nu13113798. PMID: 34836054; PMCID: PMC8624701.

7. Martens PJ, Gysemans C, Verstuyf A, Mathieu AC. Vitamin D’s Effect on Immune Function. Nutrients. 2020 Apr 28;12(5):1248. doi: 10.3390/nu12051248. PMID: 32353972; PMCID: PMC7281985.

8. Institute of Medicine, Food and Nutrition Board. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2010.

9. Institute of Medicine. Food and Nutrition Board. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoidsexternal link disclaimer. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000.

10. Shankar AH, Prasad AS. Zinc and immune function: the biological basis of altered resistance to infection. Am J Clin Nutr. 1998 Aug;68(2 Suppl):447S-463S. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/68.2.447S. PMID: 9701160.

11. Cleveland Clinic (2024) How to build up your child’s immune system, Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-boost-your-kids-immunity (Accessed: 06 December 2024).

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