Stay cold-snap happy

Live smart and help boost your baby’s immunity with these nifty tricks

POP A SUPPLEMENT

It’s that time of year when bugs are flying around – the cold weather lowers our resistance, plus we stay inside more, so germs are exchanged much more easily. “If you’re breastfeeding a baby under three months, your main defence is to carry on,” says UK - based GP Catti Moss. “Breastmilk contains all the nutrients and immune-boosting goodness your baby needs. If your baby is older than three months, you could give her a daily multivitamin.”

Once your baby is weaned, you can boost her vitamins through food. “Zinc is known to strengthen your immune system, so it can resist infections like colds,” says UK - based nutritionist Amanda Ursell. Find it in red meat, oily fish and wholegrain cereals. “And studies show that, while vitamin C won’t prevent a cold, it will reduce its severity and length.” Fill up on berries, citrus fruits, dark green vegetables and brightly coloured peppers.

GET FRESH

It’s important your baby gets plenty of fresh air, even when you don’t feel like going out. “Vitamin D is a crucial bone-building, immune-boosting vitamin, which comes mainly from exposure to the sun,” says Amanda. “Even in winter, your child gets a little bit of sun whenever they step outside in daylight —20 minutes is enough. Fresh air also clears out her lungs, and going outside usually leads to some exercise, which will boost everyone’s mood.” It also reduces your baby’s exposure to other people’s bugs, so make your way to your nearest park.

WRAP HER UP