Busting common immunity myths: What really helps your child stay healthy

Being a child nutritionist, I get questions every day from parents about offering different foods during the winter season. “My baby can’t have banana during winter, right?” or “My baby has a cold, I can’t offer yogurt”.

These statements come from people around them, who of course have the best intentions but it is important to break down these statements and understand the science behind them. Many of these statements actually are myths and if we follow them we end up restricting our kids from foods that actually can help them get stronger during the winter.Let’s clear some up so you can offer these foods to your child with confidence and not have to second guess.

Myth 1: Banana causes cold and cough during the winter.

Many people argue that banana as a fruit is very cold in nature and can increase mucus. Since kids are prone to getting sick during the winter, they should avoid this completely. The truth? There is no scientific evidence to support this. Colds come from viruses, and not from eating a fruit. In fact, bananas are packed with vitamin c, b6, potassium and fibre that supports your child hydration, energy and gut health. For kids, adding a banana in their pancakes, porridges or even on its own is a completely safe option any time of year.

Even if your child falls sick, it is okay to offer banana in moderation, especially if that’s the only thing they are willing to have.

Myth 2: Yogurt causes phlegm and we should not offer during winter or when child has a cold.

This is another one I hear a lot, my child is not well so I will not offer anything cold especially yogurt. The reality- if your child is not well it is totally safe to offer yogurt, just offer it at room temperature and not straight from the fridge. When your child has a cold, the body produces extra mucus to help get rid of the infection, it isn’t coming from having yogurt.

In fact, yogurt is a superfood when kids are sick. It has all these probiotic strains that help strengthen the gut, and 70% of our immune system is found in the gut.

Research also shows that probiotics can reduce the length and severity of respiratory illnesses in kids. Curd is also a rich source of calcium, vitamin B12, and protein.Curd rice with some ghee and haldi and jeera is a great comforting meal when children are not well.

Myth 3: Cold drinks/ice cream causes sore throat or flu

A lot of parents don’t allow their child to have anything cold during the winter, thinking the temperature of the food item will invite illness. If your child gets a cold, it is because they have been exposed to the germs from someone else. Cold foods can briefly constrict the blood vessels in the throat, but that is not going to cause any infection. If your child does have a sensitive throat, then offering warmer foods can help soothe their throat but there is no need to completely avoid it when the child is completely well.

Myth 4: Don’t offer milk when child is not well

Don't withhold dairy just because your child is sick. Milk has important nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, that your child needs to grow. It may also help her stay hydrated, which is important when your child is under the weather. Experts disagree about whether dairy products – especially those made from cow's milk – increase nasal congestion, because there is no conclusive evidence one way or another.The bottom line? Let go of these fears and trust your instinct. Observe what is helping your child feel better and stick to that.