Let’s face it, back to school means back to contained classrooms and more exposure to germs.

Just as a dermatologist might recommend vitamins, dietary changes and ointments to clear up acne, chiropractic combined with other healthy habits boost immunity and promote healing.

Parents can implement simple habits into the new school year that will encourage little bodies to stay well.

Here are 5 heathy habits you can start today:

1.  Choose whole, nutrient dense food.

Good nutrition provides the building blocks for a growing kid’s body.  Among the most power-packed foods are leafy greens, berries, cabbage, broccoli, peppers, asparagus, garlic, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and carrots.   Bone broth, salmon, beans and seaweed (hello sushi!) supply vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.

If your child pushes away regular servings of fruits and veggies, try blending them in a smoothie, baking them into muffins or adding to soup, sauces or stews.

2.  Get plenty of sunshine.

Hours spent outside playing in sunshine boosts your child’s immunity as Vitamin D gets produced.  Your body creates Vitamin D only when the skin is exposed to natural ultraviolet (UV) rays directly from the sun.

To increase sun exposure, encourage your kids to get outside and play for a bit when they get home from school.  It’ll also help them unwind and burn off some energy after being in a classroom all day.

3.  Take probiotics.

Often, there is a correlation between lowered immune function and an imbalance of gut bacteria.  Probiotics restore the balance of good bacteria and keep guts healthy.   A child on antibiotics may have less good bacteria and will need probiotics to get to healthy levels again.

4.  Chiropractic adjustments.

Sickness typically arises when the body is unable to adapt to its environment.  When a spinal misalignment is present, the nervous system will not function appropriately, possibly leading to sickness.  Chiropractic adjustments emphasize the power of the body to heal itself without drugs or surgery.

5.  Sleep.

While sleeping, your child’s body is healing and repairing any damage from their day.  Getting enough sleep is essential to handle the threat of illness, and is also imperative for recouping from illness.  A regular bedtime is important as your child adjusts to a new school schedule.

Whole foods, sunshine, probiotics, sleep and chiropractic care are a prescription for health and wellness as your family begins a new school year.  We specialize in pediatric chiropractic, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.