Milk is known as a good source of calcium for the growth of teeth and bones. But not only that, the natural and additional content in milk can also support the child’s body power.
The immune system keeps the body healthy by recognizing and fighting bacteria, viruses, and parasites. In order for the immune system to work optimally, children’s nutrition must be fulfilled properly.
One of the efforts to strengthen the child’s immune system is to provide him with additional nutritional intake, such as milk. The benefits of milk for children’s immune systems are obtained from the nutritional content in a glass of milk.
The Role of Milk to Strengthen Children’s Immune System
Milk is a source of protein that contains various minerals, such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. Milk also contains multivitamins, such as vitamins A, B, D, and E.
Some types of milk for children are also added vitamin C, cod liver oil rich in DHA and EPA, iron, and dietary fiber inulin which makes it more nutritious.
The following is the role of the nutrients contained in a glass of cow’s milk and its benefits for the child’s immune system:
1. Protein
Protein helps the formation of immunoglobulins or antibodies to fight infection. Antibodies are proteins in the blood that protect the body from bacteria and viruses.
In addition, protein is needed to build and repair damaged body tissues.
2. Zinc
Zinc or zinc is a mineral needed to support the body’s defense function and metabolism. Zinc plays a role in stimulating the formation of immune cells so that it can fight infection and speed up the healing process.
3. Selenium
Selenium has antioxidant properties that play an important role in the immune system. Antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress in the body, reduce inflammation, and increase endurance.
Research has shown that increased levels of selenium in the blood are associated with an increased immune response. On the other hand, deficiency of this substance has been shown to decrease immune cell function.
4. Vitamin C
Vitamin C has various roles in strengthening the immune system. First, vitamin C promotes the production of white blood cells, namely lymphocytes and phagocytes, which protect the body from infection.
Second, vitamin C makes white blood cells function more effectively while protecting them from free radical damage.
Third, research shows that taking vitamin C can increase the skin barrier that speeds up wound healing.
5. Vitamin D
The type of vitamin D found in milk is vitamin D3. This vitamin has anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties which are important for the activation of the immune system.
More specifically, vitamin D enhances the function of immune cells, including T cells and macrophages, which protect the body from infection and disease.
6. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a micronutrient that plays an important role in vision function. Not only that, vitamin A also plays a role in maintaining the immune system.
Research has revealed a link between micronutrient deficiencies in children, especially vitamin A, and the occurrence of diseases that are transmitted through the respiratory and digestive systems.
Because of its important role in maintaining the immune system, WHO recommends giving high doses of vitamin A supplements for children aged 6 months to 5 years.
Apart from food and supplements, the need for vitamin A can also be met through the consumption of milk fortified with vitamin A.
7. DHA
In addition to several vitamins and minerals as previously mentioned, DHA is also important to be given to optimize children’s brain development. One source of DHA that is easily obtained is from the consumption of seafood, one of which is cod liver oil.
In addition to containing DHA (a type of omega-3 fat), cod liver oil contains a number of other important nutrients, such as vitamins A and D. These ingredients are important for child growth and development, including cell growth, maintaining eye health, and strengthening the immune system. , and reduce the risk of developing several diseases later in life.
In addition to providing good food, parents also need to teach their children clean and healthy living habits, such as washing hands, to avoid germs that cause disease. No less important, complete your child’s vaccination at the doctor or health facility.