The Immune System: A Kid-Friendly Explanation

.To be immune (pronounced: ih-MYOON) means to be protected. All humans and animals have natural immunity. The system in our bodies that is responsible for fighting off sickness is called the immune system. The immune system consists of a network of mighty cells, strong tissues, and healthy organs that join their forces together to protect the body against diseases caused by tiny invaders (called pathogens) such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites.

Antigens and Antibodies

Those invaders that are coming from the outside world can turn into disease antigens. When antigens enter the body, they provoke an immune response. One of the body’s common immune responses is the production of proteins that bravely fight off the antigens. These vital proteins are called antibodies.

So we all have a smart immune system in our bodies. But is it strong enough to keep us from getting ill? Well, everyone gets sick sometimes. But the strength of your immune system helps you heal and get well quicker and sooner. And if you've had your shots (vaccines), your body is extra-prepared to fight off serious illnesses that your immune system might not be able to handle on its own.

There are also some additional things that we can do to help our immune system, such as: washing our hands regularly to prevent infections, eating nutritious foods, staying active, getting enough sleep, and getting regular medical checkups.

The connection between the immune system and the gut

Around 70% of the immune cells are located in the digestive tract, which is 9 metres long and is also known as the gut. A healthy gut guarantees a strong immune system that protects us from getting sick. This means that the better we feed our bodies, the better our immune system protects us. Below you can find two lists with foods that are healthy for the gut and the immune system. Invite your kid to read them with you!

Gut-healthy foods

  • Fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables

  • Plain greek yogurt (beware of added sugars in the other types)

  • Fermented veggies like pickles, sauerkraut, cabbage, beets, ginger, seaweed, and kelp kraut

  • Whole-grain bread

  • Oatmeal

  • Legumes

  • Starchy vegetables like potatoes (they contain prebiotics that support gut health)

  • Fish, especially sustainably sourced salmon

  • Seaweed snacks

  • Plant-based proteins

  • Healthy fats and oils like avocado and coconut

Immune-boosting foods

  • Citrus fruits

  • Red bell peppers (they have more vitamin C than lemons!)

  • Broccoli

  • Garlic

  • Ginger

  • Spinach

  • Yogurt

  • Almonds

  • Turmeric

  • Kiwi

  • Pickles

  • Shellfish and all its variety of shrimp, oysters, crabs, lobsters, and mussels! Yum!

  • Salmon

If you feel healthy, energetic, and happy today, thank your immune system!