Preschool children’s immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections, especially as they start interacting with other children. Their immune system strengthens through exposure to various microbes, proper nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle. Below is a holistic approach combining Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support their immune health.
Western Medicine Perspective
1. Vaccinations
• Essential for preventing serious infectious diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and influenza.
• Follow the recommended vaccination schedule in your country.
2. Nutrition
• A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as zinc and iron, helps boost immunity.
• Encourage foods like:
• Fruits and vegetables (e.g., carrots, oranges, berries, spinach).
• Protein sources (e.g., fish, chicken, eggs, legumes).
• Whole grains and healthy fats (e.g., nuts, seeds, avocado).
• Probiotics (e.g., yogurt, fermented foods) support gut health, which plays a crucial role in immunity.
3. Hygiene and Infection Prevention
• Teach proper handwashing, especially before meals and after using the toilet.
• Keep nails short and clean.
• Avoid sharing utensils or drinking from the same bottle with others.
4. Sleep and Stress Management
• Preschoolers need 10-13 hours of sleep per day for proper immune function.
• A consistent bedtime routine (e.g., warm bath, reading, soft music) helps regulate their circadian rhythm.
• Manage stress with playtime, affection, and social interaction.
5. Physical Activity
• Regular movement, such as playing outdoors, running, and simple exercises, boosts circulation and immune response.
• Avoid excessive screen time, which can affect sleep and overall health.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective
In TCM, children’s bodies are considered yang-dominant, meaning they are full of energy but also prone to imbalance, especially in the digestive and respiratory systems. Their immune system (Wei Qi) is not yet fully developed.
1. Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach (Digestion)
• Why? TCM believes the Spleen and Stomach are responsible for producing Qi (energy) and Blood, which are essential for immunity. Immunity is not a independent system, it has a very close relationship with digestion system.
• Foods to Strengthen Digestion:
• Warm, easily digestible foods (e.g., congee, steamed vegetables, bone broth).
• Avoid excessive cold/raw foods (e.g., ice cream, cold drinks), which weaken digestion.
• Introduce barley, sweet potatoes, and red dates for better digestion.
• Herbal teas (mild ones like ginger tea or chrysanthemum tea) may help, but consult a TCM practitioner before giving herbs to children.
2. Boosting Wei Qi (Defensive Energy)
• Acupressure Massage for Immunity (Tui Na for Kids):
• Massaging Zu San Li (ST36) (below the knee) strengthens digestion and immunity.
• Rubbing the Bai Hui (DU20) (top of the head) helps balance Qi.
• Breathing Exercises: Gentle belly breathing or Qigong-inspired playful exercises can enhance lung function.
3. Preventing and Treating Common Illnesses
• For Frequent Colds:
• Warm soups with scallions, ginger, and garlic help expel wind-cold.
• Mild herbal formulas like Xiao Chai Hu Tang (for lingering colds with fatigue) or Huang Qi (Astragalus, for immunity strengthening) may be useful but require a professional’s advice.
• For Allergies and Weak Lungs:
• Strengthen the Lungs with pear soup, almonds, and lily bulbs.
• Moxibustion (indirect mugwort heat therapy) on the abdomen can warm the digestion and boost Wei Qi.
4. Seasonal Adaptation
• Follow seasonal eating and dressing habits:
• Spring: Avoid excessive wind exposure; eat green vegetables.
• Summer: Stay hydrated, avoid heavy, greasy foods.
• Autumn: Protect against dryness with soups, pears, and honey.
• Winter: Keep warm, eat warming foods like lamb, ginger, and cinnamon.
Combining East & West
• Diet: Use TCM principles to balance food choices while ensuring proper nutrients from Western nutrition guidelines.
• Prevention: Follow hygiene and vaccination protocols while using TCM acupressure and mild herbs to strengthen immunity.
• Holistic Care: Encourage outdoor play and physical activity to stimulate natural Qi flow and immune strength.
Below are some commonly used gentle herbs and remedies to Strengthen Immunity & Digestion.
Since children’s digestion (Spleen & Stomach) plays a key role in their overall health, many herbs focus on strengthening digestion and Qi.
• Huang Qi (黄芪, Astragalus)
• Boosts immunity, prevents colds, and strengthens digestion.
• Use in soups with chicken or vegetables.
• Avoid if the child has an active fever.
• Shan Yao (山药, Chinese Yam)
• Tonifies the Spleen and strengthens digestion.
• Can be added to congee or soups for daily nourishment.
• Bai Bian Dou (白扁豆, Hyacinth Bean)
• Helps prevent diarrhea and indigestion.
• Often cooked into porridge for children with weak digestion.
General Guidelines for Herbal Use in Children
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), children’s bodies are still developing, so herbs must be used carefully, with milder formulas and lower dosages than for adults.
✅Use mild herbs and low doses.
✅ Choose food-based herbs when possible (e.g., Chinese yam, goji berries).
✅ Consult a TCM Doctor.
✅ Adjust according to the child’s constitution.
For children’s health management, we recommend incorporating Chinese pediatric Tui Na and Japanese-style pediatric acupuncture.
Rong Yu, MD of TCM, PhD in Medical Science
Founder of Yu Health Care TCM Clinic
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