Around 80% of our immune system is based in our gut therefore it provides the key to good health. Focus on supporting digestive health by including plenty of fibre, particularly soluble fibre from fruit, vegetables and oats, which is more gentle on a child’s system. Foods such as live yogurt naturally contain beneficial bacteria that can help support healthy tummies.
CONSTIPATION
BOOST: Stewed apple, grated carrot & beetroot, live natural yogurt, foods rich in soluble fibre (such as oats, lentils, prunes, bananas, apples, oranges, pears, strawberries, nuts, flaxseeds, blueberries, cucumbers, celery, and carrots, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage), vegetable protein such as lentils, pulses and beans, brown rice.
AVOID: All wheat-based foods (pasta, bread, cereals), dairy foods (milk, cheese, cream, yogurt, ice cream).
DIARRHOEA
BOOST: Water intake, stewed apple. Banana. Bone broths made with homemade stock, lights soups & cooked vegetables such as carrots. Introduce live natural yogurt once symptoms have subsided to help boost beneficial bacteria. Consider a probiotic supplement.
AVOID: Whole grains (wheat, rye, barley, rice, spelt, quinoa etc) as can irritate the gut. Dairy foods (milk, cheese, yogurt, cream, ice cream). Any foods containing refined sugar as this can feed the pathogenic bacteria.
NAUSEA/VOMITING
BOOST: Water intake, ginger.
Most children will feel too unwell to eat. Do not worry about this, and focus on ensuring proper hydration. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.
See recipes below:
