Your newborn's immune system; maximize their protection

Newborns have fragile and inexperienced immune systems. Soon after birth, they are exposed to a hostile world of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. I’ve outlined the keys to maximizing the immune system in your newborn.

No, it is not a magic pill! While there is no foolproof method to prevent infections, knowing the factors that affect a newborns immunity can help you maximize their protection.

• The perils of premature birth: most of the protective antibodies passed from the mother to the unborn child occur in the last trimester of pregnancy. A preemie can miss out on that protection!

• The threats of tobacco smoke: avoiding cigarette smoke exposure during pregnancy and after birth pays great dividends.

• The benefits of breast milk: antibodies and other immune protectors are in breast milk (and it’s free!)

• The value of vaccines: despite the controversy over immunizations, no other public health measure has done so much for so many who need a little boost!

• Guard against germ spread: use common sense and wash hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid large groups at risk of having infections (children in daycare or pre-school).

At Family Allergy Asthma & Sinus Care, we encourage parents to be proactive about the health of their newborn.