Children With Recurrent Infections 

Focus on Protein (the building block of antibodies) and Micronutrients (Zinc, Vitamin C, Iron).

• Protein Power:

  • Dals & Pulses: Ensure a bowl of Dal (yellow or black) or Khichdi is part of at least one meal daily.

  • Eggs: One of the best sources of protein and Vitamin A. A boiled egg or omelet daily is highly recommended.

  • Paneer & Chana: Good vegetarian protein sources.

• Vitamin C (Immunity Shield):

  • Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Give it as Amla Murabba (if they like sweet) or grate fresh Amla into chutneys/daal.

  • Guava (Amrood) & Oranges: Guava has more Vitamin C than oranges and is cheap and widely available.

• Gut Health (Probiotics):

  • Home-set Curd (Dahi): Give fresh, room-temperature curd during lunch. It builds healthy gut bacteria (Avoid store-bought flavored yogurts which are high in sugar).

• Dry Fruits & Seeds:

  • Soaked Almonds & Walnuts: Give 2-3 soaked almonds (peeled) every morning. They provide Zinc and Vitamin E.

  • Sesame (Til) & Jaggery: In winters, Til-Gud Laddoos are excellent for boosting iron and keeping the body warm.

The goal is to eliminate foods that increase inflammation and suppress the immune system.

• Sugar:

  • Excess Sugar: Sugar temporarily paralyzes white blood cells (the body's soldiers). Avoid daily consumption of candies, chocolate bars, and aerated drinks (cola/soda).

  • Packaged Juices: Even those labeled "Real Fruit" are mostly sugar water. Give whole fruit instead.

• Refined Carbohydrates (Maida):

  • Limit White Bread, Biscuits, Maggie/Noodles, and Pizza bases. These offer zero nutrition and can disturb gut health, making the child prone to infections.

• Cold & Mucous Forming Foods:

  • If the child is prone to respiratory infections (cold/cough/tonsils), avoid Ice Cream, Chilled Water, and Yogurt (Curd) specifically at dinner time or directly from the fridge.

• Oily & Processed Snacks:

  • Avoid packet chips and heavy fried foods (Bhature, Puri) on a daily basis. They are heavy to digest and can lead to sluggish metabolism.

Haldi Doodh: The classic immune booster.

• Recipe: Warm milk + 1/4 tsp Turmeric + a pinch of Black Pepper (pepper helps absorb the turmeric). Give this at bedtime.

Warm Water: Encourage the child to drink lukewarm water, especially during seasonal changes. This prevents Kapha (mucus) buildup.

Spices as Medicine:

• Tulsi (Holy Basil): Add a few Tulsi leaves to their drinking water or tea. It is a natural antiviral.

• Besan Sheera: A traditional runny semi-solid sweet made of gram flour, ghee, turmeric, and jaggery. 

Timing of Curd: Ayurveda strictly advises against eating Curd (Dahi) at night, as it increases mucus and congestion. Serve it only during lunch.