Does being sick make a kid's immune system stronger? We asked an expert ahead of cold and flu season

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

A fully stocked medicine cabinet is a must-have for parents. With kids back in school and cold and flu season in effect, many parents — myself included — are bracing for months of sniffles, runny noses and more.

Although it's stressful to see your child sick, I used to think that it was all part of the hygiene hypothesis: The idea that exposure to germs helps build a healthy immune system. However, after my child's recent illness, I began to wonder if there was any benefit to viral infections.

To get answers, Yahoo Canada connected with Dr. Christina Paul, a board-certified internal medicine physician and mom of two.

Does being sick improve a kid's immune system?

While this is a common belief, the answer is not simple. The relationship between getting sick and boosting your immune system is more complex. It's possible that falling ill can develop a kid's immune system, but it's not simply a case of "the more, the better," Paul explained.

"The immune system does adapt and develop with each infection, but too frequent infections can take a toll," she cautioned. "This can potentially lead to immune system burnout and weakening the body's ability to fight off future infections and increase the risk of complications."

Should I keep my child away from people who may be sick?

Paul advised minimizing exposure to illness whenever possible, but not going to extremes to do so: "The caution has to be balanced with maintaining a healthy routine. Making sure children get plenty of movement, sunlight and social interactions are essential for their overall well-being. So, don’t skip a day at the park in fear that someone sick might be playing there."

If a child is exposed to a virus, it can help train their immune system but the response to the illness may not always be the same.

"One child with mild symptoms may have been previously exposed to that infection, allowing their immune system to recognize it and mount a quick response, whereas for another child, it may be their first exposure, potentially leading to more severe symptoms," Paul explained.

How can you help strengthen children's immune systems?

Building a strong immune system is part of a cultivating a healthy lifestyle. Everything plays a part — from what our children eat, to the quality of their sleep.

Encourage:

• Adequate sleep and a consistent circadian rhythm

• Outdoor time and exposure to natural sunlight

• Regular movement throughout the day

• Nutrient-dense foods

• Optimal gut health leading to daily bowel movements

Reduce:

• Ultra-processed foods and refined sugars

• Artificial dyes, fillers and preservatives in food

• Sedentary indoor lifestyles

• Foods sprayed with pesticides

• Lotions, soaps and shampoos with harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances

• Excessive media stimulation

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