10 Immune-Boosting Foods Your Kids Already Love (Slideshow)

Sweet, refreshing, and kid-friendly, this summer staple is rich in Vitamin A and C, which have proven immune-boosting properties.  For variety, blend fresh watermelon with water and lime juice to make a refreshing summer drink.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which strengthens the immune system. Try roasting them with salt and cinnamon for a low-sugar, high-fiber snack.

Oats

This whole grain is packed with a type of fiber called beta glucan which activates white blood cells so they can fight off infection. Opt for steel-cut oats, which have double the beta glucan's of their more refined counterparts. 

Yogurt

Yogurt is a good source of probiotics (healthy bacteria that protect the gut and intestinal tract from disease causing germs). Choose brands that are lower in added sugars, or even better, buy plain yogurt and add fresh fruit. 

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are naturally delicious. They are bright orange in color because they're full of beta-carotene (which our bodies convert to disease fighting vitamin A). Roast them, mash them, bake them into fries; this is one vegetable your kids will happily gobble up.

Egg Yolks

Yolk contains zinc and selenium, which are important minerals for strengthening the immune system. Make a kid-friendly frittata by combining an array of colorful vegetables with egg.

Berries

Good news: fresh berries are anti-oxidant powerhouses. Kids will love eating fresh berries on cereal, yogurt, or ice cream, and dried (or even freeze-dried) berries in trail mix. 

Nuts

Walnuts, almonds, and pistachios are all rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids so they can help fight off infection. Give your kids snacks like nut butter and apple slices or combine raw nuts with antioxidant rich-unsweetened dried fruit and dark chocolate.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal — who knew this spice packed disease-fighting powers? Use it to flavor oatmeal, roasted fruit, baked goods, and even popcorn.

Coconut

Coconut is a good source of lauric and caprylic acids; essentially, coconut's anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties to help boost immunity. Add unsweetened, shredded coconut meat to smoothies or spread coconut butter on toast for quick and simple kid-friendly treat