As the summer holiday winds down and we gear up for the back-to-school season, it’s time to think about more than just new backpacks and notebooks. With the return to classrooms, your child will also encounter a wave of new challenges—both academically and health-wise. Along with the excitement of seeing friends and teachers again, this season often brings an increase in exposure to germs, nutritional gaps from hectic routines, and the need for optimal brain and body function to stay focused and thrive.

To support your child’s health and development, there are three key categories of nutrition to consider: immune-boosting nutrients, multivitamins for balanced nutrition, and DHA or Omega 3 for brain development. Here’s why they’re vital and how they can make a difference for your little learners.

Immune Support: Zinc, Vitamin D3, and Gut Health

The start of the school year often coincides with an uptick in sniffles and colds. This is no surprise—classrooms are the perfect breeding grounds for germs. Supporting your child’s immune system is crucial, and three key players in this fight are zinc, vitamin D3, and a healthy gut.

Zinc is an immune-boosting powerhouse. Research has shown that zinc can help reduce the duration and severity of colds.Research shows that zinc supplementation within 24 hours¹ of the onset of cold symptoms significantly reduces the length and severity of illness. 

Vitamin D3 is equally important. Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” D3 helps regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to increased susceptibility to respiratory infections², making it a must-have during the school year especially with the seemingly rise of respiratory infections amongst our younger ones after Covid. 

Finally, did you know that about 70% of our immune cells reside in our gut microbiome? A healthy gut plays a critical role in keeping illnesses at bay. Probiotics and prebiotics can help maintain a balanced gut microbiota, ensuring that your child’s immune system is primed for the challenges of the school year. It’s important to find a blend of probiotics that are specific to children and their needs. 

Multivitamins: Filling Nutritional Gaps

Even with the best intentions, many kids don’t get all the nutrients they need from their diet—especially during busy school days. Unfinished lunches, picky eating habits, and the prevalence of processed foods can leave nutritional gaps that may impact growth and development.

Studies have shown that modern agricultural practices have led to a decline in the nutrient density of our food. For example, research published in the journal Foods found significant declines in the levels of calcium, iron, and vitamins in fruits and vegetables over the last 50 years and also a significant decline in the variety of foods we are eating³. This means that even if your child is eating a relatively healthy diet, they may still fall short on essential nutrients.

A high-quality multivitamin can bridge these gaps by providing a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals. Nutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins are critical for energy, bone health, and cognitive development, ensuring that your child has everything they need to grow and thrive.

DHA: Fueling Focus and Brain Power

As children tackle math problems, reading comprehension, and creative projects, their brains need the right fuel to stay sharp. One nutrient that stands out for brain development is DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil.

DHA is a major structural component of the brain and plays a vital role in cognitive function, memory, and focus. Research shows that children with higher levels of DHA in their bloodstream performed better on tasks related to attention and memory.

A unique study at Lever Park School in Bolton found that incorporating Udo's Choice Omega 3.6.9 Oil Blend into the pupils' daily diet over 7 months found a significant impact on overall school performance and conduct.

The results were outstanding : 

  • 86% of Literacy Scores improved. On average, they jumped by 17%.
  • School attendance went up to 98% during the trial vs 89% before the study
  • Behavioural issues in class were reduced by a massive 76%.
  • Of the parents surveyed 79% stated they felt the positive impact of Udo's Choice on their children.

Dr Udo Erasmus with some of the Lever Park Pupils 

Setting Your Child Up for Success

This back-to-school season, don’t just focus on school supplies—consider how you can support your child’s health and development with the right supplements.
By giving your child’s body and brain the tools they need, you’re setting them up for a school year filled with learning, growth, and wellness. Here’s to a happy and healthy return to the classroom!


References:
1.Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2020 Apr 27;103(1):86–99. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0718
2.Can Fam Physician. 2015 Jun;61(6):507.
3.Foods 2024, 13(6), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13060877

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