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Growth & Skill Development

Question

How do I strengthen my baby's immune system when we're out of our house?

Answer

Your baby’s immune system provides her with powerful natural defenses. Keeping her vaccinations up-to-date is one of the most important things you can do to support this naturally powerful system.

Surprisingly, about 70% of your baby’s immune system’s cells are in her digestive tract. The digestive system protects your baby from harmful bacteria and other unwanted elements in many ways, including providing a protective barrier. One component of your baby’s natural defenses is “friendly” or “good” bacteria. These are also called beneficial cultures, which help support that protective barrier.

If you’re breastfeeding, continue to do so. Breastmilk also provides your baby with beneficial cultures and other immune system support. Experts believe this is why breastfed infants are generally so healthy.

For formula-fed infants GERBER® GOOD START® Protect PLUS® formula with our IMMUNIPROTECT™ blend of antioxidant vitamins C and E, zinc, vitamin A and probiotic cultures like those naturally found in breastmilk. These beneficial cultures—BIFIDUS BL™—offer advanced immune system support.

MEET OUR EXPERTS

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Meet Our Experts

The START HEALTHY, STAY HEALTHY™ Resource Center panel of experts offers practical advice, answering many questions typically asked by parents and expecting parents.

Lillian M. Beard, M.D. Pediatric Health

Lillian M. Beard, M.D., is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and an associate clinical professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national TV programs, discussing issues related to children's health. Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in the Washington, D.C., area.

José M. Saavedra, M.D., FAAP Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition

José M. Saavedra, M.D., a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is a pediatric gastroenterologist with long-term experience and expertise in nutrition. Medical and Scientific Director of Nestlé Nutrition North America, Dr. Saavedra is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, the Sub-board of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, and the American Board of Nutrition. He is also an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Johns Hopkins-Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Roy M. Pitkin, M.D. Prenatal Health

Roy M. Pitkin, M.D. is professor of obstetrics and gynecology and is former chairperson of the ob/gyn department at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor to national health agencies concerned with women's health issues and has received numerous international honors for this work.

Robert N. Hamburger, M.D. Food Intolerances

Robert N. Hamburger, M.D. is professor of pediatrics emeritus and former head of the pediatric immunology and allergy division at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) in La Jolla, California. Professor Hamburger is a consultant and continues as an educator and clinician in the UCSD Free Clinics in San Diego and Tijuana, Baja California.

Keeping your baby healthy around others Poll - How has your baby changed most since the newborn days? Immune Health Quiz