Boosting Your Chickens Immune System - It's Easy!

Below is a short list of the best natural immune system boosting foods that are high in antioxidants, such as Vitamin A, C and E. They also contain important immune strengthening minerals such as selenium, zinc and carotenoids, which are the pigments found in plants such as beta-carotene (beta-carotene converts into Vitamin A).

In the Beginning

Chicks hatch with all the essential nutrients needed to stay happy and healthy for approximately 2 days. The yolk they consumed just before hatching is rich in Vitamin C, but as those first two days pass they will soon need more.

We like to mix scrambled eggs and minced garlic in with their starter feed, to boost their developing immune system. We also like to add (depending on what’s available) brewer’s yeast, moistened oats and chickweed to the feed. They are natural probiotics and their immune systems with greatly benefit. In addition to oregano, cinnamon, mint, sage and chopped bay leaves, we also like to add parsley to our chicks feeds. We grow parsley in our garden, so it’s readily available. It’s rich in vitamins and promotes circulatory system development.

ACV - The do all

That’s right, Apple Cider Vinegaris a must have. It truly is the “do it all” supplement. After your chicks are born, you should dunk their beaks into water to encourage drinking. You should also add a few drops of ACV into said water. In addition to the ACV making the water unwelcoming to parasites, it also promotes a healthy immune system. It removes toxins from the bloodstream, thins mucus, promotes respiratory health and contains antibiotic properties.

Healthy Hen Herbs

Not just humans benefit from the healthy properties of herbs! They also boost your chicken’s immune system, so what are you waiting for? Add these herbs to their diet, ASAP: Bay Leaves, Echinacea and Dandelions.

We like to call these the “Big 3,” at FLYGRUBS headquarters. Bay Leaves are known for their antiviral properties and contain many essential antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Echinacea is an herbal gem for your feathery friends, as it wards off the common cold and helps fighting off viral infections. Dandelions are high in protein, antioxidants, aid digestion, improve the function of organs and boost our girl’s nutritional intake.

Fruits and Vegetables

Watermelon, berries, kiwi and papaya are full of antioxidants, essential vitamins and minerals. Not to mention they are great for cooling your girls down on a hot summer day.

Some notable immunity boosting veggies are kale, broccoli, lettuce, spinach and cabbage.

Yes we know Garlic is Allium genus and classified as Allium sativa, but still throw it into the Vegetable category. This is a must add, if your looking to boost your chicken’s immune system. Just do it!

"Good" Bacteria

Probiotics are microorganism that help balance the friendly bacteria in digestive systems. Simply put, they keep things moving along smoothly. You can buy probiotics in powdered forms and add them to your flocks water or feed. You can also add yogurt to their feed from time to time, but don’t overdo it. Chicken’s don’t digest dairy sugars very well.

An age old trick that continues to work is fermenting your flock’s feed. This, in our opinion, is a necessary step to promote good health and increase resistance to disease.

So there you have it, friends!