Support your good health
Concerns are still growing around the coronavirus pandemic . To stop the spread, it’s important that we follow the guidelines set out by the public health authorities. Not only to protect ourselves but also to protect others.
Along with frequent hand washing, social distancing and self isolation, support for the immune system is vital. What we eat and drink on a daily basis makes a big difference in helping us fight infection.
Read on or listen here.
These are my top pick 5 picks for your kitchen:
Vitamin C rich foods-you probably knew this one already but sometimes a little reminder helps, particularly during times of stress-like what we are going through right now.
The best source are fruits and vegetables so include plenty, and a variety in your daily meal plan. There is clear evidence that vitamin C rich foods are supportive to our immune system and Vitamin C also protects against free radical damage and viruses.
An added bonus of vitamin C, it’s great for skin. It is essential for collagen production, the glue that holds the body together and keeps skin youthful and supple.
Zinc rich foods. Zinc is an important trace mineral, that we often don’t think about in relation to immune health. And a little goes a long way. This mineral acts a an antioxidant and is known to lower infection rates
Zinc is also involved in a multitude of body functions, including the metabolism of many enzymes used for digestion and nerve function.
Zinc is most abundant in animal foods but can also be found in pumpkin seeds, mushrooms , chickpeas, hemp seeds and seafood, particularly oysters.
Protein rich foods are important for making antibodies that fight infection. Inadequate protein lowers immunity and your body’s ability to fight infection. Aim for 30-50 grams per day.
Eat mushrooms! Long known for their medicinal properties, mushrooms contain beta-glucans which support the immune system. They enhance macrophages and natural killer cells. Mushrooms have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, Selenium and vitamin D
Keep your digestion healthy as much of our immune system lives in our gut. Eat prebiotic foods such as oats, onions, leeks, flax legumes, cruciferous vegetables, these foods feed the good bacteria.
Include Probiotic foods which maintain the good bacteria. Kefir, youghurt, sauerkraut, miso are good sources of probiotics. Read here for more on how you can support gut health.
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Additional tips
If you enjoy tea, Rosehip and Elderberry tea are a good source of flavonoids and Vitamin C.
Oil of Oregano or Oil of thyme are anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-microbial. My go to right now is Black seed oil which I mix in with a little Black Cherry Juice, Vitamin D Drops and Omega 3 oil.
Please note these oils contain powerful compounds so are very potent. Follow the directions on the bottle/packaging very carefully and only use for a limited time. Better yet get advice from a trusted health and wellness practitioner.
Want more information on how to choose a supplement? Read here.
And remember to drink plenty of water.
Conclusion
While we are in the midst of the Coronavirus, we must all follow the advice of the public health agencies, wash hands frequently, self -isolate and practice social distancing.
In addition to managing stress, prioritizing sleep and breathing in clean air, eat well, whole natural foods with plenty of fruits and vegetables are your best bet.
Medical Disclaimer-The information contained herein is NOT intended as medical advice, nor is it intended to replace the care of a qualified health professional. Always consult your doctor for all diagnoses, treatments, and cures for any diseases or conditions, as well as before changing your diet, taking supplements or making any changes to your health care regimen.