Our immune system is a complex yet wonderful network—like a natural firewall that works constantly to protect us from harmful substances that may render us ill. Even though it works 24/7, it can weaken if not properly maintained—making it easier for infectious viruses to enter our bodies.
Infectious viruses are everywhere—microscopic particles that can infect living organisms, transmitted through air or direct contact. Most viruses are generally harmless, but some can cause a range of diseases, with flu and respiratory illness being common consequences. While it is impossible to completely avoid contact with infectious viruses, it is possible to give your immune system a boost through good nutrition.
Vitamin D modulates the immune response
A strong immune system is your best defense against illnesses. Optimal function is highly dependent on proper nutrition, that’s why it is important to stay conscious about the nutrients we consume to prevent susceptibility to infections and to boost the immune system.
With the current threat of new viral strains and different contagious diseases, it’s paramount to bolster our immune system alongside other preventive measures, such as hand washing and surgical masks.
While every nutrient and every antioxidant is essential to the immune system’s ability to repel viruses, certain nutrients play crucial roles:
- Vitamin A – aids in sustaining the mucosal lining of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts to fight against invasive viruses and bacteria.
Food sources: Sweet potatoes, carrots, dark leafy greens, and eggs. - Vitamin C – a major antioxidant that encourages the production of white blood cells (lymphocytes and phagocytes) to combat infections.
Food sources: Oranges, grapes, strawberries, broccoli, and papaya. - Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that protects the body tissues from damage caused by free radicals.
Food sources: Almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, and spinach. - Vitamin D – modulates the innate and immune responses to destroy pathogens that go into the body.
Food sources: Salmon, sardines, shrimp, egg yolks, and fortified cereals. - Zinc – blocks cold viruses from replicating in the nose’s mucous membrane, and essential in Vitamin C absorption.
Food sources: Cooked oysters, crab, grass-fed beef, dark chocolate, and sesame seeds. - Probiotics – promote/s a healthy, balanced gut to kill harmful viruses and block pathogens from entering the bloodstream.
Food sources: Yogurt, buttermilk, miso, kimchi, and soft cheeses.
The flu is everywhere and everyone is at risk. Is your immune system performing at its best?
Contact us for an immunonutrient test now, and get a free nutrition consultation.
Sources:
https://www.memorialcare.org/blog/flu-fighting-nutrition-give-your-immune-system-boost
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system
https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/fun-facts
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/eat-these-foods-to-boost-your-immune-system
