coronavirus - How can you support your immune system?
/Coronavirus COVID-19 is spoken about worldwide and there is alot of fear around this. As we are transitioning into autumn and winter, I thought it would be appropriate to do a post on how you can support yourself and your family’s immune system.
There are certain nutrients that boost and support your immune function. Studies look at nutrition modulation of immune function. It is well-established that a nutritional deficiency or inadequacy can impair immune function. Growing evidence suggests that for certain nutrients increasing the intake may help optimize immune functions. Therefore improving defense function and thus resistance to infection.
Supporting your immune system and your body is key.
Nutrients include:
Vitamin D has shown that it can significantly influence the adaptive immune response. Vitamin D can affect different aspects of immune functions, adequate intake of vitamin D can strengthen support the body’s defense against infection including viruses therefore aiding the innate immunity.
Zinc deficiency and inadequacy are estimated to affect 30% of the world's population, zinc supplementation can reverse an impairment in the immune system.
Vitamin C- intravenous vitamin C is currently being used in China against COVID-19. Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting and directly stimulating various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system.
Medicinal mushrooms possess a variety of bioactive compounds with immunomodulatory activities. Research has shown that they have powerful constituents called beta-D-glucans, beta-glycosides, and other substances that have been determined in research to significantly stimulate our innate immune system.
Incorporating a wholefood diet that is limited in processed foods is one of the best ways to nourish your body and boost your immune system. Eating an abundance of fresh seasonal vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat (Organic and free range if possible), fish, nuts, seeds, wholegrain and legumes is essential for optimal health.
Lifestyle factors
Sleep is also key for health, lack of and poor quality sleep can affect your immunity. Sleep and the circadian system exert a strong regulatory influence on immune function. Incorporating sleep hygiene can lead to improved sleep.
Stress can impact your immune function. I know at current times we cant help but feel stressed and worried, however trying to be present and not worry about about the future is key. Practicing mindfulness and being present can be helpful to how we cope with stress. Mindfulness meditation, the practice of paying more attention to the present moment, helps lower stress hormones and decreases inflammation in the body.
If you want guidance on your immunity and boosting your health,
Contact Vanessa at hello@thenourishedco.com.au
