Published: 19 April 2020 –
 
During the current pandemic, as Covid-19 sweeps across the globe, many people are wondering: why do some get sick while others manage to stay perfectly healthy? The answer may have to do with how robust an individual’s immune system is. Although, it may not be entirely possible to avoid catching the new coronavirus, or other viruses, as we come into contact with ‘foreign invaders’ on a daily basis (moulds, fungus, yeast, viruses etc.). Nevertheless, consciously choosing to improve our current state of health has never been more important.
 
Fortunately, there are many steps we can take to help our bodies to fight off infections. The following tips help to boost immunity and overall health.

 

Tips to help boost Immunity:

 
Multicolored Vegetables

Have you ever wondered if what you eat impacts your immune system? The answer is YES. This is because up to 75% of the body’s immune system is actually located in the digestive tract. Which means that the food choices you make is of critical importance to your health. And out of all the various food groups, it’s particularly important to ensure that multi-coloured vegetables – and low glycemic fruits – are incorporated into the diet on a daily basis. This is because they contain phytonutrients (‘plant chemicals’) which are loaded with vitamins and minerals that play a key role in fighting infections. Therefore, eating these types of foods actually enhances how your body’s immune system functions. Examples include: beetroot, kale, sweet potatoes, blueberries and tomatoes

 

Vitamin C Rich Foods

Vitamin C is known as the great ‘immune booster’ nutrient. It contributes to a healthy immune defence and unfortunately can be depleted by viruses. Research has shown that a deficiency of this vitamin may increase the rates of infection. What’s more, our bodies do not produce this essential water-soluble vitamin on their own; once ingested, it only lasts for a few hours! So it’s important to ensure that each meal contains adequate amounts of vitamin C. Rich food sources include: raw unpasteurised sauerkraut, red peppers, broccoli, lemons and limes. Alternatively, a high quality whole-food state form supplement taken 2-3 times throughout the day will help to ensure that adequate levels are maintained.

 

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Probiotic Rich Foods

Fermented foods are an important addition to any health protocol. Probiotic rich (meaning pro-life) they help to reestablish your inner ecosystem (known as the microbiome), located in the intestinal tract. The benefits of eating foods full of friendly bacteria are numerous. Think of them as enzyme rich ‘powerhouses’ which help you to maintain your own enzyme supply. With recent studies showing that some of these enzymes can actually contribute towards longevity. What’s more, fermented foods also help to ward off toxins and improve digestive tract function – which in turn strengthens your immune system. Key delicious fermented foods to add into your diet include: coconut kefir, raw sauerkraut, miso and low-in-sugar kombucha drinks.

 
Immune Boosting Superfoods

*Algaes – certain algaes such as chlorella and spirulina fall into the superfood category because they contain almost all of the vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients necessary for health. These superfoods are rich in chlorophyll (known as the ‘blood of plants’) making them excellent detoxifiers, blood builders and immune system enhancers.

 

*Sprouts – (e.g. mung, fennel, broccoli etc.) are incredibly nutrient dense. Broccoli sprouts, for example, are up to 20-30 times more nutritious than the full grown plant. These sprouts – true superfoods – help to support liver function which assists in removing viruses and toxins from the body.

 

*Mushrooms – beta glucans found in mushrooms have anti-viral properties and help to increase the body’s immune response to defend against viral, bacterial or fungal infections. Shiitake mushrooms, for example, are widely available in health food shops and have been shown to have anti-viral properties. Other mushroom varieties with similar properties include: cordycepts, chaga and reishi.

 

Enjoy Mother Nature

When we walk outside in nature we come into contact with phytoncides. These are plant chemicals that can actually stimulate our immune systems and make us more resistant to cold and flu viruses. Other benefits of getting outside for a daily walk include: stress reduction, lower blood pressure, cardiovascular benefits, weight loss and mood enhancement. Isn’t that worth putting on your trainers for?

 

De-stress

Stress is a major immune system depressor. When your body constantly produces the ‘flight or flight’ hormones it can have a devastating effect on your body’s ability to fight off infections. Fortunately, there are many ways to relax. What’s key is that you schedule in at least 30 mins per day of conscious de-stressing activities including: reading a book, going for a walk, yoga, deep breathing exercises or any recreational activity that brings you to a greater state of peace and calm.