BY CLAIR WHITTY
Let’s spring into action and support the immune system. A healthy diet and digestive system will help, but stress, lack of sleep, a highly processed diet, and inadequate rest will put strain on it.
Antioxidants like vitamin C, E, Beta Carotene, and Selenium are found naturally in food. They assist in protecting the cells in your body from damage and help support the immune system. Fruit and vegetables have antioxidants in varying quantities. Oranges, kiwis, and berries like cherries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, goji berries, and cranberries are good sources of antioxidants. A variety of vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach and the brightly coloured carrots and peppers are all sources of antioxidants. Brazil nuts are a source of selenium, three a day is a good addition to your diet. Bee Pollen is an interesting food that is a source of amino acids and antioxidants. I find it good for a boost of energy. You can simply eat it from the spoon or add to yoghurts or breakfast cereal. Omega 3 fats are important to support immunity. Choose oily fish, fish oil, or good quality plant oils like walnut, flax, or hemp. Have a variety of spices especially turmeric and ginger.
Top supplements to support immunity can include Echinacea which has been traditionally used for colds and flu. Plus Vitamin D, Beta Glucans, and antioxidants like Vitamin C and Zinc. You may have some of these supplements in your cupboards. If you do, start taking them. One Nutrition Revive and Go Immunity is a supplement I told you about last year. This is worth taking now to put a pep in your step. It contains 10mg of zinc, and 850mg of micro-encapsulated vitamin C which allows rapid absorption and retention of vitamin C. Revive & Go is designed to help support your energy, help reduce tiredness, and for immunity support. It’s gentle on the stomach and is not only gluten & dairy free, but vegan too.
Don’t forget your gut. Stress and antibiotics can deplete your friendly gut bacteria. Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir are great for the gut. Or take Udo’s Super 8 Immune, this is a hi-count microbiotic blend with 42 billion friendly bacteria per capsule, plus vitamin C.
Look after yourself and support your immunes system.
Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
