Immune System: Covering all bases with the right nutrition

Good nutrition plays a vital role by providing key nutrients for immune health support

You do not need a global health crisis to highlight the benefits of strong immunity. Keeping your immune system healthy and functioning at its best is important to help your body fight off infections and viruses.

The immune system is highly complex and gets affected by not just the external environment but also by the sort of nourishment you put into your body. Regular exercise and what you consume can enhance immunity and keep you and your loved ones in the best health.

Eating a balanced diet which includes a variety of nutritious foods from all food groups can help provide your body with immune-supporting nutrients.  Sometimes busy lifestyles, illnesses, erratic eating behaviour or inadequate food intake can make it tough to get the recommended nutrient intake. In such cases including supplements such as Abbott’s Ensure can help meet your nutritional intake needs. Ensure is a balanced formula containing high-quality protein and 25 essential vitamins and minerals – including 11 immunity nutrients and bone strengthening nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.

The following nutrients are important for overall health. They can help to increase muscle mass, provide energy, support digestive health or boost immunity.

Protein is a part of every cell in your body and is used to build hormones, enzymes, blood, as well as skin, bones and muscles. Most importantly, protein is needed in building antibodies and immune system cells. Protein-rich foods include eggs, yogurt, meat, beans, and fish. Each serving of Ensure provides high-quality protein which is better absorbed by the body.

Vitamin A helps regulate the immune system and protect the body by keeping skin and tissues healthy. Sweet potatoes are a top source of vitamin A. Other top vitamin A sources include spinach, carrots, cantaloupe, and fortified milk.

Vitamin C which is a well-known immune system booster and helps build healthy skin and tissue to resist entry of bacteria and other germs. Red bell peppers are packed with this nutrient. Other vitamin C sources include oranges, grapefruit, kiwis, and broccoli.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects cell membranes from free radicals and keeps the body’s immunity strong. Almonds, sunflower seeds, safflower oil, hazelnuts and peanuts are rich in vitamin E.

Vitamin D activates and regulates immune system cells and is critical for innate immunity. Salmon is one of the best natural sources of this nutrients. Other top vitamin D sources include fatty fish, like rainbow trout and tuna.

Zinc is crucial for both innate and adaptive immunity and helps with wound healing. Lean beef is full of zinc. Other top sources of zinc include oysters, crab, and pork.

To stay stronger and boost your body’s immunity shield, your diet must include nutrient-rich foods like fresh produce, lean meats, dairy and healthy fats. Supplements like Ensure can help fill nutrient gaps and provide your body with vital nutrients.

Proper nutrition is the foundation for living your best life. As the saying goes, you are what you eat. Follow a balanced diet, stay hydrated with adequate fluids and fill up each plate with the correct nutrient bouquet.

[author title=”” image=”http://”]Article by Abott Nutrition[/author]

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Times – ET Edge Insights, its management, or its members

 

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ET Edge Insights, its management, or its members

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