Five essentials for the immune system

The immune system is the first line of defense against any disease. In times of a pandemic, it becomes even more clear that we must do what we can to stay healthy.

Ensuring that you follow a varied diet and receive the recommended daily dose of essential nutrients is crucial to creating and maintaining solid immunity. So, according to Eat This, Not That! there are five essentials for staying strong and healthy.

Vitamin D – Our body can produce vitamin D from sunlight, which helps to strengthen white blood cells to protect the body from ‘invaders’. If you are not spending a lot of time in the sun, know that you can get this vitamin through supplements or foods like salmon and eggs.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C helps support the production and function of the body’s white blood cells that attack bacteria and viruses. Vitamin C can be found in many foods, such as citrus fruits.

Essential fats – Omega-3 and omega-6 fats help regulate the immune system and are found in many foods, including fatty fish, nuts and seeds.

Water – Drinking lots of water is crucial to maintaining a strong immune system. If you are dehydrated, you will produce less mucus, which means you will be less protected.

Protein – Protein is known for its ability to help build muscle, but it is also vital for supporting immunity, as it is necessary to repair damaged tissue.