Best supplements to boost your immune system during coronavirus pandemic
While there is currently no vaccination for coronavirus, it is important to keep your immune system strong. In this blog, our nutritionist presents five supplements which are proven to boost your immune system.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps stimulate the production of white blood cells (also known as leukocytes). These are cells from your immune system that help to fight infectious disease and foreign invaders.
Vitamin C is key in repairing and growing tissue; it helps heal wounds, maintain healthy bones and acts as an antioxidant, fighting free radicals that can weaken the immune system.
Foods rich in Vitamin C include oranges, kiwifruit, brussels sprouts and potatoes, consumed daily.
Vitamin D
During the winter months, most people struggle meeting their vitamin D requirements, which is a problem for people’s immune systems as vitamin D stimulates the production of antimicrobial Vitamin D is important is as it has receptors that activate enzymes on the surfaces of our white blood cells. This fat-soluble vitamin can be found in oily fish such as sardines, salmon, herring and mackerel, red meats, liver and egg yolks.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that aids in fighting off infection; this vitamin can be found in certain foods, such as almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds and spinach.
Iron
Iron helps to transport oxygen throughout the body that is fundamental to the growth of B cells and T cells that are a major cellular component of the adaptive immune response. Deficiency in this essential mineral can affect the body’s capacity to protect the body from viruses, bacteria as well as other pathogens. Foods rich in the nutrient include tofu, beans, lentils, baked potatoes or fortified cereals.
Zinc
Zinc works synergistically with vitamin C, which is why the two are often combined in supplements. Many studies have shown that zinc may help to reduce the duration of colds by up to 50%. This essential mineral can be found in meats, shellfish, legumes like chickpeas, lentils and beans, nuts and seeds as well as eggs and some wholegrains.
Beta-glucans
Beta-glucans are sugars that are found in the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, algae, lichens, and plants, such as oats and barley. These beta-glucans make up the mushroom cell walls and stimulate the immune system.Mushrooms have been used as traditional medicine for many years due to their immune-boosting, antibacterial and antiviral properties.
At Perfect Balance Clinic, we are closely monitoring the developments relating to the spread of coronavirus and noting updates given by the World Health Organisation and other public bodies. If you are worried about the virus and want to know more about how to boost your health contact us today and speak to one of our qualified Nutritionists who can guide and reassure you on how to optimise your immune health today!
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Isha Patel
BSc Nutritionist
