BOOSTING YOUR IMMUNITY THIS PERIOD

As the COVID-19 situation intensifies around the world, you might be wondering: how can I keep myself healthy? Even though there is no particular pill or supplement that has proved to keep people safe against the disease, there are ways to keep your immune system functioning optimally, which can help to keep you healthy and give you a sense of control in an uncertain time. Start by filling your plate with immune-boosting nutrients. One of the best ways to stay healthy is to eat a nutritious diet. That's because our immune system relies on a steady supply of nutrients to do its job. For a starter dose of immune-boosting vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, fill half of your plate with vegetables and fruits. 

• Vitamin C: This has many roles in the body and is linked to many health benefits. It is found in many fruits and vegetables, including oranges, strawberries, bell peppers and spinach. Vitamin C has been proven to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and boost immunity. Some research has suggested that higher levels of vitamin C (at least 200 milligrams) may slightly reduce the duration of cold symptoms. 
• Beta Carotene: Beta carotene is an antioxidant that converts to vitamin A and plays a very important role in health. It’s responsible for the red, yellow, and orange coloration of some fruits and veggies. Antioxidants such as beta carotene play crucial roles in the body’s fight against free radicals. There’s a lot of evidence to support the intake of antioxidants in order to help reach optimal wellness. It is predominately found in fruits and veggies with a red, orange, or yellow color. However, don’t shy away from dark leafy greens or other green veggies, as they contain a good amount of this antioxidant as well. You can get a great dose of beta carotene in foods like carrot, leafy greens such as kale and spinach, broccoli 
• Vitamin D: Sometimes called ‘sunshine vitamin’, Vitamin D is produced in the skin in response to sunlight. Vitamin D has several important functions. Perhaps the most vital are regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and facilitating normal immune system function. You can get Vitamin D from egg yolk, shrimp, salmon etc 
• Zinc: Zinc helps cells in the immune system grow and is necessary for a healthy immune system. Zinc has been proven to control and regulate immune response while also attacking infected and cancerous cells in the body. Sources of zinc include cereal, zinc, beans, meat, poultry etc 

Again, it is important to follow the necessary precautions that have been recommended by the health authorities. These include practicing social distancing, maintaining proper hand and respiratory hygiene, avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth and seeking help early if you feel unwell.

Stay safe!