Be a pal to your system with these immune-boosting foods
Things might feel a bit out of control right now but one thing we can do is support our immune systems.
Why a healthy diet is key right now
If you’re anything like me, the temptation right now is to retreat to a duvet fort with a year’s supply of Oreos. In reality though, I’m way too claustrophobic for that, and biscuits aren’t going to do anything for my immune system.
Not to sound like your nan, but maintaining a healthy diet is actually important than ever right now so, while I’m definitely not saying don’t allow yourself any treats in this weird, unsettling time, it’s worth mixing it up with something other than Oreos too.
Poor diet, along with obesity, is one of the leading causes of not-fun things like cancer, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.
On the flip side, a good diet boosts our immune system which, let’s face it, could do with all the help it can get right now.
Our diet also influences our mood and can make us feel down and sluggish. Again, an area that could do without any extra pressure at the moment.
We covered how to eat well on a budget in a previous blog. Today, we’re looking at which foods are incredible immune boosters.
Nailing nutrition
Let’s start with a quick caveat – if you’re vulnerable, self-isolating or have just been into a shop over the last week, it’s clear that some things aren’t going to be as easy to come by right now.
Fingers crossed the panic-buying will slow down soon, but if you’re struggling to get hold of essential items the government has some guidance on what you can do. Many local communities are also setting up groups to spread some kindness and support so speak to local shop owners or ask neighbours for help.
If you do make it to the shops though, here are some immune-boosting beauties you can fill your boots with:
- Citrus fruits e.g. grapefruit, oranges, lemons, limes
- Red peppers, which apparently have twice as much Vit C as citrus fruits!
- Garlic, ideally uncooked
- Ginger, ideally fresh rather than dried
- Greens, especially spinach & broccoli, but try and cook them as little as possible
- Yoghurts with ‘live and active cultures’
- Almonds
- Turmeric
- Green tea
- Chicken or turkey
- Foods high in zinc e.g. red meats, shellfish, eggs, nuts, whole grains and legumes (chickpeas, lentils, beans)
Always check…
If you’re in a high-risk group, have an underlying illness or are concerned about your health, always speak to a medical professional before changing your diet.
More information and support
At Onward we offer several services to support our customers around healthy eating.
As you can probably appreciate, these might see some disruption over the coming weeks, but it’s still worth dropping our team a line if you’d like more information or need extra support.
The NHS is a key resource on health in general, so if you’re concerned about your diet or health, take a look at their guidance. Onward customers can also follow our coronavirus updates on our website, Facebook or Twitter.
As always, please stay in touch and take care of yourselves and those around you, especially at the moment.
Take a look at our website for more info on our support services
