One of the most efficient means of resistance against viral infections is our immune system. In everyone’s body, there are two types of immune functions: innate immunity, which stops diseases from entering the body, and adaptive immunity, which destroys or prevents pathogens like viruses and bacteria from growing in our bodies.
Increasing the body’s immunity, however, is not as simple as it may appear. Researchers are still trying to figure out a lot about the immune system, but one thing we do know is that the immune system and nutrition are inextricably linked.
How Does Nutrition Affect the Immune System
Chemical reactions are triggered by what we eat, where we live, how much sleep we get, how much exercise we do, and even who we live with. Our microbiome, which are the bacteria that defend us from germs, break down food for energy, manufacture essential vitamins, and support our immune system, has been added to the mix.
Near the intestines, where the immune system monitors food intake and how the body uses it, the biggest portion of the immune system—roughly 70% of it—is located. This necessitates the consumption of a well-balanced diet rich in the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, as well as the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. This entails balancing the complete diet to achieve optimal nutrition intake at the cellular level, rather to only adjusting the consumption of one or two elements.
Here are critical vitamin categories that can help people enhance their immune systems.
Protein-Protein, also known as the body’s basic building blocks, permits the body to produce antibodies that it needs to protect itself against invading viruses and bacteria. We can consume more healthy protein sources like fish, poultry, lean meats, soy foods, and low-fat dairy items to ensure that we get enough protein in our diet. Some quality Protein Powders are also helpful for protein supplements.
Vitamin– Vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, are important for immune system function. Vitamin C, as one of the most powerful immune system boosters, promotes our bodies to manufacture antibodies to fight infections. Because the body does not make or store vitamin C, it is critical to consume it on a daily basis. Vitamin A is important for the health of our skin, digestive tract tissues, and respiratory system.
Nutrients, which are present in vegetables and fruits, help to lower oxidative stress in the body, which can make it more vulnerable to illness. Nutrients have been demonstrated to lessen the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve the overall health of our immune system.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids– Omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, are beneficial and necessary fats found in foods like chia seed and supplements like fish oil. Immune cells, which play a key role in both the innate and adaptive systems that respond to infections, may benefit from omega-3 fatty acids.