With everything happening in the world right now, there have been a lot of questions about whether wellness shots, serums, and pills are really effective and whether or not they actually maintain or boost our immune systems.
The truth is that these “magic” remedies are basically just condensed versions of juices or vinegar intended to provide you with all of the nutrients you need but in smaller amounts. Let’s face it, there’s nothing harmful about drinking an elderberry, Vitamin C, or turmeric shot. They’re usually mixed together with some flavorful juice in glasses of no more than one to two ounces, which makes them easy to consume. But the real question at hand is whether or not they are actually boosting your health. Luckily, Vanessa Rissetto, a local dietitian, is weighing in to share what vitamins + foods we should be eating to really give our immune system a kick-start.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or healthcare provider before making any major dietary changes.
What You Need to Know
We know that a healthy interaction between our immune system and the gut microbiota is crucial for the maintenance of our body’s homeostasis and health — this means that a healthy gut offers better immunity and an increased ability to fight off illness.
One way to boost your gut health and therefore boost your immunity is by adding probiotics {easily obtained in yogurt} to your diet and consuming a daily dose of Vitamin D3 — probiotics help digestion and Vitamin D3 helps the probiotics to work — so together they help to support overall health.
But the most important takeaway from all of this is that there is no “magic pill” to keep everyone in tip-top shape 24/7.
However, having extra antioxidants could benefit us, especially in the long run, by reducing the duration of the illness. Here are some foods + vitamins to mix into your diet daily to help.
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Berries + Flowers of Elderberry
The berries and flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They can help tame inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect your heart, too. Some experts even recommend elderberry to help prevent and ease cold + flu symptoms.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It’s involved in many body functions, including the formation of collagen {think flawless skin}, absorption of iron, boosting the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Read More: 10 Ways to Up Your Taco Tuesday Game at Home
Turmeric
Turmeric and its most active compound, curcumin, have many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and cancer. It’s a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis.
However, let’s be clear — none of these nutrients are magic bullets that are going to cure whatever is going on with your body.
Ultimately, the best way to keep healthy, especially now, and give your brain + body some well-deserved peace of mind to start with washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water. Keeping those hands off of your face and out of your mouth can get you pretty far in the health game, and adding those above vitamins + foods to your diet can simply be an added bonus.
What are some foods you eat to keep your immune system running right? Let us know in the comments!
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