Feeding Your Immune System

We all know that avoiding getting the sniffles or tummy bugs in winter is always a task. But, in the midst of a global pandemic keeping your immunity and defense system in tip-top shape is a necessity. In short, the body’s immune system relies on micronutrients to keep ticking with Vitamin A, C, D, E, Zinc, Selenium, Iron and Protein being absolutely critical for feeding your immune system.

In addition, if you do have a poor immune system or chronic condition your immune system may be improved by restoring these important micronutrients to improve your body’s resistance to infection. So, as a team of expert nutritionists, we recommend diet is always the first port of call. These micronutrients should be obtained from food and when this is not possible supplements may be considered.

Vitamins – Feeding Your Immune System

• Vitamin A: This helps strengthen the immune system. Colourful fruit and vegetables which are high in carotenoids such as carrots, sweet potato, broccoli and spinach.
• Vitamin C: This one we all know is important for our immunity – it helps increase the production of white blood cells that prevent infection. These are found in citrus fruits such as oranges, apples, etc. and red bell peppers, spinach and Brussel sprouts.
• Vitamin D: This regulates the body’s immune system and boosts its natural defences. It is found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, eggs and fortified foods. Due to the serious lack of sunshine in Ireland, a huge proportion of us are Vitamin D deficient. Therefore, being more conscious of consuming these types of foods can help prevent any Vitamin D deficiencies.
• Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that helps fight infection and regulate immune functions. Sources include seeds such as sunflower, flax and linseed, dark green veg, avocados and nuts such as almonds.

• - immunesystem
• - minerals
• - vitamins