19 Nov Cold-Proof Your Health: Immunity-Boosting Tips, Recipes, and Supplements You Need Now
Have you noticed that a simple cold doesn’t feel simple anymore? Why is it that they seem to drag on for weeks with symptoms that feel so much stronger? I can’t afford to be sick for weeks on end— but it’s that time of year! So, to prepare for the cold and flu season, I am getting back to basics with an immune-boosting diet to help myself (and maybe you, too) feel better faster.
The Many Roles of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid):
Most people know about Vitamin C’s role as a powerful antioxidant that can help ward off the cold and flu viruses. But that’s not all it’s helpful for. The primary function of Vitamin C is the manufacture of collagen, the main protein in the human body. Vitamin C is involved in joining a portion of the amino acids lysine and proline to form hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline. The result? A very stable structure of collagen, an important protein that literally holds our body together. Cartilage, ligaments, tendons and all of the connective tissue in our bodies are dependent on the production of collagen. Vitamin C, therefore, is important for heart and brain health as it strengthens blood vessels to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Vitamin C plays a vital role in many immune mechanisms. It enhances wound healing by enhancing white blood cell function and activity and increases interferon levels, antibody responses, and antibody levels.
Perhaps the biggest (and least known) benefit of Vitamin C is its role in lowering cholesterol levels. In specific doses, Vitamin C helps lower cholesterol by speeding its conversion to bile, making it a powerful addition to a heart and brain healthy diet.
Top Vitamin C-Rich Foods for Brain, Heart and Immune Health:
While most people think of citrus fruits as the best source of Vitamin C, vegetables also contain high levels, especially peppers, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, Vitamin C is destroyed by exposure to air, so eating fresh foods as quickly as possible is always best. These foods are easy to find at any grocery store and simple to work into your meal prep for this week.
- Oranges
- Acerola
- Red and yellow bell peppers
- Kiwi
- Kale
- Parsley
- Mustard Greens
- Watercress
- Cauliflower
- Persimmons
- Red Cabbage
- Spinach
- Elderberries
- Turnips
- Asparagus
- Tangerines
- Brussels sprouts
- Lemon
- Strawberries
- Tomato
- Broccoli
Here’s what’s on my menu to kick when I want to kick a cold to the curb:
- Lemon Water: Adding lemon to your water isn’t just for flavor; it boosts your Vitamin C intake and helps you stay hydrated, aiding your body in flushing out the virus more quickly.
- Vitamin C Supplements: While whole foods are always my first choice, the right dose of a high-quality Vitamin C supplement gives the extra boost when you need it most.
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Build Your Personalized Supplement Plan for Stronger Immunity
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Every person is unique and your health plan should be too.
Looking for more ways to stay healthier and be more productive this season? Visit here on the website for recipes and health tips, or book a free consultation to discover how a personalized supplement plan can support your health goals. A well-rounded supplement plan can support your immune system beyond Vitamin C.
The world of healthcare is complicated. Don’t keep trying to figure it out alone. Get the support you need now to strengthen your immunity, build a better brain and get on the road to thriving, not just surviving. Let’s connect and work together to craft a plan tailored to your unique needs—ensuring you’re covered in other key areas like Vitamin D, zinc, and probiotics for gut health, which is crucial for immunity.
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