“Good health and good sense are two of life’s greatest blessings.” – Publilius Syrus
How often have you, during the past few years, thought of your body’s immunity? Probably more than you ever did in the “pre-pandemic” years! Although the past decade or so has increased our awareness in the necessity of a strong immune system, that perception has gained increased interest and importance during these troubling times.
You may be very aware of the many supplements which promise “immune boosting” properties, and in truth some are quite beneficial. However, the word “boost” does not give us an accurate picture of how we need for our immune systems to work with us. If your immune system is working properly, it does not need a boost as such. According to Frank Lipman, M.D., co-author of The New Rules of Aging Well, “I know it’s semantics, but I wouldn’t use the word ‘boost.’ You don’t want your immune system to overreact any more than you want it to underreact.”
What should we do? – and you have heard it many times! Eat healthy whole foods, get adequate sleep and hydration, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. Unfortunately, the people most affected by COVID-19 are those people who are not relying on the aforementioned suggestions but also suffer from diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Having a healthy immune system would go a long way in the prevention of many of those obstacles.
Suzanne Cassel, M.D., an allergist and clinical immunologist at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles says that a healthy immune system isn’t the same thing as never getting sick.
“It means your body has an appropriate response when eventually you pick up an infection.” The simplest way to stay healthy, according to Dr. Cassel, is to “stay away from sick people, large group gatherings, washing your hands, and getting your vaccines.”
While food should always be your primary source of nutrients, sometimes supplements can play an important part of your healthy immune system goals. Your primary physician will check your Vitamin D levels during your annual checkup and bloodwork. If your Vitamin D levels are low, he/she may suggest a daily supplement. Some of the best food sources of Vitamin D are egg yolks, beef liver, salmon, and certain cheeses. Personally, as a vegetarian, I do take the Vitamin D supplements at the encouragement of my physician. Please check with your physician before beginning any supplementation, as some may affect any medications you are prescribed.
Remember, too, lack of activity and stress can greatly affect your immune system. Keeping our immune systems strong will assist us as we strive to stay healthy during a critical period of battling a significant coronavirus. We cannot change the world, but we can change and improve our own “world of wellness.”
Stay healthy, my friends.
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.