For many of us, this may be the first time we’ve had to think about our favorite foods not being readily available. While challenging, the quarantine is an opportunity to reflect on what we're used to vs. what truly matters for our health.

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The following nutrients provide adequate amounts of micronutrients that are linked with immune system health:

 

• Zinc: Important for wound healing. Found in lean meats, seafood, milk, whole grains, beans, seeds, and nuts

• Iron: Aids in non-specific immunity, the body’s first line of defense. Found in lentils, spinach, tofu, and white beans

• Vitamin A: Helps regulate our immune response. Found in sweet potatoes, carrots, red bell pepper, spinach, black-eye peas, and mango

• Vitamin C: Helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which is a product of infection or chronic inflammation. Found in broccoli, cantaloupe, kale, oranges, strawberries, tomatoes, guava, and lychee

• Vitamin E: Also helps defend against oxidative stress. Found in nuts, seeds, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables, avocado, and shrimp

• Vitamin B6: Supports more efficient reactions between different parts of our immune system. Found in green vegetables, chickpeas, and cold-water fish such as tuna or salmon

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An important note:

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No supplement will cure or prevent disease.

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With the 2019 coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, it’s especially important to understand that no supplement, diet, or other lifestyle modification other than physical distancing, also known as social distancing, and proper hygiene practices can protect you from COVID-19.

Currently, no research supports the use of any supplement to protect against COVID-19 specifically.

 

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