NUTRITION, EXERCISE, and IMMUNITY

Lisa Medlin DNP, APRN, FNP-C

COVID-19 has disrupted lives and left us all with feelings of increased stress and anxiety. Quarantine has left many struggling to find new routines as they learn to manage new tasks and maintain functional homes while following social distancing rules. This has left us with stress at an all time high and disrupted daily routines. In times like these, it is easy to revert to quick, easy foods that have little to no nutritional value and avoid exercise completely.

In order to function correctly, the body must get the proper fuel from nutrition. How the immune system reacts to invasions of viruses (such as COVID-19) depends on the type of fuel we provide for our bodies. We know that both vitamins and mineral are important in the proper functioning of the immune system. Without proper amounts of certain vitamins (A, B, C, D, E), minerals (iron, folic acid, selenium, zinc),  and fatty acids the immune system is unable to create cells that help fight off the invasion of viruses and bacteria, leaving the body unprotected and ready to succumb to whatever infection it comes in contact with.

In order to get all the needed nutrition, a variety of fruits and vegetables as well as meats such as fish and chicken should be consumed daily. Red meats may be added but should be limited to no more than 2 times a week. Only small quantities of carbohydrates, such as breads and sweets should be eaten. Most American do not eat the number of veggies and fruits needed to ensure proper immune function. A high-quality supplement with multi-vitamins and minerals is key to helping the body maintain proper functioning and keep you healthy.

No conversation regarding nutrition is ever complete without mentioning the benefits of physical activity.  Physical activity helps to boost the immune system by boosting the body’s ability to produce white blood cells and antibodies that help fight infection. It also helps mitigate immunity by decreasing stress levels and preventing anxiety and depression, both of which affect immunity in negative ways.

You may call 45 Urgent Care 731-554-0571 for recommendations on multi-vitamins as well as other nutritional supplements that will provide immune support and help you stay healthy during this pandemic. Check us out at www.45urgentcare.com