
How to support your immune system
Things are crazy right now! The State announced a full quarantine status as of yesterday! This is an unprecedented time. This is a very important time to be level-headed, and focused on what we can do to protect ourselves, our families, our communities, and our country. Its is a time to be kind to eachother because we all feel this.
This can be an opportunity to hunker down with our families, uplevel our self care, and to cherish the people and things we love. The more we can face the current situations with calmness and kindness, the better able we will be to survive and thrive.
I believe that there are no right or wrong emotions to be feeling right now. They are all valid!
We all handle stress and uncertainty in different ways. I have decided to choose gratitude and love over fear and anger knowing my emotions affect my health on many levels.
I want to maintain as much normalcy in my life as possible while also acknowledging what is happening. That is what feels good to me and how I cope best. I am taking things one day at a time, with a business as usual approach.
Now is a great time to support your immune system! Here are some practical tips:
Eat a whole foods, nutrient-dense diet.
Our immune system relies on nutrient-dense whole foods for optimal function.
Cut out sugar and refined starches.
Limiting refined starches (think flours/processed foods) and sugar will help your immune system function properly.
Ensure adequate protein intake.
Protein is critical for immune function! Aim for about half your body weight in grams of protein per day, or about two four-ounce servings of organic, clean animal protein. Plant-based proteins (legumes, nuts/seeds) can be adequate if consumed in high enough quantity.
Cook with garlic, onions, ginger, and lots of spices (oregano, turmeric, rosemary)!
These spices make great additions to soups, dips, and sauces. Garlic and onions boast a wide spectrum antimicrobial properties too!
Eat multiple servings of colorful fruits and vegetables
These are high in vitamins C, A. They also contain phytonutrients that support the immune system. Think leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower), peppers, sweet potatoes, and squashes. Aim for 2 servings of fruits and 8 or more servings of vegetables! A serving is half a cup.
Eat fermented foods to support your microbiome and immunity
Eat sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, unsweetened yogurt, and kefir.
Alkalize your body
Sugar and processed foods tend to make your body slightly more acidic and more receptive to the COVID-19 virus. Its best to avoid them!

Drink plenty of fluids, especially warmer fluids
Consuming adequate fluids supports all your bodies’ functions including the immune system. Avoid concentrated fruit juices and sweetened beverages, as the sugar content is harmful for the immune system. Bone broth is a great option! its full of minerals and gut healing collagen – Check out this easy to make recipe.
Get some sleep!
Sleep restores and heals the body. Without adequate sleep, optimal immune function is impossible!
Get regular exercise
Mild to moderate exercise (for approximately 30-45 minutes) helps boost the immune system.
Practice meditation and yoga
Managing your stress right now is key! These practices can make a profound difference.
Spend time in nature
Nature is healing and calming.