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Links between Covid-19, any Virus, Nutrition, and the Immune System

GR Krishna, our MD, cuts through the noise and gives us the nutrition and Immune System facts to stay healthy and vibrant.
The pandemic has called attention to the immune system's role, with "experts" and articles urging people to buy supplements or eat particular foods to "turbocharge" their immune systems.
The truth is more subtle. As highlighted recently by the World Health Organization, a healthy lifestyle makes all bodily functions work better, including immunity. Having a nutritious diet is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. It plays a crucial role in supporting a well-functioning and effective immune system to protect against infection and other diseases.

How does the immune system work?

The immune system is one of the most complex bodily systems made up of a network of cells, molecules, tissues, and organs all working together to protect the body.
This complexity means that it cannot be modified acutely by a simple nutritional intervention. Instead, adhering to a healthy diet provides ongoing support to the immune system. It may even delay the process of immunosenescence (the gradual natural deterioration of the immune system as we get older).

Can nutrition boost your immune system?

I have studied articles in leading medical and health-oriented Journals, looking for answers from experts, and I have come to this conclusion regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and diet:
"One cannot 'boost' their immune system through diet alone, and no specific food or supplement will prevent you from catching COVID-19 Virus or, for that matter, any other Virus. Good hygiene practice remains the best means of avoiding infection." Many nutrients are involved with the immune system's normal functioning, so maintaining a healthy balanced diet is the best way to support immune function.
No one food is recommended over another, and eating various foods will help maintain a healthy balanced diet. The immuno-protection of many of these nutrients is based on their antioxidant capacity (oxidation is a chemical reaction that can damage cells).

How does one boost and protect their immune system?

  • Maintain a healthy weight and optimal BMI. Here is how to calculate your BMI. Divide your Weight in Kilograms by your Height in meters squared. For example, if you weigh 80 kgs and your Height is 1.6 meters, your BMI is 80/1.62 = 30.5. A BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9 is ideal. A BMI of between 25 and 29.9 is overweight. A BMI over 30 indicates obesity
  • Be physically active, exercise regularly, if possible, at the same time every day —preferably first thing in the morning on an empty stomach after drinking at least a glass of water
  • Eat whole grains, beans, superfoods, fruits, and vegetables
  • Avoid fast foods and deep-fried foods if possible
  • Avoid red and processed meat if possible
  • Avoid sugar-sweetened drinks
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Don't just rely on supplements like vitamins and minerals unless you are seriously deficient, as your doctor advised.
  • Get enough sleep
  • Avoid smoking

For protection against COVID-19 or any Virus, following hygiene rules is critical.

Nutrition and cancer survivors

Good nutrition supports the body throughout the life course, from birth to old age. A balanced diet, including all food groups, supports an effective immune system and may protect against infections, cancers, and other diseases.

Diet, immunity, and COVID19, and Cancer

Living with overweight and obesity increases the risk of at least 12 different types of Cancer. A healthy, balanced diet is vital for good health, but especially so during and after infection. As shown by the World Cancer Research Fund's (WCRF) Cancer Prevention Recommendations, a healthy diet, alongside physical activity, is key to maintaining a healthy immune system. There is also evidence to show that people affected by obesity can have an impaired immune response or immune function, making them more vulnerable to infections. A healthy diet provides ongoing support to the immune system. As part of a healthy lifestyle, it can help reduce around 40 percent of cancers, as highlighted in WCRF's Third Expert Report, Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Cancer: a Global Perspective.

POSHAN POORAK AND YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Like any fighting force, the immune system army marches on its stomach. Healthy immune system warriors need good, regular nourishment. Scientists have long recognized that people who are malnourished are more vulnerable to infectious diseases.
Malnutrition refers to when a person's diet does not provide enough nutrients or the right balance of nutrients for optimal health. Nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management are the four foundation pillars for good health.

POSHAN POORAK provides you the necessary foundation and the most essential pillar of good health: optimal nutrition. It contains the best of time-tested grains and seeds in the form of legumes and pulses, superfoods, millets, nuts, and select spices. It is sprouted, popped roasted as possible and applicable. The powdered power-blend is easy to consume. Mix a few tablespoons of it in water, milk, buttermilk, and cover the basics of good wholesome nutrition. It digests easily and is absorbed quickly. The power blend provides the primary stable vital, and essential stratum to build upon by choosing the right food based on your culture and habits.

Disclaimer:

No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinicians.

Comments

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