Strengthen Your Immune System Against The Coronavirus

Coronavirus: the term that is spreading like wildfire across the world and causing panic! We all know the precautions and recommendations to remember in order to protect themselves, such as strict hand washing, wearing of masks and gloves, limited social contact, disinfection of the house, etc. But strengthening your immune system against the coronavirus is needed more than ever! Deavita.fr has grouped together for your the most effective methods starting with food and ending with essential oils. Decryption!

How to strengthen your immune system to protect yourself against the coronavirus?

The immune system does a great job protecting the human body from pathogens, toxins, and other harmful substances. When its building blocks are in harmony, immune defense provides us with health and vitality. The key to maintaining a healthy immune system lies in healthy eating and acid-base balance in the body. This can be easily achieved through the consumption of alkaline foods (fruits and vegetables) and acidifying foods (cereals, legumes, seeds and nuts).

What is more, a holistic approach will also be necessary. It includes environmentally friendly nutrition, adequate rest, sports activities and, of course, emotional balance. And in this vein, the editorial staff of Deavita.fr reveals the foods and vitamins to favor as well as the essential oils to use in order to strengthen your immune system.

How to increase immune defense with the help of food to protect against Covid-19?

The increase in immune defense is associated with the purification of the organism and the maintenance of its balance. This can be done through proper diet and detoxification. So let's see the food groups to focus on in order to strengthen your immune system and try to protect yourself against the coronavirus.

• Microgreens: Spelled, alfalfa, mung bean and sunflower seed sprouts contain easily digestible nutrients and enzymes. What's more, you can already grow microgreens at home!
• Teas: elderberry infusion is a method widely used during cold seasons because it tends to fight against winter ailments such as colds, flu, sinusitis or even bronchitis. Thanks to its toning and soothing effect as well as its ability to counter the respiratory conditions listed, elderberry is an excellent ally of the immune system. Rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, green tea also has a draining and diuretic effect, thus making the kidneys work. This cleanses the toxins from the body.

• Fruits: widely known throughout the world, the benefits of citrus fruits in winter can indeed be privileged throughout the year. Thanks to their high vitamin C content, citrus fruits have antioxidant properties and stimulate the production of a specific molecule known to be able to eliminate microbes. Don't hesitate to start the day with a good cup of lemon water. For information, kiwi and apples are also fruits that provide the body with the necessary vitamins and trace elements.
• Vegetables: Green leafy vegetables are especially important for boosting immunity as they are extremely high in vitamin A which promotes antibody production and white blood cell multiplication. Root vegetables like carrots, beets, celery, and Jerusalem artichoke are excellent for boosting one's immune system. Experts advise to consume the vegetables raw, in juice and in salads or steamed.

• Cereals: brown rice, buckwheat, millet, spelled, rye and barley. All of its foods provide the body with energy. To soak them for 10-12 hours before cooking. Be careful if you have digestive problems or gluten intolerance.
• Legumes: just like green vegetables, legumes also allow the production of antibodies. What is more, they have satiating virtues. Do not hesitate to favor the consumption of chickpeas, lentils and beans.
• The fermented milks have a beneficial effect on the intestinal microbiota and metabolism. However, do not exceed the recommended amount - 30 gr per day. To prepare fermented milk at home, please check out our kefir recipe!

• Fatty fish and vitamin D: to strengthen your immune system optimally, it is essential to get vitamin D. In this case, we opt for the best choice: fatty fish rich in omega-3 (smoked herring, salmon, sardines and mackerel). Vitamin D is also an essential element in the fight against inflammation.
• Garlic: the many health benefits of garlic include an effective fight against viral infections and a healthy intestinal flora. Added to this are its antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is therefore no surprise that garlic is considered a natural antibiotic (especially thanks to its allicin content) and that it must always be present in our diet!

Plants that nourish immunity

The benefits of turmeric have been discussed for years. And with good reason! This root plant is a miraculous ally in the fight against many bacteria. And it is scientifically proven! Be careful not to overdo it, consume this super food in moderation.

A spice widely used in Mediterranean Europe, thyme is very rich in vitamin A, which makes it an ideal food for strengthening one's immune system. Combine it with honey or as an infusion.

Sharpen the natural defenses with the help of precious essential oils

Essential oils are a faithful ally in the fight against many ailments but they also help to strengthen the immune system. So the EO of eucalyptus, thyme and niaouli are excellent for repelling bacteria thanks to their antibacterial and antiviral action. The most practical method is to diffuse them using a cold humidifier.

The essential oil of tea tree helps protect us against microbes. To do this, pour two drops on a clean tissue and breathe deeply. However, before resorting to the use of essential oils, be sure to do a little allergy test by pouring a drop on the back of your hand.

Strengthen your immune system against the coronavirus: tips for a healthy intestinal flora

Thousands of different bacteria inhabit our colon and most of them are beneficial. But why is it so important to have a healthy gut flora? So, the colon plays a major role in eliminating waste, preventing the spread of dangerous pathogens in the gut, and promoting the immune system. Stress, antibiotics and certain illnesses can upset the balance of the microbiota and thus lead to other problems. Here is why, it is essential to favor the consumption of fibers, polyphenols and phytochemicals which stimulate digestion and guarantee a healthy microbiota.

To learn more, take a look at our article on Foods for Gut Health.

Vitamins and minerals to favor

The vitamins and minerals that we will list below are essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. However, some deficits are often identified after a blood test but dietary supplements are prescribed to restore balance.

• The vitamin B12 is responsible for the formation of blood and cell division and the good function of the nervous system. Generally, most people, except vegans and vegetarians, do not need dietary supplements.
• Known medically as cholecalciferol, vitamin D3 is fat soluble and plays an important role in building bones. For the body to produce it, you need to stay in the sun for at least 15 minutes a day. Food supplements are also an option.

• The vitamin C has a regulatory role in the supply of oxygen to the cells and stimulates the synthesis of other important substances. In addition to promoting the production of collagen, this precious vitamin is known to be able to boost the immune defense since it promotes the production of antibodies. These can locate and combat harmful pathogens.
• The magnesium is one of over 300 chemical reactions in the human body. It contributes to muscle building, the normal functioning of the nervous system and helps strengthen its immune system. To provide it, the consumption of leafy vegetables, whole grains, beans and nuts, is preferred.

• The Zinc is an essential trace element in the human body. It is known to be able to increase the metabolism, to help the good functioning of the immune system and to regulate the storage of insulin and the synthesis of proteins.
• A natural antioxidant, selenium promotes various important processes such as cell building and supplying cells with oxygen. Brazil nuts are considered the most important source of selenium.