Have you been having questions about immunity lately? Perhaps wondering how to boost your immune system, or what foods/supplements to consider implementing into your routine? If so, you've come to the right place!

Below are a series of Q&A's on how to support a healthy immune system during the COVID-19 outbreak (and beyond). As always however, please be sure to consult your doctor before implementing new supplements or major lifestyle changes into your routine. 

Q: “What types of food should you eat to help improve your immune system?”

A: While there are a lot of really good superfoods out there, the main thing to actually focus on is:

1. Staying hydrated
2. Eating enough protein – because we know protein are building blocks for your immune cells
3. Getting your antioxidants from all the wonderful brightly coloured fruits and vegetables

Q: “Are there specific foods you recommend to focus on?”

A: Just remember it’s about eating whole foods, and healthy nutrition for now, with a focus on hydration, protein, and antioxidants. Examples of foods that will help you achieve this includes: 

1. Pumpkin Seeds - high in Zinc
2. Kiwis - high in Vitamin C
3. Protein sources: nuts, seeds, beans, legumes
4. Leafy greens - high levels of antioxidants
5. Garlic - antimicrobial activity
6. Ginger - anti-inflammatory properties 

Q: “What supplements would you recommend for your mental health and overall immune system?”

A: Please be sure to ask a health care provider before adding in a new supplement into your routine. Some good ones include:

1. Magnesium
   •  Great mineral for the nervous system and to help calm it (and you) down
   • Also works well for anxiety and sleep
2. Fish Oil (ie. Omega-3’s)
   • Recommend a high quality fish oil with a high EPA concentration
   • Decreases risk of anxiety/depression
3. Vitamin B12
   
   • Not only good for boosting energy but also for decreasing risk of anxiety/depression
4. Vitamin D
   
   • Can get it from sunlight
   • Great for immune system and supporting your mental health
5. Probiotic
   • Great to support health, mental health and overall immune system
6. Vitamin C
   • Very good option for most people to optimize immune system
   • Remember it is not a magic pill – does not prevent you from catching anything, just helps make sure you are as healthy as possible

Q: “Any other tips for optimizing your immune system and staying healthy (mentally and physically)”

A: Easy to fall off your routine or schedule right now, especially when it comes to things like exercise and sleep. It’s important to remember that there is a difference between schedule and routine. A schedule can be too restrictive for some, making you feel that you need to be productive. If this is too overwhelming, try sticking to a routine: where you try and get up at a reasonable hour everyday, brush your teeth, nourish your body at normal times, etc. Even if you do not need to get up early in the morning, still try and go to bed at a good time. This will help optimize your mental and physical health.

It’s also important to move your body in order to stay healthy and to look after your mental health. This is true regardless of what that movement is. Could be dancing, at-home exercises, walking around the block, etc.