Supporting Your Immune System with Balanced Nutrition

Disclaimer:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Immune Function

A healthy immune system relies on good nutrition. A well-balanced diet focused on lean protein, plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy can help  support strong immune function. Fermented foods such as kombucha and yogurt assist the development and maintenance of the gut microbiome, which is comprised of beneficial bacteria. These bacteria are also supported by a diet high in fibrous foods with a variety of vitamins and minerals, especially fruits and vegetables. 

Getting a Wide Variety of Nutrients

Key nutrients which contribute to a healthy immune system include beta-carotene, vitamins C, D, and E, and zinc. Beta-carotene and vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that contribute to normal immune function. Beta-carotene is present in orange vegetables such as sweet potatoes and carrots, as well as leafy greens. Citrus fruits, red bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries are all excellent sources of vitamin C, while vitamin E is present in spinach, seeds, and tree nuts. Sufficient amounts of vitamin D in the diet help to reduce inflammation. This vitamin can be found in breakfast cereals, whole milk, mushrooms, and supplements. Zinc helps increase the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and T cells. Food sources of zinc include tree nuts, beans, and lentils. 

Balanced Meals

We craft a wide selection of meals which can help support your immune system. Our Sweet Potato & Coconut Curry contains beta-carotene found in sweet potatoes, and vitamin C from red bell peppers. One of our most popular meals, Carb-Wise Creamy Chicken with Bacon & Chives contains broccoli and whole milk, both good sources of calcium. We also have you covered for breakfast, with meals like our Mixed Berry & Walnut Oatmeal with strawberries for vitamin C, and walnuts which offer vitamin E and zinc. 

How We Can Help

Throughout our five Seattle stores, we have meals and products which can help you stay healthy. We carry Shen Zen Tea,  a premium kombucha. Kombucha is a lightly carbonated tea beverage produced from the fermentation of yeast and bacteria. In the process of fermentation, probiotics are made, which are known to support good digestion. Tea, especially green tea, also contains polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants. We’re committed to providing our community with convenient, nutritious, high-quality meals developed by Registered Dietitians. At each of our stores you’ll find knowledgeable team members ready to help you find the best meals to support your health. Come visit a store today or place an online order for delivery to your home.

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© Jennie Norton, RDN and performancekitchen.com, 2020. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Jennie Norton and performancekitchen.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.