Boosting Our Immune System As we age
I am inspired to encourage, motivate and empower our aging population of women and men to be as healthy as possible, including the younger generation. When I answer questions about my health for at the Dr’s office, I feel blessed to not have all of the health issues you can have in this day and age.
With COVID19 and the new variants coming into the US we need to boost our immune systems, and as we age our immune systems are reduced. A strong immune system can fight off illnesses,viruses and even cancer. Viral infections can also cause bacterial infections into the lungs.
Healthy aging helps us to stay mobile and increases our health span to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with our family, friends and to enjoy traveling, hiking, and whatever you like to do to get out of the house.
Ultimately, we should be getting enough of our vitamins and minerals from our foods. Most of us do not get enough nutrients from our foods. We can boost our immune system by eating certain foods and taking supplements. Check with your Dr. before starting any supplements. It is important to do research on supplement products. Some medications for example cannot be taken with certain supplements.
I am not a Dr or a nutritionist, I have just learned from experts, Dr's and nutritionists. Our lifestyle plays a big part of our health. I only put in my body what is healthy for me. I don't smoke or drink alcohol, these two habits are not only unhealthy but will age you faster.
Underlying health issues are more susceptible to viruses, illnesses, and high blood pressure, are another reason to boost your immune system.
Social distancing and washing your hands often can assist in staying healthy.
Supplements recommended by Dr's that you may want to include are:
Vitamin D3- it reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system, 2000 mg per day
Zinc - boosts the immune system 10 - 20 mg per day
Mutivitamin - one per day
Vitamin B complex - it contributes to energy levels, brain function and cell metabolism
Food is medicine, it can turn on good genes and turn off bad genes. Eating clean and less processed foods is important.
Find vegetables and fruit you like. I have learned that I love red bell peppers and zucchini. Find what you like and eating that raw is best. Eating a salad every day is optimal, but sometimes not feasible. What I put in my salad are organic vegetables, salad greens, bell peppers, walnuts or pecans, strawberries, cucumbers and avocado's for example. Add what you like to eat it makes it easier to make those changes. And it can take up to two years to change a habit.
Eat more fish and lean meats. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you may have already learned what plant based foods have protein. It is recommended to get at least 50-55 grams of protein for a 140-pound woman and 64 grams for a 175-pound man, that are active, it varies based on weight. Soups in the winter is where I add vegetables I like. Eating healthy fats like avocado's, nuts, fish, eggs, and even dark chocolate are beneficial. Fish, seeds such as Flax and Chia seeds, and some nuts, such as walnuts have omega 3 fats which are good for us and what we need. Many foods have antioxidants and nutrients our body needs. We can eat a McDonald's hamburger and get full, but we have not received any nutrients.
Doing the recommended lifestyle of eating and exercising will assist with your health span and lifespan.