Nutrition and Immunity - what's the connection?

Covid-19 has now become a part of our daily lives and it is quite evident that we have to live with it, at least for a while. By now everyone has already realized that our chances of catching the Coronavirus are very high, whether it is symptomatic or asymptomatic. Many might already be the carriers of the coronavirus without even knowing or showing any symptoms. Our first line of safety action to refrain from contracting Covid-19 is by preventive measures such as washing hands, sanitizing, wearing a mask, social distancing, staying home, and maintaining hygiene. However, one must have a healthy immune system to fight the virus as it directly affects the immunity of an individual. 

The word “Immunity” has been on trend since the initial time when we were hit by the pandemic Covid-19. Never in history was immunity discussed to such an extent which is a defensive mechanism in the body built naturally as well as acquired over time with exposure to diseases or infections. The immune system performs at its best when the body functions in optimal condition. For this, balanced nutrition is very essential as a healthy immune system needs good and regular nourishment. Hence, there is a clear connection between immunity and nutrition.

Loads of content are available on the web, recommending the best way to boost your immunity. Valuable recommendations are like - vitamin supplements, immunity-boosting foods, and drinks, physical fitness, enough sleep, reduce stress, enough sunlight, etc. 

We must understand that building a strong immune system is a process and not possible to acquire overnight. Our body needs both macronutrients – carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats as well as micronutrients – vitamins A, B, C, D, E and minerals - Zinc, Iron, Magnesium, and Potassium, etc. These are the basic building blocks of our bodies. Therefore, nutrient deficiency or malnourishment have a direct impact on our body functioning and make us more vulnerable to infectious diseases. In the current lifestyle, many are facing this micronutrient malnourishment without even knowing about it. 

Adequate nutrition and hydration are the most important factors because people who follow a well-balanced diet tend to be healthier with stronger and better immune systems which reduce the health risks through infections like Covid-19 to a great extent. So, the body needs to intake a variety of new and natural foods consistently to get an adequate amount of nutrients, minerals, dietary fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Popular immunity boosters like zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, vitamin E present in various foods, supplements, drinks/teas are recommended in this regard however these boosters alone will not be enough to battle against infections like Covid-19. Therefore, all we need is balanced adequate nutrition and stable metabolism along with and mental wellbeing that is fundamental for good health.