Now more than ever, it’s important for your immune system to
stay in tip-top shape during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the
best ways to stay healthy is by maintaining a nutritious diet.

New Orleans Coroner, Dr. Dwight McKenna shares some foods and
drinks that can help boost your immune system:

Vitamin A assists with the health of your intestines and respiratory
system. Vitamin A-rich foods include carrots, sweet potato,
spinach, broccoli and red bell peppers.

Vitamin C helps stimulate the formation of antibodies. Citrus fruits,
strawberries, red bell pepper and kiwi, papaya and mango are all
rich in vitamin C.

Vitamin E is a nutrient that promotes the neutralization of free
radicals by working as an antioxidant. Foods full of vitamin E
include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, chia, flax or hemp seeds and
avocado.

Zinc: There are many zinc-dependent enzymes in our body and
deficiency has been linked with immune dysfunction. Zinc-rich
foods include beans, seeds, nuts, meat, poultry and seafood.

Protein: Specific amino acids found in protein are essential for T-
cell function, which are cells that protect the body against
pathogens. Meats, poultry, seafood, eggs, beans, nuts and seeds
all have lots of protein.

These nutrients have been shown to help your immune system
work most efficiently and effectively, but too much of a good thing
can be harmful. Eat these nutrients in moderation and don’t go
overboard.

McKenna says, “the majority of our immune system resides in our
gut. It’s important that we support the microbiome there with
healthy bacteria.” If you like smoothies, try probiotics, vitamin c,
vitamin d, iron, zinc and protein. Any twist on this combination is good.
As always with preventing the spread of illness, wash your hands
frequently.