There has been lots of information online about how you can support your immune function with Vitamin C but what else can you eat for healthy Immune System?
Protein is vital to build and repair body tissue and fight viral and bacterial infections. Immune system powerhouses such as antibodies and immune system cells rely on protein. Too little protein in the diet may lead to symptoms of weakness, fatigue, apathy, and poor immunity.
Choose lean sources of protein such as skinless chicken, turkey, organic beef, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.
If you’re a keen meat eater, why not try including some plant based proteins into your diet such as kidney beans and chickpeas. These protein sources also contain good amounts of fibre that will also support healthy immune function.
If you’re vegetarian or vegan it’s wise to vary your plant proteins to ensure you’re getting all essential amino acids into your diet. Make sure your choosing whole gains too as this will support amino acid intake. How much you need will vary from person to person.
As a rule and to make it simple make sure you have protein at every meal and snack.
- Breakfast: Chopped nuts over your porridge or eggs on toast
- Lunch: Lentil soup or chicken salad
- Dinner: Salmon and stir fried vegetables or a vegan chilli with wholegrain rice
- Snacks: Apple and a handful of nuts, oatcakes and hummus, a smoothie with protein powder.
Carrie Temple Nutritional Therapist
(Dip) CNM, mBANT, CNHC reg.