Never before in this generation, all around the world, has the immune system been so discussed and important. People are worrying about boosting and protecting their health and ability to fight off illness at unprecedented levels. And while it’s very easy to become overwhelmed or even anxious, take a deep breath instead. During these uncertain times when you feel confused, scared and at a loss of control, know there are certainly things you can do. So, let’s take a moment to focus on what’s within your control and concentrate on the positives.

Protect Your Immune System – Gut Health

The vast majority (between 60-80%) of your immune system lives in your gut. Taking care of your digestive system, creating an ideal microbiome environment for all the good bacteria found in your gut, promotes a healthy immune system. Eat plenty of fiber, prebiotics and probiotics to help your immunity function well. Focusing on colorful, plant-based foods is an easy way to bulk up your fiber intake. Think:

• Oatmeal
• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Fruits
• Veggies

Another timely (yet always important) benefit to having a healthy gut is your mental state. Did you know that your digestive health plays a big role in your mood? In order to reduce stress, anxiety and depression and promote mental wellness and stability, keep a happy gut. In challenging and stressful times, it’s more important than ever to give yourself all the advantages and tools to have a calm, cool and collected disposition.

Boost Immunity with the Sunshine Vitamin

Sufficient Vitamin D levels are another key to boosting your immunity. More than 40% of Americans have a Vitamin D deficiency. (Individuals with darker complexions, more melanin, are more prone to Vitamin D deficiency.) Lack of sunshine is the leading cause of this deficiency. 

It’s important to get some sunshine daily. But it’s important to be smart about getting sun. Use sunscreen, but get a little sun daily without the blockage. Time your sun exposure to avoid the most powerful rays of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.). Cloudy days still allow Vitamin D through… don’t be fooled! Also keep in mind where you live… pollution and position relative to the equator also play roles in the UV levels to which you’re exposed.

Vitamin D improves energy levels (fatigue is a symptom of deficiency). It also helps positively impact your mood, much like good gut health.

And while the best source of Vitamin D is natural sunlight, some foods are also good sources.

• Fish, such as tuna and salmon
• Orange juice and other citrus whole foods and juices
• Fortified milk and yogurt
• Cheeses
• Fortified cereals
• Egg yolk
• Beef liver

Protective Measures

The CDC has guidelines on protective measures to stay well. Some seem like common sense. But they are more important than ever. 

• Wash your hands well. This means using soap, washing for at least twenty seconds (two “happy birthday” or “alphabet” songs), and washing often. It’s especially important to wash after you’ve been outside or around others (i.e. grocery or pharmacy).
• Use a hand sanitizer, at least 60% alcohol, whenever hand washing is not an option.
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth and nose, particularly with unclean hands.
• Use tissues and make sure you cover coughs and sneezes. Wash after you’ve coughed or sneezed.
• Stay home if you feel unwell.
• Practice social distancing (stay at least 6 feet away from those with whom you do not live).

Help is at Hand

Our team at BIPRI is here to help, now and always. If you’re looking for ways to boost your immunity, look into our supplements such as kids probiotics , adult probiotics and our vitamin D supplement. If you have questions about boosting and protecting your immunity, feel free to reach out. Email info@bipri.com.