Tips To Boost Immunity Against Coronavirus – Part 2

Coronavirus- 2019-nCoV. It’s the number one thing on everyone’s mind right now. Our country is doing a great job to provide live updates and to educate the public on precautionary measures such as washing our hands with soap frequently and if you are sick, stay home.

We cannot over-emphasize the need to maintain a strong immune system at this time, especially for older adults and those with underlying medical conditions. As all of us probably know by now from news updates, those with compromised immune systems, such as the elderly or sick, are most at risk of becoming severely ill or dying from the coronavirus.

A strong immune system will protect your body from seasonal illnesses/viral infections and ensure faster recovery after an illness. Good nutrition (plus the cutting down on highly processed foods and sugar-laden foods) is essential to a healthy immune system. 

With our fast-paced lifestyles in Singapore, it seems only logical that people would rush to buy vitamin supplements at this time. Consuming enough whole fruits and raw vegetables daily can be challenging for some- popping a pill is much easier and quicker. Instead of relying on pill supplements (synthetic nutrients) which may not be well-absorbed by the body, we strongly recommend a whole-food approach to build up your immunity.  Adding some nutrient-dense superfoods to your diet everyday can be a very convenient and effective way of getting an immune boost without having to rely on supplements.

Do you know what nutrients your immune system needs? Here are some important nutrients you can quickly consume in significant amounts daily.

1.     Antioxidant-rich Superfoods

Antioxidants, naturally present in these foods, protect your body cells from the effects of free radicals and helps reduce excess inflammation in your body.

An example of a powerful antioxidant is Vitamin C. Amongst all fruits, the Camu-Camu Berry has the highest Vitamin C content (10-30 x more Vitamin C than oranges by weight). Nature’s Superfoods Camu-Camu Berry Powder is made from only pulp and skin (without the seeds) and hence contain a range of 7-10% Vitamin C which is one of the highest among all fruits. Just ½ teaspoon a day is enough to meet a healthy adult’s daily requirement of Vitamin C. Older people and those who are feeling unwell can consume up to 1 tsp a day.

Another superberry is the Maqui Berry, a rare berry from Chile. It has the highest amount of antioxidants, namely anthocyanins and polyphenols among all berries, and thus, it has strong anti-inflammatory benefits and is great for immunity. Nature’s Superfoods Maqui Berry Powder is made from freeze-dried maqui berries to preserve all the nutrients and antioxidants. It is also a good source of Vitamin A, C, calcium, iron, potassium which is great for an immune boost.

Simply mix in 1 teaspoon of either (or both) powder into your daily smoothies or no-sugar-added juices to upgrade your antioxidant boost for the day.

As recently featured on Harper’s Bazaar Singapore, Nature’s Superfoods Organic Green Clean is specially designed to enhance the body’s detox system and to nourish the body with chlorophyll, minerals, vitamins, enzymes and antioxidants to help fight oxidative stress. It contains super-greens such as moringa and wheatgrass which helps to get rid of the toxins stored in fat cells and increases nutrient absorption for overall well-being and enhanced immunity.

Just add 1-2 teaspoons to cold water, juices, smoothies or yogurt – Do consume this 15-30 minutes before breakfast, or 2-3 hours after a meal for maximum benefits.

2.     Antimicrobial & Antibacterial Superfoods

Raw Honey is an alkaline-forming food that contains natural vitamins, enzymes, flower pollen, propolis, antioxidants and other important natural nutrients. However, the type and source of honey is extremely important. Nature’s Superfoods Raw Honey is raw, unpasteurized/unheated and unfiltered. As it is not commercially produced, the good nutrients are not destroyed by heat and processing. The daily consumption of honey has been found to strengthen the immune system. Its antioxidant, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties help fight infections from viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Honey is also known to improve your digestive system, treat acid reflux, soothe a sore throat and treat a nasty cough. All you need to do to give your immune system a boost during this coronavirus season is to replace empty-calorie white/brown cane sugar with raw honey in your diet. Raw honey can be added to Greek yoghurt, unsweetened organic teas or even your breakfast cereals.

Spices like Turmeric and Ginger are also strong antioxidants and are known for their anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. It is now commonly consumed as a natural treatment for infections and diseases. A little of these spices goes a long way! All you need to do is add ½-1 teaspoon (1-3g) of Nature’s Superfoods Turmeric Powder or Nature’s Superfoods Ginger Powder into your diet. This will give you immune-boosting benefits by neutralising free radicals and stomach acids and stimulating the body’s own antioxidant mechanisms. A great recipe, that is extremely simple to make is Golden milk. Do check out our website for the recipe!