GUEST ARTICLE FROM
Jennifer McVey RD, LD
Jennmcvey@gmail.com
As the seasons change, leaves become brilliantly colored, holiday lights make there first appearance, and extra joy manifests its way into daily life, nothing can rain on this parade. Then in an instant cold and flu season invade the Holiday spirit and instead of spreading the Holiday cheer we spread the Holiday virus. A top notch immune system is much easier to achieve than you may think. An energy dense, well balanced diet will help you stay above the weather to partake in all of the festivities that are rapidly approaching.
Breakfast is a must. It will jump start the metabolism and provide the brain with glucose to ensure mental astuteness. It is also a great way to feed the body essential nutrients. A whole grain cereal, skim milk or yogurt, and a fresh orange can provide the body with 100% daily value of vitamin C, folate, and about 30% DV of calcium.
Vitamin C is a key antioxidant that may help neutralize free radicals that can cause cell and tissue damage. Long term contributing to the development of cancer and heart disease. Citrus fruits, as well as other fruits and vegetables like berries, tomatoes, melons, and peppers are foods rich in vitamin C.
Folate found in foods such as whole grains, beans, spinach, and fortified grain products may lower homocysteine levels in the blood which may contribute to inflammation. High levels can place you at risk for developing coronary artery disease.
Vitamin B6 is important for the immune system to function effectively. Found in several foods including lean meats, fatty fish, beans, baked potato with the skin, B6 helps to maintain the health of lymphoid organs that make white blood cells to fight infection. B6 is also commonly coined as the anti-allergy vitamin.
Take care of yourself through this allergy and virus season! Always remember to choose nutrient dense foods, maintain a healthy weight, be physically active, minimize stress, and get plenty of sleep.
Jennifer McVey RD, LD
For more information, please contact
Jennmcvey@gmail.com
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