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【 Fuel your immune system with the right nutrients! 】
Did you know that it’s not just about Vitamin C?
Your body relies on a whole squad of vitamins and minerals to keep your immune defenses strong, especially during stressful times.
Swipe through to see which micronutrients you might be missing and how to incorporate them into your diet.
Vitamin C – Your First Line of Defense
Promoting the production of white blood cells and increasing their quantity:
Vitamin C is one of the essential nutrients needed for white blood cell synthesis. It is involved in the metabolic processes of cells, providing necessary support for the generation of immune cells.
Enhancing the activity of white blood cells:
Vitamin C can boost the activity of immune cells such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages, aiding white blood cells and antibodies in functioning more effectively to combat pathogens and infections.
Protecting human cells:
Vitamin C possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, capable of neutralizing free radicals, safeguarding immune cells from damage, and aiding in maintaining the health and normal functioning of the immune system.
Aiding wound healing:
Vitamin C can promote the formation of collagen, which is crucial for wound recovery.
Dietary intake | Get it from citrus, bell peppers, and strawberries.
Vitamin D – The Sunshine Vitamin
Enhancing immune cell function:
Vitamin D can promote the differentiation and maturation of immune cells, supporting the maturity and functionality of key cells in the immune system - monocytes and macrophages, aiding the body in combating pathogens.
Regulating immune system balance:
Vitamin D also plays a regulatory role in the immune system. It can modulate the intensity and scope of immune responses, preventing an excessive or inadequate immune system reaction.
Enhancing gut health and immune barrier:
Vitamin D helps promote calcium absorption in the intestines, thereby enhancing the protective function of the intestinal barrier. A healthy intestinal barrier can reduce pathogen invasion, providing better protection for the body. Additionally, vitamin D can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, further maintaining gut health.
Improving mental health and immunity:
Research indicates a close connection between vitamin D and mental well-being. Adequate levels of vitamin D can enhance mood, prevent psychological issues such as depression and anxiety. The improvement in these mental states also helps boost the body's immunity, leading to overall better health.
Preventing diseases and promoting recovery:
Sufficient intake of vitamin D can prevent the occurrence of various diseases, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and others. Additionally, for individuals already afflicted by diseases, vitamin D can also aid in the recovery and healing process. This is partly attributed to the immune-boosting effects of vitamin D.
Dietary intake | Sources include fatty fish, fortified dairy, and egg yolks.
Zinc – A multitasker for immunity and healing
Enhancing immune cell function:
Zinc can enhance the function and activity of immune cells such as T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. These immune cells play a crucial role in identifying and eliminating pathogens, so adequate intake of zinc helps the body better resist the invasion of external pathogens.
Promoting the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells:
Zinc can also promote the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, thereby increasing the quantity and variety of immune cells. This helps establish a stronger immune system, enhancing the body's resistance to diseases.
Maintaining immune response balance:
Zinc also plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses. It can balance the intensity and duration of immune reactions, preventing an excessive or inadequate immune response. This balancing effect helps reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Promoting wound healing and infection resistance:
Zinc is crucial for wound healing and infection resistance. It can accelerate the healing process of wounds and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, zinc can promote collagen synthesis and cell regeneration, aiding in the repair and recovery of damaged tissues.
Maintaining normal physiological functions:
Zinc also participates in the synthesis and activity of various enzymes in the human body, which are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions. For example, zinc is involved in processes such as DNA and RNA synthesis, protein metabolism, and cell division, all of which are closely related to the proper functioning of the immune system.
Dietary intake | found in nuts, seeds, and shellfish
Selenium – Small but mighty for cell protection
Enhancing immune cell activity:
Selenium can eliminate free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage and thus boosting the activity of immune cells. This includes non-specific immune cells such as macrophages, monocytes, and neutrophils, as well as specific immune cells like lymphocytes and humoral immune cells. Supplementing with selenium can stimulate these cells to produce chemotactic factors, enhancing their ability to engulf and kill pathogenic microorganisms.
Facilitating immunoglobulin production:
Selenium can promote lymphocytes to produce antibodies, leading to an increase in the concentration of immunoglobulins in the blood or maintaining their normal levels.
Protecting cell membrane integrity:
Selenium can increase the activity of intracellular glutathione peroxidase, helping to preserve cell membrane integrity and prevent cells from oxidative damage. The integrity of cell membranes is crucial for the normal function and survival of immune cells.
Antioxidant properties:
Selenium possesses antioxidant properties, capable of scavenging excess free radicals in the body and reducing cellular oxidative stress. This aids in maintaining cellular health, slowing down the aging process, and indirectly supporting the normal functioning of the immune system.
Dietary intake | Try Brazil nuts and spinach
Iron – keeping cells energized
Synthesis of hemoglobin:
Iron is an essential component in the synthesis of hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen to tissues and organs throughout the body. Sufficient oxygen supply is crucial for the normal function and activity of immune cells. A lack of iron can lead to reduced hemoglobin synthesis, subsequently affecting oxygen transport and lowering the activity of immune cells.
Maintaining immune cell function: I
Iron is involved in regulating the function of immune cells, including peripheral lymphocytes, phagocytes, and neutrophils. Iron deficiency can impair the function of these immune cells, reducing the body's resistance to pathogens.
Promoting immunoglobulin production:
Iron can also stimulate the production of immunoglobulins, which are essential components of the immune system. These immunoglobulins can recognize and bind to foreign pathogens, aiding in their clearance.
Involvement in energy metabolism:
Iron participates in energy metabolism processes in the human body, providing the energy required by immune cells. A deficiency in iron can lead to disruptions in energy metabolism, affecting the normal functioning of immune cells.
Dietary intake | Lean meats, beans, and tofu are your go-tos
Protein (including glutamine) – Fuels your immune cells’ growth
Proteins are the foundation of the immune system:
Proteins are the basic building blocks of human cells. Immune cells in the immune system, such as white blood cells, lymphocytes, and others, are all composed of proteins. These immune cells are constantly renewed in the body to maintain the normal functioning of the immune system. Therefore, consuming an adequate amount of proteins helps in the generation and renewal of immune cells, thereby maintaining the stability and functionality of the immune system.
Facilitating antibody synthesis:
Antibodies are crucial substances in the immune system that can recognize and bind to pathogens, aiding immune cells in clearing them. The synthesis of antibodies requires a significant amount of amino acids, which are the basic building blocks of proteins. Therefore, consuming sufficient proteins assists in antibody synthesis, enhancing immunity. When the body is invaded by pathogens, the immune system can rapidly produce a large number of antibodies to combat the pathogens, protecting the body from disease.
Involvement in immune regulation:
Proteins not only participate in the generation of immune cells and the synthesis of antibodies but also play a role in immune regulation processes. By modulating the functions of immune cells, proteins can help the immune system better respond to pathogen invasions. For instance, some proteins can promote the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, thereby enhancing immunity, while others can inhibit immune responses, preventing inflammation caused by overactivation of the immune system. This immune-regulatory function helps to maintain the balance and stability of the immune system.
Dietary intake | Lean meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, grains are all good sources of protein.
Make sure your plate is as balanced as your lifestyle!
Ready to optimize your nutrition? Click the link in bio to schedule a personalized consultation with our TCM experts.
Fuel your immune system with the right nutrients! Follow us and discover our website today.
Back
【 Fuel your immune system with the right nutrients! 】
Did you know that it’s not just about Vitamin C?
Your body relies on a whole squad of vitamins and minerals to keep your immune defenses strong, especially during stressful times.
Swipe through to see which micronutrients you might be missing and how to incorporate them into your diet.
Vitamin C – Your First Line of Defense
Promoting the production of white blood cells and increasing their quantity:
Vitamin C is one of the essential nutrients needed for white blood cell synthesis. It is involved in the metabolic processes of cells, providing necessary support for the generation of immune cells.
Enhancing the activity of white blood cells:
Vitamin C can boost the activity of immune cells such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages, aiding white blood cells and antibodies in functioning more effectively to combat pathogens and infections.
Protecting human cells:
Vitamin C possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, capable of neutralizing free radicals, safeguarding immune cells from damage, and aiding in maintaining the health and normal functioning of the immune system.
Aiding wound healing:
Vitamin C can promote the formation of collagen, which is crucial for wound recovery.
Dietary intake | Get it from citrus, bell peppers, and strawberries.
Vitamin D – The Sunshine Vitamin
Enhancing immune cell function:
Vitamin D can promote the differentiation and maturation of immune cells, supporting the maturity and functionality of key cells in the immune system - monocytes and macrophages, aiding the body in combating pathogens.
Regulating immune system balance:
Vitamin D also plays a regulatory role in the immune system. It can modulate the intensity and scope of immune responses, preventing an excessive or inadequate immune system reaction.
Enhancing gut health and immune barrier:
Vitamin D helps promote calcium absorption in the intestines, thereby enhancing the protective function of the intestinal barrier. A healthy intestinal barrier can reduce pathogen invasion, providing better protection for the body. Additionally, vitamin D can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, further maintaining gut health.
Improving mental health and immunity:
Research indicates a close connection between vitamin D and mental well-being. Adequate levels of vitamin D can enhance mood, prevent psychological issues such as depression and anxiety. The improvement in these mental states also helps boost the body's immunity, leading to overall better health.
Preventing diseases and promoting recovery:
Sufficient intake of vitamin D can prevent the occurrence of various diseases, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and others. Additionally, for individuals already afflicted by diseases, vitamin D can also aid in the recovery and healing process. This is partly attributed to the immune-boosting effects of vitamin D.
Dietary intake | Sources include fatty fish, fortified dairy, and egg yolks.
Zinc – A multitasker for immunity and healing
Enhancing immune cell function:
Zinc can enhance the function and activity of immune cells such as T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. These immune cells play a crucial role in identifying and eliminating pathogens, so adequate intake of zinc helps the body better resist the invasion of external pathogens.
Promoting the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells:
Zinc can also promote the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, thereby increasing the quantity and variety of immune cells. This helps establish a stronger immune system, enhancing the body's resistance to diseases.
Maintaining immune response balance:
Zinc also plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses. It can balance the intensity and duration of immune reactions, preventing an excessive or inadequate immune response. This balancing effect helps reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Promoting wound healing and infection resistance:
Zinc is crucial for wound healing and infection resistance. It can accelerate the healing process of wounds and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, zinc can promote collagen synthesis and cell regeneration, aiding in the repair and recovery of damaged tissues.
Maintaining normal physiological functions:
Zinc also participates in the synthesis and activity of various enzymes in the human body, which are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions. For example, zinc is involved in processes such as DNA and RNA synthesis, protein metabolism, and cell division, all of which are closely related to the proper functioning of the immune system.
Dietary intake | found in nuts, seeds, and shellfish
Selenium – Small but mighty for cell protection
Enhancing immune cell activity:
Selenium can eliminate free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage and thus boosting the activity of immune cells. This includes non-specific immune cells such as macrophages, monocytes, and neutrophils, as well as specific immune cells like lymphocytes and humoral immune cells. Supplementing with selenium can stimulate these cells to produce chemotactic factors, enhancing their ability to engulf and kill pathogenic microorganisms.
Facilitating immunoglobulin production:
Selenium can promote lymphocytes to produce antibodies, leading to an increase in the concentration of immunoglobulins in the blood or maintaining their normal levels.
Protecting cell membrane integrity:
Selenium can increase the activity of intracellular glutathione peroxidase, helping to preserve cell membrane integrity and prevent cells from oxidative damage. The integrity of cell membranes is crucial for the normal function and survival of immune cells.
Antioxidant properties:
Selenium possesses antioxidant properties, capable of scavenging excess free radicals in the body and reducing cellular oxidative stress. This aids in maintaining cellular health, slowing down the aging process, and indirectly supporting the normal functioning of the immune system.
Dietary intake | Try Brazil nuts and spinach
Iron – keeping cells energized
Synthesis of hemoglobin:
Iron is an essential component in the synthesis of hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen to tissues and organs throughout the body. Sufficient oxygen supply is crucial for the normal function and activity of immune cells. A lack of iron can lead to reduced hemoglobin synthesis, subsequently affecting oxygen transport and lowering the activity of immune cells.
Maintaining immune cell function: I
Iron is involved in regulating the function of immune cells, including peripheral lymphocytes, phagocytes, and neutrophils. Iron deficiency can impair the function of these immune cells, reducing the body's resistance to pathogens.
Promoting immunoglobulin production:
Iron can also stimulate the production of immunoglobulins, which are essential components of the immune system. These immunoglobulins can recognize and bind to foreign pathogens, aiding in their clearance.
Involvement in energy metabolism:
Iron participates in energy metabolism processes in the human body, providing the energy required by immune cells. A deficiency in iron can lead to disruptions in energy metabolism, affecting the normal functioning of immune cells.
Dietary intake | Lean meats, beans, and tofu are your go-tos
Protein (including glutamine) – Fuels your immune cells’ growth
Proteins are the foundation of the immune system:
Proteins are the basic building blocks of human cells. Immune cells in the immune system, such as white blood cells, lymphocytes, and others, are all composed of proteins. These immune cells are constantly renewed in the body to maintain the normal functioning of the immune system. Therefore, consuming an adequate amount of proteins helps in the generation and renewal of immune cells, thereby maintaining the stability and functionality of the immune system.
Facilitating antibody synthesis:
Antibodies are crucial substances in the immune system that can recognize and bind to pathogens, aiding immune cells in clearing them. The synthesis of antibodies requires a significant amount of amino acids, which are the basic building blocks of proteins. Therefore, consuming sufficient proteins assists in antibody synthesis, enhancing immunity. When the body is invaded by pathogens, the immune system can rapidly produce a large number of antibodies to combat the pathogens, protecting the body from disease.
Involvement in immune regulation:
Proteins not only participate in the generation of immune cells and the synthesis of antibodies but also play a role in immune regulation processes. By modulating the functions of immune cells, proteins can help the immune system better respond to pathogen invasions. For instance, some proteins can promote the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, thereby enhancing immunity, while others can inhibit immune responses, preventing inflammation caused by overactivation of the immune system. This immune-regulatory function helps to maintain the balance and stability of the immune system.
Dietary intake | Lean meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, grains are all good sources of protein.
Make sure your plate is as balanced as your lifestyle!
Ready to optimize your nutrition? Click the link in bio to schedule a personalized consultation with our TCM experts.
Fuel your immune system with the right nutrients! Follow us and discover our website today.
