Eating a balanced diet, exercising and getting a good night sleep all help maintain your physical and metal well-being. During stressful times, it’s especially important to focus on a healthy lifestyle.

We recently chatted with VitaTree Nutrionals’ Dr. Janine Bowring, ND for some wellness advice to help boost your immune system.

What protocol would you recommend for someone who is new to the world of supplements and is concerned about boosting immunity?

You would want to focus on Probiotics, Immune Support (formerly Cold/Flu and Immune), Organic Vitamin C and Vitamin D3.  Probiotics contribute to a healthy microbiome in the gastrointestinal tract which leads to an overall healthier body.  It is believed that up to 80% of the body’s immunity comes from the gut. The herbal medicines in the Immune Support are known to protect the immune system both acutely and at a deep level.  Vitamin C supports the function of various immune cells and enhances their ability to protect against infection.  It also functions as a powerful antioxidant, protecting against damage induced by oxidative stress, which occurs with the accumulation of reactive molecules known as free radicals.  Vitamin D3 enhances the pathogen fighting effects of white blood cells, that are important parts of your immune defence, and decreases inflammation, which helps promote immune response.  Low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections.

What are the best immune boosting foods?

Mushrooms are a great immune boosting food. They are naturally antiviral and contain many vitamins and minerals.  For example;

• Portobello mushrooms contain selenium an important antioxidant for immunity
• Cremini mushrooms have over 50X the required copper and 12X the required zinc per calorie, both important minerals for immunity

Green leafy vegetables help the body product certain cell-surface proteins that the body uses to create immune cells on the skin and in the GI tract.  Cells that are important in the body’s defense against bacteria and viruses.

Raw fruits and vegetables are high in fiber that feed the good probiotics in the GI tract.  They contain phytonutrients that help keep the immune system strong.

What are the best activities to help boost the immune system?

Exercise in general is good for the immune system, be it cardio or strength training.  It helps with increased blood flow and building immune cells.  Pilates and yoga are particularly good in that they also help quiet the mind and relieve stress.

Do you have any other wellness tips for people stuck at home and missing the sunshine?

Get outside whenever possible.  Go sit in your backyard or on a balcony.  Go for a walk (while respecting social distancing).  If that is not possible sit by a window and make sure you take Vitamin D3 every day. 

Find the right combination of vitamins and supplements to optimize your well-being with our Vitamin Selector!