At PIM we have a particular interest in diet and nutrition, and how these factors affect our immune response.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made it especially important to provide optimal support for the immune system, especially at a time when many people are confined to their homes.
A recent review of existing research highlights the importance of various nutrients in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, strengthening the immune system.
Protein intake is essential for antibody production, while low levels of micronutrients such as vitamin A and zinc are associated with increased risk of infection.
Vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids and polyphenols have high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacity. Vitamin D may interrupt the process of viral infection of cells in the body.
Dietary fibre may also have a role to play – when fibre is fermented by gut microbes into short-chain fatty acids, these have been shown to produce anti-inflammatory effects.
Contact us to find out more about how your diet affects your health and wellbeing.