Getting the right nutrition

Boosting one’s immunity is part of the COVID-19 guidelines that we might overlook because of its mundaneness. All our lives, experts have told us to get fit, rest enough, eat healthy. The opposite is corrosive to the immune system.

Hand hygiene, social distancing and protective equipment are helpful, yes. But if viruses make their way into our body through loopholes, we will need a formidable army of cells and compounds to kill them off. It’s better to get a boost from a nutrient-rich plate rather than supplemental pills, that’s why food intake is a crucial habit.

We can adopt the farm-to-market concept for our own home by harvesting ingredients in our own backyard. The lockdown got us into home gardening, so why don’t we plant immunity-boosters?

Garlic

There is science behind the old wives’ tale. The flavor enhancer is a superfood with antimicrobial, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains compounds like allicin that improve white blood cells’ ability to fight off viruses. Its antioxidants also strengthen the cardiovascular system and protect the liver.

Malunggay

Here’s a familiar ingredient widely used to fortify anything from noodles to chips with nutrients. The leaves contain seven times more immunity-building Vitamin C than oranges, as well as high levels of potassium, iron, calcium and amino acids. It also strengthens muscles, promotes healing, combats free radicals and lowers blood sugar. It is fast-growing, low-maintenance and drought-resistant.

Red bell pepper

Add it to your salad, soups, stir-fries, pasta or pancit. Not many people love it, but the presentation could help it get the recognition it deserves. Bell peppers possess vitamin C, with the red ones having the most. All varieties pack antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds like beta carotene. It contributes to healthier skin, vision and immunity.

Papaya

Harvest the “fruit of the angels.” While green, it can tenderize meat dishes or make for a great salad. When ripe, make a snack or smoothie. The fruit contains twice the daily required amount of vitamin C. The papain helps against inflammation and indigestion. It’s also rich in vitamin A, potassium, calcium and folate, a powerful cell rebuilder.

Health tips

When your health concern needs professional intervention, consult from home with Medicard Philippines Inc.’s capp. Get health tips and updates by visiting Medicard’s Facebook page or its websites medicardphils.com and medicardlifestyle.com. It also has the Medicard Access Express (MACE), a free mobile app that offers another convenient way to access Medicard’s roster of healthcare services. With MACE, Medicard members can view information about their health plan, register their dependents, request for consultation, generate a letter of approval for lab tests, view their utilization and search for accredited dentists, doctors, and clinics and hospitals. Perks also await users of MACE app.