By: Diana Davis, RDN Without Limits Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
March 22nd 2020

In the midst of our current situation in the world of handwashing, sanitizing, social distancing, work from home, self-quarantine and cancellations it’s great to know that what we eat to fuel our bodies can boost our immunity and help protect us from coronavirus. There are foods that enhance immune function and we need to eat a varied diet rich in plant-based phytochemicals to fight off the pathogens that make us sick.  The good news is, the more vegetables and fruits you eat, the better for your immunity.

Research has identified immune-boosting vitamins: beta-carotene, vitamins B6, B12, C, D, E and folate as well as minerals: iron and zinc.  Choosing a menu loaded with whole plant foods from the produce section of the grocery store (or the frozen food versions of the same) is the best way to obtain these nutrients along with the fiber and prebiotics they contain.  Some great examples of immunity boosting foods include vegetables: garlic, onions, leafy greens, bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms and fruits including apples, citrus fruit, kiwi, mango, and strawberries.

Knowing what to eating and then actually doing it can be challenging. To make it easier, I have created an incredible 2-week Immunity-Boosting Nutrition Plan to help you get started.  This meal plan contains some of my favorite healthy-and-delicious recipes, step by step directions, grocery lists and nutrition facts.  This plan can help you fuel your body for life or for training and is appropriate for all members of your household.  This is a great introduction to following a meal plan and getting into a strong routine to do meal prep each week to support your success.