The Best Defense Against COVID-19 Is A Good Offense

by Anissa Muhammad, MPH, M.S.

For the past 20 months the devastation and controversy of the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on communities all over the world.  We have witnessed food shortages, increased homelessness, social injustice, and much more.  Today, the most controversial topic is over decades long scientific research about the benefits of eating healthy—namely fresh fruits and vegetables. Now it is taboo to share on social media platforms about how nutritious foods can boost immunity. I am here to tell you that there are mountains of scientific evidence that proves eating healthy not only boosts immune function, but can also prevent heart disease, reduce blood sugar levels and improve cellular activity.  

The immune system has two functions:  surveillance and defense against that which the body identifies as not being a part of self.  Toxins in food and the environment, poor diet, insufficient supplies of cellular oxygen, and stress are the major culprits in the malfunction of one’s immune system. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been said that those with chronic illness are at the highest risk for acquiring the virus. Eating fresh fruits & vegetables, eliminating processed foods & cheese, Vitamins A, C & D, natural sunlight, and moderate exercise is the best defense against   COVID-19 and chronic illnesses.

In case you are wondering, foods that have been scientifically identified to boost immunity are garlic, onions, berries, foods containing citrus (Vitamin C–oranges, limes, grapefruits, limes, lemons, tangerines), ginger, broccoli, red bell pepper, kiwi, turmeric and spinach [this is a partial list]. Not only do these foods contain phytochemicals that boosts immunity, they also contain betacarotene, and are powerful antioxidants. In addition to practicing how to eat to live, it is imperataive to use immune system boosters. The echinacea plant, in Native American tradition, is known as one of the most effective herbal supplements in strengthening the immune system.  Echinacea contains echninacosides (flower and root) and polysaccharide heteroxylan (leaves) that stimulates and enhances the body’s ability to fight infections.  Scientific studies confirm the health benefits associated with echinacea.  This is not to say that echinacea can be used to treat or cure COVID-19 or other upper/lower respiratory tract infections.  What I am saying is that this herbal supplement is primarily used to boost the immune system in its function to fight infections.  

Remember, immunity starts first in the gut, so feed your gut the best of everything. 

References

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29931038/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4441164/

Disclaimer

The information and advice associated with this article is being offered by Sisters 4 Life Health Equity Group, Inc. for informational purposes only, and, as such, is not meant to replace/supersede any advice given to the reader(s) by his/her primary care physician/provider.  Sisters 4 Life Health Equity Group, Inc. is not liable for any illnesses (real or imagined), or wrongful death brought about as a result of deviating from the advice of one’s primary care physician/provider. 

Thank you

Anissa Muhammad, MPH, M.S. 

Sisters 4 Life Health Equity Group, Inc.