With current world events related to COVID-19, the importance of nutrition in building and maintaining intrinsic immunity has been top of mind at Zing Bars. We know that a healthy diet can’t prevent an infection, but it can certainly help our bodies fight one off. But, what does a “healthy diet” really mean?
- Nutrient-dense, with lots of plant-based whole foods. As professional nutritionists, we often talk about eating the rainbow—or, fruits and vegetables of all colors. Each color is associated with powerful phyto (plant) nutrients, and the plant kingdom as a whole contains most major vitamins and minerals. This is also true for beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Think of nutrient-dense plant foods as nature’s multivitamin, and a cornerstone of every meal!
- Protein. Poultry, fish, and lean meat are extremely nutrient-dense, with 7 grams of protein per ounce as well as iron, zinc and B vitamins, which bolster immune function. Plant-based proteins are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Focus on lentils, split peas, green peas, beans of all kinds and nutrient-rich nuts and seeds that also pack a healthy protein punch.
- Good fats. At Zing, we talk about these a lot. Nuts and seeds, avocados, olives, and olive oil are all excellent sources of healthy fats as well as vitamin E and potent phytonutrients.
- Drink plenty of water. Drinking enough fluids helps flush toxins from the body, keeps lymph and cells well-hydrated, and facilitates the transfer of nutrients in and out cells. Lymph, in particular, is the fluid in between our cells and tissues made of white blood cells (our immune cells) that attack viruses and bacteria. Keeping hydrated helps the flow of lymph around all our inner tissues, ensuring maximum protection from foreign pathogens.
When we developed Zing Bars, we focused on these same core nutrients to promote overall health and wellbeing: adequate protein, good carbs, and good fats These same nutrients, with the addition of plenty of water, can help fortify your body at any age.
Be well, stay healthy, and stay connected.
