Antioxidants to boost the immune system
Changesin season, stress, UV radiation from the sun and pollution are all external agents that affect your immune system, with these effects becoming more noticeable as you get older. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic it is vital to have a properly functioning immune system, as this will be the main protective barrier for your health.
For the body’s cells to perform their immune function properly, there has to be a proper balance between the oxidation process and the availability of antioxidants, which are the nutrients needed to keep cell membranes, lipids, proteins and other immune-related functions in good shape. Therefore, an adequate supply of antioxidants is essential to boost the immune system.
Antioxidants to boost the immune system
In order to have an effective immune response to viruses, bacteria and external factors, it is important to maintain an adequate level of antioxidants, which help your body to counter the damage caused by free radicals.
Nutrients such as:
- Vitamin B2: vital for the health of red blood cells, which are important for immune system function, which is also strengthened.
- Vitamin C: strengthens the immune system, helps to reduce free radical damage and protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Zinc: as well as having direct effects on the immune system, it supports DNA repair and is an essential part of free radical scavenging enzymes.
- Selenium: an essential antioxidant and immunomodulator.
- Magnesium: essential component of detoxification enzymes and an energy producer. It is also involved in connective tissue and bone formation and nerve function.
- Carotenoids: help to neutralise free radicals and strengthen the body’s defences.
Thanks to their antioxidant properties, they all minimise the negative effects of cellular oxidation and help to keep the immune system functioning properly.
Immune response
As remarked above, through certain foods like olive oil, you can consume antioxidants and improve your immune response, but you should not consume too much as this may be harmful.
According to various studies, the key is to follow a varied and balanced diet, like the Mediterranean diet, without exceeding your recommended daily intake of antioxidants, as there may come a time when your body’s natural defences are weakened.
This is especially important to bear in mind after turning 50, as the body does not have the same capacity to defend itself as a young body. Therefore, antioxidant supplementation (or dietary intake) is essential to reduce the likelihood of infection and to maintain a well-functioning immune system.
