General Health

5 Essential Nutrients in the New Normal

It is always ideal to maintain a strong immune system to protect yourself better from sicknesses.

Medically Inspected by: Loreta D. Dayco, MD, Edilberto B. Garcia, Jr., MD, and Maria Christina H. Ventura, MD

Your immune system is your first line of defense against sicknesses. As we continue living in the new normal, staying healthy has become increasingly important more than ever. Making sure your body receives enough nutrients is one way to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Although there is currently no evidence that says certain nutrients are effective in curing or preventing COVID-19, it is always ideal to maintain a strong immune system to protect yourself better from sicknesses—which may include severe cases of COVID-19. To help your immune system fight against disease, stock up on nutrients that strengthen your immune response.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, an effective antioxidant, helps protect our cells from free radicals brought about by certain viral diseases. It helps regulate white blood cells, which protect against infection.

Zinc

Zinc is essential in several physiological processes, including gene expression, creation of protein and DNA, as well as wound healing. It is also involved in the growth and normal functioning of immune cells. Zinc deficiency may significantly affect one’s immune response against sickness.

Vitamin D

One of the key roles of vitamin D is enhancing immune cell function to protect our bodies against pathogens. Low levels of vitamin D have also been associated with being more prone to infection and disease.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is responsible for several regulatory functions relating to your immune system, one of which involves the formation of epithelial and mucous tissues that serve as the body’s first line of defense against infections.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a group of fat-soluble compounds known for their antioxidant properties. This antioxidant property helps protect our cells against free radicals linked to certain diseases such as cancer.

A well-balanced diet can help you attain the recommended amount of vitamins you need to protect yourself from ill health. If your lifestyle cannot accommodate a consistently healthy eating habit, intake of vitamin supplements containing these nutrients may help you achieve your nutrition goals. Consult your doctor to learn more about which vitamin supplements is the best fit for your needs.

General disclaimer

Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.

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