Stay Healthy with the 5- Vitamin Alphabet

We become so offended when our body decides to be sick.

We gave you a vegetable last week - how DARE you?

Unfortunately, a vegetable a week is not going to cut it. Vitamins are absolutely essential when it comes to overall health. Converting food into energy, regulating your metabolism and repairing cellular damage are only some of the benefits of vitamins.

The main job of vitamins is to keep your immune system strong and healthy. Think of vitamins as shields and swords for your body. During these uncertain times, when stress levels are off the charts and the pandemic continues, it is imperative that we prepare our bodies for battle!

You can use vitamins to bolster your immune system ahead of time, so it can fight back when attacked by toxins, bacteria and viruses.

As the saying goes, “Prepare and prevent, don’t repair and repent!”

We know it’s convenient to pop the pills from your local pharmacy, but fresh foods are always the better choice! Eating unprocessed, whole foods will ensure that you are getting the best of these vitamins in the most digestible way possible!

THE ESSENTIALS

1. Vitamin C – The Immune Booster

This water-soluble vitamin plays an important role in immune system function. It is also an antioxidant, which means it helps neutralize free radicals that are believed to cause aging of cells. Orange juice, cherries, red peppers, kale and grapefruit are some examples of foods you can eat to get a good intake of Vitamin C.

2. Vitamin A – The Infection Fighter

This fat-soluble vitamin is often found in carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and butternut. It can also be found in meat, especially liver. It is known to be good for your eyes and assists in fighting chronic diseases.

3. Vitamin D – The Disease Resistor

This vitamin is important for bone and colon health. Your body generates it when your skin is exposed to sunlight and in today’s high-tech world, many people spend too much time away from the sun! Make sure to include the following Vitamin D rich foods in your diet - broccoli, egg yolks, cereals, and fatty fish.

4. Vitamin E – The Antioxidant

Your body needs Vitamin E to support your immune system and help your cells to regenerate. It is most commonly known for its benefits to the skin as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Getting enough Vitamin E is essential to your everyday health, so add almonds, peanut butter, sunflower oil and hazelnuts to your meals.

5. Vitamin B-12 – The Energy Booster

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that helps keep your body’s blood and nerve cells healthy. Vitamin B12 prevents heart disease, boosts your energy and can help improve your memory and your mood! It is crucial that you get a healthy dose of Vitamin B12 on a daily basis. Vitamin B12 is found primarily in beef and fish and is not found in plant foods, so if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, be sure to supplement with fortified foods and supplements.

Stay in tune with your body. Make sure you are listening to what it’s telling you. Think of your immune system as your personal army and you are the commanding officer. It’s up to you to keep it strong, healthy and prepared to fight the battle against disease and illness!

Whilst supplements and over the counter pills have their place, it starts with proper nutrition. Take care with your diet, incorporating fresh and unprocessed foods. Natural is always best.

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