Midterms are coming and Spring Break may feel like it is a world away. All of a sudden your throat is scratchy and you feel exhausted...all...the...time. Nutrition becomes even more important when school seems to run you down. Help protect your body and strengthen your immune system by doing the following...
- Protein: plays an important roll in defending the body from infection. Choose lean proteins daily: seafood, poultry, eggs, beans, soy/tofu, nuts and seeds.
- Vitamin A: the GI tract (stomach, intestine, etc) is the first line of defense when fighting off being sick. Vitamin A keeps the tissues in your mouth, stomach, intestines, and respiratory system strong. Eat orange! Sweet potatoes, carrots, and apricots are all rich in Vitamin A. Also add leafy greens, red bell peppers, eggs and fortified cereals to your daily diet.
- Vitamin C: plays a roll in antibody formation and acts as an antioxidant. Reach for oranges, grapefruits, and red produce (red bell pepper, strawberries, tomato juice).
- Zinc: helps keep your immune system working hard. Make sure to eat lean proteins daily, as well as whole grains, beans, and nuts.
- Yogurt: contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that help your GI tract stay healthy. Buy nonfat yogurt for a good source of protein that is not loaded with artery clogging saturated fat.
- Water: dehydration causes major fatigue. Make sure you are drinking plenty of plain old water throughout the day!
Immune Boosting Snack: You can purchase this snack on campus at the Cougar Xpress Markets!
Non-Fat Yogurt
Handful of Bare Naked Granola (buy the bag and store in your dorm room for snacks)
Odwalla Juice
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