Close to two years since the onset of the Covid-19 outbreak, the world continues to live with the virus. For some, the ongoing restrictions and threats of new variants have been a motivating factor to adopt a more active outdoor-based lifestyle and eat more healthily to boost our immune system. Still, what we choose to consume, or think is a balanced diet, can be unknowingly lacking in vital nutrients. Over-reliance on processed foods, convenience foods, gluten and refined grains hinders our micronutrient absorption and reduces our intake of important vitamins like A, K, D, and B.
“We wish we could rely on food alone but unfortunately, over-farming has led to our food having fewer nutrients. Hectic lifestyles and stress also mean we need more support in supplement form from time to time,” says Pooja Vig, clinic director and co-founder of The Nutrition Clinic. “She shares some base supplements that are good to take:
- Good-quality omega oil
- Good-quality magnesium
- Good-quality probiotic on rotation (to expose your gut flora to different microorganisms)
- Good-quality vitamin C
With Covid-19 variants still developing, boosting one’s immunity has also become a concern for many. Pooja points to specific nutrients like vitamins C and D, zinc, and selenium.
Studies have shown that those with vitamin D deficiency are 11 times more likely to get an infection [from Covid-19]. And zinc, which can be a deficiency for some people, is a mineral that is involved in virtually every aspect of immunity.
Pooja Vig, clinic director and co-founder of The Nutrition Clinic
Before you go on to purchase the above-mentioned supplements, it is advisable to consult a professional to delve deeper into what your body specifically needs. “We take a food- and lifestyle-first philosophy with testing for nutrition deficiencies and gut bacterial imbalances. That should be combined with a supplement strategy that’s focused on practitioner-grade, quality-tested and efficacy-tested supplements in a targeted manner to heal and support,” shares Pooja.
(Read also “Your Gut Health Is The Root Of Most Illnesses (Not Just Poor Digestion)“)
And if a supplement seems too good to be true, Pooja recommends giving it a miss. “Regulations for off-the-shelf supplements are not as regulated as people may believe. While some products may appear cheaper, it’s usually because they don’t have a high dose of the active ingredients. Most are not tested for efficacy and contain synthetic dyes, artificial sweeteners, and additives. A high percentage of supplements don’t even test positive for the ingredients they claim to contain!”
So, how can we address those nutrient deficiencies in our daily lifestyle? Here are some recommendations to consider.
