Staying hydrated is necessary for overall health and well-being. Our bodies depend on water to survive through the following functions:
These are only a few highlights of the protective role water plays in the body. Essentially, water keeps us alive. Water is not the only option for maintaining hydration. However, it is my primary recommendation.
Many people are aware that vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and has beneficial effects on the immune system. In fact, many people who do not have an extensive knowledge of supplements somehow manage to keep a bottle of vitamin C in the cabinet. Vitamin C does not store well in the body; therefore, it should be consumed daily through dietary intake or supplementally. Vitamin C is water-soluble and temperature-sensitive. To ensure the health-promoting compound and nutrient content are not diminished, choose the least destructive cooking method. When cooking vitamin C-rich foods, be mindful of the temperature and the duration of the cooking time.
Zinc is a trace mineral. It is an essential nutrient needed to facilitate appropriate growth and development, build proteins, create DNA, aid in wound healing, and to support healthy immune function. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc is 11 mg a day for men and 8 mg for women aged 19 and older. Though only a small amount is needed, zinc is a vital mineral.
In summary, eat vitamin C and zinc rich foods daily and hydrate consistently throughout the day to support your immune function.
I am so excited to kick off my Nutrition: Food & Culture Series. I’m starting with A Talk with the Elders feature. I talked with one of my beloved elders to see how food in America has changed in his lifetime.
Do you have a nutritional aspect of your self-care routine in place for the season change?
Pumpkin flesh and seeds are mineral and vitamin rich. Pumpkin flesh can easily be incorporated into sweet and savory dishes making them quite versatile.
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