Everyday factors such as stress, lack of sleep and changes in diet all play a part in how we feel. Here we look at the connection between what we eat, our gut and the nutrients that contribute to the normal function of the immune system.
The gut and diet
The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms – the gut microbiota – and its composition is shaped by what we eat. A varied diet rich in fibre from vegetables, fruit, wholegrains and pulses feeds this community. Fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir and sauerkraut also contain live cultures.
Nutrients that contribute to the normal function of the immune system
- Vitamin C – citrus fruit, kiwi, peppers, broccoli.
- Vitamin D – oily fish, eggs and fortified foods; in the UK, consider a supplement from October to March.
- Vitamin A – eggs, dairy, carrots, leafy greens.
- Vitamins B6, B12 and folate – wholegrains, pulses, eggs, dairy, meat and fish.
- Zinc and selenium – meat, seafood, nuts, seeds and wholegrains.
Mushrooms on your plate
Mushrooms are a nutritious whole food: they provide fibre, B vitamins and minerals such as selenium and potassium, and some contain vitamin D2 when exposed to UV light. Mushrooms also naturally contain beta-glucans, a type of fibre.
Our supplements
Many of our mushroom extracts, such as Mico-Rei, Mico-Five and Mico-Vir+, are combined with vitamin C from acerola, which contributes to the normal function of the immune system.
Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.