Vitamin C, vitamin D or zinc supplements: do they serve to raise the defenses?

These days sales in pharmacies of vitamin C, D, zinc and other supplements to increase defenses have skyrocketed. We analyze with experts if they really serve a purpose.

We all want to have a strong immune system so that the coronavirus passes by or, in the case of brushing against each other, we are unharmed or face the process much more easily. That ‘s why vitamin C, D, zinc , and other multivitamin supplements top drugstore best-seller lists.

Are these vitamin supplements the most effective way to raise our defenses? Mónica Herrero Martínez, specialist in Nutrition and Dietetics at the Red Cross Medical Center and member of Top Doctors, recommends paying to the proper functioning of the immune system, it is unlikely that its consumption outside of our diet can enhance our immunity.Supplementation is not recommended at all, unless there is a deficiency and it always has to be taken with a medical prescription. The consumption of according to which supplements in according to what quantities can even be dangerous for our health”.

According to the nutritionist, the ideal is to include them in the diet: “We can find vitamin C in practically all fruits, especially citrus fruits, but also in kiwi, strawberries, mango… Group B vitamin is present in vegetables of leafy greens (such as spinach, cabbage, broccoli) and in eggs, meat, fish, nuts, and legumes.”

“Having our defenses ready is essential to be healthy. We must work on this every day of our lives. The recipe is simple: food.

KEYS TO RAISE THE DEFENSES

Mónica Herrero Martínez offers five tips to be in top shape and that no virus catches us with low defenses. These are very simple guidelines that are easy to put into practice without leaving home:

·         EAT WELL

“A good diet is based on the daily consumption of fruits and vegetables (three pieces of fruit and two servings of vegetables a day), supplemented with other foods (cereals, legumes, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, olive oil ).

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·         DRINK WATER

We are 65% water and every day we lose two liters, so we have to drink throughout the day. Hydration is essential, among other things, to prevent the mucous membranes from drying out and contribute to a greater fluidification of the secretions”.

·         PRACTICE EXERCISE

“Practice moderate sport. Now it is not possible to go for a walk every day, but it is possible to do an exercise routine several times a week. It is essential to keep moving to keep our defenses active.

·         SLEEP ENOUGH

“A good rest keeps our body awake and alert to those infections that can weaken it. It is recommended to sleep at least 7 hours a day.

·         STAY POSITIVE

“We cannot forget our state of mind. A positive attitude strengthens our immune status and helps us to better face the tests that life throws at us and to live longer and better. Do not forget to smile; it increases our state of happiness, because what happens in the brain influences our body”.