As the nation begins to re-emerge from stay-at-home orders implemented to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, many of us are experiencing mixed emotions. On one hand there is joy in re-connection and comfort in familiar routines, but on the other hand there is trepidation and unease about a potentially harmful virus lurking around the corner.
Many people are asking, “How can I best boost my immune system?” and “What steps can I take to protect myself?”
Since nearly half of our immune system is located within our digestive tracts, it should come as no surprise that our first line of defense against germs and viruses is what we eat. And spoiler alert: it’s not the same for everyone.
Your blood type offers a genetic blueprint to better understand your metabolism, your digestive processes and yes, your immune system. Following a personalized nutrition plan specific to your unique blood type is the single best tool in your immune support toolbox.
Eat right for your blood type
Eating right for your blood type is the foundation for improved immunity and overall well being. If you don’t already follow The Blood Type Diet and want to learn more, start here! For those that already follow a personalized nutrition plan, here are some ways you can maximize your immune health:
Focus on beneficials.
You may remember reading about the 80/20 rule. You know, the one where your diet should be comprised of 80% beneficials – foods that are advantageous to your specific blood type. Well, if immune support is your goal, focus on upping that 80% to as close to 100% as possible. Foods that are beneficial for your blood type help to reduce inflammation and reduce the stress load on your body so that your immune system can work its magic.
Eat more greens.
Green foods in particular provide much needed fuel to keep your immune system operating most efficiently. But not all greens are created equal. Check out this handy chart to see which green is best for your specific blood type:
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Avoidavoids.
Sure. We all stray sometimes. Maybe it’s grandma’s homemade donuts or tomato sauce made from garden-fresh tomatoes. Whatever your occasional indulgence might be, avoiding harmful lectins is one of the best things you can do to boost your immune system. That means avoiding avoids.
Supplements Matter
Not all supplements are the same. And not all supplements are right for every blood type. But when it comes to strengthening the immune system, there are a few standouts that provide excellent immune support for every personalized nutrition plan.
- Vitamin D.This essential vitamin both strengthens immunity and prevents overactive immune responses. In fact, according to a study led by Northwestern University, “Patients with severe [vitamin D] deficiency are twice as likely to experience major complications [from COVID-19].” While many vitamin D supplements use the D2 form, D3 is recommended as it is the natural form that your body makes from sunlight. Phyto D 2000 contains vitamin D3.
- Andrographis paniculata.Used for centuries in Ayurveda and Chinese traditional medicine, this ancient medicinal plant helps to support natural resistance and defense mechanisms.
- Elderberry. Native Americans and European herbalists have long used elderberries, the fruit of the Sambucus tree, for a range of health benefits, including boosting the immune system to help the body fight off colds, flu and other respiratory infections.
- Chinese Skullcap Root.This herb, a member of the mint family, contains Baicalein, an antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system.
- The combination of elderberry, Andrographis paniculata, and Chinese Skullcap Root provide a cornerstone of immune modifying support during these volatile times. Dr. Peter D’Adamo’s carefully selected Resistance Pack 2020 contains them all.
Personalize Your Exercise
Moderate exercise is critical to immunity as it can both reduce inflammation and help your immune cells regularly regenerate. But just as different blood types react differently to different foods, the same goes for exercise. For example, Type O individuals benefit most from intense exercise that plays a key role in lowering stress levels. Type As, however, benefit most from lower impact, relaxation-based workouts like yoga or tai chi. Learn more about how to exercise for your blood type to keep your immune system in tip top shape.
Other Strategies for Extra Protection
While diet, supplements and exercise are important to keeping your immune system performing at its best, there are some simple everyday strategies that offer extra insurance against illness and can give you peace of mind.
Wear a mask in public.
Masks can both help protect the wearer from becoming infected while also protecting others. While using a mask alone is not guaranteed to stop infections, it may offer extra protection when used in combination with frequent hand cleaning.
Bring antibacterial wipes and/or hand sanitizer with you.
At home, it’s easy to wash your hands frequently, but as we begin to visit retail establishments, restaurants, outdoor recreation spaces and gas stations again, it may become more challenging. That’s why having a stash that goes with you is a solid strategy. While wipes are no substitute for soap and water, they can provide a temporary stopgap until you have access to a sink. If you are having difficulties finding hand sanitizer, you might try making your own.
The current environment may be unusual and unsettling, but following a personalized nutrition plan, supplementing well, incorporating exercise into your routine and following simple strategies for self protection will give you confidence that you and your immune system are ready to leave the house!