Boosting immunity: Here’s a guide to healthy living and eating

As the pandemic still rages, scientists and doctors have pointed at nutrition in order to safeguard and strengthen the immune system. With the right nutrition and a positive lifestyle, we can protect ourselves from this deadly virus, said Pranit Shilimkar, fitness trainer, digital content creator and founder of Fitnesstalks. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

According to Shilimkar, a satisfactory nutrition program is reliant on versatility and sustainability. While most individuals focus on the three main macronutrients – Proteins, Carbohydrates, and Fats, it’s also necessary to keep a keen eye on the micronutrients that facilitate a healthy immune system. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Vitamins and minerals are two key players in our nutrition that boost the immune system. The following vitamins and minerals can aid us in our fight against this virus. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Sourced from root vegetables and greens, beta carotene converts into vitamin A which is an anti-inflammatory vitamin. This vitamin helps the antibodies to respond efficiently against infection and toxins. Carrots, spinach, kale, apricots, and sweet potato are amazing sources of beta carotene. A simple yet delicious recipe like spinach salad with olive oil dressing or carrots with hummus can complete your required intake of vitamin A. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Vitamin E – A fat-soluble vitamin, it is necessary for regulating and supporting our immune system’s functions. Some great sources of it are nuts, seeds, avocado, spinach, eggs, chicken, and seafood. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Vitamin D – It is necessary for keeping the immune functions on track along with supporting a powerful immune response against viruses and infections. A traditional source of vitamin D is daily exposure to sunshine – just 15-20 minutes of sunshine exposure is adequate for your body to absorb and process vitamin D. Along with that, mushrooms, tuna, salmon, and egg yolks are good sources of vitamin D. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Probiotics for gut health – The ‘good bacteria' in our digestive system determines how the body processes nutrients as well as harmful bacteria, making probiotics one of the strong supporting pillars for immunity. Good gut health is extremely important for immunity, and yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut are some delicious options for maintaining our gut health. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Zinc – It is an extremely important mineral that our body does not produce or store. This mineral plays a central role in aiding the functionality of our immune system cells. Oysters, mussels, lobster, crab, chicken, and turkey are great zinc sources. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Water – An underrated factor in determining our body’s defensive abilities, water is responsible for carrying the nutrients to our organs. Good hydration ensures smooth functioning of the immune system; it also plays a big role in the creation of lymph which carries our white blood cells. Consuming fruits and vegetables like watermelons and cucumbers ensures hydration. Incorporating lemon tea or mint and cucumber-infused water is refreshing and also a great boost for our immune system. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)