lifestyle
The right foods to boost your immune system
Did you know that 70% of our immune cells are found in our digestive system? Hence the importance of strengthening the digestive system to better fight disease. If you missed the live interview with Aurélie Canzoneri, our guest naturopath on our Instagram account, find out more about her invaluable advice here!
To begin with...
- Eliminate processed foods as much as possible They don't contain enough of the minerals, vitamins and fiber essential for the body to function properly.
- Did you know that stress can lower your immune system? When you're stressed, your body produces more cortisol, the stress hormone, which has a negative impact on the microbiome and therefore the digestive system. Our body then needs more proteins to defend itself...
Where do you find the right proteins?
The ideal first step is toalternate their source. Choose white meats (which are less rich in saturated fats than red meats), fish, eggs (2 per day maximum if you have no pathology), and all other non-animal protein sources. These contain the 8 amino acids the body needs to stay in shape. They can be found in seaweed, nettle, hemp, quinoa, buckwheat... the ideal is to mix cereals and legumes to obtain complete proteins. Especially if you're a vegetarian.
How to preserve all the good vitamins
For vegetables, steam them or eat them raw. Try adding enzyme-packed sprouted seeds or lacto-fermented vegetable juices to your meals. They are very useful in combating vitamin deficiencies, as they contain an incredible reserve of antioxidants (vitamins A, C, B, PP), minerals (potassium, magnesium, calcium), enzymes and trace elements that strengthen the body. Finally, they aid digestion and help protect intestinal flora thanks to their probiotic content... and fight fatigue.
Enjoy good oils and spices!
Oils increase our intake of omega-3s, which are also excellent for the nervous system. Change your habits for hemp, linseed or camelina oils and consume 2 to 3 tablespoons a day. Always use raw, 1st cold-pressed organic oils. Add spices, herbs and aromatics to all your dishes: coriander, cumin, turmeric... they're also great digestive aids.
Proper hydration: the real rules
Drink plenty of fluids before each meal This is the best way to activate digestive enzymes. You can also drink a little during meals, but always wait at least 1 hour after eating to avoid diluting the digestive juices. Drink at least 1L to 1.5L of spring water or water with low mineral content per day. Avoid stimulants such as tea and coffee. For herbal teas, boost your immunity with thyme, ginseng and ginger.. Maté, passionflower and valerian are excellent.
Putting the digestive system on pause
One evening a week if possible (if your vitality allows): intermittent fasting or a monodiet can put your digestive system at rest. In this case, try to be regular, the same evening every week, or every month... or every quarter. Potatoes, compote and vegetable broth are ideal.
Thanks to Aurelie Canzoneri for all her valuable advice, and we look forward to seeing you soon!
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