“I’m so bored, some chocolate covered pretzels should help!” Sounds familiar? I think a lot of us have been snacking more than usual while “staying at home”. With boredom and feeling blue, there is a tendency to overeat processed foods. Apart from the excess calories this can cause a sugar rush followed by a crash which can worsen our moods.
Feeling stressed can also worsen our immunity. Eating a diet rich in fruits, legumes and vegetables will help ensure you’re getting the right vitamins and minerals.
These include:
- Vitamin A – Squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupes, dark leafy greens.
- Vitamin C – Citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, bell peppers.
- Vitamin D – Canned fish, eggs, fortified milk and sunshine (remember to get outside when possible to exercise!)
- Vitamin E – Whole grains, almonds, sunflower seeds.
- Magnesium – Nuts, seeds, leafy greens, whole grains.
- Selenium – Salmon, haddock.
- Zinc – Chick peas, mushrooms, asparagus.
Making a meal plan which includes these foods will help you get the right nutrients and optimize your immunity. Try coming up with new and fun recipes with the kids to help beat the boredom! Doctor Yum has some great ideas and recipes to help!
Dr. Remi Lawrence Hylton
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