During this chaotic and uncertain time in our lives, keeping a diet on track seems like a small priority compared to COVID-19 survival. We usually pull together and feel supported in the company of others but now social distancing keeps us physically apart. How do we make sense of the senselessness that surrounds us?

For one thing, you need to stop, breathe and be mindful. Much like when you are changing your eating and exercise habits, try to control your thoughts. In doing this, you will calmly get through this difficult time on a day to day basis. You will control your stress hormone (Cortisol) and hunger hormone (Ghrelin). You will help maintain or boost your immunity and take control of your health as much as possible.

• Sleep and hydration, are pillars of good living. 
• Meditation and deep breathing exercises, as well as physical activity daily.
• Communication via technology or at a social distance (for now), but reach out and be receptive to others.
• Elderberry- A Folk remedy loaded with antioxidants, fights inflammation and the extract fights the   flu.   
• Button mushrooms-support the immune system with Selenium, B vitamins and Niacin.
• Acai berry- in the form of a juice, smoothie or dried mixture, has Anthocyanins for immune protection.
• Oysters- full of Zinc which is especially necessary for activating white blood cells and promoting better healing.
• Watermelon- Antioxidants (Glutathione), increase the immune system to fight infection. (the red watermelon flesh near the rind is best for you).
• Wheat germ- rich in Zinc, B vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, protein and healthy fat. It’s the part of the wheat seed that feeds the youngest wheat plants.
• Low-fat yogurt- Probiotics in fermented foods (live and active cultures), ease cold symptoms and cut food cravings when the gut bacteria is healthy. Look for added vitamin D too.
• Vegetables- Spinach when lightly cooked or raw is full of folate, fiber and vitamin C. It helps the body make new cells and repair DNA. Broccoli is an immune boosting basic containing vitamins A, C and Glutathione. Sweet potatoes, similar to carrots, have beta-carotene which turns to vitamin A and mops up damaging free radicals. It may even improve the aging process.
• Garlic- Use the real garlic, not the powder. It can beat skin infections due to the ability to fight bacteria, viruses and fungi. A supplement may lower cholesterol.
• Miso-Fermented soybeans, in the form of a salty paste, adds probiotics to your soup or sauce. It’s been reported to fight infectious diarrhea.
• Chicken soup- A chemical in the soup called, Carnosine offers some flu protection.
• Pomegranate juice- the juice and the extract fight bacteria and several viruses. (This remedy was used by the ancient Egyptians).
• Ginger- Has antioxidants and eases nausea and vomiting. Skip the supplements and use real ginger in your cooking or peeled and boiled for tea.
• Fresh food sources of vitamins and minerals are considered best. 
• If you are a person of faith, prayer and faith improve your thoughts and emotional strength.
• Be kind and positive in your thinking. Imagine strength and the capability to remain strong and healthy.

We are truly all in this together and will assist each other with recovery and healing. Stay strong!