So far, the nutrient that is best known to increase immunity or immunity is vitamin C. In fact, there are many vitamins and other nutrients that can increase your immunity, such as vitamin E, astaxanthin, and glutathione.
consumption of vitamin E, astaxanthin, and glutathione in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic can provide many benefits. By consuming these three nutrients, your immune system can become stronger, so the risk of getting infected with the Corona virus is reduced.
Benefits of Consuming Vitamin E, Astaxanthin, and Glutathione
The following is an explanation of the benefits of vitamin E, astaxanthin, and glutathione in strengthening the immune system:
Vitamin E
Vitamin E or alpha tocopherol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can strengthen the body's resistance to fight bacterial and viral infections. Not only that, vitamin E can also increase the production of antibodies to fight disease and ward off free radicals that can weaken your body's immunity.
This vitamin is naturally found in sunflower seeds, almonds, peanuts, avocados, spinach, and broccoli. Among these foods, sunflower seeds have the highest levels of vitamin E. Consumption of 1 serving (± 30 grams) of sunflower seeds can meet 66% of your daily vitamin E needs.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a red dye (pigment) found in marine biota, such as shrimp, lobster, crab, salmon, and algae. This substance is an antioxidant whose strength is even 6,000 times higher than vitamin C.
It means, astaxanthin has a good ability to increase the body's immune response and protect cells in the immune system from free radicals that can weaken the function of these cells.
Not only can strengthen the immune system, consumption of foods or supplements that contain astaxanthin can also help overcome or relieve symptoms of dyspepsia, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), muscle pain, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Glutathione
Glutathione It is needed to maintain the function of lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in fighting bacteria and viruses. This is because lymphocytes are cells that are susceptible to free radicals, while glutathione is a very powerful antioxidant against free radicals in cells.
Not only that, glutathione can also maximize the use of vitamins C and E in the body, help excrete toxic substances, and slow down the aging process in both the skin and other body organs.
Glutathione can actually be produced by the body naturally. However, with age, its production will decrease. now, to help meet the needs glutathione, you are advised to consume:
- Beef, fish and chicken
- Broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, mustard greens, kale and asparagus
- Avocado and tomatoes
- Peanut almonds
benefits of vitamin E, astaxanthine, and glutathione it is not as popular as vitamin C. However, these three substances have no less important role in maintaining the immune system.
Therefore, fulfill the needs of these three nutrients by eating healthy foods and applying a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising regularly and getting enough rest, so that your immune system remains strong.
If necessary, you can take supplements containing vitamin E, astaxanthine, and glutathione. However, make sure the supplements you take are halal and contain natural ingredients that suit your needs.
If you are pregnant or have a chronic disease and are taking regular medication, it is best to consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
