HEALTHY ON THE INSIDE BY MARY ORLOSKI
SWUPHD Registered Dietician/WIC Director
s we venture forward into an uncertain world in the face of a pandemic, there are universal recommendations that can reduce the spread and risk of infection. In addition to washing our hands, social distancing, wearing a mask, and avoiding large groups, there are ways to keep yourself healthy on the inside, especially when it comes to nutrition. Despite what those infomercials tell you, there are no miracle foods or pills. Everything you need for a well-balanced, healthy diet can be found at your nearest grocery store. We need protein in order to build and repair our bodies. It can be found in lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and legumes. Protein shakes and powders don’t provide the additional vitamins and minerals that come with real foods. Lean meats and plantbased proteins such as beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds offer zinc; a mineral that helps maintain your immune cells and aids in wound healing. Fish and eggs contain choline, which assists in the maintenance of brain cells which may improve memory and cognition as well as reducing the risk of ischemic stroke. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits every day, in meals and for snacks. Aside from being virtually fat-free and full of fiber, vegetables and fruits are one of the best natural sources of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
HEALTH MAGAZINE | FALL 2020
