It is more important than ever to do all we can to strengthen our immunity against any type of illness.  Did you know that giving your body enough nutrients is crucial for our immune system to work efficiently? While we all know a balanced diet is important for overall health, we don't always get the proper nutrients.

Having a strong and healthy immune system is more important now than ever before, so incorporate these four nutrients into your diet.

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    Getty Images
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    Eat Protein With Every Meal

    Protein allows our body to manufacture antibodies to defend against viruses and bacteria. To ensure that we are giving your body enough protein, we need to eat more fish, soy foods, low-fat dairy products, poultry, lean meats, beans, and eggs.  We should have some type of protein with every meal.

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    FotoHelin // Shutterstock
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    Eat More Fruits and Veggies

    Vitamins A and C are key components in immune system health. Phytonutrients are also important when it comes to our immune system. These are found in vegetables and fruits and they can reduce our body’s stress. Vitamin A supports healthy skin, tissues, digestive health, and respiratory health. Vitamin C encourages our body to produce antibodies to fight off viruses. Incorporate these into your diet and your immune system will thank you!

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    Stephanie Frey // Shutterstock
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    Support Gut Health With Probiotics

    Out digestive system plays a central role in supporting immune function. Our gut has good and bad bacteria, but you obviously want to focus on reproducing the good. Studies have shown that probiotics are useful in maintaining a healthy digestive system, which ultimately benefits your immune system.  They can be found in yogurt, dark chocolate (we like that), pickles, sauerkraut, and most fermented foods. While it is better to get them from foods, we can also take a probiotic supplement each day. 

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    Jacek Chabraszewski/Thinkstock
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    Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy types of fat that are essential to incorporate into our diet. They can be found in foods like chia seeds and supplements, like fish oil. Fatty acids benefit our immune system by enhancing how it responds to infections. 

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