In this episode of Ask a Nutritionist, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Kristal Shelden discusses ways to support a healthy immune system and answers the question, "What should I eat for a healthy immune system?”

With flu and cold season around the corner and an ongoing pandemic, staying healthy and preventing illness is top of mind for most of us. While illness isn't entirely preventable, there are practical steps you can take to stay healthy. Practicing good hygiene, especially handwashing, is an effective way to prevent the spread of illness. Consuming a variety of healthy foods, staying hydrated, being physically active, prioritizing your mental health, and practicing good food safety are other actions you can take to stay healthy.

Nutrition plays a role in supporting immunity, but there isn't a single food or diet that creates a healthy immune system. Instead, consuming a variety of whole, minimally processed foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, milk, cheese and yogurt, eggs, fish and nuts help to build a pattern of healthy eating, supporting overall health and wellbeing. Healthy eating patterns are built on daily food and beverage choices over time, with emphasis placed on high quality foods, which are whole and minimally processed foods.

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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
Ask a Nutritionist is an educational video series developed by Dairy Council of California and hosted by registered dietitian nutritionists for educational and informational purposes only. It does not provide individualized nutrition advice and is not intended to be a substitute for recommendations made by your doctor, registered dietitian nutritionist or other health professional. Always seek the guidance of your health care professionals for any specific questions you may have regarding your health or medical condition. If you wish to seek clarification,  please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.