IMMUNE CONDITIONS

Good nutrition can benefit all parts of the immune system. Find out how foods – eating more or cutting down – can help lessen the impact of these conditions that increase with age.

RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS

Respiratory tract infections are any infection of the sinuses, throat, airways, or lungs. Upper respiratory tract infections include colds, tonsillitis, sinusitis, and flu; lower respiratory tract infections include bronchitis and pneumonia. In a lifetime, we probably suffer with about 200 colds, with their associated coughs, sore throats, and congestion. Most of these infections are caused by viruses, though sometimes they can be bacterial. Eating plenty of vitamin-A- and vitamin-C-rich foods and those rich in omega-3 fats ensures immunity is working optimally to fight off invading microbes. Scientific communities are still divided on the idea that large doses of vitamin C as a supplement can prevent colds; research continues.

EAT PLENTY

Fresh fruit and vegetables, oily fish, nuts, seeds

LIMIT

Processed and sugary foods

INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Inflammatory bowel disease covers a group of diseases that cause sores and inflammation in the digestive tract. The two most common conditions are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Symptoms include diarrhoea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, bloody stools, and weight loss. Some people find that certain foods trigger symptoms or make them worse, but this can vary from person to person. Keeping a food diary can help to identify if there’s a link between food and your symptoms. Always make changes to your diet in conjunction with a dietitian to ensure your diet remains nutritionally balanced.

LUPUS

In this autoimmune condition, people develop antibodies against their own tissues all around the body, resulting in inflammation and pain. Lupus is more prevalent in women and can be diagnosed by a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, along with other symptoms of fatigue, fever, joint pain, and photosensitivity. A healthy, balanced diet – such as the longevity eating plan – is suitable for many lupus sufferers, but always consult a dietitian before making significant changes to your diet.

EAT PLENTY

Fresh fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, pulses

LIMIT

Alfalfa sprouts, processed foods, saturates and trans fats, high-sugar foods, high-salt foods