Let’s Talk About Immunity Nutrition
HOW DIET INFLUENCES THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Immune strength is highly influenced by dietary intake and the nutritional composition of foods. Certain foods have bioactive compounds that make them especially nutritious, with unique chemical structures that can serve various functions, including support and enhancement of immunity.
OUR MISSION
Gracias Madre is an establishment built on the concept of using high-quality, organic, and plant-based foods to nurture the mind, body and soul. The broad scope of ingredients we use have advantages and functionalities that help our customers reach an optimal state of health and wellness. With our plant-based approach to food, the ingredients we incorporate are naturally nutrient-rich, with an impressive antioxidant profile which add health-promoting benefits such as strengthened immunity.
OFFERED AT GRACIAS MADRE: IMMUNE-BOOSTING FOODS
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE: rich in minerals such as zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and vitamins such as folate, vitamin C, vitamin E; protein-rich
BENEFIT: nutrient-density with a wide variety of antioxidants that contribute to high functioning immune system
FEATURED MENU ITEM: Taco Salad w/ Walnut Taco Meat
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE: contains beta-glucans, zinc, selenium
BENEFIT: medicinal qualities; anti-viral, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory; have plant compounds to support immune system
FEATURED MENU ITEM: Mushroom Tacos
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE: contains iron, vitamin C, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, protein and fiber
BENEFIT: immunity-boosting and anti-inflammatory, protein for building immune cells (T-cells)
FEATURED MENU ITEM: Burrito Bowl w/ Black Beans
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE: contains antioxidants lycopene, beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E
BENEFIT: antioxidant content helps reduce inflammation and fight off cold and flu viruses
FEATURED MENU ITEM: Chorizo Nachos w/ Tomato Pico de Gallo
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE: high in vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals such as potassium, magnesium and copper
BENEFIT: antioxidant rich nutrient profile reduces inflammation and boosts immunity, helping to keep you healthy year round
FEATURED MENU ITEM: Carnitas w/ Orange + Jicama
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE: vitamins (vitamin C, A, B12, B6, K, folate), minerals (iron), antioxidants (polyphenols), glutamine
BENEFIT: a cruciferous vegetable rich in polyphenols, reduces inflammation and strengthens immune system
FEATURED MENU ITEM: Taco Salad w/ Shredded Cabbage
WRITTEN BY
Jayne Pinsky, Gracias Madre’s Resident Dietitian, RD
References
Ellis E. Functional foods. EatRight. https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/healthy-eating/functional-foods. Published January 6, 2022. Accessed November 27, 2022.
Academy of Culinary Nutrition. 9 immune-supportive foods to cook with. Academy of Culinary Nutrition. https://www.culinarynutrition.com/9-immune-supportive-foods-to-cook-with/#:~:text=Butternut%20Squash%20(and%20all%20winter%20squashes)&text=At%20a%20deeper%20immune%20level,arms%20of%20the%20immune%20system. Published January 12, 2021. Accessed November 27, 2022.
Vishwakarma S, Panigrahi C, Barua S, Sahoo M, Mandliya S. Food nutrients as inherent sources of immunomodulation during COVID-19 pandemic. Lebensm Wiss Technol. 2022;158:113154. doi:10.1016/j.lwt.2022.113154
Childs CE, Calder PC, Miles EA. Diet and Immune Function. Nutrients. 2019 Aug 16;11(8):1933. doi: 10.3390/nu11081933. PMID: 31426423; PMCID: PMC6723551.