Replenish and Restore Your Body After Illness
Autumn and winter tend to be seasons when we are more likely to fall unwell with coughs and colds. It can be difficult to eat well when we are feeling poorly, therefore it is a good idea to focus on what we eat as we return to full health to aid the recovery process.
There are three main types of nutrients that may help you recover from illness.
1. Antioxidants
2. Probiotics
3. Protein
1. What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are a group of chemical compounds which include:
- vitamins C and E
- minerals copper, zinc and selenium
Antioxidants have an important role to play in supporting your immune health, which is particularly important during or after a period of illness1
Where can I find antioxidants?
Antioxidants occur naturally in a number of foods including:
• Brightly coloured fruits and vegetables
• Wholegrains
• Eggs, meat and dairy
• Nuts
• Sunflower oil1
2. Why are probiotics important?
Probiotics help restore a healthy gut flora which is particularly important when recovering from bugs that cause diarrhoea2. Probiotics are live microorganisms known as ‘good bacteria’ that have been shown to help support a healthy gut. It is common to experience a temporary lactose intolerance during and after gastro illnesses, and therefore a low lactose diet may be required 3.
3. How can protein help me?
The combination of bed rest and reduced appetite can lead to breakdown of lean muscle tissue while we are unwell. To aid recovery and restore your strength, it is important to optimise protein in your diet.
How can SUSTAGEN OptimumTM help me?
SUSTAGEN OptimumTM is a low lactose nutritious oral supplement, helping you meet your nutritional needs while your body recovers. SUSTAGEN Optimum™ contains:
• Antioxidants vitamins C and E
• Probiotics
• High quality protein
• Low lactose
• A source of zinc, vitamins A, B6, B12 and D which all help support immune function.
Learn more about SUSTSGEN OptimumTM here.
References:
- Better Health Channel. Antioxidants. 2012. Retrieved on 23/3/20 from www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/antioxidants
- Yan and Polk. Probiotics and Immune Health; Curr Opin Gastroenterol. 2011 Oct; 27(6): 496–501.
- Better Health Channel. Lactose Intolerance. 2017. Retrieved on 23/3/20 from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/lactose-intolerance