I must admit, I – like the average American – didn’t necessarily see 2020 shaking out like it has. Coronavirus (or Ro Ro-V as I affectionately call it) has brought with it an epic shift to our daily lives, including social interactions (or lack thereof), financial situations and general thoughts and feelings around health and well-being.

Regardless whether you were able to predict this moment, we’re in it. And thus, instead of getting caught up in debates on the politics around Covid-19, I want to instead encourage you to step into a personal empowerment narrative. That is not to downplay the sheer magnitude of this moment – it’s big and can leave many of us fearful about what’s to come. However, you can still use this moment to respond in a way that best serves you. Starting with your health.

Coronavirus is a respiratory illness spread person to person. While there are not conclusive results yet on what types of natural remedies may ward off the virus – what seems to be consistent is that those with compromised immune systems have a harder time fighting off the disease. Thus, while we continue to practice social distance and hand washing, while we’re home, we should also be doing what we can to continue boosting our immune system.

Here is the nutrition plan that I recommend following to help you boost your immune system.

Vegan-friendly. While the grocery stores are inundated, and shelves are low – it may be the perfect opportunity for you to finally give the vegan life a try! A plant-based diet offers many benefits, including providing a diet rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals that help lower blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol, while also reducing the risk of diabetes, and helping maintain a healthy weight.

Sweet Potatoes. It’s key that your diet provides an abundance of Vitamin A, which supports cell growth and differentiation, and plays a critical role in the normal formation and maintenance of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs. Sweet Potatoes provide rich amounts of Vitamin A, along with fibers and other vitamins and minerals. They’re also super versatile!

Leafy Greens.  Kale, spinach, dandelion greens, mustard greens etc are where it’s at! Spinach is another great source of Vitamin A. Kale, an amazing superfood, is nutrient dense and a powerful antioxidant, which can help protect your cells against potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals. Add leafy greens to your morning smoothie or make a salad in which they’re the star. I eat greens with every meal! Whatever it is—just get your fill!

Carrots. I think most of us grow up thinking about carrots as the vegetable that helps maintain good eyesight – but they offers us so much more! Carrots are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, especially biotin, potassium, and Vitamin A. Have you made carrot bacon before? (Yes, it’s vegan! Recipe coming soon!)

Oranges. Oranges are a great, tasty snack. In addition to being a healthy source of Vitamin C, they’re also rich in thiamine, folate, and antioxidants. Stock up on oranges and make your own fresh-squeezed OJ!

Berries. Not only are they delicious – strawberries, blackberries and blueberries are among the healthiest food you can add to your diet. They’re loaded with antioxidants, and studies have shown how great berries are at fighting inflammation and increasing insulin sensitivity.

Mushrooms. Given a lot of us may be limited in how much sun we can get these days, finding other sources of Vitamin D is important. Mushrooms are a great non-animal source. Some varieties of mushrooms have also been shown to protect against cancer and help manage neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Squash. Squash offers plenty of versatility and taste! It’s also another great source of Vitamin A and Vitamin D. And according to the American Institute for Cancer Research, intake of winter squash helps lower cancer risk. Have you tried spaghetti squash? So good!

Bell Peppers. Great eaten raw or cooked, bell peppers are packed full of vitamins and minerals. In fact, a single pepper provides up to 169% of the RDI. These tasty vegetables have also been shown to reduce risk of anemia and improve eye health. Top any dish with these chopped babies or make a stuffed bell pepper for din din.

Supplements: When your diet is not balanced with rich nutrients, it doesn’t have the opportunity to perform at its optimal level. For the stuff you’re not getting from your diet, make sure you’re adding in herbs and supplements. I recommend the Get Loved Up Full Spectrum Herbs, Get Loved Up protein powder, oil of oregano, Vitamin C, sea moss, probiotics, lycopene, zinc, and multivitamins. Brands that I use outside of Get Loved Up products can be found in my Amazon store.

Also, if you’re safely able to do so, make sure you’re getting Vitamin D by getting outside in the sun for at least 15 to 30 minutes a day.

To help assist you on your wellness journey, starting April 20th, you can sign up for the Get Loved Up Newsletter to gain access to the GLU 28-Day Coronavirus Nutrition Plan. A free e-book with tons of nutrition info and recipes to support you and your health journey, which is particularly important during this time.

And to help you overcome fear and anxiety, also grab a free copy of my new book, “Let Your Fears Make You Fierce,” which will assist you with your growth and evolution.