By Lisa Moskovitz, RD, CDN
A strong and healthy immune system has never been more valuable. It may feel like it’s becoming harder and harder to practice self-care but the truth is, there is still plenty you can do to strengthen your mind and body at home. Enhancing immunity is important for all ages, but as we get older, our bodies’ natural defenses start to weaken. How do we keep our disease-fighting cell army in tip-top shape? It comes down to several key factors, including a balanced diet including plenty of fruits, veggies, protein, nuts and whole grains; stress management,;and moderate exercise. Supplements can also come in handy for those with a busy lifestyle or monotonous diet, or who just want an extra boost of immune insurance.
Oh Grape by GROOVE™ is a top-quality multivitamin that contains 500 mg of oxidative stress-fighting resveratrol, along with 2,000 IU of vitamin D, 600 mg of vitamin C and 150 mg of magnesium. This powerhouse combo will not only help you repel unwanted infectious invaders, but a myriad of studies prove resveratrol can also fend off cardiometabolic syndrome and other effects of aging: muscle loss, wrinkles and Alzheimer’s. Oh Grape is the supplement that works from the inside out. Along with healthy eating and lifestyle habits, this resveratrol-based supplement fills in as a promising link in your incredibly nuanced and interconnected immune system. Here’s how:
Resveratrol – 500 MG
Studies show this powerful polyphenol, primarily found in the skins of red grapes, red wine, blueberries and peanuts, can suppress the hormone insulin, which ultimately improves blood glucose levels, promoting body-fat burning. When it comes to immunity, research shows it can modulate inflammatory response and directly strengthen our natural defense. A 2019 study published in peer-reviewed journal BioMed Research International states: “Considering the health benefits of resveratrol and its metabolic characteristics, the administration of resveratrol is a novel and rational strategy for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.”
The therapeutic dose of resveratrol required for full impact is only attainable in supplement form. For some perspective, you would have to drink north of 40 bottles of wine to get the same amount of this health-boosting antioxidant found in just two Oh Grape capsules (500 mg).
Vitamin D – 2000 IU
This sunshine vitamin, which is technically a hormone, is quite hard to come by from diet alone. It is primarily found in egg yolks, fortified dairy and beverages, cod liver oil, fatty fish and mushrooms exposed to UV light. Due to limited food availability, the best option is sunlight. Although we only need a few minutes of sun exposure every day to absorb the recommended amounts, sunscreen can prevent D absorption. We know that skipping SPF is not so safe for our precious skin. That said, a supplement can provide reassurance.
Not only does vitamin D supplementation from Oh Grape fill in nutritional gaps, but consistent intake has the most profound impact on the immune system. Statistics reveal that those with a vitamin D deficiency, or blood levels less than 30ng/ml, report an increased prevalence of colds or respiratory infections. According to a 2017 global collaborative study, published in The BMJ, “D supplementation can protect against acute respiratory infections.”
Vitamin C – 600 MG
Otherwise known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can directly improve collagen in our bodies. Collagen acts like a glue that holds our body together. It is found in our skin, tendons, ligaments and joints.
The moment you feel a cold coming on, vitamin C, which is predominately found in citrus fruits, strawberries, red peppers and broccoli, is usually our go-to. There’s a good reason for that: Vitamin C is a key player in immune response and T-cell activation. Therefore, focusing on consuming more C-rich foods, along with taking Oh Grape capsules, will keep your army of immune cells on high alert against infection and illness.
Magnesium – 150 MG
As an important electrolyte that is necessary for muscle and nerve function, magnesium has also been linked to improved mood and bowel movement regulation. While it doesn’t have a direct effect on the immune system per se, studies show a magnesium deficiency can increase inflammation in the body. A 2018 study published in the journal Inflammation explains: “Magnesium deficiency induces an inflammatory response that results in leukocyte and macrophage activation, release of inflammatory cytokines and acute-phase proteins, and excessive production of free radicals.” Further, magnesium can also promote vitamin D absorption, which has a profound influence on immune protection.
Dietary sources of magnesium are more ubiquitous, including beans, avocados, nuts, seeds and chocolate. However, if your diet is limited for one reason or another, Oh Grape will fill in the missing pieces to mitigate potential deficiencies.
Whether you want to live long or live strong, a healthy, balanced diet that includes all the essentials is the best place to start. If you struggle to reach all your nutritional needs, or are simply looking for additional immune support, Oh Grape by GROOVE™ is the key to unlocking longevity.