This is one of the most complicated times each year as regards health matters: colds, flu, etc. begin. And this year it gets even more complicated with the coronavirus. Can we do something to protect ourselves and help our body? The answer is a resounding yes. We can help our body to strengthen it and improve its defenses so that the possible diseases that we can contract do not catch us off guard.

A balanced diet is essential for our body to be healthy and energetic to face any viral or bacterial process. Extra virgin olive oil is a perfect ally for us since, according to multiple studies, it strengthens our defenses. Among other scientists, José Juan Gaforio (Professor of Immunology at the Department of Health Sciences of the University of Jaén) is a great supporter of the ability of extra virgin olive oil to improve the immune response by increasing the number of cells that participate in the body's defense process, which causes greater resistance to external pathogens.

Vitamins A, D, E and K act as antioxidants in charge of counteracting the accumulation of free radicals that damage our cells and lower our defenses.

On the other hand, recent studies have shown that vegetable fats stimulate the cells of the immune system, generating a more effective response to possible viruses and bacteria. The fats in extra virgin olive oil stimulate the production of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell responsible for protecting our body from infectious diseases. Likewise, oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, present in extra virgin olive oil, and responsible for giving it its spicy and bitter taste, are substances that also help to strengthen the immune system

Helping our body and our defenses in the autumn period becomes this 2020 more vital than ever and, in addition to regularly consuming the liquid gold of our land, there are other recommendations that you should not forget:

- Increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables in your diet

- Take blue fish, rich in Omega-3, vitamins D and E, among many others.

- Avoid sedentary lifestyle

- Sleep at least between 7 and 8 hours, since sleep also helps our immune system.

- Reduce ultra-processed foods and refined sugars.

At Montegil we make the extra virgin olive oil from our land with all the guarantees so that it preserves its exceptional properties and nutritional values… and it is also very good.