As the Philippines enters another rainy season, a leading nutrition expert urges Filipinos to take control of their immune health—starting with their plates.
Manila, Philippines – Nutrition plays a vital role in strengthening the body’s immune system, and it could be the country’s best natural defense against seasonal illnesses, according to Dr. David Heber, M.D., Ph.D., Chairman of the Herbalife Nutrition Institute. In a recent statement, Heber emphasized how a well-balanced diet can significantly bolster immune defenses, especially in light of growing health concerns among Filipinos.
“Your immune system is one of the most powerful tools you have to fight infections, but it only functions optimally if it’s supported by proper nutrition,” said Heber.
The Nutrition-Immune System Connection
The immune system is divided into two main components: innate immunity, which prevents pathogens from entering the body, and adaptive immunity, which targets and eliminates them once inside. Both are critically influenced by a person’s nutritional status.
“In malnourished individuals, the immune system can essentially shut down. Meanwhile, in those who are overweight or obese, the immune system becomes overactive, leading to chronic inflammation,” Heber explained.
This is especially relevant in the Philippines, where recent data from the 2021 Expanded National Nutrition Survey (ENNS) shows that 29.5% of Filipino adults are overweight and 14.8% are obese—a troubling trend fueled by sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits.
The health risks are even more pronounced during the rainy season, when respiratory illnesses like colds and flu become more prevalent. Heber stressed that now is the time to adopt healthier dietary habits to boost the body’s natural defenses.
How to Strengthen Immunity Through Food
Dr. Heber shared four science-backed nutritional strategies to support immune health:
Prioritize Protein:
Protein is essential for producing antibodies that fight infections. Sources such as fish, poultry, lean meats, tofu, tempeh, and low-fat dairy products can help ensure adequate intake.
Load Up on Vitamins and Phytonutrients:
Vitamins A and C are particularly important for immune function. Vitamin C aids in antibody production and must be consumed daily since it’s not stored in the body. Vitamin A supports skin and respiratory health. Phytonutrients—found in fruits and vegetables—combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
Support Gut Health with Probiotics and Prebiotics:
With 70% of the immune system located in or around the gut, maintaining a healthy microbiome is crucial. Probiotics (good bacteria) and prebiotics (fiber that feeds probiotics) help maintain digestive balance and immune function.
Consume Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
Found in seafood, flax, chia seeds, and fish oil supplements, omega-3s like DHA and EPA can enhance immune cell activity, benefiting both innate and adaptive immune responses.
The Role of Supplements
While nutrition from whole foods should be the foundation, Heber acknowledged that supplements can help bridge nutritional gaps. Herbalife recently introduced ImmuLift in the Philippines—a powdered drink formulated with clinically studied ingredients such as EpiCor®, Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Selenium, and Zinc to help strengthen daily immune health.
“Following general good-health guidelines, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, is still your best line of defense. But in times of increased risk, immune-supporting supplements like ImmuLift can offer additional protection,” Heber said.
As the nation navigates through another wet season and rising health risks, experts agree that nutrition isn’t just about eating well—it’s about building a resilient body. And now more than ever, that resilience begins from within.#
