With that in mind, your pre-collapse prepping should focus on more than just gear. Your most valuable asset in times of trouble is you – your body and your mind. Both should be as healthy and prepared as you can possibly make them.

Earlier, Bugout.news discussed the importance of being physically fit; after all, you can’t bug out if you can’t even carry your bugout bag very far. More on that at a later time.

But being fit physically is just one aspect of being “healthy.” You need to give your body every possible chance to ward off contagious diseases and to heal if you become injured; the best way to do that is through your diet.

Here are some additions to your diet you should consider adding now, and why:

— A little red wine: Drinking red wine daily – in moderation of course – has been shown to have significant health benefits. As noted by Natural News, “recent studies have shown that red wine contains compounds that can protect membranes from oxidation, prevent several types of cancer and even treat depression and low moods. Earlier studies have also found that this much-loved alcoholic beverage, which is made from dark-colored grape varieties, can boost our cardiovascular system and protect us from heart disease.”

— Ramp up your vitamin C: As noted by Fresh.news, “Numerous studies show that Vitamin C has been proven effective at fighting all types of illnesses and infections,” thereby reducing your need for antibiotics (which will be in very short supply during times of crisis). Newer research suggests that vitamin C may also be able to ward off drug-resistant tuberculosis and other infections, the site reported.

— Superfoods for super health and weight loss: These include, as reported by Slender.news, the following: blueberries, almonds, avocados, eggs, dark chocolate, salmon, leafy greens and black beans.

— Raw honey: This has a number of lasting health benefits, making it something that you should be consuming now and including in any long-term food storage. Raw honey is antimicrobial and, when mixed with warm water, makes a good cough suppressant. Also, it is rich and nutrients and is a great source of natural sugar.

— Fish oil: The Omega 3 fatty acids found naturally in fish and as a supplement boost brain health and help bolster the immune system, the latter of which will be extremely important in a collapse.

— Vitamin D: The best, most natural source for vitamin D is sunlight; try to get at least 30 minutes of exposure a day on your face, arms and legs. Again, this will help boost your immune system.

Other immune-system boosters include:

– Fermented foods like sauerkraut, pickled cucumbers, pickled beets;

– Whole, non-processed foods;

– Red bell peppers;

– Broccoli;

– Garlic;

– Ginger;

– Yogurt;

– Tumeric

Your best DIY safeguard against becoming ill after your world comes crashing in on you following a major weather or Man-caused event is preventative medicine, and there is nothing more effective at boosting your immunity and overall health than altering what you consume on a daily basis. And the good news is, many of these items can be stockpiled at a bugout location or in your own home if you choose to bug-in.

“There are many important lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your immune system’s ability to fight viruses and infectious diseases like measles,” notes Natural.news. “The nutrients in food not only help fight off bacteria and viruses when you are ill but can also boost your immune system, which can prevent you from getting sick in the first place. Food can naturally boost your immunity and fight off infections.”