Foods To Help Boost Your Immune System

Now more than ever we are all wanting to give our immune system a boost. A healthy balanced diet plays a vital role in staying well. The following foods may help to boost the immune system.

Turmeric
This spice is more than just an exotic way to spice up your lattes. Turmeric contains a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. Curcumin has been shown to activate the production of T-cells, these are the main cells fighting for your health in your immune system. When combining turmeric with black pepper it significantly ups curcumin’s efficiency.

Blueberries
Blueberries are filled with antioxidants and have been shown to help treat and prevent coughs and colds. Further research continues to support the fact that the anti-inflammatory benefits of the polyphenols appear to greatly increase the disease-fighting power of the blueberry. Both antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory actions of polyphenols have been linked to a wide range of health benefits and improved treatment outcomes in a large number of age-related illnesses.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are incredibly rich in antioxidants mainly from lycopene, eating them is thought to help shield your body from cell damage caused by free radicals. Tomatoes are also a great food to eat when you’re sick due to their high concentration of vitamin C. Just one medium tomato contains more than 16 milligrams of Vitamin C.

Broccoli
Along with high levels of potassium, folate, and a bunch of antioxidants, broccoli is a great source of immune-boosting Vitamin C. A 100 grams of broccoli has a whopping 89 grams of Vitamin C, which is more than a lot of citrus fruits. Broccoli is also rich in beta-carotene and a host of antioxidants which makes it a perfect vegetable for your overall immunity.

Garlic
Just one clove of raw garlic contains manganese, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, selenium, fiber and more than 100 sulfuric compounds thought to be powerful enough to wipe out bacteria and infection. Garlic has been touted as reducing blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels. Garlic is also considered a powerful antioxidant. Sulfuric compounds are also in brussels sprouts, cabbage, chives, kale, leeks, onions, and shallots.

Oysters
Raw oysters contain the most nutrients and are an excellent source of protein, Vitamins B12 and D, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese and iron. Oysters are rich in zinc, which strengthens your immune response by helping white blood cells reproduce more rapidly. White blood cells, or leukocytes, are the primary specialized cells of your immune system and they contribute by destroying disease-causing microorganisms.

Raw Honey
The high antioxidant profile of honey helps to prevent immune system damage and disease. In fact, the higher the antioxidant levels, the darker the honey. Honey also promotes the production of white blood cells, in particular, T and B cells and natural killer cells, all important components of the immune system. This helps to promote a healthier and stronger immune response.

Almonds
When it comes to fighting off and even preventing colds and flus, Vitamin E tends to take a backseat to Vitamin C. However, this powerful antioxidant is key to a healthy immune system.

The above article is based on studies conducted by numerous third parties and is meant for educational purposes only. We always recommend speaking to your doctor before making any changes to your diet.