As the old adage goes, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” But what other foods can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy?
Your immune system is a complex network of cells, proteins, and tissues that defend your body against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. While it’s always working hard to keep you healthy, there are certain foods that can support and boost your body’s natural defenses.
Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect your body’s cells from damage and improve your immune response. Vitamin C also increases the production of white blood cells, which are key to fighting off infections.
In addition to citrus fruits, red bell peppers are another great source of vitamin C. In fact, just one large red bell pepper provides almost 300% of your daily vitamin C needs! They also contain beta-carotene, a plant compound that gives them their red color and has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer and improved eye health.
Broccoli is a superfood when it comes to immune-boosting powers. This cruciferous vegetable is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as many other antioxidants. It also contains glutathione, a compound that plays a critical role in immune health and helps protect against damage caused by free radicals.
Garlic is not only delicious but also boasts a number of health benefits. It contains a compound called allicin, which has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Garlic also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help improve your body’s immune response.
Spinach is another nutrient-rich food that can help boost your immune system. This dark, leafy green is an excellent source of vitamin C, as well as numerous other antioxidants, which can help protect your body’s cells from damage. Spinach also contains beta-carotene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer and improved eye health.
When it comes to immune-boosting foods, nuts and seeds are often overlooked. However, they can be a great source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect your body’s cells from damage. In particular, almonds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in vitamin E, as well as other nutrients like magnesium and zinc, which play an important role in immune function.
Green tea has long been hailed for its health benefits, and when it comes to your immune system, it’s no different. This popular beverage is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body’s cells from damage. Green tea also contains a type of flavonoid called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to enhance immune function and may even help protect against certain types of cancer.