Foods to Boost the Immune System

The immune system is the body’s defense against foreign elements that may cause health problems. An example of this is the flu virus. The immune system fights back to avoid infection when it enters the body.

It also speeds up healing, making you feel better in no time. However, this is only possible if you have a strong immune system. If your immune system is weak, it would be easy for you to get sick, and healing may take longer.

There are various ways to strengthen your immune system, such as through regular exercise, stress management, getting enough rest, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. The food you eat is also crucial as it fuels your body. A balanced and nutritious diet can help strengthen your body’s defense against sickness. Here are nutrient-packed foods that can help boost your immune system.

Turmeric

This herb is used as a spice in cooking, but it’s also used for treating different health concerns because of its medicinal properties. Its active ingredient, curcumin, gives its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power. Some diseases it can help treat or prevent are heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

Besides using fresh turmeric, there are also products that you can conveniently use that contain this ingredient, like turmeric latte mix. It also has other natural ingredients that strengthen the immune system, like ginger, black pepper, and vanilla. You can be creative and add it to different recipes like brownies, juices, and teas.

Citrus fruits

Vitamin C is known to have a critical role in faster healing. However, since the body doesn’t naturally produce it, you need to obtain it from the foods you consume. Most citrus fruits contain this vitamin, like limes, lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. Women are recommended to take 75 mg of vitamin C daily, while men need an average of 90 mg.

Berries

There are many berries to include in your diet, such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries. These fruits are high in antioxidants that fight against free radicals, thus improving the immune system.

They are also high in fiber, which is good for the digestive system, and have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and pain. On top of that, they can serve as your sweet treats without spiking your insulin or blood sugar level.

Shellfish

Shellfish isn’t a popular option for foods that boost the immune system. However, some varieties are rich in zinc, which ensures the proper function of the immune cells in the system.

These include mussels, lobsters, crabs, and oysters. But note that too much zinc can also be disadvantageous as it could prevent the immune system from working correctly. So, keep your daily intake around the recommended amount of 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men.

Tomatoes

These bright red fruits are delicious to munch on their own and also a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and other recipes. They are rich in lycopene which helps prevent cell damage and protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. This substance is also an antioxidant that’s crucial in preventing diseases.

Choose your foods wisely. Go for options rich in vitamins and minerals to help strengthen your immune system.