A strong immune system is essential to everyday living whether you want to keep away the flu that’s spreading around the office, avoid a chesty cough or just want to maintain good health. On the whole, your immune system does a remarkable job of defending you against disease-causing microorganisms. Sure, getting a flu shot, washing your hands, and staying away from stray coughs and sneezes can help prevent a nasty cold, but getting the right foods onto your plate is also just as important.
Check out our handy list of amazingSUPERFOODS to eat when you need a boost your immune system:
1. Yogurt
Yogurt is a healthy delicious snack that you can indulge in any time of the day. Many yogurts contain two very unique and special ingredients: probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are live organisms that are beneficial to your gut health when taken in adequate amounts. Prebiotics are useful in increasing the helpful bacteria already in the gut that reduce disease risk and improve general well-being. The live bacterial cultures combined with the calcium in yogurt have been proven to play a role in strengthening the immune system making your body more resistant to disease.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal doesn't just make a good breakfast and warms you up, it also fuels your body for the day ahead and helps protect it from diseases down the road. For example, the beta-glucan found in oats helps boost our infection-fighting blood cells. Oats also contain selenium and zinc, two important nutrients for warding off infection and helping you stay in fighting shape.
3. Mussels
Mussels are also a brilliant source of vitamins. Plus, they give you a shot of important minerals such as zinc, as previously mentioned, which helps build good immunity. Mussels have the most impressive nutritional profile of all shellfish. They contain high levels of highly desirable long chain fatty acids such as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).
4. Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is regarded as a therapeutic dish in several cultures and communities where traditional medicine is practiced. Generally, the calcium content of the soup can increase with the duration of cooking and, depending on the composition, can have a mild anti-inflammatory effect. It is no doubt that when you are sick, chicken soup is a great option.
5. Green Tea
Green tea has a wealth of research behind it demonstrating a number of health-promoting benefits including anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. Green tea has a proven track record of benefits for the average person and, if you do not have an autoimmune condition, it seems wise to include green tea into your diet.
6. Fortified Cereals and Grains
Cereals that are fortified with B6, B12, and folic acid are good for your immune system. White grains are also fortified with these vitamins, but whole grains are the best choice for blood sugar control, weight management, and fiber for fullness and healthy digestion.
7. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamin B6. It is known to lower the chemical homocysteine in our bodies. Homocysteine is associated with degenerative diseases which include heart attacks. In addition, sweet potatoes are good sources of Vitamin C which drives cold and flu viruses away. It also has significant effects on the formation of bones and teeth, digestion and formation of blood cells.
8. Bell Peppers
Bell peppers contain plenty of vitamin C which powers up your immune system and keeps your skin youthful. The highest amount of Vitamin C in a bell pepper is concentrated in the red variety. In addition, with its Vitamin B6 components, it plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the nervous system and renewal of cells.
9. Eggs
Studies have shown that 2-3% of the world’s population is allergic to eggs. However, they are good sources of vitamins essential to keeping you healthy. Good eggs are packed with important fats, cholesterol, and protein as well as Vitamin A, Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants including Vitamin E, Carotene, Tryptophan, and Tyrosine. All of which contribute to a healthy immune system.
10. Mushroom
Mushrooms contain some of the most powerful natural medicines on the planet, especially for boosting your immunity during cold and flu season. Edible mushrooms have strong anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. They can boost your immunity, improve your blood flow and cardiovascular health, stabilize blood sugar, increase athletic performance, and even help regenerate your nerves
11. Fatty Fish
Fish is great for your immune system. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, is low in total and saturated fats, but, most importantly, it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies have shown that people who consume seafood-rich diets may experience less heart disease. Fish oil may also help reduce lung inflammation.
While other people may be hesitant to eat fish, there is an alternative. Taking in the right Fish Oil supplement can help you get the same health benefits.
Nature’s Branch offers Triple Strength 2,500mg potency fish oil with a subtle lemon flavor which is molecularly distilled from metals and toxins. Our burpless, easy to swallow softgel capsules can be taken by men, women, and children for everyday supplementation. Our unique formula also contains over three times more fish oil than other leading brands. You can get your bottle by clicking the image below:
Remember not to underestimate the power of your nutrition and diet. A healthy immune system needs good, regular nourishment and consumption of the right types of foods along with regular exercise and a less-stressful environment.
So, the next time you walk into your grocery store, don’t forget to grab some of the SUPERFOODS we mentioned above. Together, let’s boost our immune system and live a happy and healthy life!
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