Healthy Immune-Boosting Foods
If you want to give your immune system a boost, here are some regular, everyday foods that will help you reach that goal.
• Onions are high in quercetin, a powerful antioxidant known for its antiviral properties. Studies have shown that daily doses of quercetin can reduce viral infections as well as inflammatory response to heavy exercise. So add onions to your daily eating plan.
• Green Tea is abuntant in epigallocatechin gallate which is the most powerful plant-based antioxidant and protects a variety of cells from being weakened and shields them from potential harm caused by invaders.
• Turmeric contains curcumin, an antioxidant that can help your immune cells bounce back faster after you get sick.
• Oysters are packed with the mineral zinc which is vital for T cells, white blood cells that help tailor the body’s response to specific pathogens. Some studies show that low zinc intake reduces the immune-fighting response to cold and flu viruses.
• Butternut Squash is loaded with beta-carotene that the body converts to vitamin A which maintains the body’s protective layers, including skin and sinus passages. A low level of vitamin A can lead to cracks in the skin and dry out the sinuses, allowing viruses and bacteria to easily enter your body.
• Kefir, a fermented milk drink similar to yogurt, is made using kefir grains. It can have a sour taste but can be sweetened with fruits or honey. Kefir has up to five times the probiotics of yogurt and can defend the intestinal tract against pathogens.
So add any one of these foods to one of your meals everyday and boost your immune system - you’ll feel better.
