What foods are recommended to boost the immune system?
This comprehensive guide will show you how to improve your immunity through food. In my role as a nutritionist and dietician, I'll explain the importance of having a strong immune system and how you can get started. Let's get started!
Boosting your immune system through nutrition is important
A healthy immune system is essential for good health. Our immune system protects us from germs and harmful substances that can make us sick. Studies have revealed that some nutrients, like vitamins C, D and E, as well as selenium and zinc, can improve immune function. Incorporating these nutrients in your diet will improve your immunity.
Important Points for Getting Started
Balance is the key to a healthy immune system. You may be deprived of essential nutrients if you consume too much one food type. According to an article published in The British Journal of Nutrition, excessive consumption of zinc and other nutrients can impair immunity.
List of foods that can help boost your immune system
- Citrus Fruits: High in Vitamin C and known for increasing the production of White Blood Cells.
- Bell peppers contain two times as much Vitamin C as oranges and also are a good source of Beta-carotene.
- Broccoli is a healthy vegetable that's packed with vitamin C, E and A. It also contains fiber.
- Garlic's immunity-boosting qualities are due to its high concentration of compounds containing sulfur, like allicin.
- Ginger can help to reduce inflammation, and also relieve a sore throat or other inflammatory diseases.
- Spinach is not only high in Vitamin C, but it also contains many antioxidants as well as beta-carotene.
- On the labels of yogurts, look for "live and Active Cultures". These cultures can help boost your immunity and fight disease.
- Almonds are rich in vitamin E which helps maintain a healthy immunity system.
- Sunflower seeds are incredibly high in selenium. A small quantity of sunflower seeds provides almost all you require in one day.
- Shellfish is high in zinc. Our bodies require it to function properly.
Other Tips
Maintaining a healthy life style is important for maintaining a powerful immune system. Exercise, sleep and stress-management techniques like yoga or mediation can all help boost your immunity. Remember to drink plenty of water, avoid sugary foods and processed food, as well as smoking and drinking excessive amounts alcohol.
Conclusion
Maintaining overall health requires that you boost your immunity through diet. You can improve your body's resistance to disease by introducing a wide variety of foods rich in nutrients and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Remember that a healthy immune system does not make you unstoppable, but gives your body the best chance to fight off disease.
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