Good immune system is the ‘anti-virus’ defence against any disease. You don’t always need pills to boost up your immune system, there are a number of healthy foods available right in your kitchen that can pump up your immunity.
Eat right, get active, and keep your immune system functioning as it to Supercharge Immunity.
You don’t even have to leave home to boost your immune system — you may even start feeling better immediately. Make these 12 foods kitchen mainstays and you’ll boost your health and vitality all year long.
12 Plant-Based Foods That Super-Charge Your Immune System
Mushrooms
No herbal medicine cabinet should be without mushrooms. They increase the production of cytokines, which are cells that help fight off infection. They also contain polysaccharides, which are compounds that support the immune system. The most potent cold- and flu-fighting shrooms are shitake, maitake and reishi.
Black Pepper
It’s ironic that black pepper — the spice best known for making you sneeze — can ward off the sniffles. Black peppercorns are high in piperine, a compound known for its anti-fever and pain-relieving qualities.
Yogurt
Although some health experts say to avoid red meat, depending on other health issues, it is important for maintaining your immune system. Red meat, particularly beef, has high levels of zinc, which is an integral component in white blood cell production, which is the body’s first line of defense against certain illnesses and pathogens.
Honey
hanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey not only soothes sore throats but can also kill certain bacteria that causes an infection. Honey can also help improve the digestive system where 1/3 of your immune system is located.
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants such as Anthocyanin, Vitamin C and E that strengthens the immune system and keeps infections at bay. They are particularly helpful for eyes diseases such as age related macular degeneration, which is common in older adults.
Almonds
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which can ward off upper-respitory infections, and they are great at boosting energy as well. Munch on this healthy food as an evening snack.
Turmeric
New research around turmeric constantly increases the importance of this herb. Turmeric is believed to reduce arthritis, asthma, colds, cancer, diabetes and inflammation.
Cinnamon
It helps in controlling the blood sugar levels and is excellent for people who suffer from type-2 diabetes. It also aids in reducing triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol, enhancing your body’s cells ability to metabolise sugar by up to 20 times.
Garlic
One of the most flavorful foods that boost your immune system stimulates the multiplication of infection-fighting white cells, boosts natural killer cell activity, and increases the efficiency of antibody production.
Spinach
Spinach and other leafy foods like kale and collard are high in folate which is vital in preventing DNA and blood vessel damage. It may not be the most appealing dish to come home to in the evening, but a plate of spinach really could keep you healthy through the dark winter months ahead.
Carrots
Carrots are full of beta-carotene which bolsters the number of white blood cells in the immune system, as well as T cells. So if you’re looking to go to war with an evil disease microbe, it might well be time you crunched on a bit of orange.
Green Tea
This antioxidant-rich beverage has been praised for centuries all over the world due to its immune-strengthening potential. L-theanine is a particularly powerful amino acid found in large quantities in green tea and is connected to a stronger, more responsive immune system.
Additional Sources:
myhealthwire.com, everydayhealth.com
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