8 Foods to Boost your Immune System

Ensuring your body receives the right nutrition can play a crucial role in maintaining a robust immune system.

If you’re trying to prevent colds, the flu, and other infections, your first step should involve a trip to the local grocery store. Plan your meals to incorporate these 8 potent immune system boosters:

1.     Citrus fruits

Vitamin C is believed to stimulate the production of white blood cells, essential for combating infections. Citrus fruits are abundant sources of vitamin C. With such a wide array to select from, adding a squeeze of this vitamin into any meal is effortless. Popular options include oranges, lemon and grapefruit.

2.     Ginger

After falling ill, many people turn to ginger as a remedy. Ginger is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially alleviating sore throat and inflammatory conditions by reducing inflammation. Additionally, it may aid in relieving nausea.

3.     Yogurt

Opt for yogurts labelled with "live and active cultures," such as Greek yogurt. These cultures have the potential to boost your immune system, helping to fight disease. Choose plain yogurts over flavoured varieties which are generally filled with sugar.

4.     Almonds

While vitamin C often steals the spotlight in cold prevention and treatment, vitamin E plays a crucial role in maintaining a strong immune system. As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin E requires the presence of fat for optimal absorption. Nuts, like almonds, are rich sources of this vitamin and also provide healthy fats.

5.     Poultry

Poultry, including chicken and turkey, is abundant in vitamin B6. This vitamin plays a significant role in numerous chemical reactions within the body and is essential for the formation of healthy red blood cells.

6.     Garlic

Consuming garlic offers numerous health benefits, including enhancing heart health. Moreover, garlic may bolster immune function due to its alliin content, which is associated with supporting the response of white blood cells responsible for combating flu or cold viruses.

7.     Turmeric

Turmeric has become a dietary staple, featured in dishes ranging from curries to golden lattes. Renowned for its purported immune-boosting and antiviral properties, turmeric owes its efficacy to curcumin, a compound known to reduce inflammation and combat free radicals.

8.     Spinach

Spinach is a remarkable source of vitamin A, particularly beta-carotene, renowned for its infection-fighting properties. Additionally, spinach is rich in folate, which research suggests can strengthen the immune system.

Incorporating spinach into your diet extends beyond salads; you can also blend a handful into smoothies for added nutritional benefits.