A healthy immune system is essential for protecting your body from harmful substances like germs and cell changes that can cause illness. While you may not be able to completely prevent an illness, a strong immune system can provide extra protection.
Essential Immune Supporting Nutrients
Certain nutrients are crucial for supporting your immune system, including:
- Iron
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Zinc
It’s recommended to obtain these nutrients through food rather than supplements. A balanced diet can provide sufficient amounts of these nutrients to maintain a strong immune system.
However, if it’s not always possible to get them through food, vitamins and supplements can help fill in the gaps.
Foods that Boost Immune Health
Feeding your body certain foods may help keep your immune system strong. Here are some of the foods that may boost your immune system:
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C, which is believed to increase the production of white blood cells, which are key to fighting infections. Some popular choices of citrus foods include oranges, grapefruit, kiwis, lemons, and limes.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. It’s full of vitamins A, C, and E, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Garlic: Garlic’s immune-boosting effects seem to come from a concentration of sulfur-containing compounds such as allicin.
- Ginger: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and has been shown to assist with nausea.
- Green tea: Green tea is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. It’s loaded with antioxidants, amino acids, EGCG, and is extremely hydrating.
- Almonds: Most nuts, especially almonds, are rich in Vitamin E, which is key to a healthy immune system. They also contain vitamins and healthy fats.
- Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is full of probiotics. These active cultures may stimulate your immune system to help fight diseases. Yogurt is also a great source of Vitamin D which helps regulate the immune system.
- Turmeric: Turmeric has been used for years as an anti-inflammatory. It contains high concentrations of curcumin, which some studies have shown to be an immune booster and anti-viral.
Take a proactive approach to your health and begin eating these foods on a regular basis to protect yourself from illness. Don’t wait until you’re sick to start incorporating them into your diet. After all, health is the most important thing we have.
For more information or tips on building a healthy immune system, contact us today at Campbell Medical Group to set up a free consultation at (832) 402-6911.