Your immune system is the thing that keeps you healthy. It’s your body’s natural defense against bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. And it does this by recognizing antigens in your blood or tissues and attacking them with antibodies. Antigens are things like germs, parasites, toxins, cancer cells – anything that enters your body from outside of it. So what foods can boost your immune system? Check out this list to learn more!
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Broccoli
One of the top foods that boost your immune system is broccoli. Broccoli contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that clean out any toxins in your body. It also has tons of vitamin C and E, which are crucial for strengthening immunity. These two vitamins will destroy the free radicals that cause many illnesses like cancer or heart disease. Not to mention, vitamin A prevents damage to tissues caused by pollutants. So make sure you always have one or two servings of this green vegetable on hand!
Peppers
Peppers are another great source of Vitamin C, but they also contain many other valuable nutrients. Like all vegetables, peppers are full of fiber – about 3 grams per ½ cup serving, vital for everyday bodily functions. Additionally, they have large amounts of vitamin K, which helps blood clot properly after an injury. Red peppers also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that reduces your heart disease and cancer risk. The next time you make a salad or sandwich, reach for the bell pepper!
Lemons
Like many other citrus fruits, lemons are full of vitamin C – about 17 mg per ½ cup serving! But the benefits don’t stop there. Lemons are great at relieving stress because they release serotonin into your brain. And this will relax you by releasing endorphins into your body. It’ll also increase immunity by clearing out any free radicals that may be present in your system. Also, this sour fruit has antibacterial properties that can ward off any bacteria you may inhale or ingest. Next time you make a salad, cut up a lemon to help boost your immune system!
Oats
You probably know how great oats are for breakfast, but did you know they’re also top-notch when it comes to fighting disease? That’s because they have beta-glucans in them, which are sugars that strengthen your immune system by attacking cancer cells or viruses! Oats are also full of fiber that bind to cholesterol and remove it from your body. And since they have soluble fiber, you get lots of healthy nutrients without many calories. Make sure to add oatmeal into your diet today so your immune system can stay in top shape!
Garlic
Garlic has been used to remedy illness for centuries, and it’s not hard to see why! Just like broccoli, garlic is full of antioxidants and phytochemicals that keep germs and other microorganisms away from your body. This onion family member contains allicin, an essential oil that thins the blood and fights infection. Garlic also contains selenium, a mineral that helps regulate your immune system so you can ward off disease more easily. Start using garlic today if you want to boost your immune system with tasty food!
Asparagus
Asparagus is high in folic acid, omega 3s, and potassium. These nutrients prevent the production of free radicals that cause cancer cells to grow. And since it’s high in fiber, this green vegetable helps improve your digestive system, so you absorb more nutrients from what you eat! Asparagus also contains rutin, an antioxidant that strengthens blood vessels so they can carry oxygen throughout your body. So why not enjoy some for lunch today?
Oranges
Vitamin C is perfect for fighting off infection, and it’s also excellent at strengthening your skin. That’s why eating oranges can boost collagen production, which will make your skin look younger! Oranges also have antioxidant properties that reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes. Oranges are an excellent source of fiber, too – about six grams per fruit! So enjoy half an orange to give yourself a burst of energy.
Spinach
Spinach is another great source of folic acid, potassium, and Vitamin C. Since it also contains iron and calcium, this leafy vegetable helps produce red blood cells that carry oxygen to your brain! This mineral also plays a role in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system so you can stay on top of any potential infections. Add spinach to your diet today so you can reduce inflammation and keep your immune system strong!
Almonds
Almonds are perfect for eating at any time of the day. You can use them in sweet dishes or savory ones! They also have fiber, magnesium, and calcium. They’re also rich in Vitamin E, which helps keep skin healthy by protecting it from free radicals (and wrinkles!).
Green Tea
The antioxidants and catechins in green tea slow down the aging process, boost metabolism, and fight inflammation. This incredible drink will help your immune system because it reduces any chronic disease like heart disease, cancer, or Alzheimer’s. And since it has vitamin C and E, too, you can rely on green tea to strengthen your immunity. So be sure to make a cup of this delicious drink today!
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many foods that you can eat to help boost your immune system. These foods contain tons of nutrients and antioxidants that keep germs at bay by reducing inflammation, slowing down aging, and warding off chronic disease. Try adding a few of these healthy products to your diet today so you can stay healthy all year round!
