IMMUNE SYSTEM BOOSTING FOODS
With the outbreak of COVID, we’ve watched the whole world go into lockdown and adopt large scale sanitation and sterilization methods. Masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, plastic - SO MUCH PLASTIC. But what’s sadly been missing from that dialogue is boosting your immune system naturally with supplements and good nutrition. We won’t get into the politics of why this critical information is missing from the conversation. But what we can do is arm ourselves with this knowledge so that we can make informed choices everyday that build the foundation of our health rather than just masking or trying to prevent symptoms. Nutrition is truly the pillar of good health, the predeterminate factor in cultivating longevity and nourishing vitality. We’ve put together a list of ten of our favorite immune system boosting foods that are accessible, and easy to incorporate into your diet everyday!
Garlic contains allicin, one of nature’s strongest antibiotics. It is released when garlic is chopped, minced, or blended. Garlic has also traditionally been used as an antiseptic, and also has very strong antibacterial properties. Garlic is also an antifungal agent, making it super balancing to the digestive system, along with “cleaning out” excess bad bacteria in the body. Garlic also has the power to fight of viral infections, destroy viruses, and other foreign microorganisms that may be floating around in your body - it does this by strengthening the immune system.
Ginger is seriously a powerhouse. It’s commonly known for it’s anti inflammatory and digestive benefits. But ginger is also incredible potent when it comes to boosting your immune system. This is made possible by the compounds in ginger that help to balance your gut flora, which is essentially where your immune system lives. Gingerol is the bioactive substance in fresh ginger, and it has the power to help lower the risk of infections. In fact, ginger extract can inhibit the growth of many different bacteria. Fresh ginger is also especially effective in fighting off respiratory infections.
Citrus, all citrus, is high in vitamin C and is the most common and well known way to boost your immune system function. Plus most citrus is super yummy! Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. The entire citrus family contributes to your body's health in other important ways as well because it’s packed in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidative properties.
Turmeric is like the holy grail of longevity. It has a myriad of super amazing health benefits from being anti cancer to anti inflammatory. Turmeric contains Curcumin. Curcumin helps up in boosting immunity and helps to fight against viral infections. It reduces Inflammation and suppresses various inflammatory molecules which are responsible for the causes of the damage by viruses. It helps to reduce viral symptoms and provide relief from infection. It’s best activated and absorbed by the body when eaten with ginger or black pepper!
Culinary herbs like lavender, rosemary, oregano, sage, thyme. Spices and herbs have been in use for centuries both for culinary and medicinal purposes. Spices not only enhance the flavor, aroma, and color of food and beverages, but they can also protect from acute and chronic diseases. flavonoids and polyphenols. Spices and herbs such as clove, rosemary, sage, oregano, and cinnamon are excellent sources of antioxidants with their high content of phenolic compounds. They are also high in volatile oils (which are the oils of the plant that give them their delicious and aromatic flavors) volatile oils have been used by herbalists throughout history to boost the immune system, balance gut flora, aid in digestion, and boost immunity by fighting off infections, viruses, bacteria, and fungus in the body.
Green vegetables are among the of the most promising immune system boosters considering their ability to support your immune system by creating a healthy response to oxidative damage in the body. Among the most powerful greens are moringa leaf and cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, arugula, and kale.
Blueberries are humble little fruits that are also immune-boosting superfoods. Blueberries contain flavonoids — a type of antioxidant that can help reduce damage to cells and boost your immune system. In addition, blueberries have plenty of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, dietary fiber, and manganese.
Green Tea contains polyphenols, potent plant antioxidants, and are what's believed to give green tea its immune-boosting effects along with being anti oxidative and good for brain health.
Papaya is another fruit that is loaded with Vitamin C. Papayas also have a digestive enzyme called papain that has anti inflammatory effects. Papayas have decent amounts of potassium, magnesium, and folate, all of which are beneficial to your overall health.
Bone Broth. Drinking this healthy broth has been credited for signs of overall improvement in the immune system and the human body at large. People drinking bone broth report they're less likely to contract the common cold or the flu. This is most likely a result of the healing of the gut, as unhealthy guts cause the immune system to release antibodies that attack healthy tissue in an autoimmune-like response. When the gut is restored, natural immune responses are re-established. Not only that, but bone broth has been linked to improved mood, energy levels, and healthy sleep. Chicken bone broth is especially helpful in this way. These all contribute to keeping your body in top-notch shape, which can prevent common ailments.
