Have you noticed lately that you catch colds or infections all the time? If so, perhaps your immune system needs a boost. If you wish to treat and prevent any immune system problems and make your system fight intruders and disease more effectively, you can do so through your diet.
These foods have been proven to be very useful for enhancing the function of your immune system:
Garlic. Garlic, besides its rich and intense aroma and flavor, is a very potent antibacterial, antioxidant and antiviral agent, making it useful for a wide range of health problems--from clogging of the arteries to headaches and infections. Its immune-boosting properties come from active sulphuric compounds and a chemical substance called “allicin” which is found in fresh garlic and is responsible for its strong smell.
Broccoli. Remember when your mama told you to eat all your broccoli? There is actually a good reason for that. Broccoli is naturally fortified with vitamins and minerals like Vitamins A, C, E as well as a good amount of antioxidants that help fight free radical damage.If you wish to obtain its health-boosting benefits though, you better not overcook it as overcooking makes it lose a part of its natural nutrients.
Yogurt. Plain yogurt with active cultures e.g Greek live yogurt is healthy both for your gut’s immunity and the immunity of your general system. Yogurts with active cultures contain probiotics, which are good bacteria that defend your system against bad bacteria and restore balance in your gut. Yogurt is also rich in Vitamin D which can help your bones and boost immune system function, especially against the damaging effects of sun rays
Ginger. Ginger is a staple in Asian cuisine but has managed to grow popular in Western diets as well not only for its rich flavor and aroma but its wide range of health benefits as well. But how does exactly ginger help us get less sick? Ginger contains active substances like gingerol and lipophilic rhizome extracts which have a strong ability to fight inflammations of all types--from minor sore throats to cancer. If you wish to benefit fast from its health-boosting properties, you should ideally eat it fresh or in tea form.
Oolong Tea. Have you ever noticed that Chinese people tend to get less sick despite air pollution and their hectic lifestyles? Perhaps the high consumption of Oolong tea has to play a role here. Oolong tea is particularly rich in antioxidants and helps to boost the production of antibacterial proteins to fight and prevent infections. It also makes a healthier coffee alternative if you wish to get your daily dose of caffeine minus the jitters. Don’t forget to check our tea combos with oolong tea and other potent herbs for even better immune support.