Having a strong immune system can help you prevent diseases and illnesses ranging from the common cold to more serious viruses. Incorporating foods into your diet that help boost your immunity system is one of the best ways to stay healthy and keep your body fending off harmful bacteria and viruses. Take less sick days this year by eating some of the following foods that keep your immune system strong.
1. Mushrooms: Mushrooms have been proven to increase the production of white blood cells, which fend off bacteria and viruses. Eating mushrooms is a great way to keep your white blood cells aggressive and your immune system healthy. Shiitake, maitake and reishi mushrooms are the mushrooms that will give your immune system the biggest boost.
2. Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics that keep your digestive system healthy and your guts and intestinal tract free of germs and bad bacteria. Some yogurts also contain a specific probiotic that stimulates bacteria-fighting white blood cells.
3. Garlic: Garlic can fend off infection and bacteria with allicin, the active ingredient in garlic that makes it a great immunity boosting food. Add garlic to food to boost your immune system and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
4. Fish: Certain types of fish, like salmon and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that protect the body from colds and respiratory infections. Shellfish also contain selenium, which aids in the production of a protein to help kill off flu viruses.
5. Sweet potatoes: Keep your skin strong against bacteria and disease by eating plenty of sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes contain tons of vitamin A, which aids in the production of connective tissue to keep skin healthy and strong.
6. Berries: Berries pack a huge amount of antioxidants. Some berries, like elderberries and other dark berries, are said to help rid the body of flu viruses. Berries can also help reduce inflammation when sick.
7. Watermelon: This fruit has high levels of the antioxidant glutathione, which helps the body fight off infection. Eating the pulpy red flesh of watermelon regularly can help boost your immune system.
8. Wheat Germ: Eating wheat germ can have many benefits because of the vast amount of nutrients it contains. Wheat germ packs a powerful punch of zinc, antioxidants, fibers, protein and B vitamins. All of these components help keep the body operating at peak performance, even during flu season.
Consume these foods as a part of a good diet to help your immune system fend off harmful bacteria and viruses. Also make sure to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, or take dietary supplements to ensure that you get the proper about of vitamins and minerals per day. A healthy and balanced diet is one of the best ways to protect yourself against illness.
