The immune system is one of the most important parts of human health, mainly because it is responsible for keeping the rest of our body healthy! Although, we don’t like to think about it this way, our bodies are constantly under attack from environmental, biological, psychosocial, physical, bacterial, fungal, and viral agents that are trying to make us anything but healthy. We are unaware of all the work our body does to maintain our health, but it is vital that we keep our immune system functioning at a high, efficient level so we can live healthy.
Some of the most important aspects of immune health, outside of lifestyle choices, are the foods we put into our body. A balanced diet including certain key minerals, vitamins, and organic compounds can make a huge difference between constantly feeling under the weather and protecting your vital systems every hour of every day. Antioxidants are a key part of the immune system battle, but there are plenty of other factors as well, which we will explain in greater detail below. Now, check out some of the best foods to give your immune system that healthy boost you need.
Blueberries And Immunity-
This very popular superfood is known to contain anthocyanins, tannins, resveratrol, phytonutrients, as well as potassium, fiber, vitamin C, and manganese. All of these components make blueberries one of your best defensive fruits to improve the strength of your immune system against a wide variety of illnesses, infections, and chronic diseases.
Oranges And Immunity-
People often turn to orange juice when they’re feeling sick, and with good reason. The high content of vitamin C gives a boost to the immune system by stimulating the activity of white blood cells, and vitamin C acts as an antioxidant to combat the effects of free radicals in the body. Vitamin C also is a vital component in collagen, which keeps your tissues and cell membranes healthy, protecting against attack from infections and viruses.
Chicken Soup And Immunity-
Although this is a classic cold remedy, chicken soup really does have immune system-boosting properties. A specific amino acid, cysteine, is released when chicken is cooked, and it has a healing effect on the respiratory system and fights the accumulation of mucus, which can often carry more bacteria and pathogens into the body.
Garlic And Immunity-
Although it might make your breath smell, garlic is a great way to boost your immune system. Along with the mineral content that is always beneficial for the body, garlic also contains an organic compound called allicin, which specifically defends against bacteria and can eliminate certain infections.It also contains thiosulfinates, sulfur-containing compounds that ward off certain diseases. Garlic has been used for centuries in cultures around the world as a natural immune system booster.