Your immune system is a protective security system within your body that helps to fight off sicknesses, such as colds or infections. The immune system is a complex network of cells, organs and tissues that all collaborate together to keep you healthy.
Here is a list of the top 7 foods that can help boost your immunity throughout the year.
1. Broccoli - Delicious, green broccoli is a valuable source of vitamins A, C, and E, and contains an abundance of calcium and glucosinolates which help stimulate and boost the immune system.
2. Garlic - Garlic contains sulfuric compounds which are an effective means against bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. This helps boost the immune system while providing antioxidant properties.
3. Bell Peppers - As a delicious and extremely versatile vegetable rich in phytochemicals and vitamin C, bell peppers are an excellent addition to your daily diet to help reduce the length of time you are sick.
4. Ginger - Added often to teas, ginger is exceptional at riding the body of germs and toxins by forcing you to sweat it out. Try adding some shredded ginger to your stir-fry or sauces to add a healthy zing all the time.
5. Blueberries - Blueberries can be a delicious addition to oats and cereals that can help fight off urinary tract infections, as well as provide a great deal of protection against certain cancers. Blueberries are high in vitamin C as well as potassium.
6. Raw honey - Obviously not suitable for everyone, raw honey contains antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-viral properties. Honey is fantastic to use for sore throats, coughs, insomnia, digestion, allergies and even toothaches. Many people use it as an alternative to sugars, such as in tea or coffee, because of the immense nutritional value it contains.
7. Yogurt - Yogurt is a delicious treat that is made from thickened milk and contains thousands of live bacteria to help ward off bad bacteria and viruses. Yogurt is great for the digestive system and can help increase your body's white blood cell count. It also helps promote a healthy lifestyle by helping in the elimination of toxins from the body.
While these foods have some definite health-boosting properties, adding in additional fruits and vegetables into your diet every day will help increase your vitamin and mineral intake and boost your immunity anyways.
