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A strong immune system is essential for us to keep our body healthy. Recurrent infections, chronic allergies and regular gastrointestinal problems are signs that our immune system is weak and needs to be taken care. Certain foods are powerful sources of vitamins and minerals, which can fortify our immune system . Hence, to ensure that our immune system is running smoothly, we need to follow some simple dietary habits.
- Fruits for Vitamin C: The most powerful food that keeps our immune system running is Vitamin C, as it increases the production of the white blood cells, the fighters of infections. As the body is unable to either produce or store this essential nutrient, we need to supplement it with Vitamin C. You have a variety of options to choose from as all the citrus fruits are high in vitamin C. So consume guavas, oranges and lemons which respond quickly to infections and enhance immunity.
- Turmeric: Turmeric has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It is a storehouse of vitamin like Vitamin B6 and minerals like manganese, potassium and iron and contain the antioxidant curcumin. All these go a long way in making turmeric an ideal food for boosting the immune system.
- Garlic: This pungent-smelling food has been recognized since ages as a valuable source for fighting infections. Allicin, a sulphur-containing compound in garlic, contributes to the powerful immune-boosting properties of garlic. A must-have food for our immune system , garlic finds use in almost all cuisines throughout the world.
- Ginger: A very common home remedy to treat coughs and colds, ginger can be taken on a regular basis to prevent the onslaught of infections from pathogens. Capsaicin in ginger gives it the distinctive heat. Ginger also helps to get relief from chronic pain and to reduce cholesterol.
- Kale: Kale is one of the top immune boosting foods. It has forty-nine different types of flavonoids and is high on fiber; it is rich in antioxidants and is loaded with the two most essential vitamins for the immune system to stay healthy – Vitamins C and K. So, make kale a compulsory food in your diet to build your immunity.
- Yogurt: Yogurt has many health benefits due to which daily consuming yogurt helps the body. Yogurt stimulates the immune system and helps it to fight disease. Hence, in addition to improving immunity, it also aids in digestion and helps to fight vaginal yeast infections.
- Watermelon: Watermelon is high in lycopene and glutathione, present in the red pulpy flesh, has immense immune boosting properties . It plays a key role in immune response, intermediary metabolism and on overall health.
- Green Leafy Vegetables: Green leafy plants and vegetables contain folic acid, which is a great vegetable to fight infections. So consume spinach and other leafy greens and give a boost to your immunity.
- Green Tea: Polyphenols, the antioxidants present in green tea , are very effective in destroying the common cold virus. Consume green tea without milk, as milk reduces its antioxidant properties, and improve your immunity with this beverage.
So, add these super healthy foods for a well fortified immune system and help your body from the onslaught of micro-organisms and their diseases. To know more about immune boosting foods, click here.