Here's some great immune boosting foods to look out for when you're next out food shopping..
1. Fermented Foods
Fermented foods carry a host of healthy probiotics. Probiotics are healthy bacteria that promote your gut health. With more than 80% of the immune system residing in your gut, taking probiotics is a really good step. The next time you're out shopping, grab some kefir, miso, kimchi or sauerkraut. They will have more active bacteria than a probiotic pill.
2. Include Herbs
Include plenty of herbs like Cilantro, Tulsi (Holy basil) and Oregano. Research confirms Tulsi has outstanding immune-boosting effects.
Oregano is a powerful healing and immune-boosting herb. Both these herbs have anti-fungal, antibacterial and antiviral effects.
3. Spice Up Your Meals
Spices like turmeric and ginger have extraordinary immune-strengthening effects.
Ayurvedic medicine cites their effects on our immune system. These spices have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which work to improve immune cell's function.
Ginger helps to break down toxins in our organs through its warming effects.
Turmeric's yellow pigment curcumin is a potent antibiotic.
My favourite way to reap the benefits of these potent spices in a detox tea.
4. Add Cruciferous Veggies
They are rich in sulfur-containing nutrients. These are powerful antioxidants, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Examples include broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower.
5. Boost Your Antioxidant intake
Include plenty of antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
Go for a colourful palate and eat as many variants as you can to get a spectrum of antioxidants.
Antioxidants scavenge dead cells and free radicals and free up the immune system. This reduces the toxic overload in the body and refreshes the disease-fighting cells.
Building your immune health is a holistic approach. Besides diet, other factors do weigh in too.
BONUS:
Here are a few other things to keep in mind..
- Avoid smoking
- Eat a diet high in raw fruits, and vegetables
- Exercise daily
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get adequate sleep
- Maintain adequate vitamin D levels
- Drink enough water
- Lower your stress levels
- Include healthy fats and protein in your meals
- Wash your hands regularly
Take a pro-active approach to your health. A healthy diet is the key to lower the risk of diseases and keeps your immune system healthy.
