As you consider adding foods that may help boost your immune system, it’s also a great idea to add or increase healthy activities such as regular exercise. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help preserve the immune system.
Mushrooms: This food is among the best for boosting the immune system. One reason is because mushrooms are rich in B vitamins. As we discussed earlier about B-Complex for Chronic Pain Relief, these types of vitamins, such as riboflavin, can help ease pain and are necessary for immune system protection.
Watermelon: Watermelon is sweet, delicious, and powerful - and it is easy to buy in any supermarket. Watermelon helps support the immune system with Vitamin A, Potassium, and Vitamin C, three natural components that are essential to protect yourself against germs, bacteria, and viruses. This tasty fruit can be eaten in slices or juiced.
Wheat Germ: Wheat germ is a food that can be used in combination with other foods.
Instead of using breadcrumbs for breaded chicken, try using wheat germ for grilled wheat germ chicken. Wheat germ can also be used as a topping for ice cream, fruits and any food. It is inexpensive and is rich in vitamins E and B.
Spinach: This famous dark green leafy plant has three components that can help build your immunity in the easiest way possible. Vitamins A and C combined with magnesium and iron make spinach a truly powerful veggie. Iron also helps to stave off anemia and motor weakness. It is not necessary to consume large amounts of spinach to reap the benefits; you can chop small pieces in a salad or add to your blender with your morning smoothie.
Broccoli: Another of the most famous dark green vegetables, broccoli brings a host of healthy benefits. To some, the taste of broccoli may seem bitter, but when steamed and prepared with a dash of salt and low-fat spread or dressing, it is quite tasty. This power-packed vegetable offers B vitamins, zinc, and iron. In addition to helping support your immune system, broccoli is scientifically proven to be good for fighting cancer.
Citric Fruits: Fruits in the citrus category are among the best natural antioxidants available. Oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are tasty and pack many healthy benefits. In addition to the high content of vitamin C and potassium, they are affordable and can be found at any local grocery, year-round. This type of fruit can be enjoyed whole or by preparing juices.
Dark Chocolate: A delicious way to support the immune system is dark chocolate. But do a little research and choose your treat carefully to ensure the benefits. When shopping for a healthy dark chocolate bar, here are some qualities to look for:
- High cacao content, ideally 70% or higher for antioxidant benefits
- Low sugar content; your taste buds can adjust over time to enjoy less sweetness
- Few additives and overall ingredients; the simpler, the better
- Not “Dutched” or processed with alkali
The right source of dark chocolate can be a powerful source of antioxidants, may improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and more. And it tastes great!