With the seasons changing, it is the time of year that everybody starts to feel sick. Here is a list of foods that will help boost your immune system this winter.
1. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit contain vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
2. Garlic
Garlic is found many foods making it an easy thing to help boost your immunity. Garlic contains antioxidants such as manganese and vitamin B6. It also lowers blood pressure and slows down the hardening of arteries.
3. Ginger
Ginger helps decrease inflammation which can be beneficial when treating a sore throat. Some popular ginger items are ginger ale, ginger snaps, and ginger candy.
4. Tea
Tea contains antioxidants, specifically flavonoids, which help immune function. Tea also relieves symptoms of sickness such as an upset stomach or a sore throat.
5. Berries
Berries contain antioxidants and polyphenols which help your body fight diseases and cancer. Different berries have different benefits but each is sure to help your health.
6. Sweet Potato
Sweet Potatoes are high in vitamin A, which is important for vision and the immune system. Sweet potatoes contain more vitamin A and fiber than a white potato.
7. Fish
Fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important to your body but your body cannot make them. Omega-3 fatty acids help lower the risk of things such as depression and arthritis.
8. Yogurt
Yogurt labeled live and active cultures is beneficial because it has probiotics that crowd out harmful microorganisms that could cause infections in your intestines. Yogurt also contains lots of vitamins such as vitamin D.9. Spinach
Spinach boosts your immune system because it contains high levels of vitamin C and other nutrients such as folate. Both raw and cooked spinach help boost your immune system.
10. Broccoli
Broccoli contains high amounts of fiber which is good for the digestive system. Along with fiber, broccoli also contains many vitamin and antioxidants.
11. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are important because they contain selenium which helps reproduction, thyroid gland function, DNA production, and fights infection. Mushrooms also contain protein, vitamin C, and iron.
12. Red Bell Peppers
The red bell pepper contains high amounts of vitamin C, even higher than a citrus. They also contain phytochemical and carotenoids which are helpful because they are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Try adding these foods to your diet so that you can fight off any sicknesses.