The gastrointestinal tract is one of the barriers to the immune system that serves as a defense mechanism.
Planning meals that benefit the immune system is an excellent way of fighting off infection. Pre- and probiotic-rich foods enhance microbial diversity in the gut, while vitamin C-rich foods mop up free radicals. Additionally, avoiding foods that promote infection like heavily processed foods, sugar, and soda is also a key to enrich the microbiome and boost immunity.
Boost your immune system with the following foods:
Yellow bell peppers top the list for increased vitamin C intake. They are easy to get in most parts of the world and contain 152% DV of vitamin C. A single orange, on the other hand, only provides 78% DV of vitamin C.
Guava and guava juice contain 140% DV of vitamin C. It is also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that plays an essential role in the immune system’s enzyme activities.
Broccoli is high in phytonutrients like vitamin A, C and E. Ensuring high-quality intake of essential nutrients boost the immune system.
Turmeric is a great immune-boosting ingredient due to its support of healthy inflammatory pathways. Inflammation is implicated in the pathophysiology of many health-compromising situations, so consuming pro-healthy-inflammation foods is an ideal way to boost the immune system.
Almonds are rich in fat-soluble vitamin E. Vitamin E boosts the immune system as it’s a free radical scavenging antioxidant.