Haha… what a corny title but I love it!
Yuk for cold season… I have seen so many people already coming down with bugs, colds, flu, etc and I don’t want to be added to that list. So on top of taking Vitamin C I am trying to add these foods to Dan and my diet. I don’t know about you but I just don’t have time to get sick… if I am sick the world doesn’t stop… don’t you wish it did though?
All of these foods are linked to improving your immune system. Of course eating them can’t guarantee you won’t get sick but I figure every little bit helps. And also remember on of the best immune strengthening things is exercise so now is a really important time not to slack off!
Immune Boosting Foods:
Zinc: Fights off infection by increasing the amount of white blood cells (WBC) your body produces. A study in 2007 showed a link between those with a zinc deficiency and a low immune system. Foods include: oysters, crab, beans, meat, dairy and fortified cereals.
Probiotics: These are “healthy” bacteria food in some foods that according to studies boost immunity and keeps the bad bacteria at bay. A study revealed that women who eat probiotic yogurt increased their T-cell (cells part of the immune system) by 30%! Foods include: Yogurt, sauerkraut, fermented and unfermented milk, some juices, soy drinks and kefir.
Lean Protein: What isn’t protein good for? Your body requires protein to produce WBCs… if you’ve been reading this blog you know lots of examples. Foods include: chicken, turkey, bison, fish (tuna and salmon are great), beans, and eggs.
Selenium: Protects your body against inflammation (swelling). A study performed at the University of Brussels found taht taking 100 mcg daily improved parts of the immune system by 79%! Foods include: Brazil nuts, button mushrooms, tuna, shrimp, pork.
Fresh fruits and leafy veggies: Filled with vitamin A and C (and tons of other great vitamins and minerals) are awesome in helping boost your immune system. Try and aim for 5 servings per day! Top foods: sweet potatoes, kiwi, bell peppers, carrots, oranges.
Garlic: I eat this stuff everyday! It increases the production of WBCs and antibodies, fights free radicals and boosts activity of your immune NK cells. It helps the body’s GPS system at detecting infection and threatening bacteria and signals your immune system to go to work asap. Not to mention garlic is also thought to be an aphrodisiac.
Those are some great immune boosting foods to start adding to your kitchen to help you and your family try your damnedest not to get sick this season! It might not work, but heck it’s worth a shot.
Tagged as: healthy foods, immune boosting, improve health
