Best Food for Immune Health
"Let food be thy first medicine" - the famous quote from Hippocrates still stands true 2000 years on, and yet its never been harder or more important to manage your health though the foods you eat. With so many processed foods and artificial ingredients out there, it's hard to know what to eat to keep our bodies healthy. That's why we've put together a list of the best foods for immune health, so you can make sure you're getting the nutrients you need to stay healthy all winter long.
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C, which is essential for a strong immune system. Vitamin C helps white blood cells function properly and fights off infection. oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are all great options for getting your daily dose of Vitamin C.
- Leafy greens: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are also rich in Vitamin C, as well as other vitamins and minerals like iron and magnesium. Eat them raw in a salad, cook them into a delicious stir-fry, or juice them for a nutrient-packed morning drink.
- Yogurt: Yogurt contains live bacteria that are great for gut health, and a healthy gut is key to a strong immune system. Look for yogurts that contain live cultures such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium lactis.
- Garlic: Garlic has long been used as a natural way to fight off infection and boost immunity. Allicin, garlic's active compound, has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Add garlic to soups, stews, sauces, or just about anything else you're cooking up this winter.
- Shellfish: Shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster are excellent sources of zinc, which is essential for a functioning immune system. Zinc helps white blood cells reproduce properly and supports the body's natural defenses against infection. Enjoy shellfish as part of a healthy diet this winter season.
These are just a few of the many great foods that can help support your immune system this winter. By incorporating these items into your diet, you'll be giving your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and fight off infection. So make sure to stock up on oranges, leafy greens, yogurt, garlic, and shellfish this winter!