Foods to Boost Your Immune System Naturally
Written By: Jan McBarron MD,ND (Natural Remedy News)
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Published - Nov 23, 2010
Maintaining a strong immune system is of paramount importance to protecting your health. Some key things to keep in mind in strengthing your immune system is to get proper rest, avoid stress, and minimize exposure to immune supressing items such as alcohol, caffiene and sugar to name a few. Of course the foods you include in your diet can have a significant impact on supporting and boosting your immune system and here is a list of some of the most beneficial.
Medicinal Mushrooms
Maitake, shiitake and reishi mushrooms contain powerful immune boosting components known as beta-glucans. Researchers have found these compounds effective in stimulating the immune system to fight off infections from cold and flu viruses. Studies have also found potential for their use in cancer and against the HIV virus. These mushrooms can be eaten whole as in this recipe or are also available in supplement form.
Whey Protein
Whey is a by-product of the cheese making process. It contains many individual protein parts that offer numerous health benefits. By raising glutathione levels in the body, it helps to boost immunity. Other actions of whey include limiting the growth of harmful bacteria while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Whey protein is available in a wide variety of products and flavors.
Yogurt
Yogurt with live active cultures contains “friendly” bacteria known as probiotics. These friendly bacteria help keep your digestive tract healthy by fending off unwanted bacteria and yeast. They also help boost immunity. Recent studies have shown probiotics to be helpful in preventing and fighting the common cold.
Turmeric
The compound curcumin in turmeric is responsible for its yellow color and has been found to help stimulate the immune system. This spice also has been shown to have anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties.
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in powerful antioxidants and boosting immunity is just one of their many healthy benefits.
Garlic
This centuries-old cold and flu fighter has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. One of the active components of garlic, allicin, blocks enzymes that allow unwanted viral and bacterial invaders from entering and damaging cells. You don’t have to eat raw or fresh garlic to reap these health benefits. Studies have found garlic in supplement form to be effective in preventing the common cold as well.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, the plant form of Vitamin A, and other carotenoids. These compounds help support a healthy immune system.