We all know the health benefits associated with healthy eating such as a lower BMI and more energy. But, do you also know that eating certain foods will also boost your productivity? The truth is your body needs energy to perform tasks and food is the primary source of this energy. Foods high in sugar and caffeine might offer a “jolt” of energy, but you’ll come crashing down once the body starts to process it.
Instead of consuming empty calories, try these foods known for boosting the immune system. These foods are particularly helpful during the winter cold and flu season.
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Garlic
Garlic is known for its pungent smell and zesty taste, but many people don’t know about its immune-boosting properties. Allicin, an acid formed when garlic is chopped or crushed, lowers high blood pressure and cholesterol. It also repairs muscle damage.
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Oranges
Packed with Vitamin C, oranges have long been heralded as the go-to food for cold and flu sufferers, but it’s not the only superfood. Other citrus fruits, such as grapefruits, tangerines, lemons, limes also have the vitamin.
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Red Peppers
Surprisingly, red bell peppers contain more Vitamin C than citrus fruits. The antioxidant also protects cells from free radical damage. Free radicals contribute to chronic diseases and vitamin C reduces internal/external inflammation.
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Ginger
Ginger is known as an anti-inflammatory that soothes sore throats and nausea. Oftentimes, people are urged to drink some ginger ale or ginger tea when dealing with an upset stomach.
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Spinach
This leafy green vegetable is another Vitamin C-packed food, but it also has beta carotene. Beta carotene is a pigment found in other foods, like carrots, and its responsible for a carrot’s bright orange color. The body converts beta carotene into Vitamin A which contributes to healthy skin, nails, and the immune system.
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Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice highly regarded for its rich color and intense flavor. However, its anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial to people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis- two autoimmune diseases.
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Papaya
In addition to Vitamin C, the papaya fruit has potassium, folate, and B vitamins. Potassium is a nutrient vital to cell, nerve, and muscle function.
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Shellfish
Seafood (clams, mussels, lobster, and crabs) contain zinc, which is a mineral that keeps the immune system strong.
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Green Tea
The flavonoids in green tea are antioxidants that strengthen the immune system. Green tea also has amino acids that improve the body’s germ-fighting capabilities.
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Almonds
The high levels of Vitamin E found in green tea contribute to healthy skin and hair-both signs of a stable immune system.
Tying it all together
The foods listed range from spices to liquid drinks. Hopefully, you can incorporate a few of them into your diet to keep the immune system healthy year-round. Here at Medical Professionals, we wouldn’t be living up to our name if we didn’t encourage you to live a healthier lifestyle!