7 Foods That Naturally Boost Your Immune System
You feel that little tickle in the back of your throat and immediately you're looking through your cabinets to see what remedies you have. Cough medicine, no. Black seed oil? No. And what was that random mixture you can't remember from grandma? It's a scary 48 hours. But health shouldn't have to be scary. In fact, health should be more of a preventative lifestyle than a reactive one.
Which is why we created this list of superfoods that naturally boost your immune system. Now for those who are asking, 'what are superfoods?' Superfoods are foods that have a particularly high amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their high concentration of nutrients makes them great for your health.
We want to remind you that healing and health start from within. Everything you put in your body can either help or hinder you. Now I won't lie, I'm well aware that the chips and dip I ate last night is doing nothing for my colon, however, I always try to make sure the majority of what I eat is clean, healthy foods.
So let's just jump right in, here are 7 foods that naturally boost your immune system:
1. GINGER
This root is one of my favorite ingredients. I love it in my tea, in my salad, in my smoothies and especially in a really good dish. The spicy, aromatic root is used to add some kick to drinks, teas, soups, and Asian dishes, and it’s also a real superfood. Ginger reduces inflammation and relieves pain. It also helps reduce nausea making it a popular choice for expectant mommies.
2. GOJI BERRIES
Goji berries, also known as wolfberries contain vitamin C, B vitamins, essential fatty acids, amino acids, plus minerals and trace elements. You can blend them into your breakfast smoothie or sprinkle the berries over your cereal or fruit salad for that extra boost to your immune system.
3. CHIA SEEDS
Originally come from Mexico, Chia seeds were regularly used by the Aztecs and Mayas. Today, they are a popular ingredient to a lot of different health food dishes. There are many reasons to eat chia seeds: they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and they provide twice as much vegetable protein as other seeds. In liquid form, chia seeds can expand to 10 times their original size within minutes, which is why they are often used to make pudding.
4. GARLIC
Garlic is often used to give a meal some extra flavor, but it is also one of the best foods for a strong immune system. Studies show regular consumption of garlic extract can have a positive effect on blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. Garlic is full of antioxidants, which strengthen your body’s natural defenses.
5. MATCHA
Matcha is ground green tea and popular as more than just a coffee substitute. The high content of free radical scavengers, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements make matcha a powerful way to fight a cold or flu. When buying, make sure that it is sugar-free and free of additives. The best way to store it is in the refrigerator.
6. KALE
Kale is high in antioxidants, strengthening your immune system and protecting your body from diseases like Alzheimer’s and arteriosclerosis. You can make a salad, prepare a healthy snack of kale leaf chips or mix it together with apple, kiwi, avocado, and ginger to make a green smoothie.
7. BLUEBERRIES
My favorite berry is a blueberry. They are loaded with vitamin C and potassium. Eat them during cold season – in smoothies, oatmeal, or just as a snack. These purplish berries are anti-inflammatory vitamin bombs that protect against disease.
