Boost Your Immunity with Food
‘Tis the season for enjoying family time, honoring cherished traditions and hosting festive parties. Unfortunately, it is also cold and flu season. While it’s common knowledge that practices like washing our hands regularly are critical for preventing illness, we don’t often hear about how our food choices can impact our immune system.
Vitamins A, C and E are antioxidants, which combat harmful molecules called free radicals that we are exposed to in many different ways. Antioxidants protect us from free radicals, strengthening our immune system. Enjoy the following antioxidant-rich foods: vitamin A (carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, squash), vitamin E (almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts) and vitamin C (oranges, grapefruit, lemon, lime, broccoli, Brussels sprouts).
Probiotics, live microorganisms that replenish our gut bacteria, also help support immune health because of the close connection between the gut and immune system. Probiotics are found in fermented foods like yogurt, miso and sauerkraut. Check out these 10 ways to eat more fermented foods for immune health.
Zinc is a mineral found in many foods that supports immune health by helping the immune system function properly. For high-quality sources of zinc, eat whole grains, beans, nuts, lean meats, seafood and pumpkin seeds.
Boost your immunity this holiday season by eating nutrient-rich foods every day!
