4 must-haves foods to boost your immune system this winter

Having a healthy immune system is essential to fighting off infections and illnesses. At a time when the world is going through a pandemic, perhaps it is even more appropriate to consider food that can naturally enhance our immune systems. Foods are filled with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that the immune system needs to fight off potentially life-threatening pathogens. When it comes to your immune system, it is really important you eat the right types of foods. Filling up on junk and thinking that it will protect you because a beef burger was involved is simply not good enough.v Fat and sugar can not only cause obesity, but by eating too much of these foods, you can be malnourished and vulnerable to attack. 

Blueberries

Blueberries are considered to be a fantastic immune-boosting superfood. They are packed full of flavonoids which are a variety of antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that the body uses to fight off free radicals. Free radicals can cause a lot of damage to the body, including producing cancer. That means finding food that combat free radicals is a must. Flavonoids help the body to reduce and repair damaged cells as well as boosting your immune system. Blueberries also contain a lot of vitamins such as vitamin A and C, as well as fiber, potassium, and manganese. You can eat blueberries as fruit on their own, or you can make smoothies with them, or maybe you can create some desserts. Blueberries for breakfast? Oh yes, add them to your oatmeal or learn how to make crepes then add blueberries within or on the top.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potato has the gorgeous orange color just like carrots, and for a good reason, they are jammed packed with beta-carotene. The body converts beta-carotene from the sweet potato into vitamin A. Vitamin A has the effect of destroying free radicals in the body. This can clearly help protect you from illness, improve the immune system, and there is evidence to suggest that vitamin A can slow down the aging process too. 

Broccoli

Broccoli is a basic vegetable that most people get every now and again, but it is well worth eating it more often. First of all, it is full of an antioxidant called glutathione which is essential for repairing and building your tissue fibers. It also contains vitamin A and C. Vitamin C is perhaps the most important nutrient when it comes to having a healthy immune system. It has the effect of preventing and treating many different illnesses. People generally consider oranges as their primary source of vitamin C, but broccoli is just as effective in boosting your vitamin C levels. Eating foods are a far better way of absorbing nutrient, too, rather than relying on supplements.

Garlic

If you want something that not only adds a kick to the flavor of your meal but also offers a myriad of health effects, garlic is what you need. It is a natural antiseptic, and it can help the body fight off bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. It can also help clear your skin up if you suffer from skin infections too.  

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