Emeka Nweze
While anyone can contract coronavirus, it is believed that those with a strong immune system stand a better chance of fighting it if it comes. As such it is important for everyone to strengthen their immune system, and what better way to do so than by watching what we put in our mouths. Now is the time to take healthy eating seriously and stay away from foods that add nothing to our bodies.
Here are 10 natural foods that can help strengthen the immune system.
1. Citrus fruits
Along with helping the body produce white blood cells, vitamin C is also usually the go-to first aid medication whenever someone catches a cold. Citrus fruits contain an abundance of that vitamin and you should never run out of them this period. Examples of citrus fruits include, oranges, grapefruit, tangerine, lemons, limes etc.
2. Red bell peppers
If you thought citrus fruits were the ultimate vitamin c providers, think again because red bell peppers contain twice as much vitamin C as citrus fruits. Red bell peppers are also high in beta carotene, which can help keep your skin and eyes healthy.
3. Yogurt
Live yogurt (fermented with live culture bacteria) can help boost the immune system to help fight diseases. More so, yogurts fortified with vitamin D helps regulate the immune system and boosts our body’s natural defenses against diseases.
4. Garlic
Garlic contains high amounts of acilin, which contain sulfur, which contains immune boosting properties. Garlic is also believed to help lower blood pressure and slow down hardening of the arteries.
5. Green tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants such as flavonoids and epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG which help boost immune function. Green tea is also a good source of the amino acid L-theanine which is believed to help in the production of germ-fighting compounds in your T-cells.
6. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate contains an antioxidant called theobromine, which is thought to protect the body from free radicals. Free radicals attack important macromolecules leading to cell damage and homeostatic disruption. While dark chocolate might enhance your immune system, they are also high in saturated fat and calories.
7. Almonds
Almonds contain an abundance of vitamins C and E, with the latter containing fat-soluble, and antioxidants which are essential for a healthy immune system. Almonds are also rich in iron,fiber, magnesium, and manganese.
8. Spinach
Spinach is packed with numerous antioxidants and beta carotene, which may boost immune function and provide the body with necessary nutrients for cell division and DNA repair. It is important to note that spinach is healthiest when it’s not overcooked, in order for it to retain its nutrients.
9. Broccoli
Broccoli is packed with minerals, vitamins A, C, and E, as well as many other antioxidants. Eating it uncooked, or lightly cooked increases its effectiveness in the body.
10. Fatty fish
Fatty fish like tuna, salmon, sardines, etc, are high in omega-3 fatty acids which according to research help boost the immune system by enhancing functioning of immune cells.
