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6 nutritious foods to strengthen the immune system

6 nutritious foods to strengthen the immune system

The immune system protects the body from outside invaders, including germs, viruses, fungi, and toxins. The system is made up of various organs, cells, and proteins that work together. However, for the immune system to function correctly, one has to live a healthy lifestyle. This includes following a suitable meal plan that can benefit their overall health. So here are six foods one should eat to boost their immune system.

Blueberries
These berries are rich in multiple properties that can benefit the body. Blueberries contain a flavonoid called anthocyanin, which possesses antioxidant properties to boost the immune system. The berries help boost the respiratory tract’s immune defense system.

Dark chocolate
The human body is often susceptible to developing free radicals, created when the body breaks down food or comes in contact with pollutants. The radicals can damage healthy cells if they make contact. Dark chocolate is abundant in the antioxidant theobromine. This can help strengthen the immune system, which can fight off such free radicals.

Broccoli
Adding this vegetable to one’s meals may help improve vitamin C levels. Broccoli also contains potent antioxidants, including sulforaphane. The respective vitamins and antioxidants are important to support the immune system.

Ginger
Ginger has been used in several cooking recipes for centuries because of its powerful healing capabilities. The food contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties that may help improve one’s immune system and overall well-being.

Almonds
Eating a small handful of almonds daily can introduce vitamin E, fibers, magnesium, and manganese, to the body. These nutrients can significantly boost one’s immune system response toward outside invaders.

Spinach
Spinach contains multiple nutrients and antioxidants essential to maintaining the immune system. These include vitamins E and C, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Sometimes people may get the common cold even if they are healthy. Here’s where flavonoids may also help prevent such developments.

Apart from eating the foods above, one may also need to try other solutions to cope with certain health conditions. For example, influenza can cause mild to severe illness and symptoms, including cough, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, and fatigue. One can try out a few remedies at home to manage the flu. Steam showers and aromatherapy are popular methods to beat the flu at home. One should also get sufficient rest to help their body better deal with the condition. Moreover, it is advisable to speak to a healthcare expert before trying any remedies to cope with the flu.

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