So I thought today we'd talk about foods that boost the "immune system"
But first . . . let's just quickly discuss ways to strengthen the immune system that aren't food related.
And that would be by doing things like . . . not smoking, stop drinking alcohol and get adequate sleep because these elements all cause "inflammation" in the body. Other things we need to do are get regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
Again . . . if these elements are not maintained . . . this too will cause the body to hold "inflammation".
Okay . . . so what are some foods that can help to keep us healthy and boost our immune system???
Well . . . first and foremost . . . eating more green leafy vegetables like spinach. Spinach is rich in vitamin C and is also packed with antioxidants and beta carotene which increase the infection-fighting ability of the immune system. Broccoli is another great option. We've spoken about the healing benefits of broccoli in other Health tips. These foods ensure that immune cells in the gut and the skin known as intra-epithelial lymphocytes function properly.
Next up . . . mushrooms . . . you see . . . all medicinal mushrooms contain powerful polysaccharides called beta-glucans, which have been found to help fight inflammation and balance the immune system.
One of the best that can do it all is Reishi. It can aid in weight loss, fight cancer cells and keep the immune system in check.
Maitake mushrooms can help reduce intestinal inflammation, which can help improve immunity. They can also help combat various viruses and bacteria.
Next . . . is citrus foods like grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, lemons, limes and clementine's are all loaded with vitamin C which increases the production of white blood cells, which as we know . . . plays a vital role in fighting against infections.
Another would be bone broth . . . because it's high in protein. amino acids and minerals. These amino acids help heal and protect the body. It also contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and many other essential minerals that help flush out toxins and reduce inflammation from the body.
One more in the food group would be . . . specific lectin proteins because they prevent viral transmission. And they would be bananas, tomatoes and whole grains (not wheat grains).
Okay . . . so what about my go-to favorite "ginger"???
Due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, ginger can boost immune health. This can combat inflammation and keep the immune system healthy by enhancing immune response.
And finally . . . Quercetin is a plant pigment (flavonoid) that's found in many plants and foods such as onions, "green tea", apples and berries.
Quercetin is known for its antioxidant activity in radical scavenging and anti-allergic properties which stimulate the immune system. It has antiviral activity, inhibits histamine release and "decreases" pro-inflammatory cytokines just like we've been talking about the past few days.
It can also help to reduce high blood pressure and regulate blood sugar levels. Plus . . . it's been known to have brain-protective and anticancer properties.
So get moving people . . . and start eating healthier in 2021.
Tomorrow we'll talk about another element that may be part of the devastation of the Coronavirus and then we start a series talking about what vitamins and mineral we need for optimal health.
As always, feel free to contact me here.