Immune Boosting Super Foods

Let’s face it, by the time we feel the first tickle in our throat, we know it’s too late to fight off what’s ahead. These simple and delicious items can be added to your diet to minimize the chances of getting sick and sometimes avoid sickness altogether.

BY: Ciera Cypert

Yogurt

A quick treat you can take on the go, yogurt is full of probiotics that are linked to boosting your immunity. Yogurt contains a type of bacteria that is good for your digestive system. But buyer beware as not all boast equal benefits for your waistline—try to avoid ones that are high in sugar, and instead look for packages that have a “live and active cultures” label.

Garlic

Although it’s not fun having bad breath, eating this potent plant can improve your health. In addition to warding off vampires, garlic is known to fight off bacteria and infection that can lead to common colds. And for those suffering from hypertension, studies show that eating a few cloves a day can reduce blood pressure. Mix the cloves in with soups or cooked meats to add flavor and give your immune system some extra power.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers boast high concentrations of vitamin C (red bell peppers are known to have the highest amount of vitamin C) and contain the compound “capsaicin”—known for its ability to reduce bad cholesterol, controls diabetes, brings relief from pain and eases inflammation. These low calorie veggies are can easily be added to many dishes, raw or cooked.

Spinach

Popeye had the right idea when it came to downing these leafy greens which are chock full of vitamins and minerals including potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium as well as folate, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C. It is an easy switch to replace the nutritional lacking iceberg lettuce in your salad to spinach, or toss a handful into your next smoothie —you won’t even notice it’s there.

Pomegranate

This juicy fruit truly is a true powerhouse with healthy properties that improve your skin, hair and health. Pomegranates are full of anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that can fight off common illnesses and reduce your risk of disease and cancer. Pomegranate’s skin friendly nutrients also help soothe dry skin, prevent dark spots and even heal scars.

Turmeric

Though many spices have healthy benefits, turmeric has arguably the most powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have even suggested that turmeric intake can replace the need for drugs such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen. In addition to bettering physical health, the spice has been proven to be an effective aid in treating those with mild depression. For a physical or mental boost, turmeric can be added to soups and dressings for extra flavor, or sipped in fresh pressed juice or used to make a healing tonic called golden milk.

Almonds

Full of vitamin E and healthy fats, almonds are a quick and easy snack that helps create a healthy immune system and can help whittle your waistline by curbing hunger. These nuts contain riboflavin and L-carnitine—nutrients known for boosting brainpower and decreasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A half cup of almonds fulfills 100 percent of your daily amount of vitamin E—a vitamin known for its ability to help fight off cancer and heart disease.