6 Superfoods to Boost Immunity
Healthful Vitality | 07/02/2021 | 6 Superfoods to Boost Immunity
Research is clear that having a strong and healthy immune system is incredibly important. Notably, research on immune response in COVID-19 reveals strong immunity protects against viruses and diseases. Indeed, the human immune system serves as a natural line of defense against illness and disease. Thankfully, it responds very well to the consumption of superfoods, which is what we will look at today.
Unquestionably, a robust immune system is hugely important for health and wellness, as the stronger your immune system is, the healthier you are and the less likely you will become sick and unwell. Furthermore, if you become ill, you’ll recover much quicker and much easier if you have a robust immune system. On the flip side, weak immunity means that you’ll be more susceptible to illness and find it harder to recover.
6 superfoods to boost immunity
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to boost immunity, particularly when it comes to a healthy diet. Here’s a look at 6 superfoods to boost immune system function.
1. Broccoli as a superfood
The first of the superfoods that we have for you today is broccoli.
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is jam packed full of beneficial nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
As far as boosting immunity goes, broccoli is also a powerful anti-inflammatory. In fact, various studies show that Broccoli can potentially serve as a powerful anti-cancer food due to its high concentration of flavonoids glucosinolates.
Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, broccoli has been found to be one of the best superfoods to boost immune system function. The antioxidants in broccoli help to protect your cells and prevent oxidative stress and damage, while the other nutrients boost immunity and help to fight inflammation which can be a precursor for many chronic illnesses.
2. Leafy green vegetables for optimal health
Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale are also incredibly beneficial for boosting immunity, thanks to their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Notably, leafy green veggies contain flavonoids and carotenoids, which can help protect the cells and improve vision. You’ll also find heaps of vitamin C in leafy greens, as well as minerals such as iron, copper, calcium, and magnesium, and vitamin K, which promotes blood clotting.
3. Sweet potatoes for healthy vision and immunity
The immune system benefits from a whole host of different nutrients found in various foods, especially those considered ‘superfoods.’ In terms of immune-boosting superfoods, sweet potatoes are undoubtedly high on the list.
Sweet potatoes have a brilliant, vibrant orange color similar to carrots. This orange color is all thanks to beta carotene, a precursor for vitamin A. Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in the function of a healthy immune system.
Furthermore, sweet potatoes promote healthy vision, a robust immune response, balanced hormones, blood glucose levels, stable energy levels, and more.
4. Tomatoes for a healthy immune response
Tomatoes are generally underrated in terms of their health benefits, as they are often seen as a compulsory addition to a regular salad or a burger. However, this fantastic red fruit (yes, tomatoes are technically a fruit) is also a nutritional powerhouse.
Tomatoes contain vitamin C, which helps boost immunity, and a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant responsible for giving tomatoes their vibrant red color.
Research conducted on a variety of tomato varieties shows tomato has been associated with a reduced risk of several types of cancer. But, again, this is largely down to the nutrients in tomatoes, including lycopene.
5. Nuts as immune boosting superfoods
Plain nuts, i.e., nuts in their natural form, are another example of superfoods for immunity boosting as they are loaded full of beneficial ingredients, which give the body a world of good.
Research on the health benefits of nut consumption indicates that nuts are nutrient-dense, rich in vitamins, minerals, and other antioxidants, and are fantastic sources of plant-based protein and unsaturated fatty acids.
Those looking to boost immunity would do well to add nuts to their daily diets, as nuts are rich in vitamin E, which plays a vital role in forming white blood cells. White blood cells are critical components of the immune system, so the more you have, your immune system response will be more significant.
As far as superfood power is concerned, thanks to the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and good fats in nuts, which help to reduce LDL cholesterol and boost healthy HDL cholesterol, natural nuts serve as fantastic superfoods for immunity booster purposes.
6. Oily fish for heart and body
Another fantastic example of how foods rich in calories and good fats can serve as superfoods to boost immune system function is oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines.
Oily fish is loaded full of essential omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight inflammation, reduce LDL cholesterol levels, prevent cognitive decline, boost metabolism, promote cardiovascular health, and boost the immune system.
Oily fish is also a great source of protein, which contributes towards muscle growth and repair, as well as cellular function and repair. Roll all these benefits together, and you have the ultimate immunity-boosting superfood.
Final thoughts
As you can see from the above-described 6 superfoods to boost immunity, yes, plenty of superfoods are available today to boost immunity and promote wellness for many different reasons. Therefore, starting with your diet is a great place to begin if you want to get healthier.
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