Your immune system is your body’s natural defense against microorganisms and disease. Sometimes, it needs help with immune boosting foods. There are supplements you can take, but going the more natural route is always a better first approach. That is why you should consider adding more antioxidants and gut-healthy bacteria to your diet. This post will share three of the most powerful options that are easy to incorporate and readily available at your local grocery stores.
1. Greek Yogurt: Immune Boosting Foods for Your Gut Microbiota
When it comes to immune boosting foods, yogurt is a powerful option. However, many people do not realize the benefits it holds for the gut and even their immune system. When you opt for Greek yogurt, you will be adding more beneficial or “good” bacteria to your gastrointestinal tract. These bacteria help with the breakdown of food and the production of nutrients, and even play a role in training your immune system.
When you get a bad kind of microorganism in your digestive system, the good bacteria fight against it, protecting you against complications like an infection. Research shows that good bacteria in your gut help to stimulate the release of both B-cells and T-cells. These cells are part of your immune system. They help to detect and attack invading pathogens. Yogurt is also great for boosting your intake of vitamin D, an important nutrient that helps your body absorb calcium. There are links between vitamin D and your immune system as well.
2. Nuts: Vitamin E & Healthy Fats
Nuts are incredibly good for you and a perfect option when you want more immune boosting foods. There are tons of nuts, and getting a good variety is what you want to aim for. Nuts like almonds, macadamias, and walnuts are rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect your body against illnesses.
You can also get a healthy dose of other vitamins and minerals when you decide to have nuts regularly, as well as healthy fats. Nuts have a low glycemic index, and they are packed with fiber. Researchers have also found that nuts can be good for lowering blood pressure. This means it can become a healthy part of a natural strategy to deal with hypertension.
3. Green Tea: Powerful Antioxidants
While not really a food, but a drink, green tea is also an ideal addition to your daily diet if you want to boost your immune system. The leaves we use to make green tea contain epigallocatechin gallate, also known as EGCG, and flavonoids.
Both of these natural chemicals are antioxidants, which should form an important part of your diet if you want to protect your body against free radicals. In one research paper, scientists also revealed the fact that green tea, particularly the EGCG antioxidants in these leaves, has antiviral properties. This means they can help to protect your body against viruses, such as the stomach flu virus and even the common cold.
