Start eating the following super foods om a regular basis – and be prepared to be surprised by how quickly our health will improve.
1. Honey
Potent properties: antimicrobial, antioxidant, antimicrobial and hygroscopic (helps with tissue healing and regeneration).
Since the dawn of history, honey has been known for its near-miraculous medicinal properties. Among other things, it was used to cure coughs and digestive disorders, treat skin problems, and was used as an ointment to promote wound healing.
2. Mushrooms
Potent properties: Immune stimulant, immuno- modulator, antibacterial, antimicrobial.
An occasional cold, minor injury or insect bite is actually good for you. It exercises the immune system and keeps it strong, alert, and ready to combat more serious infections should they occur.
The seemingly mundane mushroom is an immune stimulant, meaning that it acts as an energizer that exercises the immune system and gives it a good “workout” without you actually getting sick. In fact, making mushrooms a regular part of your diet can boost your immune system by a whopping 300 percent.
The potent antibacterial agents contained in mushrooms also help fight viruses, bacteria, and fungi and they are a good source of essential minerals needed by the immune system.
While all types of mushrooms contain essential immunity-boosters, the following types are especially potent:
• Maitake mushrooms: The American Cancer Association has listed this mushroom as a top immunity strengthening food that also helps fight the growth of cancer cells. Maitake mushrooms can be found in most high-end supermarkets and health food stores.
• Reishi mushrooms: This mushroom is recognized by the Japanese government as an effective cancer treatment. It is packed with a number of cancer-fighting substances that have been known to treat prostate cancer and several types of tumors. It’s also very effective in alleviating bronchitis and asthma.
• Shitake mushrooms: Another potent pathogen-killer that destroys many types of viruses and bacteria. The great news is that shitake mushrooms are available at most grocery stores.
• Lion’s mane mushrooms: They have been used for centuries in Chinese medicine as super-powerful immunity boosters.
3. Oranges
Potent properties: Antioxidant, antibacterial, vitamin C When we think oranges, we immediately think vitamin C, the best protection against cold and flu. Oranges are possibly the highest food in vitamin C concentration. One medium orange will provide your body with 162 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
4. Sweet Potatoes
Potent properties: Beta-carotene, vitamin A, antioxidants When was the last time you ate sweet potatoes? Sadly, sweet potatoes are not high on our list of regularly consumed foods. But they rank high on the list of immunity-boosting superfoods.
5. Fish
Potent properties: Omega-3 Fatty acids
Fish is packed with healthy Omega-3 fats, which improve immunity by promoting production and activity of white blood cells. In addition to strengthening the immune system, this super food is just plain healthy in so many ways. Some of these health benefits include:
• Reduces risk of stroke and heart attack
• Contains nutrients that promote brain health
Promotes longevity
• Decreases the risk of autoimmune disease
• Improves eyesight
• Improves sleep
Bear in mind that not all fish are created equal. For maximum immune-boosting benefits, make sure you eat the following types of fish:
• Wild salmon
• Mackerel
• Tuna
• Oysters (not technically a fish but are great for promoting immune system function)
• Char
• Cod
• Rainbow trout
• Halibut
• Sardines
day, if you love it! It’s simply the healthiest source of protein that you can put into your body.
6. Garlic
Potent properties: antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antibiotic.
Raw garlic has been used for centuries as a powerful medicinal herb. It’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties are so potent that it is called a natural antibiotic. Perhaps the most potent immunity-boosting compound found in garlic is allice, a powerful antibacterial that prevents blood clotting, lowers cholesterol, and kills bacteria.
7. Chicken Soup
Potent properties: Antiviral, antibiotic, antimicrobial.
Our mothers and grandmothers can teach us a thing or two about good immune system health. Remember that big, fragrant pot of chicken soup your mom would make when someone was in bed with a cold? Well, it’s just what the doctor ordered! Nothing can help you get over a bad bout of flu faster than homemade chicken soup.
Chicken soup gives your immune system a hefty dose of protein, calcium, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. These ingredients work together to rev up the immune system and keep it going strong. When you are sick, it speeds up healing by keeping you hydrated and nourished.
