Welcome back to another podcast episode! Today let’s discuss FOODS THAT BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM! What is your immune system? Your immune system is made up of a complex network of organs and glands that fight off viruses and bacteria to keep you healthy.
Foods you can eat to boost your immune system:
Vitamin C Foods- Why Vitamin C? Vitamin C raises the production of white blood cells, which are vital in fighting off infections. All citrus foods are high in Vitamin C (grapefruits, lemons, oranges, limes, etc). The recommended daily dose is 75mg for women and 90 mg for men.
Broccoli- Broccoli is supercharged with vitamins A, C, and E and minerals. Steaming broccoli is the best way to retian the nutrients
Bell Peppers- Did you know that bell peppers have 3x as much vitamin C as a Florida orange? It is also loaded with beta carotene, which is great for the immune system and skin health!
Prebiotics- Probiotics are beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics are the food foundation for these bacteria—we need both! Prebiotics come from mostly fibrous carbs that humans can’t digest. The beneficial bacteria in your gut then eat this fiber. Prebiotics are found in vegetables, fruits, and legumes! They are also found in oats, bananas, garlic, onions, asparagus, and berries. See the link below for a list of recipes!!
Foods Rich in Probiotics- Probiotics are found in naturally fermented foods like kimchi, kraut, yogurt, and kombucha. Probiotics create a balance of bacteria in your digestive system, which inhibits growth of harmful gut bacteria!
Zinc- Zinc activates the enzymes used to break down proteins in viruses and bacteria, so they are less able to spread. Our bodies cannot make zinc, so it is important to eat foods high in it such as seafoods, meat, tofu, lentils, yogurts, oats, mushrooms, and unsweetened dark chocolate.
Check out these amazing immune recipes here:
Podcast link
