07/31/2021
Immune Boosting Foods
Let's face it, the winter months can be dreadful when we think about cold and flu season. Viruses can be a pain, and get in the way of holiday plans and work schedules. Unfortunately; viruses are all around as at all times and are important to our survival so there is no escaping them. What we can control however, are preventing mutated viruses and keeping our bodies in pristine fighting condition, so when we come face to face with a nasty virus it doesn't beat us in the ring. What we fuel our machines with is vital to how we feel, think, and how well we can fight off viruses and bad bacteria. It can get very confusing with all of the information out there exactly WHAT we should be consuming to boost our immune systems, and even help in fighting invaders when we do come in contact with one. Lets break down vital vitamins and minerals directly effecting our immune systems. We all know how important vitamin C is to staying healthy. The thing about this particular vitamin is that our bodies can not store it for very long at all; therefore we must consume it on a daily basis in order for it to work in our favor. With so many foods rich in vitamin C it isn't too hard to get plenty. All citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes) contain large amounts of the white blood cell boosting vitamin C. Try infusing your daily water (which is important to a strong immune system as well) with an array of citrus fruits. Red bell peppers actually contain more vitamin C then any citrus fruit, so they are a great option as well. Vitamin D plays a huge roll in immune function as well. We get our vitamin D from the sun, but during the winter many of us are D deficient, causing an array of issues including a weakened immune system. Studies have shown that just 10-15 minutes in direct sunlight gives our bodies enough vitamin D stored away for up to one week! Another great source of vitamin D is whole milk yogurt from pasture raised cattle or goats, Yogurt will also give your body healthy probiotics which boost immune and digestive health, Garlic ( who doesn't love some garlic?) has compounds that have been shown to not only boost immune functions; but nip viruses in the but before they cause too much harm. How about a nice steaming mug if green tea?! Green tea is by far my favorite beverage hot or iced. it contains amino acids (great for fat loss) and is packed with EGCG antioxidants.
When you do get hit with a virus there are also many foods and supplements that can come to the rescue. They key is really resting and staying hydrated when you are down in the dumps; but feeding your body nutrients that can make it stronger and win the battle will help you recover much faster. Indulge in some chicken soup with a bone broth base, poultry itself has immune boosting properties but the bone broth itself has so many nutrients such as collagen, and magnesium to give your body fuel. Stay hydrated with kiwi and other juicy fruits. Kiwi is full of potassium (great when you are dehydrated and drained), and vitamin C. Cucumber (in water or alone) can hydrate as well as give you an electrolyte boost and aid in nausea. Last but not least; elderberry syrup is your best friend before and during any virus. It has antioxidants to help your body prevent illness, AND has been clinically shown to reduce virus related symptoms by HALF when taken daily at the onset of a virus or cold.
So now you know a handful of delicious foods that not only taste amazing, but can keep sickness at bay and help you feel better when you are feeling YUK. Our bodies are amazing machines and when we fuel them properly they perform at their best.
