Foods that will boost your immunity this winter
While your immunity is affected by your things like stress, smoking, health issues and your environment – what has the most effect on your body’s ability to fight off infection is what you eat. And while healthy food in general is a great start, there are certain nutrients that you need to be sure to include. Try adding these nutritious foods to your shopping trolley every week.
Kale and spinach offer a powerhouse of vitamins – think A, B, C and other immunity supporting nutrients.
Garlic is a great choice for flu season, as its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are good at warding off colds.
Mushrooms are a source of beta glucans, which boost the body’s immune system. Look for shitake or maitake mushrooms as they contain the most benefit.
Pumpkin is a good quality source of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for immune function.
Berries are not only delicious, they’re packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, which help the body defend itself against damage.
Tahini is a paste made from sesame seeds. It is high in protein and zinc, which is great for the production and function of immune cells.
Plain natural yoghurt is full of natural probiotics. These support your immune system as they keep your digestive system in good shape.
If you find it hard to stick with a healthy diet, or perhaps you are just worried that you aren’t getting enough of the good stuff – you could try taking supplements.
Many of these contain nutrients that are not easily consumed through food, so could be worth taking. Speak to your health care practitioner first to see if you would benefit.
As well as the healthy food, try to get enough sleep to make you feel well rested when you wake. Aim to exercise and take in the sunshine regularly, but also find time to relax and de-stress. All of these factors have a role to play in your health and wellness.