Strengthen your defense against COVID-19 with these immune system boosters
A strong immune system is our best defense against the infectious disease like COVID-19. However, there is no ‘magic bean’ that will boost our defense system overnight. Of course, it depends on our lifestyle choices and the food we eat.
Amid this global health crisis caused by COVID-19, it is essential to know what certain foods may help our immune system at its optimum level.
In an article published on Healthline.com, they listed down immune system boosters that you can at local grocery stores.
Citrus Fruits
“Most people turn to vitamin C after they’ve caught a cold. That’s because it helps build up your immune system. Vitamin C is thought to increase the production of white blood cells. These are key to fighting infections.”
Broccoli
“Broccoli is supercharged with vitamins and minerals. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as many other antioxidants and fiber, broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can put on your table. The key to keeping its power intact is to cook it as little as possible — or better yet, not at all.”
Ginger
“Ginger is another ingredient many turn to after getting sick. [Ginger] may help decrease inflammation, which can help reduce a sore throat and other inflammatory illnesses. [Ginger] may also help decrease nausea.
While it’s used in many sweet desserts, ginger packs some heat in the form of gingerol, a relative of capsaicin. Ginger may help decrease chronic pain and may possess cholesterol-lowering properties, according to recent animal researchTrusted Source.”
Red bell peppers
“If you think citrus fruits have the most vitamin C of any fruit or vegetable, think again. Ounce for ounce, red bell peppers contain twice as much vitamin C as citrus. They’re also a rich source of beta carotene. Besides boosting your immune system, vitamin C may help maintain healthy skin. Beta carotene helps keep your eyes and skin healthy.”
Garlic
“Garlic is found in almost every cuisine in the world. It adds a little zing to food and it’s a must-have for your health. Early civilizations recognized its value in fighting infections. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source, garlic may also help lower blood pressure and slow down hardening of the arteries. Garlic’s immune-boosting properties seem to come from a heavy concentration of sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin.”
What are you waiting for? Plan your next meals with these immune system boosters and beat COVID-19!
