Looking for new ways to boost your immune system this fall? You’re in the right place! As the leaves change colors and the temperatures drop, you may start to gravitate toward comfort foods to stay warm and cozy. Don’t get us wrong—we love a warm, delicious casserole or stew on a cold Fall day.
Serious question—are the foods you’re eating this season helping nourish your body? Fall is notorious for the beginning of the sick season, so it’s critical to start (or continue) eating immune system-boosting foods that support your body as more germs and microbes are present in our daily lives.
Let’s explore how food can help boost the immune system and discover the natural foods that will help keep you healthy and thriving all season long.
Food is the Ultimate Immune System Booster
The immune system protects the body from harmful microbes and diseases that we interact with daily. It’s a big responsibility, and anything we can do to support it in the process is highly recommended.
By eating enough nutrients, the body is better prepared to fight microbial attacks and inflammation. This is because these nutrients help the health and function of all cells in the body.
Certain vitamins are critical for the growth and survival of immune cells in the body. These include vitamins C and D, zinc, iron, protein (glutamine), and selenium.
Diets primarily made up of processed foods that lack nutrients can do more harm than good to the body’s immunity and ability to protect itself. On the other hand, diets that are rich in plants, fiber, fruits, and vegetables support the growth of healthy, beneficial microbes. They also stimulate cell regrowth and activity.
How to Boost the Immune System with Food
So, we know the role that food plays in your health and immunity. Now, let’s explore the specific foods that boost the immune system to keep you thriving.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines are packed with Vitamin C, which helps to fight infection.
Berries
Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are tiny, delicious, and packed with nutrients! Make a habit of adding them to your morning smoothie or as an afternoon snack. That way, you’ll be giving yourself a boost of vitamins while curbing sugar cravings.
Leafy Greens
The more dark, leafy greens, the better! Superfoods like spinach, kale, and collard greens are popular choices. This is thanks to their vitamin C levels, antioxidants, and how they promote heart and brain health.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains high amounts of live, active cultures that help fight infection and boost your gut health. It’s also packed with Vitamin D, which has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties to boost your immune system.
Colorful Veggies
Yes, Skittles may have coined the term “Taste the Rainbow.” But in reality, your plate should be filled with colorful vegetables instead! Red peppers, carrots, sweet potato, squash, pumpkin, cauliflower, beets, and eggplant should all have a place in your meals. All of this contributes to a hearty serving of immune health!
Olive Oil
Healthy fats are critical to helping the body fight infection, and olive oil is a popular choice in healthy diets. It helps to reduce inflammation and has powerful nutrient properties that contribute to brain and heart health.
Green Tea
Green tea contains flavonoids, a critical antioxidant that supports the immune system. It also contains Epigallocatechin (EGCC), which protects cells from damage as they fight off infection and microbes.
Boost Immunity with a Healthy Meal Delivery Plan from Z.E.N. Foods
During the sick season, boosting your immune system is critical to staying healthy. That way, you’ll keep your energy levels up and enjoy all the activities and events that fall brings.
For an easier approach to healthy living and eating, lean on Z.E.N. Foods. If you are in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, you could have healthy, whole-food meals delivered right to your doorstep. View our sample menu and contact us today to get started!
