Boost Your Immune System with Easy Superfoods

Acai Berry

Acai berry is high in antioxidants, can boost immunity, and lower inflammation in the body. Acai berry is such a potent antioxidant and stimulator of the immune system, that researchers are now studying it as a potential treatment for a variety of health issues.

Almonds

Almonds are high in vitamin E and act as an antioxidant in your body to help immune system function. They’re perfect as a healthy snack and can be added to salads and yogurt. Almonds also contain iron and protein, also good for your immune system.

Avocados

Avocados have essential amino acids, antioxidants and healthy fats that help to balance hormone production. Not only do avocados help support your immune system, but they also help with adrenal function and health.

Basil

Basil has healing properties to soothe the stomach, nervous system, and reduce inflammation. It contains antioxidants that strengthen immune system, protect cellular structure, DNA and delay effects of skin aging. Basil’s essential oil may help manage depression and anxiety, too.

Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants and phytoflavinoids, these berries are high in potassium and vitamin C, and are also anti-inflammatory. When selecting berries, note that the darker they are, the more antioxidants they have. In general, the more color they have, the more antioxidants.

Broccoli

Packed with vitamins, antioxidants and fiber, broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. Studies have shown that broccoli not only fights cancer, but also builds up your immune defenses in the most vital area of your body—your gut.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits contain vitamin C, which contributes to the improved health of your immune system and can protect the body against infection. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, helping to fight free radicals that damage the immune system and keep it from functioning properly.

Garlic

Garlic is used to help with colds, flus, congestion, infections and may lower blood pressure. The key to this superfood is the ease you have in adding it to your diet. You can use minced garlic in your cooking and add it to sauces and stir fry. If you don’t like the taste of garlic, you can also get it in capsule form.

Ginger

Due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, ginger may boost immune health. It contains a lot of vitamins, some of which are magnesium, iron, zinc, and calcium. Ginger helps kill cold viruses and has been said to combat chills and fever. It is also known for helping stomach issues and reducing nausea.

Papaya

The benefits of papaya are numerous: they have a digestive enzyme called papain that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and papaya’s high vitamin C and lycopene content can improve heart health.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates contain potent antioxidants. In fact, a glass of pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than red wine, green tea, blueberries, and cranberries. Pomegranates are also a powerful source of phytonutrients, which promote healthy skin.

Spinach

Spinach is loaded with antioxidants that shield immune cells from environmental damage and encourage the production of white blood cells. In addition, the antioxidants in spinach protect enzymes that repair DNA damage and enhances the body’s ability to rejuvenate itself.

Turmeric

Turmeric is an ingredient used in many types of curries, but it is also used as an anti-inflammatory. Turmeric can be taken in capsule or liquid form as well as cooking with it (the spice). You can take it every day to help reduce inflammation and help the immune system focus on other issues in the body.

Yogurt

Not only is yogurt packed with vitamins and protein, it’s also a source of lactobacillus, a probiotic (beneficial type of bacteria) that helps fight off the bad bacteria – and gives your immune system a boost. Look for yogurts that have “live and active cultures” on the label and try to get plain yogurt that you can sweeten yourself with healthy fruits and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.