EspañolFoods that Boost Your Immune System
Having access to a telemedicine healthcare provider is important; and, you know you have a 24/7 connection through the Zealyte+ app. But, taking care of your immune system should be your number one priority so you can avoid a virtual doctor visit. Your immune system is your main line of defense against viruses and infections. So strengthening and boosting it needs to be at the top of your health checklist.
Where to begin
To boost your immune system and help your body fight against infection, you should focus on eliminating refined sugar from your diet, eat more natural vs. processed foods, and drink more water to keep your body hydrated.
Foods that contain refined sugar have a negative impact on your body’s immune system and its ability to function properly. Replacing candy and pastries with fruits can make a huge difference in your health and immune function. Also, limiting the refined foods from your diet and replacing them with fresh vegetables and lean meats can also help you get the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy.
Poor nutrition results in reduced immune function which leads to increased infections and prevents your body from healing as quickly as it could otherwise. And, as people age, immune function tends to decrease, which is often connected to, or complicated by, poor nutrition and eating habits.
Digestion and your immune system
Your gastrointestinal tract contains the largest number of immune cells in your entire body. In fact, it makes up about 60% of your immune system. Think about it, if your digestion tract isn’t healthy you are going to be more likely to get sick.
One of the keys to a healthy digestive system is the consumption of fiber. Whole, fresh fruits and vegetables promote a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Fiber promotes the removal of toxins that can have a negative effect on your gastrointestinal tract cells. This detoxification process that your gastrointestinal system provides will help keep your immune system healthy and functioning properly.
The importance of vitamins
Vitamins are essential for a healthy and fully functioning immune system.
Vitamin C supports your body’s immune system and is important for preventing or fighting off upper respiratory viral infections.
Excellent sources of vitamin C include foods such as:
- asparagus
- kale
- broccoli
- cauliflower
- collard greens
- beet greens
- citrus fruits
Vitamin B is another important vitamin for a healthy immune system. There are many different types of B vitamins, each one rendering its own benefit on your body’s defense system. For example, vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) promotes production and release of antibodies from B-cells, and deficiency of this vitamin results in reduced levels of circulating antibodies.
Folic acid, another B vitamin supports the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen through your circulatory system to all parts of your body.
Foods containing one or more of the various B vitamins include:
- romaine lettuce
- spinach
- cauliflower
- cremini mushrooms
- red bell peppers
- salmon
- tuna
- cod
- Shrimp
Vitamins A, E, and K are also vital for a healthy immune system function. You’ll find adequate amounts of vitamins A and/or E in vegetables such as:
- turnip greens
- swiss chard
- mustard greens
- Carrots
- sweet potatoes
- asparagus
Minimizing and even eliminating processed and canned foods from your diet is a good idea to stimulate better health in preparation to fend off seasonal and other contagious threats.
If you need more guidance and help boosting your immune system we’re here to help. You can connect with a board-certified doctor any time day or night through the Zealyte+ telemedicine app.