Nutrition
5 foods that will boost your immune system this winter
Photography, Ella Olsson, Unsplash.com
Nutrition
5 foods that will boost your immune system this winter
Optimal health starts with a good diet.
A healthy body starts in the kitchen. During the cold and dark winter months, when everyone around seems to be coughing and sniffling, it's especially hard to avoid getting sick. With the lack of vitamin D and fresh air we're exposed to from October to March, the chances of catching a cold are much higher than they are in the summer.
Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to avoid getting sick, and the easiest one is boosting your immune system with delicious ingredients.
Incorporate these 5 foods into your diet for a better chance of staying healthy all year long.
1. Citrus
Photography, Edgar Castrejon, Unsplash.com
Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. It's essential in the growth, repair and development of all body tissues and plays an important part in boosting the immune system. If you're already sick, vitamin C can ease your symptoms and shorten the duration of your cold.
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2. Garlic
This vegetable isn't only for making your dinners taste (and smell!) delicious. Garlic is also essential for maintaining a healthy immune system as it supports the response of white blood cells that fight the flu or cold viruses.
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3. Ginger
Photography, Julia Topp, Unsplash.com
Ginger has a long history of being used in medicine, both Western and Eastern. This root vegetable is rich in vitamin C, magnesium, potassium and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. Plus, it's great for treating nausea.
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4. Turmeric
You've probably heard of a golden milk latte at your local coffee shop, and for good reason! Turmeric, the main star of this recipe, is an excellent anti-viral ingredient that can boost the immune system thanks to its high concentration of curcumin, which reduces inflammation and fights free-radicals.
Turmeric Blend, Blume, $25
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5. Probiotics
We often forget that a healthy immune system starts with our gut. Research shows a clear link between your gut microbiome and a properly functioning immune system. Add yogourt to your diet, as well as other fermented foods such as kimchi and kombucha. Just watch out for the added sugar!
For more, read these:
- Postbiotics: your gut health's new best friends
- 5 foods that boost your gut health
- Homemade kimchi recipe
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