Immune system of the body is a natural defensive mechanism that protects it against attacks and subsequent disease caused by bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. The same system is also responsible for down-regulating immune responses against external harmless agents such as food, or body tissues.

In this blog, we’ve provided a list of 10 foods that help boost the immune system of the body keeping it healthy and functional. Let’s discuss!

Foods that boost Immune System

Citrus Fruits

Suffering from common cold? Then, citrus fruits are your best bet. That’s simply because citrus fruits help build the immunity system of the body against common-cold-causing viruses. According to studies, vitamin C plays a crucial role in building white blood cells in the bloodstream and enhancing the immunity power of the body to counter these viruses.

Another study stated that since Vitamin C is neither produced nor produced by the body, it’s essential for you to consume it periodically. Some common sources of Vitamin C are – grapefruits, orange, tangerines, and lemons.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a storehouse of minerals. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, and a wide array of antioxidants and fiber, broccoli is one of the best foods for improving the immunity system. However, you should remember the less you cook, the more nutritious it remains.

Garlic

Garlic is a key ingredient in almost all famous cuisine in the world. Apart from enhancing the taste of the food, it also plays a vital role in improving your immunity system.

According to a study conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, garlic is highly potent in countering infections, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the rate of hardening arteries. Another study revealed that the presence of high sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, is one of the main reasons behind its high immune-boosting properties.

Ginger

Similar to Garlic, Ginger is also a potent food for boosting the immune system of the body. Studies have revealed that Ginger helps reduce inflammation, which again reduces sore throat and other inflammatory diseases. Similar studies have also stated that ginger also helps reduce nausea, chronic pain, and cholesterol.

Spinach

Spinach is another food in our list that is a storehouse of minerals. It’s not only rich in Vitamin C but also a wide range of antioxidants and beta carotene. According to experts, these help increase the infection-fighting ability of our immune systems. Just like broccoli, spinach is at its healthiest best when cooked as sparingly as possible. Light cooking maintains the vitamin A content in spinach and allows other nutrients to be released from the oxalic acid in it.