The Foods & Vitamins That Ramp Up Immunity

Your immune system is always going to battle for you. Immunity helps to ward off disease and infections, and also helps you recover after sustaining an injury. Eating a variety of whole foods is believed to be an effective way to enhance your immunity. Now more than ever, it’s important for your immune system to stay in tip-top shape during the COVID-19 pandemic. The foods below are the perfect place to start.

Button Mushrooms: Vitamin D

Button mushrooms pack in B vitamins call niacin and riboflavin, and they’re nature’s best source of vitamin D. These beneficial nutrients play a part in a healthy immune system. This tasty type of mushroom also contains the mineral selenium. If you don’t have enough of this mineral in your body, you are susceptible to having a more severe flu if contracted. You can incorporate button mushrooms into your favorite green salads, omelets, grilled kabobs, and vegetarian burgers.

Kiwi: Vitamin C

Kiwis are a good source of potassium, folate, vitamin K and vitamin C. Vitamin C increases your white blood cells responsible for fighting infection. Kiwi’s other important nutrients help the rest of your body to function correctly. Enjoy kiwi by itself or add it to a colorful fruit salad.

Almonds: Vitamin E

Besides the better-known vitamin C, vitamin E is vital to a strong immune system. Because vitamin E is a fat-soluble nutrient, it can’t be absorbed into your body properly without the presence of fat. In addition to containing heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, nuts like almonds consist of vitamin E.

Almonds make a great snack on their own, or whiz them up in a food processor like Dr. Rigby does and turn them into a granola topping or a crust for fish and chicken.

Yogurt: Probiotics

Yogurt and other fermented foods contain probiotics. Probiotics are believed to enhance your immune system and lessen the severity of colds. When shopping for yogurt, look for varieties that are low in sugar. Plain Greek yogurt is a good choice. For an immune-boosting snack, add some kiwi and almonds to a serving of yogurt. You can also use yogurt to make creamy dressings and sauces.

Broccoli: Beta Carotene

Broccoli is filled with nutrients such as vitamin A, C, and E. It also contains filling fiber and antioxidants. To preserve broccoli’s important nutrients, enjoy it raw with a dip or lightly steamed. For a spring-themed side dish, try a broccoli slaw salad with raisins, apples, and toasted almonds.

Eating nutritious foods can both give you needed energy to power through your hectic days, help you maintain a healthy weight, and even boost your body’s natural immunity mechanisms.