Did you know that there are foods that boost our immunity? When consumed, they help our bodies protect themselves against infections, enabling them to defend themselves against germs and bacteria that cause colds and flu. They are also capable of reducing inflammatory processes, among other health problems.
Among the most recommended are fruit and vegetables such as kiwi fruit, nuts, ginger and garlic. These are just a few examples of foods that help to strengthening the immune system.
But don't forget, the ideal is to maintain a balanced and varied diet - to ensure the intake of different nutrients, combined with a healthy lifestyle.
We've listed six foods that help strengthen the immune system.
Kiwi
Kiwis contain a large amount of essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin K and vitamin C, which help to strengthen the body's natural defences, increasing the production of white blood cells to fight any infection.
Vitamin C can also help prevent respiratory and systemic infections. Other foods rich in vitamin C are strawberries, papaya, acerola and broccoli.
Sweet potatoes
Rich in vitamin A and C, as well as other antioxidant compounds, sweet potatoes are great for the immune system. Known for its therapeutic effect in the treatment of infectious diseases, it also prevents premature ageing and helps control high blood pressure (systolic).
Salmon
Rich in omega-3, salmon is responsible for regulating the body's defence cells, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties and preventing diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Dried fruit
Nuts are rich in zinc, which helps repair tissues and heal wounds, as well as contributing to the production and activation of T lymphocytes (important defence cells for the immune system).
Garlic
Garlic acts as an anti-inflammatory, antiviral, bactericidal and antifungal agent in the body. It also helps control blood pressure and prevent heart disease. All these benefits are associated with its composition, with properties from the sulphur family, such as allicin.
Ginger
Ginger is one of the foods we eat most often when we get ill. It helps to reduce inflammation such as sore throats, chronic pain, lower cholesterol, improve digestion, relieve cramps, among many other benefits.
To further boost your health, we recommend taking astaxanthin every day. This powerful antioxidantIt acts in the body by strengthening the immune system against external agents. This nutrient is currently available in capsule form and its consumption, combined with a balanced diet, can contribute to a healthier life.