10 immune boosting foods to fight infections and virus

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The world is teeming with infectious diseases virtually all the time. But nothing compares to the recently disruptive virus, COVID-19, also known as Corona Virus that has basically brought the whole world to its feet. 

With over a million confirmed cases and almost fifty thousand deaths, Coronavirus has taken the world by shock and it's spreading fast. As of April 1st, 2020, we have over 170 cases in Nigeria with 2 deaths. Checks the statistics here.

So if you're still alive and well, then you have your immune system to thank for that. A strong immune system helps to keep a person healthy. When the immune system comes into contact with a pathogen, it triggers an immune response. The immune system releases antibodies, which attach to antigens on the pathogens and kill them.  It protects and defends your body from diseases and lots more which is why this article will show you simple organic foods and smoothie drinks that will not only detoxify your system but make it stronger.

Boost your immune system against any disease.

The best foods to boost your immune system 

Adding specific foods to your diet may strengthen your immune response. In addition to vitamin C-rich foods, these foods also include immune-boosting properties.

1. Homemade tomato juice 

The best way to make sure your tomato juice is fresh is to make it yourself.  Use your juicer or blender and strain the pulps with a sieve. Tomatoes help lower your risk of infections because they are rich in folate and It also contains notable nutrients like vitamins A and C and iron. 

JUICES TO TRY - Kale, tomato and celery. Blend it all up for a drink that’ll awaken your senses. 

2. Turmeric 

Turmeric contains curcumin and consuming it may improve a person’s immune response. It is used in cooking and sometimes medicine.

JUICES TO TRY - Carrot, ginger and Tumeric. Tumeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory effects.

3. Lemon

Our list would not be complete without lemons. The benefits of these citrus fruits are just too numerous not to consider. Lemons contain a high amount of Vitamin C, crucial nutrients like potassium and plant compounds that give them a number of health benefits. This amazing fruit can help alleviate stress and fight viral infections and sore throats. lemons may aid weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease, anemia, kidney stones, digestive issues and cancer
JUICES TO TRY - Lemon with warm water, Lemon with ginger, turmeric, garlic or cucumber. 

The list is endless. Combine lemon with basically all the ingredients listed above. I find Lemon and honey mix particularly effective for coughs and sore throats. Mix equal quantities together and take 2 teaspoons four times daily or simply make it as tea.

4. Spinach 

Spinach may boost the immune system, as it contains many essential nutrients and antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C & E which supports the immune system.

JUICES TO TRY - Spinach, Lettuce and Kale. This green juice which includes iron and calcium plays an important role in antibody production. A vegetable-based green juice is a powerhouse of nutrients for a strong immune system. 

5. Ginger 

People use ginger in a variety of dishes and desserts, as well as in teas. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties and is likely to offer health benefits.

Have yourself some veggies

6. Garlic 

Garlic is a well-known ingredient for the prevention of colds and other illnesses. It's a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent and immune booster. 

7. Green tea 

Green tea contains only a small amount of caffeine, so people can enjoy it as an alternative to black tea or coffee. Drinking it may also strengthen the immune system. Green tea contains flavonoids which may reduce the risk of a cold. 

8. Almonds 

Almonds are another excellent source of vitamin E. They also contain manganese, magnesium, and fiber. A handful of almonds is a healthy snack that may benefit the immune system. 

9. Oranges or kiwifruit (kiwis) 

Oranges and kiwis are excellent sources of vitamin C, which is the vitamin that many people turn to when they feel a cold developing. Vitamin C helps reduce the duration of common cold symptoms and improve the function of the human immune system. Try some winning combination of Vitamin C-rich fruits to properly fight infections, and improve immune response. Other rich sources of Vitamin C food to try includes Limes, Mangoes, Avocados and Pineapples

10. Red bell pepper 

Red bell peppers are a good source of vitamin C.  You can stir-fry with other vegetables to preserve the nutrient content.

Lifestyle attitude to help your immune system.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is just one way to support immune health. It is also essential to be mindful of the other lifestyle factors that may affect the immune system's health positively. Such factors include:

• Washing of hands frequently
• Avoid smoking
• Regular exercise
  
• Get enough sleep
  
• Keeping a healthy weight
  
• Cutting out on alcohol
  
• Tons of fruits and veggies - This is the perfect time to pile on those veggies 
  
• Consider Immune herbs such as ginseng
• Trying probiotics
• Reducing stress
• Garlic is your friend

Start off your mornings with a delightful boost to your body’s natural defenses by making nutritional drinks. Other immune-boosting foods include dark chocolate, blueberries, and broccoli just to mention a few. Incorporating these nutrient-filled foods will go a long way to getting a strong system.

Until then, take care of yourself.