Immune Support: Foods that Boost Immunity and More

Vitamin C Rich Foods

Vitamin C is vital in helping to keep our immune systems strong. Vitamin C is thought to increase our production of white blood cells, which are key to helping us fight infections.

• All citrus fruits
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Kale
• Kiwi

Super Immunity Boosting Foods

Some foods have been used for centuries to help enhance immunity and prevent illness. Garlic’s immune-supporting benefits come from its heavy concentration of sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, alliin, and flavonoids such as quercetin. These compounds exhibit both antibacterial and antiviral activity. Mushrooms, elderberries and honey are high in antioxidants, which can help tame inflammation and protect your body from cell-damaging oxidative stress due to free radicals. Use these immunity boosters to help flavor your food and enhance your health.

• Garlic
• Mushrooms
• Elderberry
• Local Honey

Healing Spices to Build Immunity

These healing spices taste great, but even better, adding them to your daily routine can help supercharge your health. Spices like turmeric and ginger can help reduce inflammation and boost your immune system, helping to key infections away.

• Cayenne
• Cinnamon
• Ginger
• Turmeric

Zinc-Rich Foods

Zinc is a gatekeeper of your immune system and is involved in hundreds of reactions throughout the body. Not having enough zinc in our diets can increase our susceptibility to influenza and pneumonia.

• Meats
• Shellfish
• Nuts and seeds
• Lentils

Foods with Probiotics

Probiotic foods can help to promote balance between good and bad bacteria in the digestive tract, providing a boost to the immune system and protection against infection.

• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Kombucha
• Yogurt

Healing Liquids

It’s important to stay hydrated both to avoid illness and when you are feeling under the weather. In fact, when we are fighting illness, our bodies’ fluid requirements increase. Try to up your liquid intake by sipping on some of these healing drinks.

• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Bone Broth
• Green tea
• Water