Immune Boosting Foods to Support Your Body

Cold and flu season hits us hard when we’re unprepared. Adding more immune-boosting foods to our diet helps us fight off those coughs and sniffles. Learn more about the powerful effects of some of our favorite foods below.

GARLIC

Certain compounds in garlic may have antiviral activity and block viral particles from entering cells. Additionally, aged garlic extract can help decrease the severity of a cold or flu.

ONIONS

Another vegetable we can use in our fight against cold and flu season is the onion. Onions are a good source of vitamin C, an immune- supporting nutrient. Also, red onions contain quercetin, which has been found to boost the immune system.

YOGURT

There are many strains of probiotics, but only certain ones have therapeutic potential against health concerns, such as allergies and viral infections.

SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS

One of the most common, shiitake, is native to East Asia and used throughout a variety of dishes and medicines. They have a significant number of antioxidants and reduce cholesterol levels. They also improve immunity and reduce inflammation.

SWEET POTATO

Sweet potato’s vibrant, orange-colored flesh lands it on our immune-boosting food list. Sweet potatoes have beta carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. Vitamin A is an important mineral that helps regulate our immune system.

POMEGRANATE

Pomegranate is a fruit with a thick red peel on the outside and maroon-colored seeds on the inside. The seeds taste a little tangy and a little sweet and are filled with tannins. Those tannins have an antiviral effect and play an important part in immune support.