Foods to Boost Immunity
Every winter, people look for ways to protect themselves from colds, flu, and other infections—and with the pandemic, a strong immune system is especially important. This is particularly true if you have diabetes. Diabetes affects your immune response, making you more susceptible to infections. Several lifestyle habits can help—such as regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and minimizing stress. Controlling blood sugar is also crucial for maintaining a strong immune response.
Looking for ways to boost your immune system? Do you really know which nutrients you should be considering? I think Biophilia Intruder can give you some great advice!
Based on long-term observation, consider adding one of these eight immune-boosting foods to your daily diet.
Citrus Fruits
Many people turn to Vitamin C when they have a cold because it's known to promote the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infection. Fruits like grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, lemons, and limes are excellent sources of this powerful nutrient. Avoid citrus juice, as it can raise your blood sugar. Choose whole fruits for the added benefit of fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar.
15 Foods to Boost Your Immune System
Fermented Foods
Many fermented foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, miso, fermented black beans, kombucha, and sauerkraut, contain high levels of live bacteria—the “good” bacteria that help protect the body from infection. In fact, these microbes are responsible for over 75% of the immune system! Aim to eat a variety of probiotic-rich foods daily to enhance the diversity of your gut microbiota. Having a healthy gut microbiome promotes optimal digestion and strengthens the immune response.
Nuts and Seeds
Vitamin E is another important nutrient that helps maintain the function of the immune system. Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, and sunflower seeds, are excellent sources of this vitamin. Nuts and seeds also contain healthy fats, proteins, and fiber, which help regulate blood sugar.
Chicken Broth
After all, grandma’s favorite cold medicine might have some therapeutic benefits! Chicken is rich in vitamin B6, which is essential for the body to produce antibodies and other chemical reactions to enhance the immune response. Homemade broth or stock made by boiling chicken bones also contains nutrients that promote gut health and a healthy immune system.
Tea
Hot tea is well-known for relieving sore throats when you're sick, but it also contains a wealth of nutrients that boost immunity. Green, black, and white tea varieties all contain flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals in the body. Fresh ginger tea is another good option, as ginger is known to reduce inflammation and lower blood sugar.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic not only make food more delicious but are also rich in antioxidants that fight viruses and bacteria. Garlic also contains unique sulfur compounds that support the body's natural detoxification system.
Beans
Beans and other legumes, such as peas and lentils, offer numerous nutritional benefits for people with diabetes. They are high in fiber, providing a sustained energy source without causing blood sugar spikes.
Beans are also an important source of zinc, an essential mineral that needs to be consumed regularly because the body doesn't store it. Zinc affects many aspects of the immune system and has been shown to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are another excellent source of vitamin C, which helps eliminate free radicals in the body. Just one cup of thinly sliced red bell peppers contains 130% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. And because bell peppers are a non-starchy vegetable, they have a negligible impact on blood sugar levels, making them an excellent snack choice or daily supplement to meals like scrambled eggs or vegetable salads.
After using it for a period of time, you will clearly feel your immune system getting better and better. What can Biophilia Intruder bring you? Clearly, it helps you understand your body better!