Seasonal changes, stress and even just the fact that we are getting older can weaken our immune systems.
Luckily, using natural supplements, foods, and keeping up on lifestyle changes can help us all stay healthier and keep our bodies in balance.
Wondering what to eat to really super-charge your immune system right now? Here are 10 natural immune powerhouses to tuck into:
1. Turmeric
Turmeric's active compound, curcumin, has the ability to promote healthy cellular growth.
2. Mushrooms
Shiitake, Reishi, and Maitake mushrooms all stimulate the immune system and build up our resistance to viruses.
3. Chicken soup
Chicken provides cysteine and amino acid that breaks up congestion, while the hot soup can strengthen the movement of white blood cells and the broth is ultra-hydrating.
4. Zinc
Zinc is really important for immune support, and is also very anti-inflammatory.
5. Vitamin C
You might have heard how important vitamin C is to your immune system? It's all true – and low levels can increase our chances of both infections and other diseases.
6. Vitamin D
This powerful vitamin helps kill viruses, fungi, and bacteria. As we all know, sunshine is still our best source it, but this being Ireland, is it recommended to take a supplement, at least during the months when we get very little sun here.
7. Berries
Dark berries like blackberries, strawberries and blueberries not only taste great but they are also a great source of flavonols which are highly effective antioxidants.
8. Garlic
Garlic doesn't just ward off vampires, it also contains sulfuric acid, which has been found to eliminate both bacteria and infections.
9. Almonds
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and key to a healthy immune system. Almonds are chock-a-block with this vitamin, as well as containing plenty of healthy fats needed to absorb the vitamin.
10. Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are full of nutrients, including phosphorous, magnesium, and vitamins B-6 and E. The seeds are also incredibly high in selenium, which has been proven to combat viral infections.
