Make these immune system-boosting foods a part of your diet for added protection against potential viruses, disease and other invader.
Berries
Berries are a good source of a group of phytonutrients called bioflavenoids, which aid the immune system by protecting the cells of the body against environmental pollutants.
• Elderberries have the highest concentration of specific flavonoids called anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant. Elderberries also have been studied to see if they may prevent the flu virus from invading healthy cells’ membranes. (note - don't eat raw elderberries, instead use a commercially prepared extract or syrup or cook to create your own tincture)
• Blueberries, nature's only 'blue' food, are a rich source of polyphenols, potent antioxidants that include phenolics acids, tannins, flavonols and anthocyanins. And, like cranberries, blueberries appear to fight off urinary-tract infections by preventing E. coli bacteria from sticking to cells in the urinary tract.
• Pomegranate fruit seeds appear to enhance immune function as well as help keep blood lipid levels healthy.
Green tea
Green tea is a great source of L-theanine, an amino acid that triggers the release of germ-fighting compounds from your T-cells. In one study, tea drinkers transformed their immune system T cells into “super cells” that pumped out 10 times more cold and flu virus-fighting interferon - proteins that defend against infection
Green tea is also loaded with powerful antioxidants, which may protect against cell damage that leads to aging and help prevent heart disease and cancer.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, which tops the list of immune boosters for many reasons. There has been more research about the immune-boosting effects of Vitamin C than perhaps any other nutrient. Vitamin C increases the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies and increases levels of interferon, the antibody that coats cell surfaces, preventing the entry of viruses.
Lean Meats
Lean beef, poultry and pork are good sources of Zinc, which helps white blood cells and other antibodies reproduce more quickly, and it makes them more aggressive so they're better at fighting off infections. Zinc also prevents bacterial and viral growth directly, either by poisoning the infectious agents or encouraging immune reaction at the site of infection.
Zinc deficiency, even when moderate, can depress immune system function. It is one of the most common nutritional shortfalls among American adults, especially for vegetarians.
Salmon
Of all fats, omega-3 fatty acids, or fish oils - found in fish such as Pacific salmon - created the highest blood levels of flu-fighting T cells and interferon-gamma cytokines in a British study of 150 people. The omega-3s act as immune boosters by increasing the activity of phagocytes, the white blood cells that eat up bacteria. Essential fatty acids also protect the body against damage from over-reactions to infection.
Editorial
Feed your immune system
By: Dr. Reginald B. Cherry, M.D., Christian Post
Thursday, 8 October 2009, 18:13 (IST)
Copyright © 2009 Christian Post. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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