8 foods that boost your immune system

What foods make your immune system stronger?

Nutrition does much more for your body than just provide energy. It's also possible to strengthen your immune system by eating certain foods. The intestine represents the largest compartment of the immune system. Do you want to boost your immune system? Read on to find out which foods you can eat best.

1. Strawberries

Strawberries are not just delicious, they are also a rich source of Vitamin C and other antioxidants. In fact, strawberries contain even more Vitamin C than, say, oranges. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which helps strengthen your immune system and slows down ageing. In addition to Vitamin C, strawberries are also packed with Vitamins B5, B6 and K, and various minerals, including manganese, magnesium, potassium and folic acid.

Tip

Eating strawberries with good quality dark chocolate is not only very tasty, but also a good way to increase the amount of antioxidants in your system.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it also soothes the stomach. Turmeric contains curcumin, a substance that reduces inflammation by stimulating adrenal cortex hormone production. Turmeric also increases bile flow, making it an effective natural remedy for digestive problems.

3. Nuts

Nuts are an important source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B1, Vitamin E and iron. Research shows that regularly eating unsalted nuts lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is mainly due to the high content of unsaturated fat in nuts. Fatty acids and selenium, a mineral found in nuts, reduce inflammation and enhance immunity.

4. Broccoli

Want to give your immune system a boost? Then eat broccoli. Broccoli is a nutrient-packed powerhouse loaded with Vitamins A and C, and glutathione, one of the body's most important and potent antioxidants.

5. Grapefruit

Grapefruit is loaded with Vitamin C, a nutrient shown to help boost your immune system. It is also a good source of flavonoids, natural chemical compounds that active the immune system. Oranges and many citrus fruits also have compounds that support immune function.

6. Garlic

You probably know that garlic has many cardiovascular health benefits. But did know that it also boosts the immune system? Garlic contains several antioxidants that support the body’s protective mechanisms. It is also packed with Vitamin B6, which strengthens your immune system and stimulates cell renewal. So be sure to include garlic in your diet on a daily basis!

7. Oysters

Oysters! You either love them or hate them. But one thing's for sure: they're packed with nutrients that boost your immune system – from zinc and magnesium to Vitamins B12, B3 and D. Added bonus: oysters are rich in zinc, which is known to increase libido. No wonder they have a reputation for spicing up your love life!

8. Spinach

Spinach makes you stronger, as the cartoon character Popeye showed. This green leafy vegetable not only boosts muscle power, but also your immune system. Spinach is high in folic acid (Vitamin B9). Folic acid is vital for cell growth and repair of damaged DNA in cells. In addition, spinach is a rich source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that plays a key role in immune system function.

Eat healthily

Vegetables have many health benefits and can improve certain conditions, such as COPD, inflammation and infections.

Want to know how to support your immune system with food? Then be sure to include the following items in your diet. Eating a balanced meal is important, so try to vary foods as much as possible.