Your Immune System with Diet and Lifestyle Changes
There are several ways to increase
the strength of your immune system through your diet. Eating a lot
of fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants can boost your
defense against common ailments such as the cold or flu. There are
also many healthy minerals found in high-protein foods that are
also important for building and maintaining a healthy immune system
as well as having balanced nutrition.
- Beta-carotene – Carrots, corn, spinach,
broccoli, green peppers, asparagus, watermelon, tomatoes, peaches,
and mangoes just to name a few
- Vitamin C – Berries, oranges, strawberries,
kiwi, broccoli, red, green, and yellow peppers, as well as other
brightly colored fruits and vegetables
- Vitamin E – Carrots, broccoli, mangoes,
papaya, pumpkin, nuts and sunflower seeds, red peppers, and
spinach
- Zinc – Red meat, poultry, beans, nuts,
seafood, whole grains, and dairy
- Selenium – Most grains, Brazil nuts,
poultry, tuna, and beef
-
Other “Super Foods" high in
antioxidants – Prunes, apples, all berries, raisins and
red grapes, eggplant, alfalfa, onions, garlic, and beans
By incorporating these healthy foods and
nutrients into your diet you can rest assured that you are providing
your body with what it needs to keep you healthy. If you take care
of your immune system, it will certainly help take care of you.
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