8 Foods To Boost Your Immune System

Hi,  Jill here from menopausewoman.com andwww.myoptimalwellbeing.com

With the virus reaching a large portion of the UK and United States now, and schools and jobs being temporarily halted or closed, we need to start thinking about the next few months ahead and how to better protect ourselves.

I live in Italy and I know that the mainstream media in the UK has been reporting cases about Italy that send shivers down your spine and provoke even more concern/panic for what might be to come in the UK and US in the near future.

However, an article recently published suggests that more than 99% of Italy’s coronavirus deaths were people who already suffered from previous health conditions.

Institutes in Rome examined medical records of approximately 18% of Italy’s coronavirus fatalities, and found that only three (3) victims actually died of the coronavirus itself – meaning they had no previous illness (pathology). To be clear, almost 50% of the victims suffered from at least three prior illnesses, and approximately 25% had either one or two health conditions. To be even clearer…their immune systems were already compromised. Our immune system is the protector of our health, or at least, it gives us a head-start at protecting ourselves from illness and disease. It is our warrior, our metal suit of armour.

Whatever, please don’t think I am making light of this situation – I am not! The coronavirus is serious. But what I want to do is pre-empt you to take action and protect yourselves, along with your family, friends and colleagues.

So, where do we start? Well, there’s lots of things we can do but for now, let’s just take a look at our eating habits.

• Eat to ‘Nourish’ your Body and Strengthen your Immune System.

Eating nutrient-rich foods is the best way to support your immune system – meaning foods rich in nutrients, eg, vitamins, minerals, EFAs (essential fatty acids – omega-3s), etc.

It is essential that you quit eating refined sugars, processed food and artificial ingredients, and all junk food. Instead, eat a diet rich in greens, vegetables, herbs, spices, fermented foods, fruits, and healthy fats.  

Of course, there are certain foods which are particularly beneficial for your immune health, largely because they contain increased immune-enhancing properties. Add these to your nutrient-rich diet and keep safe!

Try and eat at least 3 servings of each of these super-immune-enhancing foods on a regular basis to super-charge your health and for prevention:

• Vitamin C: For a great source of vitamin C and antioxidant power, and to cleanse and alkalise your body, consume lemons and limes.

• I recently made a bone broth for my family as it is rich in vitamins and minerals and helps calm respiratory issues.

• Garlic has many magics: it reduces inflammation, supports a healthy immune system, and fights infections very efficiently.

• Onions hold magics too: similar to garlic, it is a potent infection-fighter that enhances your immune system and helps to reduce inflammation.

• ‘A’ for apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers fantastic antioxidant support and is a healthy disinfectant, even against most resistant bacterial strains. Use it on your salad with some olive oil, or drink it in a little water before you eat.

• Olive oil: Olive oil is a fantastic source of monounsaturated healthy fats that works wonders with the immune system. Drizzle it on your salad.

• Ginger: Ginger is an impressive medicinal spice that boosts immune system function, helps reduce inflammation, has been seen to improve sore throats, and lower pain levels.  

• Mushrooms: Mushrooms are another fantastic inflammation-fighting and immune-boosting superfood.  

To your health!

Jill.

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