Having a healthy and strong immune system is critical to living a quality life. And like most things health-related, it’s highly dependent on what you eat. Here are the best foods that boost your immune system.
1. Oranges & Other Citrus Fruits
Starting with the obvious of course, citrus fruits are loaded with Vitamin C which is commonly known to be a key nutrient for immune system health. Proven in countless studies & journals, adding citrus fruits to your diet will boost your immune system and make you less likely to suffer from colds & flu.
If you get bored with oranges, try grapefruit, tangerines, or clementines. They all have excellent immune boosting Vitamin C in them.
2. Broccoli
Another major immune boosting food, broccoli has a ton of Vitamin C even though a lot of people don’t realize it. It also has other great nutrients like Vitamin A & E, tons of fiber, and antioxidants.
If you ate no other vegetable in your life, at least eat broccoli! But you should eat all your veggies because they’re all good for you. Just like the next one…
3. Spinach
This green leafy vegetable is a powerhouse for the body. Not only is it loaded with Vitamin C but it also contains Vitamin K and B-6. These are critically important to overall health of the body.
4. Chicken
When I was researching for this quick little article, I was surprised to come across this one. I assumed the best foods that boost your immune system would be all vegetables and fruits. But as it turns out, chicken noodle soup isn’t just comfort food when you have a cold, it actually does have some important nutritional things your immune system needs.
Loaded with Vitamin B-6, chicken and poultry products help your body’s red blood cell formation and help keep all the different processes in your body moving along at their intended efficiency.
5. Elderberry
Most berries are loaded with Vitamin C. Elderberry also contains lots of fiber and antioxidants. It’s been used to help improve cold symptoms including those from seasonal flu.
Other Foods That Boost Your Immune System
There are tons of other foods that boost your immune system such as cherries, carrots, red bell peppers, and an assortment of other fruits. What are your favorites? Let me know in the comments!
Sources & Additional Reading
BBC Good Food: The Health Benefits of Spinach
Healthline: 15 Foods That Boost the Immune System
Healthline: What is Elderberry?
Rylie is freelance writer, fitness blogger, and travel junkie. Originally from Toronto, she currently resides in Lima, Peru but is always on the move to discover new adventures.