Who doesn't want to improve their immune system? Especially in today's world, finding ways to help boost immunity is top of mind. One of the best ways to boost your immune system is through what you eat. We recently read an article authored by an immunologist and functional medicine doctor who discussed her top 5 superfoods for boosting your immune system.
Mushrooms - The type of mushroom matters here, including maitake, shiitake and reishi. These mushrooms have been shown in studies to be advantageous in conquering viruses and cancer cells, can improve immune response again certain strains of the herpes virus and can help fight bacterial infections.
Ginger - Ginger has many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that ginger can prevent cardiovascular disease, may help prevent alcohol-induced liver disease, and can block kidney damage caused by chemotherapy.
Broccoli Sprouts - Broccoli sprouts contain one of the most immune-supportive biochemicals called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane has been shown to increase levels of antioxidants and can lower inflammation seen in many diseases including cancer. The best way to eat broccoli sprouts is raw, because cooking can break down the sulforaphane.
Garlic - Garlic is delicious, and amazing! It has known antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Garlic is also anti-inflammatory and lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It can also fix bacterial imbalances in the gut and it can also increase levels of beneficial bacteria.
Turmeric - Turmeric is a spice commonly found in Indian food that contains a magical compound called curcumin. Benefits include: they can buffer high cortisol levels; it can suppress some of the immune changes at the root of autoimmune diseases, which can reduce chronic inflammation; encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and can lower other disease-causing bacteria; and can minimize joint swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.
For additional information on all of the foods mentioned above, check out the original article here.
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