Top 5 Plant Based Food To Support Your Immune System

This time of year can be tricky… Spring is on the horizon yet we’re still dancing with the final waves of winter and as the pace of life slowly picks up, I’m sure you don’t want to get slammed with cold and flu and virus after virus.
If you have a compromised immune system it can be especially scary as a common cold can quickly become a chronic and serious problem. The importance of a healthy immune system is well-known. To protect yourself from infections and toxins, your body’s immune cells and response must be well-developed. 

How do you know if your immune system needs some extra support?

Not everyone realizes when their immune system is compromised, especially if you’re used to ignoring the signs and signals your body is giving you.
Here are few of the signs showing you that your immune system could use some support:
1- You get sick a lot and your colds tend to linger 

2- You’re always tired and even after good enough sleep and rest

3- Chronic digestion issues 

4- Dry skin, Eczema and other skin issues 
The good news? It’s possible to support your immune system by adding more of these 5 plant-based foods to your plate:

1- Ginger:
Ginger is among the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet!
In traditional medicine practices ginger is used to treat a variety of physical ailments including migraines, nausea, arthritis, digestive disorders and…
That said, ginger is loaded with a variety of unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may be beneficial for supporting healthy immune function.
Fresh or dried ginger can be used to flavor a variety of dishes including soups, smoothies and It can also be steeped in hot water to make tea.

2- Mushrooms:
People have been eating mushrooms for years to promote healthy immune systems. Now we know why. “Studies show that mushrooms increase the production and activity of white blood cells, making them more aggressive.
Also, mushrooms are one of the only widely available plant-based sources of vitamin D (the quantity of vitamin D in various types of mushrooms can vary significantly). Vitamin D—also known as “the sunshine vitamin”—plays an important role in modulating certain critical functions of your immune system.

3- Orange fleshed Sweet Potatoes:
Orange Sweet potatoes, also referred to as yams, are loaded with beta carotene, a compound which your body happily converts to vitamin A. Why is that important? Ingesting vitamin A is key if you want to build a robust immune system. One medium sweet potato can pack 120% of your daily vitamin A needs, and 30% of vitamin C requirements, which is amongst the most important nutrients to develop a healthy immune system. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and boosts the production of white blood cells, which help the body fight off infections. In addition to supporting your immunity, vitamin A works specifically to support your gut health, which is key in having a strong immune system.

4- Garlic:
Used to help colds for centuries, Garlic contains compounds called alliin, which are shown to boost immunity and reduce inflammation. Garlic is said to terrify vampires, and it also has the goods to terrify pathogens. This is one of the most potent foods that supports your immune system.

5- Oranges and Kiwis:
We all know Vitamin C is good for our immune system, but not when you grab a bottle of orange juice!
Orange juice is typically loaded with refined sugars, which can cause inflammation in your body. Instead, reach for whole food sources instead.
Abundantly in season right now, Oranges and Kiwis are both a great source of vitamin C, and the best support for your Immune system.

So don’t wait till you get sick or feeling rundown, start today and aim for prevention by adding one or few of these amazing gifts of the earth to your daily meals and snacks and ride this last wave of winter with a strong and healthy body!

If you wish to receive some support, or have questions, feel free to click HERE and book your complimentary consult session with me.I can’t wait to support you in your journey! 

Much love,
Nousha 
xx