It’s that time of year again when we need to give our immune
system a good healthy boost.
Because of the proliferation of health problems, people are
constantly looking for ways to strengthen their immune system. While most
resort to finding supplements and other health products, you can actually raise
your immunity by simply eating your vegetables. Following is a list of
vegetables you should eat for an improved immune system.
Vegetables that serve as Immune System Boosters
1. Garlic
Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for protecting
cells against various compounds. It is also a powerful antiseptic, preventing
diseases ranging from colds to cancers. Last but not least, it's directly
linked to the prevention of age-related diseases.
2. Cruciferous vegetables
These mostly leafy vegetables have sulfur-containing
compounds that are converted into isothiocyanates (ITCs). These ITCs improve
immune response and are also linked to cancer prevention. Examples of
cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, broccoli, and radish.
3. Onions
This popular vegetable is rich with quercetin, a powerful
antioxidant. It also contains anthocyanins, another powerful antioxidant.
Onions are also known to reduce hypertension and are an adequate treatment for
allergies.
4. Tomatoes
This popular fruit is nature's best source of lycopene. One
of the most powerful antioxidants in nature, it is exceptionally effective in
preventing cancers, particularly of the prostate. It is also rich in both beta
carotene and dietary fiber.
5. Mushrooms
Several of these fungi are directly linked to reducing the
risk of cancers, particularly breast cancer. It is able to do so, because it
enhances the function of T cells, a part of the immune system that attacks
infections or tumor cells. While there are lots of delicious species, there are
also plenty of poisonous ones; you have to make sure if the mushroom you're
looking at is edible or not. Some healthy choices: morel mushrooms, black
chanterelle mushrooms, cauliflower mushrooms, reishi mushrooms and maitake
mushrooms.
6. Beets
These are exceptionally good for purifying the blood. They
are rich in iron, which boosts the functionality of oxygen-carrying red blood
cells. Beets also enhance the function of immunity-focused white blood cells.
Last but not least, they facilitate detoxification.
7. Spinach
Spinach improves immune function in two different ways. It
is rich in beta carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, which increases the power
of the immune system. It also contains zinc, a vital mineral that improves
immunity.
8. Artichokes
This vegetable contains cynarin, a powerful detoxifier. Not
only does it help with liver cleansing, but it also boosts overall body
response with its high B vitamin content.
9. Asparagus
This vegetable has exceptional diuretic properties, which
encourages the flushing out of toxins. Not only does it cleanse our body's
insides, but it is also effective in countering inflammatory responses.
10. Bell peppers
These vegetables, especially the red ones, are full of
vitamin C. Not only do they contain a high amount of vitamin C, but they also
contain beta carotene that improves immune system function.
Some people say that the key to having a strong and sturdy
body is to eat vegetables. By eating these immunity-boosting foods, your body
will become sturdy indeed.
Learn more:
http://www.naturalnews.com/042147_vegetables_immune_system_healthy_foods.html#ixzz2g7HWHiMx
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