foodconsumer.org: The Best Foods to Improve Your Immunity

The Best Foods to Improve Your Immunity
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admin on 09/07/2009 16:16:00
 
Posted by: Dr. Mercola  September 07 2009
Incorporate these healthy foods into your diet to strengthen your immune system
in a way your taste buds can appreciate.
Yogurt
Yogurt that contains live cultures is rich in lactobacillus acidophilus and
bifidobacterium lactis (good bacteria), which fight bacteria that cause diseases
and raise your white blood cell count.
Green Tea
Green tea is a great source of L-theanine, an amino acid that triggers the
release of germ-fighting compounds from your T-cells.
Oranges
One of the best sources of immunity-boosting vitamin C, oranges cause your body
to produce higher levels of antibodies and white blood cells.
Garlic
Garlic is loaded with ajoene, allicin and thiosulfinates, compounds high in
sulfur that ward off diseases and help battle infections.
Carrots
Carrots are packed with beta carotene, a phytonutrient that increases your
body’s production of T-cells and natural killer cells.
Spinach
The high amount of antioxidants found in spinach help boost your immune system.
Sweet Potatoes
Like carrots, sweet potatoes are loaded with beta carotene, which boosts your
body’s T-cell and NK-cell count.
Mushrooms
Rich in compounds called beta glucans, mushrooms boost the production of
NK-cells and T-cells in your body to help prevent infections.
Kiwi
Like oranges, kiwis are high in vitamin C, which helps protect your body against
infections.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are also packed with vitamin C, which prompts your body to produce
more interferon. This antibody covers the surface of cells and fends off
viruses.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a great source of glucosinolates, phytonutrients rich in sulfur that
stimulate the natural antioxidant systems in your body.
Barley
Like mushrooms, barley contains a high amount of beta glucans, known for their
antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.