Diet plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system, especially during the colder months. Healthy gut flora is essential for a strong immune system and with the right nourishment and immune support, preventing a cold or flu from setting in is possible. By incorporating anti-inflammatory foods the body will cleanse out toxins and keep our system strong and healthy.
Try the following natural immune boosting foods this fall:
Camu-Camu Berry is considered a superfood, as it is one of the richest sources of vitamin C on the planet. This wild fruit has an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and amino acids. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, camu-camu is effective for strengthening the immune system. To boost immunity especially during the colder months of the year, try adding half a tsp. of camu-camu berry powder to your smoothie in the morning.
Turmeric, a culinary spice known for its remarkable anti-inflammatory effects neutralizes free radical damage due to its antioxidant properties and helps support the immune system. This spice is incredibly versatile. Try unwinding for the evening with a cup of homemade warm almond milk, half a tsp. of turmeric and half a tsp. of honey. This golden elixir is soothing and calming – the perfect way to end the evening.
Probiotics help with immunity and digestion. These friendly bacteria play a fundamental role in keeping our digestion functioning properly helping us fight off infection. Some nourishing foods to consider having on a daily basis that contain a high amount of healthy gut bacteria include tempeh, sauerkraut, kimchi coconut kefir and kombucha. Probiotic rich foods enhance the immune system and protect us against harmful bacteria.
Baobab is a powerful superfood that contains six times more vitamin C than an orange and has more antioxidants than acai, blueberries and pomegranate. It boosts immunity, offers an excellent source of prebiotic fiber, helping to colonize the intestine with healthy gut flora. Try 1 tbsp. of baobab powder in a glass of water with a tsp. of raw honey and a slice of ginger.
Ginger is an aromatic spice packed with nutrients and anti-inflammatory agents. It provides protection against cold viruses, parasites and bacteria. Traditionally, ginger root has been used to assist with morning sickness, digestion, arthritis, cough, and respiratory tract infections so it’s no wonder that this root made it on the top five superfoods to boost immunity. Try this soothing tea for a strong immune system: 1 cup of hot water, 2 slices grated ginger, 1 tsp. raw honey and 2 slices of lemon.
MORNING IMMUNE BOOSTING TEA
INGREDIENTS
½ lemon sliced
2-3 fresh turmeric root slices
2-3 fresh ginger slices
2-3 fresh lime leaf slices
2 tbsp. Holistic Vanity Clarifying Tea (cumin seed, fennel seed, coriander seed and turmeric root) – this mixture can be easily made with these pantry staples
INSTRUCTIONS
Boil 1 litre of water.
Steep lemon, turmeric, ginger, lime leaf slices, tea to boiling water.
Strain and serve.
