A healthy diet is critical for a strong immune system that can fight viruses and infections. Certain vitamins and minerals support immune function, so make sure your diet contains a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and fiber.
Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K play important roles in immune responses. Vitamin C and B-complex support cell growth and proliferation. Stock up on these before flu season, as they take time to accumulate in your body. Keep eating vitamin C foods when sick, since your body can’t store it.
Eat plenty of protein from meat, fish, dairy, legumes, nuts and grains. Protein provides amino acids to build cytokines, immune signaling proteins.
Choose colorful produce like berries, peppers and leafy greens which contain both fat- and water-soluble vitamins plus fiber. Salmon, eggs and fortified dairy have vitamin D to activate T-cells.
Mineral-rich foods like nuts, seeds, eggs and lentils supply zinc, magnesium and selenium to help fight infection. Fiber and fermented foods feed healthy gut bacteria where immune cells live…
Check out the other vital food choices for a healthy immune system HERE
