Boost your Immune System!

The best way to a healthy immune system is a well-balanced, healthy diet. While diet gets little attention when it comes to supporting the immune system, it is one of the most powerful methods. We have compiled a list of foods known for their supportive properties that we should all include in our diet, enjoy!

1. Ginger – Ginger is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, having a therapeutic effect for people who may suffer with inflammatory conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis. For an extra kick in your diet, sprinkle some grated dried ginger on your salad, or include in soups and smoothies. If you enjoy herbal teas, you can make your own by placing 1 or 2 teaspoons of grated ginger in hot water and enjoy – Great for that warming affect if you are suffering with a cold.
It is important to note that ginger is a natural blood thinner, so take extra caution if you are on Warfarin or a NOAC.

Gin-Gins Chewable Candy

2. Beans – Red, pinto & black beans. As we know beans are a super source of protein which is required in our body to build and repair cells. Not only that, but beans are loaded with Folate, B Vitamins, Potassium, Magnesium and Fibre, a necessity for individuals who suffer with Arthritis for their repairing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Organic Black Beans

3. Yoghurt – Simple but effective. Yoghurts, particularly natural yoghurt, are full of friendly bacteria known as probiotics which are vital for our immune system. Probiotics help our food to be broken down in the gut, preventing it from essentially rotting in the stomach, causing us to feel bloated and sluggish. If you don’t like yoghurt products, or cannot include them in your diet for any reason, probiotics can be supplemented:

Natures Aid Probiotic – 50% Extra Free

4. Greens, greens and more greens! Dark green, leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach and broccoli contain high levels of Vitamin C, K and Folate. Basically, the darker the green the more anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants neutralise “free radicals”, which are little buggers that can cause damage to our cells. Remember to try cook your Veg to al-dente, or “with a bite” so you can retain as many minerals as possible. Alternatively:

Synergy One – Spirulina
Well known superfood for those who aren’t great Veggie lovers. Also available in powder form, great for adding to smoothies.

5. Fish – Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring should be included in our diet 2-3 times per week. Full of Omega 3’s, they are necessary for normal cell function in the body and brain, particularly benefitting joints. If you dislike fish and are considering taking a supplement, this particular product includes Vitamin E and in our experience does not have a “fishy” after-taste.

Eskimo Oil with Vitamin E – 5euro Off Also available in capsule form

6. Citrus Fruits – These fruits in particular are packed with Vitamin C which is believed to increase the production of white blood cells. These blood cells are what helps the body fight off infections. Not only that, but Vitamin C is vital for healthy gums and teeth. Our bodies do not produce or store this vitamin so it is important to include foods containing high amounts of it in our diet on a regular basis. For an extra boost when that “run down” feeling hits, supplementation is helpful, but on a day to day basis it is best to try get the vitamin from its natural source.

Life Plan Chewable Vitamin C
Also available in powder form, proving very popular with customers: Biocare Vitamin C Powder

7. Turmeric – You may have also heard of curcumin, well that is what gives Turmeric its colour. This is a bright yellow spice, often used in curries, and can be slightly bitter (but so good) to taste. This spice has always been known as an anti-inflammatory, and more recent products such as “Zincuflex” has added it to a supplement for arthritis, we have been getting very positive feedback about this product. Recent studies also state that Curcumin could be beneficial in reducing fever.

Zincuflex – Joint Support SALE

8. Almonds – Full of the fat soluble vitamin, Vitamin E, only half a cup of almonds will give you almost all of your daily allowance, which we were only delighted to hear. We aren’t sure how much that is in terms of nut butter, but we know it tastes good!

Meridian Crunchy Almond Butter Also available in smooth and organic!

We hope these tips on boosting the immune system will help you, and as always any questions or queries, pop in or drop us a mail, we are always happy to help.