Our immune system functions to protect us against the constant daily barrage of microbial pathogens, foreign invaders and mutating cells. How easily we are able to resist and recover from disease is largely due to the strength and integrity of our immune system. A robust immune system is created through a range of delicious dietary options, as well as regular exercise!
Food is Medicine: Good nutrition is essential for immune system functioning and should include adequate levels of protein, Vitamins A, C, E and zinc, as well as other nutrients such as B6, folate, selenium and iron.
Top 15 Immunity Boosting Foods
According to research, our gut microbes also play a large role in our body’s defence and the more diverse the variety, the less prone we are to allergies and disease. The best way to boost our microbiome is just as nature intended…. through real, living, fresh produce.
Where possible, select foods that are high in dietary fibre and aim to add more fermented foods where possible, including yoghurt, kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi (to name a few).
Movement as Medicine: Research has also shown that moderate levels of regular exercise reduces our susceptibility to illness. In a one year study of over 500 adults, it was found that 1-2 hours of moderate physical activity per day was associated with a one third reduction in upper respiratory tract infections. Other studies have also shown that people who exercise 2 or more times per week have half as many days off work or school due to colds or flu, in comparison to those who don’t exercise.
So give your body its best chance to avoid nasty colds and flus…. there are so many other benefits that come with a healthy diet and exercise as well.
