TOP 7 FOODS THAT BUILD THE IMMUNE SYSTEM.

TOP 7 FOODS THAT BUILD THE IMMUNE SYSTEM.

  Kiwi and oranges—this is high in vitamin C which protects aginst infection. Morerover, vitamin C increase the production of infection fighting white blood cells and antibodies and increases levels of interferon, the antibody that coats cell surfaces, preventing the entry of virus. Also, vitamin C reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by raising levels of HDL (good) cholesterol while lowering blood pressure and interfering with the process by which fat is converted to plague in the arteries. As an added perk, persons whose diets are higher in vitamin C have lower rates of colon, prostate, and breast cancer. So take note!

 Carrota and sweet potates—these contain beta carotene a phytonutrient. Beta carotene increases the number of infection fighting cells, natural killer cells and helper T-cells, as well as being a powerful antioxidant that mops up excess free radicals that accelerate aging. Like the other “big three” antioxidants, vitamins C and E, it reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by interfering with how the fats and cholesterol in the bloodstream oxidize to form arterial plagues. Studies have shown that beta carotene can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, especailly strokes and heart attacks , giving scientific credence to the belief that a carrot a day can keep the heart surgeon away. Beta carotene also protects against cancer by stimulating the immunecells called macrophages to produce tumor necrosis factor, which kills cancer cells.

GARLIC—this flavorful member of the onion family is a powerful immune booster that stimulates the multiplaction of infection fighting white cells, booster natural killer cell activity, and increases the efficiency of antibody production. Garlic may also play a part in getting rid of potential carinogens and other toxic substances. It is also a heart-friendly food since it  keeps platelets from sticking together and clogging tiny blood vessels. Cooking tip: peel, chop and let sit 15 to 20 minutes before cooking to activate immune-boosting enzymes.

  SPINACH—this is known to be super high in antioxtidants that boost the immune system. No wonder popeye the sailor man loved it! Popularly known as a “super food,” spinach is nutrient-rich. It has folate, which helps your body produce new cells and repair DNA. And it boasts fibre, antioxidants, such as vitamin C, and more. Eat spinach raw or lightly cooked to get the most benefit.

  SALMON---among the many benefits of this “super food”, omega 3 fatty acids in salmon aid the body to fight infection. A study found that children taking a half teaspoon of flax oil a day experienced fewer and less severe respiratory infections and fewer days of being absent from school. The omega 3 fatty acids in flax oil abd fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel) act as immune boosters by increasing the activity of phagocytes, the white blood cells that eat up bacteria.

BUTTON MUSHROOM—don,t dismiss the lowlymushroom as nutrient poor: it has the mineral selenium and antioxidants. Low levels os selenium have been linked to increased risk of developing more severe flu. And the B vitamins riboflavin and niacin, found in these mushrooms, play a role in a healthy immune system. Animal studies have also shown mushroom to have antiviral, antibacteria, and anti-tumor effects.

OYSTERS—aphrodisaic? Immunes boosters? Maybe both, thanks to the mineral zinc that,s found in oysters. This valuable mineral increases the production of white blood cells that fight infection and helps them fight more aggressively. It also increases killer cells that fight against cancer and helps white cells release more antibodies. Additionally, zinc supplements have been shown to slow the growth of cancer.