A strong immune system is critical in ensuring that the body can fight germs causing diseases and harmful pathogens. Strengthening your immunity is easier said than done. Taking probiotic supplements is one of the ways to boost your immunity. In case of a lack of enough funds for supplements, there is a natural plant that provides nutrients that help boost your immunity. Below are some natural nutrients that can help you boost your immunity.
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble that occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables. It helps boost immunity by acting as an oxidant and protecting cells from free radicals. Before the discovery of vitamin C in 1932, experts were already aware that there was a nutrient in citrus fruits that could cure and prevent scurvy that killed many sailors. Other than healing wounds and preventing infections, it also needed to make collagen that is weaved into various systems in the body. Since Vitamin C is not well stored in the body, experts advise daily intake of foods and plants rich in Vitamin C. These fruits and plants include citrus fruits, tomatoes, white potatoes, and cruciferous vegetables.
2. Selenium
Selenium is an essential mineral that is seldom talked about. Selenium is crucial in preventing inflammation and boosting immunity. It also helps in making DNA and protecting cells from damage and infections. It is stored in muscle tissues and thyroid glands. Selenium is present naturally in animal protein foods like turkey, chicken, beef, finfish, and shellfish. It is also present in lentils, beans, whole-wheat bread, and fortified cereals.
3. Vitamin A
Unlike Vitamin C, Vitamin A is fat-soluble. It also helps prevent cells from damage caused by free radicals and has antioxidant properties. It is also essential in developing and functioning of the immune system by controlling the immune responses and the formation of antibodies to fight against antigens. Vitamin A can be obtained as a preformed Vitamin A in fish, organ meat like liver, dairy products, and eggs. The body is also able to transform carotenoids from fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are the pigments in fruits and vegetables that give them colors like yellow, orange, and red.
4. Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral nutrient found in various plants and animal foods. It is a natural immune booster responsible for the functioning of the immune system, preventing inflammation, acne, cell growth, and other conditions. The body does not naturally produce, so people must ensure the food and fruits they take are rich in zinc. The body requires zinc for growth and development, protein and DNA synthesis, enzymatic reactions, and gene expressions. Zinc is found in poultry, red meat, and seafood like crabs and oysters, foods like wholegrains, fortified cereals, beans, and nuts.
5. Vitamin E
Like Vitamin A, Vitamin E is also a fat-soluble vitamin that occurs in several forms, but the body only uses alpha-tocopherol. it is also an antioxidant that fights against free radicals. It also prevents clotting of the heart arteries and enhances the functioning and response of the immune system. Vitamin E is found in sunflower seeds, asparagus, avocados, peanuts, spinach, pumpkin, bell peppers, and mangoes.
Conclusion
To help boost your immune system, you can make several changes in your lifestyle and dietary habits to encourage the intake of immune-boosting foods. This will go a long way in preventing infections.