Having a strong immune system can help you stay healthy and free from disease. Your food has a significant impact on enhancing your immune system and protecting you from toxins and illnesses. As a result, fueling your body with specific meals can assist to enhance your immune system.
The immune system is made up of organs, cells, tissues, and proteins that work together to keep the body safe from hazardous pathogens. They all operate together to stimulate the body’s defence mechanisms against infections. Pathogens might be viruses, bacteria, or other foreign toxins that cause infection.
When the immune system comes into contact with a pathogen in the body, it triggers an immunological response to combat the pathogen. Normally, the immune system produces antibodies, which bind to disease antigens and eliminate them.
Certain foods may improve your immune system’s responsiveness and performance. A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals will significantly improve the immune system.
1. Garlic and ginger
Ginger and garlic are superfoods that have been shown to have numerous health benefits and medicinal properties. Both ginger and garlic are high in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting qualities.
Garlic can help improve your immune system and help you fight flu and viral infections like the common cold.
2. Chicken Pepper Soup
Chicken pepper soup contains vitamins A and C, magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidants, all of which help to boost the immune system and protect against viruses. Chicken protein contains amino acids that help produce antibodies to combat infections.
Because chicken pepper soup is primarily liquid and spicy, it keeps you hydrated, which is especially important if you’re sweating from a fever.
3. Leafy Vegetables
Numerous healthful Nigerian green vegetables can help improve the immune system. Scent leaves, bitter leaves, pumpkin leaves, and spinach are examples of common Nigerian leafy vegetables. For example, pumpkin leaves are high in protein, vitamins A and K, and iron. Your immune system will thrive if you include it in your diet on a regular basis.
4. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content. Fruits strong in vitamin C help to strengthen your immune system. They also stimulate the formation of white blood cells.
Citrus fruits that enhance your immune system include oranges, grapes, lemons, tangerines, lime, and watermelon.
5. Seafood
Many specialists recommend eating seafood on a daily basis to boost the immune system. There is numerous nutritious Nigerian seafood available, including oysters and crabs. These shellfish are all high in selenium, a mineral and antioxidant that helps to enhance the immune system.
Seafood also helps to prevent cell damage and chronic diseases and is extremely nutritious.
6. Low-fat yogurt
Many dairy products are nutritious and can aid in the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Low-fat yoghurt, on the other hand, is the most recommended for boosting your immune system. Protein, calcium, and vitamins are all included in low-fat yoghurt. For effective immunological function, the body requires adequate levels of vitamin D and other nutrients.
Probiotics found in yoghurt include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, and Bifidus. These probiotics stimulate immune function and may even help lessen the duration and intensity of colds, as well as improve immunological function to combat illnesses.
7. Tea
Tea includes potent antioxidants known as polyphenols and flavonoids, which have been shown to improve immunological function.
These substances are also thought to eliminate free radicals, which cause cancer, and lower the chance of developing heart disease. Green tea, for example, affects blood lipids, raising good HDL cholesterol while decreasing LDL bad cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.
8. Moringa
Moringa is a potent plant with incredible benefits. Moringa can stimulate the immune system, which is one of its main health benefits.
Moringa has powerful immune-boosting properties and eating it will help you maintain a strong immune system as well as prevent infections and illnesses. Moringa leaves are also high in iron and vitamin A, both of which are necessary for the immune system to operate properly.
9. Legume
Legumes are known to be high in protein, and protein is necessary for the body’s function.
Many legumes, such as beans, soybeans, and lentils, are high in fibre and nutrient density. They contribute to the enrichment of the organs that comprise the body’s immune system.
10. Potatoes
Potatoes are high in vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for immunological function.
Potatoes are cholesterol- and fat-free food that is also good for your skin. Potatoes also have a high fibre content, which aids in bowel movement.
