10 Food Items That Bolster the Immune System | Exercise.com Learn: Your Fitness Business Resource

10 Food Items That Bolster the Immune System

Robert Eyler is a contributing writer for Exercise.com and is the owner of GetFit42. He is a NASM certified personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, corrective exercise specialist, behavioral change specialist, and is a Yoga Alliance registered yoga teacher.   Additional Resources: Advertiser Disclosure California Privacy Rights Careers Contact Cookie Policy Dat...

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UPDATED: Aug 25, 2020

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  • This article discusses 10 foods and drinks proven to help bolster the immune system.
  • Prevent and treat flu and cold symptoms by using food as medicine.
  • Learn about the health benefits of kombucha, coconut oil, prebiotics, cauliflower, and more!

As flu and cold season approaches, it becomes increasingly important for us to take care of our bodies, be mindful of what we put into our mouths, and get plenty of exercise! These measures will help to not only keep us productive and efficient while at work, but will also increase energy levels, decrease stress, and keep our brains functioning at high capacity (both inside and outside of work).

Below are 10 foods and drinks that have been proven to help bolster the immune system by preventing and treating flu and cold symptoms.

And don’t forget that regular exercise can help boost your immune system, too! Go PRO today for exercise routines, access to personal trainers, and more. 

#1 – Kombucha

Kombuch is a fermented tea that has been consumed for centuries. This delicious drink is rich in probiotics and contains antioxidants that can kill harmful bacteria. Kombucha also supports a healthy gut, is beneficial to mental health, and has been proven to fight numerous diseases!

#2 – Hot Lemon Water

It seems too simple and too good to be true, we know. But this simple remedy aids in digestion and also boosts the immune system by protecting the body from a cold or the flu.

The warm liquid coupled with the lemon can soothe a sore throat, decrease inflammation, and help relieve congestion.

Whether you are attempting to prevent the flu or are already showing symptoms of the flu or cold, you cannot go wrong with some hot lemon water. Try to consume 8-16 oz. in the morning, as this aids in digestion and hydration.

#3 – Apple Cider Vinegar

This vinegar helps keep the pH levels balanced, which can help prevent cold and flu germs from making your nose and chest their home.  Experts recommend 1-2 tbsp, per day, stirred in water.

#4 – Coconut Oil

This remedy has high levels of lauric acid, which the body can convert into a substance that has antimicrobial properties. Coconut oil helps boost the immune system. It can be taken with food, melted in hot tea or coffee, or eaten raw — straight out of the jar!

#5 – Ginger

Ginger is great for blending into juices or smoothies! Ginger helps relieve sinus trouble and congestion.

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#6 – Garlic (raw or pill form)

Eating garlic regularly is one of the best things you can do during flu season. Allicin, a natural property in garlic, fights bad bacteria and viruses.

#7 – Citrus Fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, etc.)

These delicious fruits are great sources of vitamin C — an important antioxidant that helps boost your immune system. You can also get vitamin C from peppers (red, green, yellow, orange, etc.), kiwi, and strawberries.

#8 – Prebiotics

Your body thrives if it has a healthy dose of probiotics functioning properly from within. Prebiotics are awesome to include in the diet because while these cannot be digested by the body, they are food for the probiotics that help grow them big and strong. Confused?

Think of it like this: Pac-Man is the probiotic, and the little blue dots are the prebiotics. You can find prebiotics in oats and barley (they contain beta-glucan) . . . and onions, bananas, and asparagus (they contain inulin).

#9 – Cauliflower

This veggie boosts glutathione, an antioxidant that gives your immune system added superpowers to shut down flu symptoms.

#10 – Green and Black Teas

These teas are key sources of antioxidants, while chamomile and ginger teas calm upset stomachs and reduce inflammation. You can even add honey, which soothes the throat.

Moreover, the steam from the tea opens up your sinuses!

Although this article is centered around flu and cold season, these foods and drinks are great to consume on a year-round basis. Try them out during this upcoming season!

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