5 Powerful Superfoods That Boost Immunity

I’m sure by now you have heard all about the so-called miraculous benefits of superfoods. Before you roll your eyes, did you know…that the fruits and vegetables you eat have less than half of the nutritional value they had 40 or 50 years ago?

The University of Texas, Biochemical Institute in 2004 tested a sample of 43 common fruits and vegetables and discovered that nearly half lost some nutritional value. The team found declines from 6% to 38% in protein, calcium, iron, riboflavin, and phosphorus levels.

What is even more disturbing is that magnesium, zinc, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, and phytonutrient declines could not be studied because they were not reported back in the 1950s.

Since good old-fashioned lettuce and tomatoes aren’t as nutrient dense as they once were in 1955, why not give superfoods a little extra attention?

Superfoods are important for your immunity. They are nutrient dense powerhouses bursting with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and polyphenols.

These special foods can give you more energy, heal your body, help you shed fat, and even remove toxins. But one of the most vital benefits of superfoods is that they can boost your immune system.

With each passing year the common cold, seem to get worse. If your immune system is in a weakened state, you may find that if someone sneezes on you, shakes your hand, or a small child give you a hug – pretty soon you may start to sniffle and feel your throat getting sore.

Some symptoms of a weakened immune system are:

• Repeat yeast infections
• Reoccurring colds and infections
• Slow wound healing
• Chronic fatigue
• Allergies
• Chronic dry nose

The average adult gets two to three colds a year with each one lasting at least one week, which is almost a month of being sick! Why not take charge of your health and boost your immune system naturally to make this year your healthiest year ever?

5 Powerful Immunity Boosting Superfoods

1. Coconut oil

Power up your immune system with coconut oils antibacterial, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antiretroviral properties to help your body defend against disease and infections.

Studies have shown that coconut oil may increase your body’s ability to fight off invading viruses such as influenza, herpes, Hepatitis C, and even HIV. Yes, you read that right…the possible benefits of adding coconut oil to your life are that good.

Coconut Oil Cold & Flu Syrup

• 2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons raw Manuka honey*
• Juice of one lemon
• 1 crushed finely chopped fresh garlic clove

Combine all ingredients until well mixed. Don’t heat the honey, as it will destroy beneficial enzymes. Take 1 tablespoon 3 to 5 times daily at the first sign of cold, flu symptoms, or cough. Make fresh each day.

*Manuka honey contains additional antibacterial properties and a greater ability to produce hydrogen peroxide to fight bacteria. When purchasing Manuka honey, remember these three things:

• Look for a 10+ or higher rating
• Make sure it says ‘active’ or ‘bio-active’ on the label
• Always look for the UMF® trademark which is owned by the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA)

Don’t worry if you can’t get Manuka honey, you can use raw organic unpasteurized pure honey which works just as well.

2. Turmeric

We are absolutely in love with this golden eastern spice. It’s the basis of many curry dishes and a member of the ginger family. One of the active components of turmeric is curcumin a powerful anti-inflammatory and well-studied natural cancer preventer.

Turmeric can supercharge your immune system by protecting your cells’ integrity when threatened by free radicals and environmental stressors.

For a safe and delicious way to pump up your immune system, make a cozy cup of turmeric tea.

When purchasing turmeric look for 100% organic and freshly ground. Always take turmeric with black pepper or ginger to help increase absorption.

3. Astragalus

Is an adaptogen, meaning it adapts to your body’s unique needs. Also known as huang qi, it has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Multiple studies have been done on the immune enhancing powers of astragalus, since it works to  stimulate the adrenal glands and several immune system factors including white blood cell activity. Use of astragalus has been successful in boosting immunity after chemotherapy treatments.

However if you have an acute infection or fever, always check with your health care practitioner before using astragalus or any other herbal remedy.

4. Chlorella

This ancient green algae is a complete food. It’s high in B-complex vitamins, iron, and enzymes that regulate the aging process. Chlorella can help boost immunity, accelerate healing, and detoxify your body with the benefits of chlorophyll found in chlorella.

Naturally abundant in a special protein found in your bloodstream called albumin. Albumin repairs cell tissue and removes excess fluid from tissues. This protein also carries vital nutrients, proteins, and hormones through the blood to regulate the circulatory system.

5. Black currants

Think twice before you reach for those blueberries. Black currants have twice the antioxidant power of blueberries and are packed with vitamin C and malic acid. Just one half cup of black currants contains the recommend daily allowance of vitamin C.

Malic acid helps increase energy levels. Vitamin C is an essential immunity booster and antiviral as it helps fight infections and breaks down mucous.

In addition, there is an anti-aging bonus found in black currants. These lovely dark berries help strengthen connective tissue that weaken as we age.

Make a cup of this soothing and potent tea by steeping one tablespoon of dried black currant bush leaves in one cup of boiling water. Steep for seven to ten minutes and enjoy!

If you are sick, don’t rush to get antibiotics that could damage your immune system long-term.

Instead, try these powerful superfoods, drink lots of water, get enough sleep, and limit sugar as much as possible.

You will discover that boosting your immune system is easier than you think and the benefits are a healthier, happier, and more vibrant you.