Tuesday Tidbit: It’s Not Over Yet

It’s still winter. We’ve been brutalized this year, and there are no signs of letup. We’re all still stuck inside, sharing the germy love.

So, what can you do to boost your immune system? You know the basics, eat well, sleep well, wash your hands. Want more? Here’re some power immune-boosting foods you can add to your diet:

• Garlic: contains allicin which fights bacteria and stops viruses from reproducing. To increase potency, try crushed raw garlic in salads or pasta dishes.
• Broccoli: contains sulforaphane, a compound found in crucifers (cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage) which stimulates the cells that fight infection.
• Red bell peppers: more vitamin C than an orange! About 90 mg. is the amount of vitamin C you need daily to help your body defend itself against germs.  Just half of a red bell pepper has 76 mg. (whereas a half orange contains only 35 mg.).
• Apples: contain soluble fiber, which can help you recover more quickly from illness – make sure you eat the peel though – that’s the primary source.
• Mushrooms: even those common white button types can increase your body’s production of antiviral proteins that work to fend off infection.
• Yogurt: according to a recent study, the probiotics in yogurt  helped workers take fewer sick days.

What do you like to eat when you’re sick?

Image: graur razvan ionut / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

© 2011, Sarah. All rights reserved.

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