With winter in full swing, colds and flus aren’t far behind! But here’s some good news–eating a healthy diet can help strengthen your immune system to ward off illness.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends these nutrients and foods:
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Protein: helps the body defend itself.
Sources: eggs, soy, unsalted seeds and nuts, lean meats, seafood, poultry, beans and peas.
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Vitamin A: promotes healthy skin and tissues.
Sources: kale, spinach, red peppers, sweet potatoes, carrots, eggs, apricots, and foods marked as fortified with vitamin A.
Sources: tangerines, oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits, papaya, strawberries, red bell peppers, tomato juice, and vitamin C-fortified foods.
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Vitamin E: helps boost immune system.
Sources: vegetable oils, peanut butter, spinach, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, and vitamin-E fortified foods.
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Zinc: help your immune system function.
Sources: beans, nuts, milk, whole grains, poultry, seafood, and lean meats.
Source: healthfinder.gov
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