In this section in our winter health series, Louise O’Driscoll, Xen-Do’s affiliate Holistic Health Coach suggests foods that we should try and incorporate into our diet to maximise our resistance to all the illnesses that fly around at this time of year, so hopefully you won’t have to skip a single kickboxing session!

Immunity boosting foods

As well as the foods mentioned previously in this series, that improve gut health and thereby our immune systems, there are certain other foods that can give an extra boost to our ability to defend ourselves against nasty bugs:

Coconut oil has been found to have antibacterial and antiviral properties thanks to the lauric acid (which is also found in breast milk) it contains. Choose raw virgin coconut oil and use it for cooking, as a spread instead of butter, in smoothies and it is even handy on skin as a cleanser or moisturiser.

Kale is packed with phytonutrients and is high in vitamin C – bake kale crisps, stir fry in coconut oil or blitz in a smoothie to reap the benefits.

The healing properties of mushrooms have long been recognised. They benefit gut health and it is thought that the naturally occurring polysaccharides significantly boost immunity.

Green tea has been shown to provide all sorts of health benefits, including protection against cancer and assisting weight loss. It is high in antioxidants and may provide resistance to colds and flu.

Zinc, found in red meat, oysters, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate and wheatgerm, is rich in antioxidants, helping us resist infection. It can also be taken as a supplement of no more than 25mg a day.

One kiwi fruit contains around twice as much vitamin C as an average orange and is a good source of folic acid, minerals and antioxidants. It has been suggested by nutritionists that one a day significantly reduces the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Berries also provide a strong hit of vitamin C.

Turmeric has long been revered as a medicinal spice in countries such as India but is gaining massive recognition here recently. It has antiseptic and powerful antibacterial properties, boosting our immune system and providing a long list of other apparent health benefits.

This article is based on opinion:
– the author is not a qualified doctor or anyone who can dispense medical advice.
– any opinions stated are just that and people should consult a doctor before making any dietary changes or changes of any nature prompted by the articles published by or on behalf of Xen-Do.
– under 16’s please obtain parental permission before posting anything online.
– any opinions stated are that of the author and do not represent the opinions of Xen-Do.