Foods to Enhance Your Immune System this Spring

As we head into Spring, make sure to add these foods to your diet to boost your immune system so you can kick those allergies away and get back to training!

Cinnamon and Turmeric
These spices have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon helps boost circulation in the body and stimulates the body’s own antioxidant enzymes. They also help remove toxins in the body and lower blood sugar levels.

Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits contain high amounts of antioxidants and key vitamins like Vitamin C. This vitamin increases the production of white blood cells, which helps fight off illnesses. Since our bodies do not produce Vitamin C, it is important to consume foods that contain high amounts of it. These foods include grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, and lemons.

Garlic
Garlic helps add a little zing to food and it’s a must-have for your health. In Ancient Greece, many would use it as a “performance enhancer” as it helps fight off feelings of fatigue and infections. Garlic may also help lower blood pressure as well. In addition, a recent study found the more garlic people consumed, the lower their levels of potential carcinogenic processes.

Green Vegetables
We have always been told to get in our green vegetables and there is a reason! Greens are supercharged with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as many other antioxidants and fiber. They are also rich in beta-carotene, which may increase the infection-fighting ability of our immune systems. Greens are healthiest when cooked as little as possible so that it retains its nutrients. Try out some spinach, kale, broccoli, and edamame.

Greek Yogurt
In addition to being packed with protein, greek yogurt contains probiotics, which help stimulate your immune system and fight off harmful bacteria. Yogurt is also high in calcium and Vitamin D which are not only great for your bones, but also help regulate your immune and tissue functions. Just be careful in which brand you choose, because many are filled with unwarranted sugars.