Five immunity boosting foods

Diet and immunity have been a big discussion for the past two years. Before Covid, we knew that it’s important to have a healthy diet but right now, there is a heightened awareness when it comes to immunity-boosting foods.

Eating healthy shouldn’t just be triggered by a worldwide pandemic. It’s important to safeguard your health by working out, eating healthy, getting enough rest and taking care of your mental health.

When we focus on healthy foods, it’s important to note that some options are far better than others when it comes to immunity-boosting properties.

Here are some that have been linked to improved immunity when consumed regularly.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a delicious ingredient to add to your veggie salad, curries and soups. They taste good and still contain some key properties for a good nutritional diet.

In terms of immunity boosting, broccoli has an abundance of vitamins like C and A, both which are important for strong immunity defense.

However, you should prepare them properly by slightly steaming them to avoid damaging those precious nutrients.

Spinach

What we love about spinach is the fact that you can find them in almost every store or kiosk. You can prepare them in different ways and the best part is that they also help to protect your body against infections.

They have a good amount of antioxidants, vitamin C and other major properties that can enhance your immunity.

Similar to broccoli, you should avoid overcooking them. You should steam or lightly fry them to maintain the nutritional benefits they supply.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in most Kenyan dishes. We’re so used to chopping and tossing them in the frying pan without really thinking about the benefits they provide. If you eat tomatoes often, you should know that you have been helping your system get a disease fighting advantage.

They supply your body with vitamins, protect you during flu seasons and they also have some cancer fighting properties as well.

You can enjoy them raw in your salads, juices or cooked in other dishes.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms might not be as popular as other veggies but they still come with amazing health perks. When it comes to immunity enhancing properties, they contain selenium, niacin, Vitamin D and a wide number of nutrients that can help.

Some of the best ones to try are lion’s mane, turkey tail and chaga mushrooms. You can prepare them in different ways but grilled mushrooms are the best.

Beans

Beans are also another easy to find but nutritious option to try. They are known to supply fiber and protein but they also help to trigger a strong immune system.

The combination of vitamins, minerals and protein all work together to ensure your body is healthy. Different types of beans like black, red and navy beans work exceptionally well. Include them in your diet regularly by preparing beans soups, salads and stews.

To get an extra boost as you include beans in different recipes, use other immune-boosting ingredients like turmeric and red bell peppers.