This year especially, make sure you include plenty of immune boosting foods in your diet to help ward off viruses and other illnesses.  Here is a simple list of top 10 go-to foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals essential to keep you feeling fit and healthy! 

1. Citrus Fruits are a must have in your diet if you want to stay clear of illness.  These fruits are rich in Vitamin C which is essential for boosting your immune system and fighting off colds and infections. Vitamin C has the added benefit of contributing to normal collagen formation, which helps promote healthy glowing skin. Citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes. Add fruit to your daily breakfast routine, enjoy it as a healthy snack or infuse your water with lemon and lime.

2. We all know vegetables need to be eaten on a daily basis, but did you know, certain vegetables are particularly good for your immune health?  Green, orange and yellow vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals essential for boosting your immune health. These vegetables provide a source of beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A within your body. Beta-Carotene supports the normal function of our immune system while Vitamin A promotes the health of our digestive tract lining. This is essential for protecting our bodies against illness as it acts as a barrier to infections. Carrot, sweet potato, kale, asparagus, spinach are all great examples and can be included in your diet daily through, soups, stir-fries, stews, casseroles or smoothies.

3. Turmeric has seen a huge increase in popularity over the last number of years. The active ingredient Curcumin is well known for its anti inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Curcumin also helps support the maintenance of a healthy digestive system and detoxifies the liver.  Some ways to incorporate it into your diet:  Try having a cup of turmeric tea daily, adding it to your curries and using it to season roasted vegetables.  It’s even more effective when taken with black pepper. 

4. Ginger is a well known remedy for cramping, nausea and travel sickness. It’s also a great ingredient for boosting our immune systems due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Use it as a spice and add to your stir-fries, add a knob of fresh ginger root to your smoothies or sip a cup of ginger tea in the mornings. Combining  ginger and turmeric gives your immune system an extra defense boost!

5. Garlic can do a lot more than add aroma and taste to your favourite dish as its nutritional benefits are countless. The active ingredient Allicin, protects the body from infections and disease while also supporting a healthy heart and reducing cholesterol. It has a decongestant action as it relieves congestion of the upper respiratory tract. Garlic also supports healthy glowing skin by slowing down the depletion of collagen and protecting our skin from the effect of free radicals. To avoid catching colds, the flu and common infections, try adding garlic to stews, casseroles, stir-fries and soups.

6. Pineapple contains an enzyme called Bromelain which aids the digestion of protein and allows your body to utilize immune boosting amino acids effectively. Pineapple is also well known for its anti- inflammatory properties which can help heal sore throats. Its decongestant action can help relieve congestion in someone suffering with a cold.  Pineapple can make a sweet addition to smoothies and yogurt or just on its own! 

7. Wheatgrass is a nutrient dense food, packed with chlorophyll, beta carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin B Complex, Amino Acids, Calcium, Potassium and Magnesium. Wheatgrass is chock full with nutritional benefits including liver support and immune function as it helps boost the livers ability to flush out toxins and cleanse the body. Wheatgrass is also great for balancing blood pH and promoting healthy, radiant skin. You can buy fresh Wheatgrass and juice it, or buy the powdered form and add it to your water or smoothies.

8. Berries are a rich source of Vitamin C, antioxidants and polyphenols. Vitamin C is well known for its immune boosting properties, while antioxidants and polyphenols play a role in fighting cancer and other chronic diseases. Berries add great colour and a sweet taste to many dishes. Try adding them to your crumbles, muffins, yogurts and smoothies to reap their nutritional benefits. 

9. Probiotic Yogurts contain live bacteria that are good for your health, especially your digestive system as they help keep your gut healthy. The live and active cultures may stimulate your immune system and help fight illnesses. Serve it with some fruit to boost your Vitamin C intake or some mixed seeds to boost your Zinc intake.

10. Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of Zinc which is a mineral well known for supporting a strong and healthy immune system. Zinc has also become popular for the treatment of colds and flus as research suggests it may help reduce the duration of an infection due to its healing properties. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten on their own as a snack, or add them to stir-fries, salads, smoothies or yogurts.