Summer Foods That Boost Your Immunity
Your immune system plays a huge role in keeping you happy and healthy. So, why not give it the fuel it needs to keep the nasties at bay? Here are a handful of yummy summer foods that taste great and are good for your immune system, too!
Citrus Fruits
Sweet and tangy citrus fruits are fantastic for your immune system. Why? Because almost all citrus fruits are supercharged with vitamin C! Whether you like a squeeze of lemon juice in your tea, or you’re keen to munch a freshly picked orange, try adding citrus into your diet this summer for a quick and easy immunity boost.
Serving suggestion: Add orange slices to a green salad as an immune-boosting twist. Or, roast a chook with a citrus glaze for a dinner the whole family will love.
Blueberries
Blueberries are the perfect bite-sized snack for a warm summer’s day. These sweet, juicy, berries are flavoursome and contain antioxidants and immune-boosting flavonoids! In fact, studies show that the flavonoids found in blueberries may even strengthen your respiratory system, helping you avoid infections and the common cold.
Serving suggestion: Blueberries are great on their own as a snack, or you could sprinkle them over a bowl of Greek yoghurt!
Watermelon
Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, watermelon is a summer favourite that packs a punch! Plus, containing almost 90% water, watermelon can help you stay hydrated on those stinking hot summer days. To get the most bang for your buck nutrient-wise, chomp your watermelon right up to the rind.
Serving suggestion: Tuck into a juicy watermelon by itself, or run it through a juicer (skin removed) with some lime and ginger for a refreshing summer treat.
Turmeric
Did you know that people were using turmeric over 4000 years ago?! This yellow spice is a favourite in all kinds of cuisines, and a common ingredient in alternative medicines, and it’s easy to see why. Turmeric contains curcumin—an anti-inflammatory component, which is said to help the body fight foreign bacteria.
Serving suggestion: Use turmeric powder to flavour your chicken or rice, or if you’re feeling really brave, try a turmeric latte!
Note: no specific foods should be used as an alternative to medical treatment. Always consult your GP before trying any new foods or making changes to your diet.
Could you use some help incorporating some immune-boosting foods into your diet? Here at Simply Helping, we offer personal care, including meals and nutrition, as part of our in home care! Click here to learn more and contact us today.
