There is a popular saying that prevention is better than cure. Everyone desires to be healthy. In this issue we bring you some foods that can help to fortify your immune system against diseases. Immune system as defined by Word Web is “a system (including the thymus and bone marrow and lymphoid tissues) that protects the body from foreign substances and pathogenic organisms by producing the immune response.” Immune response is the body’s defence reaction that detects invading substance – an antigen: such as a virus, fungus, bacteria or transplanted organ and produces antibodies to fight against that antigen.

Some foods are known to be helpful in boosting the immune system. They are highlighted below.

Oats and Barley
Studies show that these grains contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber which has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties more powerful than Echinacea. These compounds boost immunity, speed up healing of wounds and could help antibiotics work better.

Yogurt
The “live active cultures” or probiotics, found in yogurt, are healthy bacteria that keep the gut and intestinal tract free of disease-causing germs. Studies show that 7-ounce dose of yogurt daily is effective in boosting the immune system.

Fish and Shellfish
Shellfish such as oysters, lobsters, crabs, crayfish, shrimps and other crustaceans contain selenium, a substance which helps white blood cells produce cytokines—proteins that help clear influenza viruses out of the body. Salmon, mackerel (titus), and herring are fishes rich in omega-3 fats, which reduce inflammation, increasing airflow and protecting lungs from colds and respiratory infections.

Garlic
Garlic contains an active ingredient known as allicin, which fights infection and bacteria. Research shows that taking garlic could help prevent cold. Other studies show that taking 6 cloves of garlic a week lowers the rate of colorectal and stomach cancer.

Read more at: http://www.virtuedigest.com/foods-to-boost-immune-system/