In Africa, fruits and foods around us boost our immune system. Health is indeed wealth, and the first health-related activity we do is eating.
From birth, what a baby feeds on is crucial for its development and growth. The same thing occurs for adults. Whatever you ingest either has a good or bad effect on your health. For example, it is common knowledge that smoking and excessive alcohol intake can damage one’s health.
There are illnesses such as the common flu that you could easily avoid if you eat right to build your immune system. When we at OEC Foundation distribute food items, we ensure that it is diverse in nutrients. This article suggests three affordable foods and fruits you can include in your diet to boost your immune system.
3 Foods and Fruits that Boost Your Immune System
Mangoes
Mangoes are a popular fruit that some refer to as the “king of fruits”. This stone fruit is heavily packed with numerous nutrients to help keep you healthy. These nutrients include carbs, fat, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K and many more. From one cup (165 grams), you can get as high as 70% of your daily Vitamin C needs. Its vitamin C content is enough to help you fight against infections and improve your immune system.
Mangoes also contain antioxidants that help your system fight against free radicals that can damage your blood cells. When you consume this fruit, you also give your body Vitamin A and the oxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that support your eye health.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are found everywhere and are mostly affordable. This class of fruits include oranges, lime, grapefruit, lemons, tangerines and many other varieties. These fruits are a significant source of Vitamin C, which helps maintain good skin and strengthen your immune system. They are also rich in fibre, a nutrient that improves digestion and helps with weight loss. If you’re counting calories, you may want to try out citrus fruits. They are low in calories and are high in fiber and vitamin C, helping you feel full. You can consume citrus fruits in pieces, as dried fruit or as fruit juice.
Ginger root
Whether you are sick or not, ginger is always an excellent addition to your diet. It is one of the healthiest and most medicinal spices on earth.
Ginger contains a high amount of Gingerol, the bioactive compound in ginger that helps your body fight inflammation and oxidative effects. It also improves digestion, fights common colds, and reduce nausea.
It can be consumed and processed in different forms ranging from powder, juice, tea, oil and can be blended, sliced, or grated. It is also known to help with weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and improve the risk of heart diseases.
Conclusion
Health starts with you, in your home and with what you put in your body. Whenever you’re planning a meal, ensure that you are getting nutrients from it at least. If you can’t afford a lot, the last thing you want is to purchase items that harm you instead of keeping you alive, out of the hospital, and away from expensive medical bills. Try out these fruits today and watch your health improve.
Written by: Orobosa Ikponmwen