1. Orange Juice - It’s true the jury is still out on whether or not vitamin C can help to fight common viruses such as the common cold. There is, however, proof that orange juice helps to boost your immune system which can help you avoid those types of viruses from making you sick in the first place.
3. Garlic – If there was a wonder food that could cure or prevent a host of illnesses it would be garlic. This pungent little ball of power has been shown to lower cholesterol, block cancer cells, kill over 14 different strains of bacteria that cause ear infections, and reduce high levels of blood sugar. As if that weren’t enough it also boosts your immune system. Spice up your food with a little garlic whenever you can.
5. Oysters – If you’re an oyster-loving person, you’re well on your way to increasing the level of zinc in your body. In addition to calcium, niacin and iron, oysters are chock-a-block full of zinc which helps fight off common colds by increasing the production of white blood cells.
7. Horseradish – Instead of squirting that yucky nasal spray up your nose when it becomes stuffy, or gulping down the OTC decongestant, try eating a helping of horseradish. There are lots of recipes that call for horseradish if you don’t want to eat it solo.
9. Aniseed – Aniseed is a spice that is part of the parsley family. It’s the oil found in aniseed that helps to loosen up chest congestion and intestinal colic. Look for it in powdered form in the spice aisle of your grocery store.
2. Green Tea – For centuries, many cultures have recognized the immune-boosting power of green tea. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that your body needs to fight diseases. Making green tea a part of your daily diet is one of the best and easiest ways to strengthen your immune system.
4. Almonds – Almonds are more than just a good-tasting member of the nut family. They also contain a number of healthy nutrients that help fight off illness and boost the immune system. They are fiber, folic acid, magnesium, calcium, potassium, riboflavin and vitamin E.
6. Ginger – The Greek Philosopher, Pythagoras and England’s King Henry the VIII both proclaimed the healing powers of ginger. Today we know they were right. Ginger is packed with virus-fighting agents that help to sooth, heal and prevent a host of conditions.
8. Arugula – Arugula is a green leafy vegetable that’s packed with iron and vitamins A and C. Organic foods have a higher concentration of nutrients so look for organic arugula when shopping.
10. Chicken Soup – Exactly what it is in chicken soup that seems to magically make a person who is suffering from a cold feel better, is a mystery the medical community continues to try and unravel. Even though, it is still considered the King of all immune boosting foods. Chicken soup also has a tendency to relax and relieve stress after a long hard day. Cook up a bowl of home-made chicken soup as part of your weekly diet, and help boost your immune system.