Immunity, no, we’re not talking about Survivor, or basically any other game show, we’re talking about the immune system, and what you can do to make sure it is in the best shape possible. You see, your body goes through a lot each day, but there are ways that we can help support the immune system and improve our overall health along the way.
The immune system
Each day, at all times, your body is exposed to bacteria, germs and viruses that are trying to invade and attack it. Here’s where your immune system comes in. It works like a personal military system, armed and ready to defend you from these foreign invaders that cause harm. With a healthy immune system, even if an infection invades your body, it’s usually only a matter of time before it can fight it off.
A person’s immune system is made up of a specialised network of tissues, cells, and organs which work together to protect the body. However, this system can be weakened or made ineffective by things people experience in their day to day lives such as stress, illnesses, having a poor diet, and a lack of sleep.
To support your immune system, making sure that it’s functioning and in tip top shape at all times, it’s fundamental to focus on the right fuel for your body. Here are some of the best superfoods for supporting your immune system:
Elderberries
The Elderberry is a medicinal plant used throughout history by everyone from Ancient Egyptians to Europeans to Native Americans. Elderberry has traditionally been used for everything from easing aches to soothing swelling. Elderberries are also widely known as an immunity boosting superstar, helping keep your body healthy and strong. The main reason for this is that elderberries are nutrient and antioxidant-rich, which is just what we need to support one’s immune system.
They have cleansing and soothing effects, making them a powerhouse for fighting free-radical and environmental damage from things like UV rays and pollution. It’s also high in vitamins A, C and E, as well as being rich in antioxidants, specifically flavonoids, and anthocyanins. All of these work together providing protection from the free radicals just waiting to wreak havoc on your body, and keeping your immune system in the best shape each day.
Learn more about elderberries and bookmark some elderberry recipes here.
MSM Powder
MSM, which is actually Methylsulfonylmethane, is a widespread and popular dietary supplement traditionally used for many different types of symptoms and conditions. It is a chemical compound that contains sulfur, but is naturally found in plants, animals, and even inside the human body. It is also synthesised and used to create various dietary supplements in either powdered or encapsulated form.
MSM is also quite popular and used in herbal and alternative medicine, usually by those who are searching for a natural way to support joint comfort and to support the body’s natural defences. MSM could play a part in supporting a person’s immune system, which could decrease the overall stress levels felt.
Turkey Tail Mushroom Extract
The Turkey Tail mushroom has been one of the most researched functional mushrooms in recent times for its powerful immune support capabilities. In modern times, the Turkey Tail mushroom could be taken as an extract, which not only enhances its effects, but makes its ingestion much more convenient and simpler than before. Turkey Tail has also long been a symbol of longevity and spiritual strength and has been used to support respiratory and gut health, as well as to support overall energy and the body’s natural immune defences.
Turkey Tail Extract provides natural immune support and helps in the body’s digestive functioning. It is jam-packed with many nutrients including polysaccharides, glycoproteins, ergosterols and triterpenoids, all of which could provide a positive effect on the human body.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are not only incredibly delicious and versatile, but they are also full to the brim with immune-supporting vitamins and minerals. One of the vitamins citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and limes contains is vitamin C, which is pretty active in the immune-supporting game.
Vitamin C can help the body create white blood cells, which help protect the body against infection. It’s also said that vitamin C both protects and helps defend the white blood cells from free radicals, which can be harmful to our healthy cells. Vitamin C also helps strengthen the skin, which is the first defence barrier against bacteria, germs and illnesses. It’s also believed to support the body’s natural healing processes.
Nuts
There’s no escaping it, nuts are one of the healthiest, delicious and most nutritious snacks out there. They are also a great snack that helps you feel full for longer, and you only need a small handful. When it comes to your immune system, many nuts have a huge amount of vitamin E, which is a very powerful antioxidant that helps protect our bodies against free radicals and, along with vitamin C, helps in the formation of white blood cells, which as we learned above, are incredibly important for maintaining our health and immunity. Vitamin E also promotes healthy skin and is often used as a key ingredient in many skin care products.
Get started on supporting your immune system with Superfoods Australia
Building a strong immune system is not a one- or two-day process - immunity is built over time. The choice of foods, activity levels, quality of sleep, emotional hygiene - all of it can either make or break your immunity. Ensuring your diet is nutritionally rich is one of the most important puzzle pieces when it comes to building up your immune system.
And it’s actually super easy to start incorporating immunity boosting superfoods into your diets, like the ones we’ve mentioned today. You can start by checking out our range available here at Superfoods Australia. We want to make it easy for you to add superfoods into your life, that’s why we offer free express shipping Australia-wide for orders over $100 and AfterPay for all orders.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for or you’ve got a question, get in touch with us today, someone from our friendly customer service team will be happy to help you out!
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting a new supplement.
