What Are Some Foods that Support the Immune System?

Having a strong immune system is vital to good health. Here are some foods that help support the immune system: 

Orange produce and leafy greens- Such as squash, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, orange produce, provide useful carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene that improve your vitamin A levels to support the immune function as well as healthy skin and lubrication/mucus (a front line of defense). 

Healthy fats- Such as wild salmon, sardines, flax, hemp oil, nuts, seed support good lubrication inside and out, proper immune cell functioning, and decreased inflammation. 

Vitamin C- fresh, raw fruits and vegetables, especially citrus, strawberries, rose hips help keep your immune system going. 

Pungent aromatics- Such as garlic, onions, ginger, horseradish, boost circulation, improve the flow of mucus and enhance digestion. They also help the body eliminate pathogens and is antimicrobial. Oregano and thyme act similarly and help with your gut and lung health. 

Medicinal mushrooms- such as gourmet edible shiitake, maitake, reishi, turkey tails and chaga support and modulate the immune function.

Fermented foods- such as kimchi, kefir, yogurt, miso, sauerkraut and fermented veggies provide beneficial bacteria, which is essential to your gut and skin, while decreasing inflammation and improving immune function.

Fluids- such as water, tea soup, broth and miso keep you hydrated so that your immune system can do its job, protective mucous membranes stay plump and moist and germs and battle debris are easier to flush out.