It is important to keep the immune system strong as it influences general health directly and what you eat influences your immune system. Certain foods can help you have strong immunity and reduce the risk of getting sick frequently. 

Some of the immunity boosting foods are

•    Probiotic foods – Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that help improve the health of gut lining which helps strengthen immunity. Foods like low fat yogurt, buttermilk are good sources of probiotics.   

•    Citrus fruits – These are rich in Vitamin C which is a great immune booster. It acts as an antioxidant and helps protect immune cells and fight against infections. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Foods like guava, broccoli, berries, tomatoes are also rich in vitamin C.

•    Ginger – It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce nausea and sore throat. It has a bio active substance called gingerol, which fights infection.  

•    Garlic – Garlic contains a compound called allicin which is known to fight skin infections. It has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which makes you fall sick less often. 

•    Berries – These are rich in polyphenols with antimicrobial properties. They also have vitamin C in them, which adds on to immune boosting properties. 

•    Nuts and seeds – They are rich in vitamin E, copper, selenium and zinc which are beneficial for improving immune system. Almonds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds are also known to help improve immunity. 

•    Sweet potatoes – These are a good source of beta carotene, which gets converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is known for preventing free radicals from causing damage to the body, thus, boosting immune system.

•    Spinach and broccoli – They are good sources of Vitamin C and have antioxidant characteristics which makes them immune boosters.

Diet holds a very strong position in improving the strength of immune system. Eating right by including any of these above-mentioned foods in your daily routine, along with good exercise, to prevent infections, can help boost your immunity.