Ten Foods to Supercharge your Immune System

Swine flu, regular flu, stomach bugs, headaches, etc… We are surrounded by illness and sickness these days it’s no wonder we are always “coming down with something.”

Well this week, let’s try and “go up with everything!” Today, we are going to begin our journey up with our bodies and take another look at what we are putting in them. Last week, I bashed Subway pretty hard, BUT I don’t think I gave you enough substitutions. This week I am going to give you so many foods to start thinking about eating, the problem isn’t going to be not knowing what to eat, it’s going to be which food to eat FIRST!

I am going to focus on specific foods that are serious immune system boosters.  These ten foods will keep your immune system fighting fit and knock out nasty bacteria faster than Mohammed Ali!

1. Onion- Contains quercetin, an anti-inflammatory and anti-viral. Suppresses H. Pylori, a brutal ulcer causing bacteria. Helps lowers cholesterol, thin the blood, and adds flavor to cooking. If you start crying while cutting these tear-inducing bulbs, just remember how bad pulsing squats make you want to shed a few tears.
2. Avocado- The fat contained in avocados (monounsaturated) helps lower cholesterol. Contains most B-vitamins that will boost your energy instantly. Contain betasitosterol, a chemical beneficial to the prostate gland. AKA Alligator Pear, was one of Crocodile Dundee’s personal favorites (he was intelligent and healthy).
3. Asparagus- A natural diuretic, encouraging the body to flush out toxins. Eases indigestion, IBS, arthritis, and grumpiness.  Good source of folate, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C. Steam the tip gently to preserve the nutrients, poor delicate asparagus doesn’t do well with third-degree burns.
4. Grapefruit- The sharp and tangy fruit is detoxifying and immune-strengthening.  Large amounts of Vitamin C, which help inhibit cancer development. Its seeds contain an anti-parasitic, anti-fungal compound. The scent of grapefruit has been found to suppress the appetite and life the mood. Don’t be afraid to eat the white part, its bitter, but aren’t you every now and then?
5. Blueberry- If blueberries were given a grade for health-giving properties; they would get an A+. One serving of blueberries provides as many antioxidants as five servings of broccoli, apples, or carrots. Contain anthocyanins, which strengthen blood capillaries, improving circulation and transportation of nutrients. Enhance eyesight, prevent dementia, heart disease, and stroke. Eat these blue bundles of joy 3-4 times a week, great before your 3-4 times a week of exercise! Coincidence…I think not!
6. Brazil nut- High in the antioxidant selenium, which strengthens the immune system’s antibody response and helps prevent cancer, heart disease, and premature aging. Rich in protein, Brazil nuts eaten raw makes a satisfying snack. Add them to salad for a South American twist that will not only help burn fat and boost your metabolism, but have been known to improve your salsa dancing abilities…
7. Oats- Oats are high in Vitamin E and contain strong antioxidants that help to break down cholesterol and help prevent colon cancer. High in fiber and rich in silica, which soothes the digestive tract. Try oatmeal in the morning with walnuts and cinnamon for a host of immune system benefits. That morning breakfast will put MJ’s Wheaties to shame!
8. Sardines- This slender oily fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation, lowers cholesterol, and boosts the moods. Sardines also contain protein and B-vitamins-essential for energy production.  A good quality sardine, contrary to popular belief, does not smell like a fish market.
9. Echinacea- This herb is the most important immune stimulant. Fights colds and other illnesses. Contains natural antibiotics. Helps prevents infections, flu, and colds. Anti-fungal and can stimulate immune response and ease allergic reactions. Look for Echinacea in the herbal tea department at Kroger or HEB.
10. Garlic- This bulby treat has many therapeutic properties, treating gastro-intestinal conditions to respiratory infections. A potent anti-microbial boosting white blood cells and fighting off bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses. A powerful antioxidant, thanks to its amino acids, helping it to enhance overall immune function. Can be taken as a supplement to avoid any fears of garlic breathes!

This week make it a point to start thinking healthy fit thoughts, which will eventually lead to healthy fit ideas and then of course healthy fit ACTION!

If you want to lose weight start thinking about it!

If you want to build muscle start thinking about it!

If you want run a marathon start thinking about it!

You get the idea? It all starts with your thinking.

Earl Nightingale said “We are what we think about all day long”…think about it.

Eat Smart and Think FIT!

Nick Garcia