Build Your Immune System Naturally 2

More foods to help you build your immune system naturally:

* Garlic – Garlic is superb at fighting almost any type of infection. It is often used in herbal remedies. Just eating it a few times a week will help keep the immune system at its peak. For best results, eat garlic fresh and crush it thoroughly. This will maximize the amounts and availability of the infection-fighting compounds present in the garlic.

* Yogurt – Yogurt is rich in bacterial cultures, especially what are called probiotics. Bacteria might sound like the last thing your immune system needs, but probiotics (the opposite of anti-biotics) such as the acidophilus bacteria found in yogurt are essential to the immune system’s proper function. The acidophilus bacteria help us absorb the nutrients in our food and fight disease-causing bacteria and viruses.

Another type of bacteria found in yogurt, bifidobacterium, is particularly beneficial to the elderly to help them digest their food. If you have been ill and taking antibiotics, you might want to consider adding some probiotics to your diet to balance your immune system.

* Oysters – Oysters are one of the best sources of zinc one could hope for. Zinc aids in the reproduction and function of antibodies. It also hinders bacterial and viral growth, making it easier for the immune system to kill harmful germs.

* Pumpkin seeds – Another great source of zinc, and more readily available than oysters. They are not only a great healthy snack you can take with you anywhere, they are also a terrific topper on salads, muffins and more.

* Fatty fish – Omega 3 fatty acids are present in large quantities in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel. Omega 3 fatty acids encourage activity in phagocytes, the white blood cells that consume bacteria. Adding a vitamin E supplement will enhance this effect.

Omega 6 fatty acids are similar, and can be found in sources such as flax seed, a great salad topper, if you are not that fond of fish. There are also many fish oil supplements on the market. There is no need to overpay for fish oil. Pretty much any supplement with pure fish oil will do to help boost your immune system.

If we take care of our immune system, it can fight off most diseases and infections without the aid of antibiotics and other drugs. Including these foods in our diet is a good start to build your immune system naturally.