BEAT THE VIRUS WITH THESE POWER FOODS!

With the current mass hysteria brought on by the outbreak of the Corona Virus (COVID-19) It's more important now than ever to make sure you're taking proper measures to keep your body's immune system healthy and strong.

We already know how important it is to have a balanced diet, but what about feeding your body certain foods that may help keep your immune system strong? If you're looking for ways to prevent winter colds and the flu then add these 7 super foods to help boost your immune system.

1, CITRUS FRUITS

These fruits are loaded with Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps build up your immune system and is thought to increase the production of white blood cells. These are key to fighting infections.

2. RED BELL PEPPERS

Many people would assume that citrus fruits have the most vitamin C of any fruit or vegetable, but that's not the case. Ounce for ounce, red bell peppers contain twice as much vitamin C as citrus. They’re also a rich source of beta carotene. Beta carotene also, helps keep your eyes and skin healthy.

3. BROCCOLI

Broccoli is super-packed with vitamins and minerals. Loaded with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as many other antioxidants and fiber, broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. The key to keeping its power intact is to cook it as little as possible, or not at all.

4. GINGER

Ginger is an ingredient many turn to after getting sick. Ginger may help decrease inflammation, which can help reduce a sore throat and other inflammatory illnesses. Ginger may also help decrease nausea, chronic pain and may possess cholesterol-lowering properties.

5. SPINACH

Spinach is rich in vitamin C. It's also packed with numerous antioxidants and beta carotene, which may increase the infection-fighting ability of our immune systems. Spinach is healthiest when it’s cooked as little as possible so that it retains its nutrients. However, light cooking enhances its vitamin A and allows other nutrients to be released from oxalic acid.

6. ALMONDS

When it comes to preventing and fighting off colds, vitamin E tends to take a backseat to vitamin C. However, vitamin E is key to a healthy immune system. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it requires the presence of fat to be absorbed properly. Nuts, such as almonds, are filled with the vitamin and also have healthy fats. A half-cup serving, which is about 46 whole, shelled almonds, provides nearly 100 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin E.

7. Turmeric

This bright yellow, bitter spice has been used for years as an anti-inflammatory in treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also, high concentrations of curcumin, which gives turmeric its distinctive color, can help decrease exercise-induced muscle damage.