Diet for Healthy Immune System
The immune system is an important biological system of the body that maintains the resistance of the body against various infections and diseases. It works in collaboration with other systems of the body and also acts as the body’s shield against infections. The main functions of the immune system are:
• The immune system destroys harmful and infectious microorganisms thereby protecting the body from ailments.
• The immune system recognizes harmful foreign substances like germs, pollen, and dust and forms antibodies against the same to prevent the recurrence of these ailments.
You can maintain the health of the immune system by consuming a balanced and nutritious diet. A diet to boost the health of the immune system should have the following elements:
• Consume a diet which is low in fat content as high consumption of fat makes you susceptible to diseases like diabetes and heart ailments. These ailments are not caused by infection and hence, the immune system may not be able to protect the body against these ailments.
• Complement the low fat diet with fibrous foods in your diet as fiber reduces the hazard of degenerative diseases. Also, it cleanses the stomach, thereby getting rid of the infectious bacteria in the stomach which may cause infections.
• You should consume at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. You must eat green beans, nuts, whole grains, seaweeds and foods rich in chlorophyll.
• You must consume a diet that is high in protein content as protein deficiency leads to negative effects on the entire immune system. Proteins are instrumental in preventing the wastage of body tissues in case of an invasion of the body by infectious organisms.
• You are advised to drink plenty of water. Water stimulates all the systems of the body and also facilitates functions like the regulation of body temperature and the drainage of toxins out of the body. It helps boost the health of the immune system.
• You are advised to consume oils with essential fatty acids like Omega 6 Linoleic Acid. These essential oils are instrumental in the formation of substances called prostaglandins that stimulate the immune system of the body.
• You must limit the consumption of foods like meat, sugar, dairy products and canned foods.
These are a few recommendations for a diet to maintain and retain a healthy immune system. You should also include daily exercise to increase circulation and improve fitness levels.
