Photo: Jakub Kapusnak on Unsplash
Cover Photo: Jakub Kapusnak on Unsplash
Strengthen your resistance against illness with these power-packed foods

1. Yogurt

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Photo: Alexander Mils on Unsplash
Above Photo: Alexander Mils on Unsplash

Besides containing probiotics that are good for your body, yogurt is packed with nutrients like magnesium, selenium and zinc that may enhance your immune system. Choose unsweetened, low-fat yoghurt as a healthier choice. 

2. Citrus Fruits

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Photo: Bruna Branco on Unsplash
Above Photo: Bruna Branco on Unsplash

Vitamin C is key to fighting infections as it boosts the production of white blood cells. Almost all citrus fruits such as grapefruits, oranges, lemons and kiwis are rich in vitamin C. Since our bodies don't store or produce Vitamin C, it's wise to incorporate citrus fruits into our daily diet. 

3. Papayas

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Photo: okeykat on Unsplash
Above Photo: okeykat on Unsplash

A papaya contains over 200% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, an excellent immune-boosting agent. 

4. Almonds

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Photo: chuttersnap on Unsplash
Above Photo: chuttersnap on Unsplash

When it comes to preventing colds, vitamin E is usually overlooked compared to vitamin C. However, vitamin E is also key to a healthy immune system. Nuts, such as almonds, are packed with the vitamin and also have healthy fats. A half-cup serving of almonds, provides nearly 100 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin E.

See also: 7 Vegan Skin Oils To Transform Your Complexion

 

5. Turmeric

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Photo: FOODISM360 on Unsplash
Above Photo: FOODISM360 on Unsplash

A key ingredient in curry dishes, this bright yellow, bitter spice is more than just its vibrant colour and flavour. Turmeric contains curcumin that helps your body to neutralise free radicals and repair damages.

6. Kale

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Photo: Pixabay
Above Photo: Pixabay

Kale is rich in antioxidants, calcium, vitamins C and K and iron, offering a range of health benefits that include removing unwanted toxins and boosting your immune system.

7. Broccoli

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Photo: Leilani Angel on Unsplash
Above Photo: Leilani Angel on Unsplash

Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables to have at your dining table as it is supercharged with vitamins such as A, C and E, and antioxidants. The key to keeping its power intact is to cook it as little as possible or better yet, not at all.

Read also: How To Be Healthy This 2020

 
 

8. Spinach

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Photo: Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash
Above Photo: Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Spinach is a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C and beta carotene, all of which may help increase the infection-fighting ability of the immune system. Spinach is healthiest when it’s cooked as little as possible so that it retains its nutrients. 

Related: Manila's Hidden Gems For Vegans And Vegetarians
 

9. Ginger

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Photo: Don Shin on Unsplash
Above Photo: Don Shin on Unsplash

Ginger is a spicy root that has excellent anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. It is also known as a diaphoretic, which induces perspiration. Therefore, it may help in alleviating feverish conditions. Drink ginger tea if you feel a cold coming on. You can also add ginger in your diet through a wellness shot, a smoothie, a salad or soup. 

Related: What Is Sustainable Beauty?

10. Garlic

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Photo: team voyas on Unsplash
Above Photo: team voyas on Unsplash

Most of garlic's health benefits are derived from the immune-boosting allicin that is formed when a garlic clove is chopped, crushed or chewed. Low in calories and rich in vitamin C, it also supports the body's protective mechanism against oxidative damage.

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