The immune system is your body's shield to protect itself against illness and disease. Harvard Medical School reports that quite a number of researchers are exploring the effects of diet, exercise, age, psychological stress, herbal supplements and other factors on the immune response in humans. Certain foods can provide the body with essential nutrients that may help to protect and strengthen the body's immune system.
Fruits
Fruits contain a high amount of natural antioxidant vitamins, micronutrients and phytochemicals. Antioxidants include vitamins A, C, E and carotenoids. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, oranges, green watermelon, papaya, grapefruit, cantaloupe, strawberries, kiwi, mango, and citrus juices or juices fortified with vitamin C are good sources of vitamin C. Food sources of vitamin A include apricots and pink grapefruit. Avocado contains a high amount of natural vitamin E. Incorporating these fruits into your diet on a daily basis may help to keep your body's immune system strong.
Vegetables
Vegetables, especially dark leafy green vegetables, contain a high amount of natural antioxidant vitamins. They also contain micronutrients, such as zinc, selenium, iron, copper, folic acid, and vitamins A, B6, C and E, which in studies has been known to alter our body's immune response, according to Harvard Medical School. Some examples of nutrient-rich vegetables to incorporate into your daily diet include peppers, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, yams and cauliflower.
Animal Sources
Animal sources, such as eggs, meat, milk, cheese, cream, liver, kidney, cod and halibut fish oil contain a high amount of vitamin A. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that is known to help strengthen the immune system. Not getting enough vitamin A in your diet may predispose you to developing certain illnesses.
