The immune system is your body’s defender and acts as a shield against harmful bacteria and viruses. It keeps our bodies safe from diseases. Your immune system usually recognizes your own cells and foreign cells easily so when your body is invaded by alien substances your immune system works against them and helps you get rid of them. It also keeps a record of the antigens that attacked your body so in most cases the antibodies triggered can recognize the antigens and destroy them.
Signs of a Weak Immune System
- Body overweight
- Always having a cold
- High-stress level
- Wounds taking more time to heal
- Becoming easily tired
Supplements That Strengthen the Immune System
1. Cat’s Claw
In 1997, Cat’s claw ranked the most popular herbal supplement in US sales. There are totally of two species of cat’s claw, Uncaria Tomentosa, and Uncaria Guianesis, and this medicine is taken from barks and roots of the tree that is mostly found in the Amazon rainforest and in other tropical areas. It is known to fight against viral infections, it also contains anti-oxidant properties and helps the body release free radicals that damage cells. They are responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system and also strengthen the immune system by naturally increasing the number of white blood cells in your blood. Cat’s claw is also popularly used to treat arthritis, cancer, etc.
2. Mushroom
Mushrooms are rich in many nutrients that include protein, potassium, and other vitamins such as vitamin C, D, E, etc. There are various types of mushrooms available that support the immune system like Chaga, Reishi, Shitake, etc.
Chaga
Chaga mushrooms also known as Birch mushrooms are a rich source of antioxidants and help boost immunity power. They also help in controlling bad cholesterol.
Reishi
Reishi mushrooms can greatly improve immunity and also help deal with depression, anxiety, etc.
Shitake
Shitake mushrooms can help improve the immunity power and are also great for the heart.
3. Fruits and Vegetables
Including fruits and vegetables in your diet is usually beneficial for your whole body including the immune system. They play a major role in boosting the immune system as they are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and anti-oxidants.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like orange, lemon, etc are a rich source of vitamin C that helps in improving the functionality of your immune system.
Blueberries
They contain a flavonoid called anthocyanin with many anti-oxidant properties to strengthen the immune system and also help to treat respiratory problems.
So, any fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, must be included in your diet in order to strengthen the immune system.
4. Oysters
Oysters are a great source of proteins, zinc, copper, iron, etc. They are considered to strengthen the immune system. The Zinc present in it will considerably help with the rapid production of white blood cells in your body, the selenium in it is an antioxidant and vitamin C and E help improve the immunity in your body greatly. Oysters can also help the overall health of your body allowing it to perform efficiently.
5. Quercetin
Quercetin, one of the secrets to boosting the immune system of our bodies and fight against certain types of viruses. It is a newly popular supplement which has abundant flavonoid, a substance that is present in fruits and vegetables. It has so many other health benefits and has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Quercetin is commonly found in apples, grapes, etc and also available in capsule, powder forms.