Your immune system needs to be strong to fight off diseases. A weak immune system will not be able to fight allergies, infections, disorders, and other health problems. Right from fighting and managing common cold to severe health disorders, a strong immune system is essential for a healthy life. To boost the immune system, it is essential to supply the body with important nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin b12, and iron. The body absorbs these nutrients from food, making the inclusion of certain foods in your diet necessary. Read on to know more about the foods you should include in your diet to boost your immune system.

• Red bell peppers

Bell peppers are rich sources of Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps you quickly recover from the common cold, flu, and other infections and allergies. Adding red bell peppers to your meals in a day can provide the body with this essential vitamin. Moreover, bell peppers are rich in beta carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body.

• Citrus fruits

Vitamin C produces white blood cells, which fight infections and allergies. Citrus fruits are loaded with vitamin C. Since the body does not retain vitamin C, it is recommended to have vitamin C-rich food daily. Fruits such as grapefruit, oranges, clementines, tangerines, lemons, and lime are rich sources of vitamin C.

• Garlic

A highly effective immunity booster, garlic is packed with allicin, a sulfur-containing compound. This compound can immensely strengthen your immune system. Adding garlic to food will not only enhance its taste, but also help the body in fighting infections and diseases.

• Broccoli

Broccoli is packed with all essential nutrients and vitamins such as antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins A, E, and C. Rather than stir-frying or making it any other way, steaming broccoli will help retain all its nutrients, providing the body with all its health benefits.

• Spinach

Rich in a number of antioxidants, beta carotene, and vitamin C, spinach is a supercharged vegetable. Including spinach in the diet increases your immune system’s infection-fighting ability. Similar to broccoli, spinach should not be over-cooked. Eating blanched or raw spinach will provide the body with all the essential nutrients.

• Yogurt

A rich probiotic source, yogurt is good for not only the immune system, but also the gut and digestive system. Yogurts with active and live cultures stimulate overall health by giving a boost to the immune system. By taking care of the gut, yogurt also gets rid of toxins from the body. Yogurt fortified with vitamin D builds up the body’s natural defense system and regulates the immune system as well. Avoid packaged yogurt that is sweetened or has any flavor.