Good nutrition is needed to strengthen the body's first line of defense including both body cells responsible for protection against foreign materials and the skin acting as a barrier to invaders.
Protein foods necessary for cell growth and development are also key for antibodies formation. Antibodies play role in an individual's immunity whereby they clamp the pathogens together to destroy them. on the other side poor nutrition contributes to the development of chronic diseases which impair one's immunity. Chronic diseases usually contribute to worn out of bodies defense line including cellular damage.
These chronic diseases are caused by deficiency or toxicity of certain nutrients. Therefore individuals should watch their intake, making sure it adheres with the Recommended Dietary allowance
Foods that boost immunity
Foods that boost immunity are mainly from green leafy vegetables and fruits since they are packed with micro nutrients like the vitamin c,A, folic acid and E necessary for immune boost.Thus always referred to us protective foods.
These Micro nutrient rich foods will help strengthen immunity:
Almonds, sunflower seeds
Rich in vitamin E. E vitamin is the antioxidant, which removes free radicals protecting the body from oxidation thus preventing diseases like cellular cancer.
Citrus fruits - Oranges, lemons
Citrus fruits are vitamin c containing fruits, vitamin c helps in the formation activation of t-lymphocytes to perform their functions of protection against foreign proteins.
Protein-rich foods;
Proteins are necessary for the formation of body structures aids in the formation of antibodies. Antibodies neutralize toxins released by pathogens. They clamp pathogens together to destroy them.
These protein-rich foods example;
- Chicken breast
- Eggs
- Almonds
- broccoli
Zinc-rich foods
Other than this mineral useful function in cell division, it's suitable in immune boost, foods rich in zinc example;
- Poultry
- Nuts
Foods rich in vitamin A
Vitamin A got from foods like carrots, cereals, pumpkins, and eggs is essential for proper vision in dim light and rebuilding of mucous epithelial barrier to invaders thus it's necessary for immune protection.