Boosting Your Immune System Through Diet

Foods That Boost Up Your Immune System

Cold and flu season is like a test we never studied for. But what if you could prep for it by simply loading up your grocery cart with immune-boosting foods? Here’s what should be on your radar:

• Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are Vitamin C powerhouses that can help stimulate your immune system and encourage it to kick into high gear when something’s off.
• Garlic: Garlic is a natural immune booster thanks to a compound called allicin, which helps your body fight off infections. Toss it into your cooking and consider it an easy win.
• Spinach: Spinach is rich in Vitamin C and packed with antioxidants, both of which can enhance the infection-fighting ability of our immune systems. It’s also low in calories, making it a great addition to your weight loss management plan.

The Power of Vitamins in Your Diet

Our bodies need certain vitamins to function at their best, and this is especially true when it comes to our immune systems. But which ones are really worth focusing on?

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, but it’s also in other healthy favorites like broccoli, strawberries, and bell peppers. This vitamin is a must-have if you’re looking to strengthen your immune defenses, and it’s super easy to get into your diet.
• Vitamin D: If you’re not getting enough sunlight, your immune system can suffer. Vitamin D helps your body fight off pathogens, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough. Salmon, fortified foods, and even a little time outside can help.
• Zinc: Zinc is great for fighting off infections. You can find it in nuts, seeds, and legumes. Getting enough Zinc keeps your immune system in great shape and supports your metabolism, which is important for reaching medical weight loss goals.

Should You Take Supplements?

You’ve probably wondered if it’s worth taking supplements to boost your immune system. The truth is that supplements can help, but they’re not a magic pill. If your diet is lacking, they can fill in the gaps, but they should never replace whole foods.

• Probiotics: Gut health is directly linked to immunity, and probiotics can keep your immune system strong.
• Elderberry: This trendy supplement has been getting a lot of attention lately, and for good reason. Elderberry is believed to help reduce the length of colds and flu by boosting your immune response.
• Multivitamins: If you’re concerned that you’re not getting enough nutrients from your food alone, a multivitamin can be a helpful addition. Just make sure to choose one that’s high in Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc, as these are the key players in immune health.

How Losing Weight Improves Your Immune System

Your weight can also have a major impact on your immune system. Excess body fat can trigger inflammation, which in turn weakens your immune response. When you lose body fat, you’re reducing inflammation and giving your immune system room to breathe and function properly. Plus, shedding those extra pounds through a weight loss program can help you feel better and be healthier. Weight loss management doesn’t have to be a solo journey, either. With support from a weight loss doctor in College Park, you can find a plan that works for you, one that helps you lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way. As you start to lose weight, you’ll notice not only an increase in energy as well as fewer colds and less time spent feeling under the weather.

Have You Been Searching for a Weight Loss Doctor?

Are you ready to feel stronger this cold season? The team at Right Weight Center can help you achieve your medical weight loss goals so you feel your best from the inside out. So why wait? Reach out today, and schedule a consultation.