With cold and flu season right around the corner, we need to do our best to keep our bodies in tip top shape so that we can fight off anything that may come our way. We all know that Vitamin C is very important for our immune systems, which is one reason why all of the foods on this list have high levels of Vitamin C in them. When we take Vitamin C, it actually acts like an antioxidant in our bodies, helping to protect our cells from free-radical damage. Not just that, but it will help your body to absorb iron better, which your immune system needs in order to function correctly.

The goal is to be preventative and focus on aiding your body’s immune system before it actually has to work. However, eating foods high in Vitamin C may not stop the flu symptoms you may be experiencing right now. But it will help your body prevent infection in the future. The key is to start before you get sick. There are many foods that not only help strengthen the immune response but also help our bodies fight off infection. This means that a good old bowl of homemade chicken soup does actually help your body. Its broth, protein, fiber, and healing herbs and antioxidants actually makes this meal a win for your immune system. Here are some other foods that help your immune system as well.

Jalapeno Peppers:

Jalapenos have a compound called capsaicin. Not only is capsaicin important for spice, it is also important for your body. Capsaicin is considered an anti-inflammatory agent and is also known to ease arthritis symptoms and keep metabolism going.

Lemons:

Lemons carry bioflavonoids and Vitamin C. Bioflavonoids are known to kill cancer-causing free radicals. You can easily help your body’s immune system by adding lemon juice to just about anything. The most common way is to add lemon juice to your water, but you can add it to your food as well for added flavor.

Apples:

We’ve all heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Studies have proven that people who eat an apple a day do not need to take as many prescription medications. They also tend to experience fewer asthma symptoms. Apples are also a high fiber food, which will help reduce inflammation.

Garlic:

Most people will say they love the way garlic smells. That smell is actually coming from sulfur compounds. One of those compounds is called allicin. Allicin is known to block enzymes that can cause infections. Studies show that taking garlic can actually keep the common cold away and lower the risks of stomach, esophagus, and colon cancers.

Grapefruit:

Most people don’t know that by eating only half of a grapefruit you can get in 60% of your daily dose of Vitamin C. Also, eating grapefruit can help your body absorb iron as well. This can help you to get through a cold faster or even avoid them all together.

Ginger:

Many times ginger is used to treat nausea. This is because it is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.  In recent studies, ginger has had many good effects on obesity, diabetes, and even heart disease. Ginger also contains beta carotene and capsaicin, which supports the immune system.

There are many foods that can help aid your immune system – these are just a few. Now is the perfect time to take control of your holiday and be proactive about protecting your body from illness.