Even More Immune Boosting Foods

Stay healthy this winter with these two immune boosting foods.

Garlic is a powerful infection fighter thanks to the sulfur-containing compounds in each clove. The anitmicrobial effects of the garlic compound allicin are well-documented, including a 2004 study in the British Journal of Biomedical Science. The medical literature consistently shows that allicin is also active against drug-resistant E.coli infections, fungal infections and parasites, and one clinical trial found that dietary garlic was useful in preventing colds. Allicin is only released when garlic cells are damaged (cutting, crushing, chewing) and is heat sensitive. Try adding some minced, raw garlic to a salad dressing.

Wheat germ is one of the richest vegetarian sources of zinc, an important mineral that is involved in nearly every aspect of immune system regulation. Zinc aids in the development of T-lymphocytes, a group of white blood cells that are central to fighting off infection. It also helps maintain healthy skin and mucus membranes, the body's first barriers to infection. Wheat germ has 17 milligrams of zinc per 100 gram serving, more than the government's recommended daily allowance, which is 11 mg for men and eight for women. Animal protein is the best form of zinc, particularly oysters, lobster, beef and pork shoulder. However, these sources also high in cholesterol and saturated fat, and are not an option for vegetarians, vegans and those who keep religious diets.

FitFlax with flax seed, chia seeds and FlaxVibrance with lignans are also a delicious choice to help boost your immune system. Enjoy the benefit of flax seed and the benefit of chia seeds with FitFlax and FlaxVibrance.