People have been looking at “superfoods” in recent years to help them get and stay healthy, but this year, with the advent of the coronavirus pandemic, that drive to “boost” the immune system with foods has never been greater. The 7 fruits listed below are a fantastic way to get those vital nutrients into your diet, and fresh fruits are both fun and flavorful to eat!
Acai Berry
Acai berry is such a potent antioxidant and stimulator of the immune system, researchers are studying it as a potential treatment for all kinds of conditions. Areas of study include acai use in people with increasing prostate specific antigen (PSA); cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome; lower rectum cancer, constipation, and Other potential for studies could include other conditions (for example, yeast infections, Flu, COVID-19).
Watermelon
Watermelon is an immune-boosting fruit. One 2-cup serving of watermelon has 270 mg of potassium, 30% of the daily value of vitamin A, and 25% of the value of vitamin C. Calories in watermelon aren’t much at all. One 2-cup serving of watermelon has just 80 calories. Watermelon also provides vitamin B6 and glutathione. The body needs these vitamins, nutrients, and compounds like glutathione for proper immune function.
Kiwifruit
Eating kiwifruit is an easy way to get a heavy dosage of Vitamin C. In fact, one small cup of kiwi delivers almost 275% of the daily recommended allowance of Vitamin C, which is vital for a healthy immune system. Beyond that, kiwi is known to improve your respiratory health, which is also critically important for a dancer. It can also help prevent vision and eye disease, as well as cardiovascular illness.
Blueberry
Blueberries are a great food to add to your diet all year long, but they’re especially delicious during summer. Not only that, but they’re more cost-effective, too, to purchase when they’re in season. And there’s more good news. While blueberries are responsible for a host of health benefits, one recent study showed that this little blue fruit can seriously support your body’s immune system. It’s no wonder, really, considering blueberries are packed full of antioxidants. Beyond helping with your immune system, blueberries can decrease your risk for heart disease and diabetes and also promote a healthier complexion and hair. Eating blueberries as a regular part of your diet can also lead to a boost in overall energy.
Cherries
Nothing says summer quite like picking cherries straight from the tree and eating them. And when you do, you’re giving your body’s immune system a big leg up in the process. Cherries have plenty of Vitamins A and C; they’re also packed full of folate and Vitamin E, all of which help to support the body’s immune system. On top of that, cherries can also help to relieve pain — another added benefit for dancers. Cherries are a natural anti-inflammatory food. So consuming them can help cut down on joint pain in your body.
Strawberries
From strawberry picking to strawberry shortcake, this small red fruit is another summer-time classic. Not only is the fruit itself a good source of both Vitamins A and C — both of which can positively impact your immune system — but the seeds can also help support your immune function. In addition, strawberries can help prevent heart disease, macular diabetes, and even some types of cancer with their free-radical fighting power. So whether you’re slicing them on top of a salad, or simply eating them whole, make sure you add strawberries to the menu this summer. You can even add them to other immune-boosting foods, like yogurt, for added benefits.
Oranges
Whether eaten alone as a snack or creatively prepared in a recipe, oranges boast a wealth of nutritious benefits. This juicy and sweet fruit provides over 100% of the daily value for vitamin C making it an immune-boosting superfood. Oranges are a good source of B vitamins like B1 and folate for proper brain development, potassium to maintain electrolyte balance, calcium for healthy teeth and bones, and over 170 antioxidants. When choosing oranges, look for ones that are smooth, firm, and heavy for the highest concentration of juice.
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