Proper diet is a shield against many diseases

Immune system – a kind of protective screen of the human body, which is designed to protect against bacteria, viruses and harmful chemicals. According to doctors, one of the most important components of protecting and strengthening the immune system is proper nutrition. It is important to know which foods can strengthen the immune system, this will help to deal with various diseases much less often.

In order to strengthen the immune system, you should:

1. Include more foods that contain antioxidants in your diet

Antioxidants are substances that neutralize toxic oxidant products in human blood. The occurrence of the latter can also be influenced by exposure to sunlight, tobacco smoke and polluted environment, etc. Oxidants damage DNA, as well as suppress the immune system of the body, these processes are the cause of the development of various diseases.

According to the results of modern scientific research, the occurrence of almost all types of cancer is provoked by a lack of foods containing antioxidants in the diet. In addition, free radicals often cause heart disease and atherosclerosis. Due to such exposure, diseases of the nervous system, kidney, gastrointestinal and skin diseases also develop.

Of course, it is impossible to prevent the development of such diseases with antioxidants alone, but to minimize the harmful effects by consuming products for immunity – real.

2. Get adequate amounts of nutrients and micronutrients from food

With a constant lack of nutrients, the immune system is weakened – there is a gradual loss of vitamins, which provokes a violation of certain biochemical reactions in the body. Nutrient deficiencies often affect young and old people. It is recommended to take vitamin and mineral supplements that make up for the lack of nutrients in the body. These are: beta-carotene, selenium, vitamins C, E, A.

Foods that are good and bad for the immune system

In order to strengthen the immune system, you should eat as many fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains as possible. First of all, you should pay attention to the antioxidants – citrus fruits, carrots, liver and vegetable oils.

Minerals are another nutritional component for a healthy immune system. You can get them by eating green vegetables and fruits: asparagus, broccoli, lettuce.

Zinc and selenium are also very important for strengthening immunity. Seafood, nuts, meat, eggs, and grains contain zinc, while selenium can be found in liver, kidney, seafood, whole grain breads, and various grains.

Red meat consumption is best reduced to once every 10 days, while limiting the consumption of fried meat as much as possible. It is better to replace meat dishes with fish.

When cooking, use only vegetable oil, refuse margarine. Don't forget to drink plenty of water.

What to do if you have a weak immune system:

• consume less alcohol, which provokes a decrease in the number and activity of lymphocytes and leads to zinc deficiency;
• drink less coffee, try to either smoke less or quit altogether;
• Consumption of fatty animal foods should be limited, as they contain high levels of cholesterol. It is better to give preference to lean meat and vegetable products.

Source estet-portal.com