Keep your immune system at peak performance with these delicious foods!

A lot of research says eating a plant-based diet can indeed boost your ability to fight off illness. But how?

In order to maintain a healthy immune system, a combination of diet and exercise is key, as is managing stress.

Working out 4-5 times a week for 30 minutes (or more) is key to cardiovascular health, and eating a vegan diet can help make recoveries from working out quick and painless. Meditation or other forms of stabilizing practices are also key, as when your body is stressed, it has to work harder to fight off disease.  

A key component of your body's immune system are T cells. They come in two types - killer and helper T cells. The killer Ts target and irradicate potentially cancerous cells and viruses, and the helper Ts activate our antibodies to fight viruses, bacteria and the like. In tandem they are the x-ray visioned superheroes of our immune system.

The plant based diet is a great support system for T cells, but can it "boost" their ability to fight disease? Some doctors say yes! Because it is packed with fruits and vegetables, WFPB is a great source of the antioxidants Carotenoids and Flavonoids. Not only do they possess anti-viral properties, but together Cartenoids and Flavonoids can also stimulate the activity of T cells and other immune system components, while protecting and enhancing T cell responses, making your immune system respond more quickly and effectively. Pretty amazing, really!

What are some antioxidant packed foods to work into your daily routine? Well, if you're ordering from Nourish, you're getting them in almost every meal! Check it out:

Carrots - packed with carotenoids

Garlic + Ginger - anti-viral and anti-inflammatory 

Miso - probiotic, anti-inflammatory, packed with nutrients

Turmeric - anti-inflammatory, antibody support

Tomato - packed with flavonoids 

Beets - packed carotenoids 

Berries + Grapes/Raisins - packed with both, and blueberries are the best source! 

Kale - anti-inflammatory, packed with nutrients, antioxidant rich 

Fruits and veggies! Know them, love them, USE THEM. What's that old saying? Let Food Be...

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