Our bodies depend on proper nutrients and a healthy lifestyle to keep our defenses strong.<\/p>\n
Here are three nutrition tips to help you keep your immune system in tip-top shape:<\/strong><\/p>\n Your immune system has some \u2018special forces\u2019 in the form of white blood cells. These cells produce specialized proteins called antibodies that seek out and destroy invading viruses and bacteria. Since antibodies are proteins, you need adequate protein in the diet to ensure you\u2019ll be able to manufacture the antibodies your body needs. Healthy protein foods, like fish, poultry, lean meats, soy foods and low-fat dairy products provide the building blocks that your body needs to make these specialized proteins.<\/p>\n Fruits and vegetables are key players in immune system health because they\u2019re great sources of vitamins A and C, as well as phytonutrients. Vitamin C encourages your body to produce antibodies, and vitamin A supports the health of your skin and tissues of your digestive tract and respiratory system. All of these act as first lines of prevention against foreign invaders. Many of the phytonutrients found in fruits and veggies act as antioxidants, which can help to reduce oxidative stress on the body that may weaken your body\u2019s ability to fight of illness.<\/p>\n Keeping your digestive system healthy is also important in supporting immune function. Your digestive tract is home to trillions of bacteria that have numerous functions in promoting health. Some strains of bacteria help you break down the fiber in your foods, others consume intestinal gas, while others produce vitamins like vitamin K and vitamin B12.<\/p>\n When your system is populated with these \u201cgood\u201d bacteria, they also serve to crowd out the potentially harmful bacteria that might enter your digestive tract. Some of the best sources of these friendly bacteria are cultured dairy products, like yogurt and kefir. As you know, whenever you\u2019re trying something new, make sure to check with your doctor or other professional about the amount to take that\u2019s right for you.<\/p>\n Some people suffer medical conditions that affect the operation of their immune systems.\u00a0Diet alone won\u2019t improve the function of a compromised immune system.\u00a0But for healthy people, eating well can help keep your immune system healthy and strong.<\/p>\nProtein<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Fruits and Vegetables<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nGood Bacteria<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/media.pamper.my\/2020\/03\/itestinal-flora-gut-health-with-bacteria-probiotics-white_53562-9571.jpg\")
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