In case you are fighting some autoimmune diseases like lupus, RA (rheumatoid arthritis), or psoriatic arthritis, taking suitable foods can make a huge difference.
So, one of the best ways to support the immune system in case it is working too hard is to practice a balanced and healthy diet. This type of diet is based on vegetables, fruits, and whole grains as well as protein and dairy products that have low-fat content. Include these foods in your daily menu to enhance the immune system.
1. Take Some Ginger
The ginger root comes with many phytonutrients that provide healing effects for individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and this claim was confirmed by a scientific review revealed two years ago in the Arthritis journal. The AF (Arthritis Foundation) advises using one or two tablespoons of grated (dried or fresh) ginger and using it on top of a salad or some vegetable. You can also prepare a cup of ginger tea by adding one teaspoon of ginger (grated) to a small pot of boiling water.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, ginger is perfectly safe when it is consumed in reasonable amounts, but people who use medications with blood-thinning effects including Coumadin/warfarin should be careful because ginger naturally makes blood thinner, so it is the best idea to consult your doctor before adding it to your daily diet.
2. Consume Plenty of Beans
Navy, red, black, and pinto beans come with powerful anti-inflammatory and immunity-enhancing properties which make them ideal for arthritis. They are packed with protein and protein is crucial for the process of building cells and the cells located in the immune system are not an exception.
According to Kim Larson, the founder of Seattle-based Total Health and a PR person for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, beans are also rich in nutrients like folate, different types of vitamin B, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. Take a chili-based on three beans or use beans in salads and soups. The AF suggests taking one cup of beans once in seven days or even more.
3. Choose Probiotics-Rich Yogurt
Probiotics are useful bacteria that are part of many foods including yogurt. They can enhance the work of the immune system. However, if you want to feel the benefits of these good bacteria you must consume them on a daily basis. It is a smart move to consult a physician before using probiotics supplements. A scientific study published two years ago has shown that using probiotic supplements soothed rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and lowered its activity.
4. Include Green Leafy Veggies
Dark green leafy veggies like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are excellent for the immune system and they should definitely be included in your diet designed for autoimmune disease relief. You don’t have to consume them daily, but at least three times a week is highly recommended. The reason why they are so efficient is the fact that they are loaded with vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate, and these vitamins are beneficial for the immune system.
In addition, the dark color means that they are packed with antioxidants. These compounds are able to eliminate free radicals, molecules that appear naturally in our body, but have the ability to damage cells and eventually lead to cancer.
Spice up your salad with many different green leafy veggies. However, if you are using a blood thinner consult your doctor because the mix of vitamin K found in these veggies and pharmaceutical drugs can sometimes cause problems.
5. Enhance the Immune System With Extra Virgin Olive Oil
It turns out that taking only three tablespoons of this oil on a daily basis can significantly enhance the work of the immune system because virgin oil provides strong anti-inflammatory effects and it is also loaded with antioxidants. Opt for extra virgin variety because it contains high levels of antioxidants. Use it in salads and on top of steamed vegetables.
6. Use More Fish
Enrich your diet with fatty fish like herring, mackerel, and salmon. According to some experts, we should eat fish at least two times a week. In addition, consult a rheumatologist whether it is safe to consume fish oil capsules in order to reach the necessary doses of omega-3 fatty acids which are naturally found in fish.
Fish oil provides two types of help for arthritis sufferers – it lowers the inflammation and it enhances the immune system.
7. Drink Green Tea
Now here’s a simple way to enhance the immune system – drink green tea. A few scientific studies have confirmed that green tea contains a polyphenol that is able to slow down the activity of osteoarthritis, a form of arthritis that usually occurs in older people. However, you should remember that you must consume between 6 and 8 cups of this tea every day in order to maintain the necessary polyphenol levels. Once again, it is the best idea to talk to your doctor before introducing green tea in your daily diet.
Via Everyday Health