Boosting your immune system is more important now than ever. Often people turn to cold flu medicine to treat the symptoms. The body is naturally able to fight off the common cold and flu naturally. Some foods are able to boost your immune system to an even greater level. Doing so will help your body fight off viruses keeping you from getting sick.

Below are five foods that will boost your immune system to prevent you from getting sick in the first place:

1. Citrus fruits 

Many people already reach for the orange juice when they feel cold symptoms coming on. The Vitamin C inside helps increase your immune system. Other citrus fruits such as grapefruit, lemons, and limes also contain high levels. The body does not store vitamin C so having a daily supply is very important.

2. Garlic

Throughout the world, it is often found in many dishes as it does add flavor. This superfood may decrease the hardening of arteries and lower blood pressure. The Superfood has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-fungal characteristics. Also believed to be able to fight infections. The allicin may help boost white blood cells to attack viruses.

3. Ginger 

This root superfood is believed to have the ability to decrease inflammation. A sore throat diminished with a reduction in inflammation. Nausea may also be reduced with the help of this root superfood. Many look to ginger to assist in inhibiting mucous production. The body benefits from reduced congestion when mucous production is reduced. When combined with garlic and lime they may offer antibacterial benefits. Additionally, they may have a greater resistance to bacteria.

4. Spinach 

When seeking food rich in vitamin C rarely do people think of spinach. Yet, spinach is a great source of daily vitamin C to help boost the body’s immune system. Additionally, spinach contains high levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants help the body boost the body’s ability to fight infections. Foods rich in antioxidants help to get rid of cold sores as well. Not all sources of spinach are the same. Cooking spinach does decrease the nutrients, while also increasing the vitamin A level. Enjoying a balance of cooked and raw spinach will ensure a diverse supply of nutrients to help boost your immune system.

5. Chicken soup

When sick reaching for a cup of warm soup does more than you think. Poultry may actually help lower inflammation. Meaning the symptoms of a cold could improve simply by enjoying a cup of soup. Poultry is a great source of vitamin B-6 which is important for keeping red blood cells healthy. The broth from chicken soup contains gelatin and other nutrients. These are helpful for gut healing and result in a boost to the immune system.

Nobody wants to get sick with a cold or flu. So boosting your immune system can be a great way to keep your body from getting sick. Taking cold flu medicine is important when you are sick. Keeping your body from getting sick in the first place can be the best solution. Keep that in mind when planning your next meal. Adding in these immune-boosting foods may keep you healthy in the first place.