Do you "catch" everything that comes along? Colds, flus and all that? As always, a good immune system starts with the plate! Here are some essential foods to boost your natural defenses.

Fermented foods are real allies for the immune system.

Kefir, for example, is one of the healthiest fermented foods. It is full of beneficial microorganisms that balance the inner ecosystem and boost immunity.

Kimchi, tempeh, pickles, sauerkraut and yogurt (watch out for the sugar!) are also very good for immune stimulation. Good bacteria have a powerful positive effect on the immune system because they work in the gut, the first line of defense against pathogens.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil, in addition to being excellent for the thyroid and the metabolism, is rich in lauric acid which converts, in the body, into monolaurin, a compound found in breast milk and which reinforces the immunity of the baby. Numerous research studies have shown that lauric acid has the ability to boost immunity. This medium chain fatty acid disrupts the lipid membranes of the organisms involved. Be careful, however, to choose the right coconut oil. It must be organic and unrefined, without heat or chemical treatments, and non-GMO.

Eat local, organic and seasonal

Local, organic and seasonal fruits and vegetables are obviously ideal in the fight against pathogens. They are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and enzymes. Good quality and fresh, they are essential for a healthy immune system.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are rich in fiber, protein, vitamins C and B, calcium and many other minerals. They also contain powerful compounds called beta-glucans, which are powerful immune system stimulants. Shiitake, Maitake and Reishi contain the most.

Beta-glucan enhances immunity through a variety of mechanisms, binding, for example, to macrophages.

Garlic : a positive asset for immunity

Garlic is incredibly beneficial to the immune system, as it is antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. If you can eat it every day, do it without a second thought! One of the very positive points of garlic is that bacteria, viruses and other yeasts do not develop any resistance against it, unlike synthetic antibiotics. To work optimally, garlic must be fresh. Indeed, the active ingredient which composes it is destroyed one hour after having broken the pod. Garlic is also very beneficial in lowering LDL levels, blood pressure, risk of blood clots and stroke, and even preventing insect bites! Why do without it?

With these few foods on your plate, you should be able to avoid a lot of discomfort. Choose the highest quality, to get the best of each!