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5 Super foods to boost your immune system

2021 dot 6 min read
Healthy Body
Good morning exercise
In our busy lives, it is sometimes difficult to consume sufficient nutrients required for a healthier diet. Super foods are generally rich in a variety of nutrients ranging from omega-3 fatty acids to antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamins A, C and E. Consuming these super foods, that are high in nutrients, is beneficial to our bodies and can help improve your immune system.
 
For those with existing medical conditions, you should consult your doctor before consuming super foods. Some super foods can have an adverse effect on your health when ingested with certain medication.

#1 Goji berries

The Goji berry, also known as 'wolfberry', is a common ingredient in Chinese cooking. This tiny red berry usually comes in dried form and contains high levels of antioxidants and fiber.
 
With a sweet and slightly sour taste, goji berries can be eaten on their own or included in other dishes. They also make for a flavourful ingredient when added to your juices, salads, granola and even poke bowls!
 
Contains: Iron, zinc, fiber, antioxidants, Vitamins A and C
 
Potential Benefits: Protects eye health, anti-inflammatory, improves protection from flu, maintains blood sugar

#2 Moringa seeds

Moringa seeds have grown in popularity recently. They are known for being a rich source of antioxidants. They have anti-inflammatory properties and contain flavonoids which help reduce oxidative stress, which can cause free radicals and damage cells, in the body.
 
These seeds can be eaten on its own or added to snacks such as granola and other nuts and seeds. Many people also consume Moringa seeds in powdered form, mixed into a variety of foods or juices for a nutrient boost. However, moringa seeds should be taken in moderation as, due to its popularity, it has been combined with synthetic ingredients to produce supplements.
 
Contains: Potassium, calcium, zinc, iron, antioxidants, oleic acid, vitamin A, C
 
Potential Benefits: Improves sleep, lowers blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, boosts energy levels

#3 Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass juice has been a popular health drink for a number of years. Wheatgrass is a commonly used ingredient in green juices. The most important nutrient in wheatgrass is chlorophyll. Besides giving wheatgrass its bright green sheen, chlorophyll helps to detox your body and cleanse your liver.
 
Although it can be consumed on its own, some may find its taste overwhelming and opt to consume it with other fruits and vegetables in the form of juice. For those who do not fancy its taste, it is also available in powder, capsule or tablet form.
 
Contains: Iron, calcium, magnesium, chlorophyll, antioxidants, Vitamin A, C, E
 
Potential Benefits: Detoxifies body, Cleanses liver, regulates blood sugar, improves digestion, anti-aging effects, anti-inflammatory, improves blood circulation

#4 Walnuts

Nuts can be extremely nutritious, and walnuts are considered "brain food" that contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and proteins. Consumption of walnuts reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL).
 
They are also said to have a positive effect on cardiovascular functions and promotes a healthy heart. Walnuts make a good office snack that can be eaten on its own at any time of the day.
 
Contains: Omega-3, Oleic acid, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, Vitamin C
 
Potential Benefits: Improves heart function, improves bone health, reduces cancer risk

#5 Turmeric

Turmeric is most commonly found in powder form and used as a spice in cooking. You can also opt to put turmeric in your fruit juices for its health and medicinal properties.
 
Curcumin, the main constituent of turmeric, is known for its health benefits. According to Cancer Research UK, curcumin contains anticancer effects and anti-inflammatory effects. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce swelling for people with arthritis. Turmeric is effective even in small quantities such as a teaspoon added to your juice.
 
Contains: curcumin, iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, Vitamin C
 
Potential Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, anticancer effects, eases arthritis 

Having a balanced lifestyle

These five super foods are just a few of many nutrient-packed foods out there. While knowing how to improve your immune system by consuming super foods can help to boost your nutrient intake and overall health, just eating these five super foods alone is insufficient. You also need to maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly to stay healthy.
 
Despite consuming super foods and living a healthy lifestyle, to improve your immune system and upkeep your health you still need to ensure proper care when you fall ill.
 
To provide customers with easier access to quality healthcare whenever they need it, AIA has partnered various experienced medical specialists to offer AIA Quality Healthcare Partners. Existing and new AIA HealthShield Gold Max customers enjoy exclusive access to AIA Quality Healthcare Partners.
 
We understand that appointments with specialists are often difficult to secure on short notice. Our "AIA Healthcare" mobile app allows customers to book an appointment with a relevant, qualified specialist in just three working days. AIA HealthShield Gold Max policyholders will also receive a preferential 20 per cent off their outpatient specialist consultation fees.

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