In addition to getting enough sleep and exercise, managing stress, avoiding tobacco and minimizing alcohol use, choosing the right foods can boost immunity and help defend against infections. Some of the best foods for the immune system, as research shows, are the ones listed below. They’re full of fiber, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and other antioxidants:
greens (kale, collards, mustard greens, arugula, watercress), cruciferous vegetables (kale, cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts), onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, carrots, garlic, berries, beans and seeds (flax, chia, hemp).