By Eric J Smith
Our bodies are constantly bombarded with all types of bacteria, viruses and other nasty organisms that are desperately trying to gain entry. It really is a battle for survival. It has been said that as little as 1 square inch of freshly washed skin can contain as many as 1 Million bacteria.
A large part of what helps us maintain a healthy and active immune system is what we eat. In some parts of the world, where nutritious food is in short supply we find increased cases of weakened immunity, hence people in these locations are more susceptible to developing infections. This also shows in people suffering from cancer and other serious illnesses, where patients have difficulty eating and immunity takes a battering.
Some research indicates that even a single nutrient that is lacking can have consequences on the immune system. Food can be a powerful medicine. Eating more of some foods and limiting others can substantially increase the bodies ability to fight most illness – from colds to cancer.
Eating a well balanced diet is the best protection you can give your immune system. A diet consisting of a selection of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, seeds & nuts is essential. Many of these foods are antioxidants, which will give the immune system an extra boost.
Antioxidants are extremely important. Immune cells in your body are constantly hit by a barrage of free radicals. Free radicals are oxygen molecules that are created in huge numbers every day. Free radicals are missing an electron so as they speed through the body they seek out electrons from wherever they can find them. Each time they steal an Electron – another cell is damaged.
Antioxidants enter the body with their own electrons, which are offered to free radicals in place of those that would normally be stolen from the body.
Some of the best foods for lifting the immunity are those with beta-carotene. Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene. Some research has shown that getting 15 – 30 milligrams of beta-carotene per day (about the amount from 3 medium carrots) can have a positive increase in immunity. Most yellow fruit and vegetables as well as dark green leafy vegetables are all excellent sources of beta-carotene.
About the Author: Eric Smith is an Organic Gardener, Environmentalist and has studied Natural Therapies in depth. Eric represents ONE Group Certified Organic Skin Care, Home & Nutritional Products - http://www.milifestyle.net Click Here to Find out about Berry Radical Antioxidant Superfood
