With winter just a few weeks away, it’s time to start thinking about giving your immune system a boost with these immune system boosting foods. Not only are these great if you are feeling under the weather, but they are also excellent for building up your immune system before cold and flu season arrives.

Citrus

Fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, clementines, tangerines and grapefruit are all excellent sources of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is believed to help increase the production of white blood cells which are essential for fighting infections. Include these fruits in your daily diet to enjoy the best benefits.

Red bell peppers

Red bell peppers have even more Vitamin C than citrus fruits. It is a real powerhouse when it comes to immune system boosting foods. The best part is that you can eat them raw or cooked so you can add them to salads, stews, soups or anything you like.

Broccoli

Rich in Vitamins A, C and E, broccoli is one of the most important and beneficial immune system boosting foods. It also has plenty of fibre and antioxidants. It is best to eat them raw or after light steaming or blanching.

Garlic

A delicious addition to so many different foods, garlic has amazing antibiotic properties. It is also good for your blood pressure and it contains plenty of sulfur-containing compounds which is great news for your immune system.

Spinach

High in Vitamin C, beta carotine and antioxidants, spinach is loved for its immune-boosting properties. Spinach is also best enjoyed fresh or lightly cooked. Light cooking actually enhances its Vitamin A and helps release various other nutrients making them easier for your body to absorb.

Papaya

A delicious treat, this fruit is also rich in Vitamin C. In one papaya, you will receive 224% of your daily recommended amount of Vitamin C. They also contain papain which has anti-inflammatory effects. Papaya also contains foliage, B vitamins and potassium.

Kiwi

Kiwis are smaller in comparison to other fruits but they are one of the best immune system boosting foods of all. They contain very high amounts of Vitamin C as well as other nutrients like potassium, folate and Vitamin K.

Now that you know which immune system boosting foods are best, it will also make it that much easier to choose the best get well soon gifts for friends and loved ones! When they are under the weather, you can send a delicious and nutritious fruit basket to help give them a much-needed boost.