They’ve got fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and so many more immunity-boosting nutrients.

Tanja Ivanova/Getty Images

Cold and flu season brings immunity to the top of everyones mindbut honestly whenisntimmune health important?

This is becausefruitsandveggiesmeet many of the nutritional criteria of an immune-boosting food.

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Photo:Tanja Ivanova/Getty Images

This is becauseone of the many roles it plays in the bodyis aiding waste removal and detoxification.

This helps to flush away any unwanted pathogens that may lead to illness.

Minerals

A handful of minerals also champion the immune system including zinc,iron, and selenium.

Whipped Ricotta Toast with Sweet-and-Sour Pepper Topping Recipe

Greg DuPree

Zinc and selenium also act as antioxidants in the body.

Red bell peppers are the perfect addition to a savory stir fry, refreshing salad, or pasta dish.

It is also a source of iron.

Roasted Broccoli Pesto Pasta Recipe

Caitlin Bensel

But did you know that avocado is one of the best sources of soluble fiber available?

Its prebiotic power bodes well for both our immune systems and gut health.

Ginger

Theres a reason ginger shots have become super trendy in recent years to strengthen immunity.

Citrus Recipes: Ginger-Grapefruit Shrub

Caitlin Bensel

Instead, cook and bake with fresh ginger to reap all its healthy benefits.

Garlic

As a potent source of phytonutrients,garlicalso makes this list of immune-boosting fruits and veggies.

Buthowyou consume your garlic is actually really important to reap the full benefits.

Good Morning Green Smoothie

Caitlin Bensel

However, Micko reminds us that no single, magic fruit or habit works on its own.

Nutr.2021;76:489-501. doi:10.1038/s41430-021-00991-6

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Dietary supplements for immune function and infectious diseases.

Accessed June 20, 2024.

Berry Baked Oatmeal

Victor Protasio

Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L.Zinc as a gatekeeper of immune function.Nutrients.

2016(6):560-8. doi:10.1089/jmf.2015.0145.

2022;14(9):1712. doi:10.3390/nu14091712

USDA FoodData Central.Peppers, bell, red, raw.

Spring green salad displayed on a serving platter and served with a green dressing.

Greg DuPree

USDA FoodData Central.Grapefruit, raw, white, California.

USDA FoodData Central.Blackberries, raw.

2022;27(21):7223. doi:10.3390/molecules27217223

Percival SS.Aged garlic extract modifies human immunity.J Nutr.

Ginger Miso Broth With Soba Noodles and Wilted Greens

Alison Miksch

2016;146(2):433S-436S.

Kiwi-Cucumber Relish

Victor Protasio

Garlic-and-Herb Potato Salad

GREG DUPREE