A Grocery List for Improved Immunity

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

Written by our editorial team.

Last Edited 3 years ago · 5 min read

In a world where the coronavirus is still a threat to the health and wellness of millions of people, concerned individuals are looking for preventions and cures in a range of places. Not only do people want clarification on the success of using hydroxychloroquine and a Z-pack against the virus that has affected millions of people around the globe, but they are also looking to holistic medicine and dietary influence as a way to protect their health. The connection between your diet and your immune system has been understood through generations, but you may not know the specific foods that can boost your immunity against illness.

Elderberries

Grown on a shrub, elderberries have used medicinally for centuries. Sambucus nigra, also known as the black elderberry bush, has gained a lot of attention in the last few years for its ability to help with common flu symptoms. Commonly sold as a lozenge or syrup, the extracts of the elderberry have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral properties. Many people use elderberry syrup to combat bacterial sinus infections and colds since the plant extract works to reduce swelling in the mucus membrane.

Mushrooms

If you tell your friends you have increased your consumption of shrooms, they may give you a funny look. However, eating more button mushroom has the ability to boost your immune system as they are high in B vitamins like niacin and riboflavin. They are also high in selenium and polysaccharides, the sugar-like molecules that enhance the functions of your immune system. To make them more palatable, try roasting or grilling them, or simply chop them up and throw them into a soup or salad.

Acai Berries

The acai berry is dark black-purple fruit coming from the acai palm trees down in Trinidad, Brazil, and certain parts of South America. This fruit is known for being extremely high in anthocyanins, which are very potent antioxidants. Within the body, antioxidants attack free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. These berries lower inflammation throughout the body and stimulate the immune system.

Oysters

Though a delicacy for many, oysters are one of the nutritional powerhouses found in the sea. With just three ounces, your body receives 190% of the daily value of selenium, 45% of your body’s daily iron needs, and 20% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Three ounces will also give you 16 grams of protein, and a dash of zinc and Vitamin A. On a side note, eating oysters can also help with areas of women's sexual health. The seafood is known to be an aphrodisiac, so combining a dinner of oysters with some time in bed using Scream Cream, you will find you’ve boosted more than your immunity. If you don’t want to slurp them down in the traditional way of raw oysters served in the half shell, you could make some oyster stew, grill them, or have scalloped oysters.

Watermelon

As spring moves into summer, you will see more and more fruit stands carrying fresh watermelons. Go ahead and grab one or two, since it is a tasty, immune-boosting fruit. In just a 2-cup serving, you will only consume 80 calories but with the benefit of 270 mg of potassium, 25% of your daily Vitamin C recommendation, and 30% of the daily Vitamin A needs. Your body needs glutathione and Vitamin B6 for proper immune function, and with a slice of watermelon, you get both. While eating it off the rind is refreshing, try making a glass of watermelon strawberry lemonade or a frozen watermelon sorbet.

Low-Fat Yogurt

Since nutritional guidelines recommend three servings of dairy a day, why not choose low-fat yogurt? You will find that a high-quality brand can offer 11 grams of protein and 400 mg of calcium in just an eight-ounce serving. It can also provide your daily needs of Vitamin B12, B2, and D. Yogurt is also rich in probiotics. Studies have shown the higher concentrations of beneficial gut flora in the digestive tract can aid in detoxing the body from germ and bacteria, as well as improve proper digestive and immune functions.

Spinach

There is a reason Popeye ate so much spinach, and it wasn’t just about the super strength. Spinach is one of the natural world’s superfoods since it is high in Vitamins A and C, folate, magnesium, fiber, and iron. The combined work of these nutrients helps will cell division and DNA repairs, in addition to boosting overall immune functions. To reap the maximum benefits, it should be eaten raw or lightly sautéed.

To give yourself a fighting chance against illnesses that may come your way, head to the store and stock your pantry or refrigerator with these immune-boosting foods.

Nu Image Medical® offers a new and futuristic approach to achieving optimal health and wellness. The company has been a weight loss, anti-aging and wellness provider since 2004 and offers medically supervised programs for medical weight loss, peptides, erectile dysfunction, scream cream, and hair loss (NuDew) 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your physician about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Nu Image Medical may not offer the medications or services mentioned in this article.