Sales of smoothies containing ingredients designed to boost your immune system are rising more rapidly than any other type of smoothie. The smoothie and juice market is big business and statistics have shown that health-conscious under 35s are turning to smoothies in their droves. You do not need to spend a lot of money to get these health benefits though, you can make your own smoothies at home and boost your immune system for a fraction of the cost with a home smoothie maker and the right ingredients
1. Probiotics have got to be the number one ingredient for supporting your immune system. Use live natural yoghourt in your smoothies, choose a plain or vanilla variety with prebiotic and probiotic cultures. Probiotics have been proved to have very powerful,positive effects on the digestive system and they also assist the body’s own defences in fighting off diseases and infections caused by viruses and bacteria.
2. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant is number two on my list and is found in abundance in citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, cantaloupe and strawberries. If you have a cold, smoothies rich in vitamin C will slip down easily, soothing your sore throat and shortening the period of time you suffer from the symptoms.
3. Zinc, a vital mineral in our bodies and especially important for anyone whose immune system may be weakened by illness or disease, it also promotes healing. It is found in the greatest quantities in Blackberries, Avocados, Dates, Pomegranates, Raspberries and Loganberries.
4. Vitamin A stimulates our immune system and is vital for healthy skin. Our skin is our body’s largest organ and it is our ‘front-line’ defence against infection. It also promotes healthy hair and vision. It is found in greatest quantities in Cantaloupe melon, Grapefruit, Mango, Papaya, Watermelon and Guava. Carrots and tomatoes are also rich in vitamin A and their juices make excellent additions to your smoothie.
5. Vitamin B6 is important in the immune system as it helps us to produce the antibodies we need to fight off infection, it also helps in the formation of red blood cells and in maintain normal nerve function. Fruits rich in B6 are Avocado, Banana, Gooseberries, Grapes, Mango, Passion Fruit, Pineapple, Pomegranate and Watermelon.
So, rather than buying ready-made smoothies, enjoy them at their freshest by blending a smoothie in your home smoothie maker and get a boost to your immune system with the benefits of the great ingredients outlined above.
Related posts:
