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Tis the season – the cold season that is!
Cold and flu season unfortunately coincides with the holidays. Luckily, your holiday favorites could give you another reason for holiday cheer by boosting your immunity, fighting infection, and providing the vitamins and minerals needed to prevent illness.
Here are 5 holiday superfoods that will keep you healthy all season long.
1. Spinach
Did you know spinach has about twice the amount of vitamin C compared to oranges per serving? Fill up on raw spinach to get the highest concentration of vitamins A and C, which both promote immune health.
2. Mushrooms
Mushrooms have been shown to boost immunity by increasing the production of white blood cells that help fight infection. Try them baked, sautéed, or raw in your next holiday meal.
3. Sweet Potatoes
Packed with immune boosting nutrients, sweet potatoes contain beta carotene, vitamin A, and close to 1/2 the daily recommendation of vitamin C. At only 100 calories per 4-ounce serving you can indulge in this nutritional powerhouse without the guilt.
4. Peppermint
Featured in many treats during the holidays, peppermint has been shown to combat bacteria with its powerful antioxidant properties. Try peppermint tea after a meal – it helps with digestion!
5. Garlic
Garlic contains Allicin, a potent (and pungent) compound shown to fight fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. It may also increase T-lymphocytes which help boost your immune system.
With these healthy holiday foods you can indulge in your favorites and keep yourself from getting sick at the same time.
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