4 Superfood combinations to boost your immune system

Nutritionists have often stressed the need for eating certain superfood combinations. There are significant differences when it comes to the nutritional value and amount contained in these superfoods by contrast to ‘regular’ foods. This article outlines some of the best combinations that will boost your immune system and more. 1. Sprouting Seeds and Microgreens Sprouts and microgreens are rich sources of proteins, enzymes, vitamins, trace elements, and antioxidants; they are a type of superfoods. They provide us with substantial immune boosting health benefits more than raw fruits and vegetables. Seed Sprouts Sprouts are germinated seeds typically grown for 2-5 days (depending on the seed) in water and rinsed twice a day to counter fermentation; they are harvested and eaten whole. Broccoli, oats, chickpeas, rye, kamuti, adzuki beans, lentils, mung beans are examples of foods that can be sprouted and enjoyed. Sprouting increases the nutritional content and value of the seed, tripling vitamins A, B-complex, and C. After sprouting, the vitamin contents of some seed have been known to increase by up to 20 times their original value. Smaller seeds have also been discovered to contain 100 times more phytonutrients than their mature counterparts, as with the case of broccoli, alfalfa, and radish. The larger seeds like Oats and Rye and the significant legumes like Lentils and Chickpeas, provide us with the necessary calories, which is the energy we need to function, in addition to the other requirements. The soaking and sprouting have been well documented to increase quality and quantity of fiber (for better digestion) and protein. Sprouting is the best way to prepare, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds. Microgreens Microgreens, on the other hand, are sprouts that are germinated for a longer period, typically between 1-2 weeks. They are usually planted in soil and grown vertically and harvested by chopping off the stem and green part. Microgreens, when grown correctly, are highly abundant in important phytochemicals (plant chemicals like tannins and saponins). They also contain many times the nutrients than their fully matured counterparts. Microgreens provide necessary nutrients for the eyes, skins, bone development, healthy digestive system and also protect against inflammation, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, overly boosting the immune system. They include micro greens, kales, parsley, watercress, radish greens, and onions. Both sprouts and microgreens are baby plants and both also pack a nutritional punch. Sprouts and microgreens can also be included in your salad. Reasons why you need sprouts and microgreens I. They are full of folic acid and B-complex vitamins, essential nutrients for pregnant women and her developing baby. II. The high levels of antioxidants promote a healthy, slow aging, and cellular repair. Elevated levels of vitamins C (Ascorbic acid), E (α-Tocopherol), an essential oil and micronutrient selenium can even reduce hypertension (high blood pressure) and maintain healthy arteries. III. Sprouted seeds contain lecithin which aids in breaking down fatty acids in the body. IV. Eating sprouts and micro greens boost your reproductive health by sourcing out zinc for the body. Zinc maintains enzyme function optimally in the body V. Boost our immune system. VI. All sprouts contain chlorophyll, which keeps our blood healthy, balance pH levels, reduce inflammation, repair tissues and calm the nervous system. Moreover, it is recommended to buy organic to ensure 100% freshness. Click next page for 'Greens and Whole Grain Cereals'... 2. Greens and Whole Grain Cereals Greens like Kale, Spinach, and Broccoli cleanses and detoxifies the body, and further alkalinize to neutralizing acidity thus preventing autoxidation of cells and tissue. Moreover, they support healthy waste elimination and finally aids the digestive system in its function. Whole grain cereals, on the other hand, are often packed with fiber, beneficial phytochemicals like anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals and essential macronutrients. Benefits of Greens and Whole Grain Cereals Greens and whole grain cereals flood your body with energy, preventing the feeling of tiredness. Also, greens alkalinity counter the effects of high acidity which prevent uptake of nutrients. Whole grain cereals are ideal for losing excessive body fats. Both greens and whole grain cereals improve digestion, prevent bloating and digestive tract discomfort due to “gunk” buildup i.e. undigested food particles, fecal matter and unabsorbed prescription drugs, supplements, vitamin pills and worse. They regulate cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels and also slow down the cellular aging process, ultimately making you feel young at your old age. Click next page for 'Fruits and Berries' 3. Fruits and Berries It is no secret that people don’t eat the recommended amount of fruits. Moreover, some even exclude it from their diet and preferences. However, that should not be the case. Here’s why you need to have a healthy serving of fruits regularly if not every day. Benefits of Fruits and Berries They regulate cholesterol levels and enhance weight loss in individuals. They possess high-calorie levels making them a good day start up food. They boost the immune system and nourish the muscles. Berries fortify the liver, regulate body pH, blood pressure and sugar levels in the body. Their unique antioxidant blend provides vitamin A, C, B12, Folic Acid and many others, in addition to having anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. They also boost testosterone levels. Click next page for 'Grasses and Eggs' 4. Grasses and Eggs Nutritional grasses include Wheatgrass, Barley, and Oat grass. Their rich and ingredient-specific fiber, mineral and nutrient content are what makes them a superfood and an ideal choice to have on your plate. Eggs are also a superfood, because of their high content of Protein, Vitamins, Omegs-3 fatty acids, and Minerals. Benefits of Grasses and Eggs Eggs contain cholesterol that is important for your cardiovascular health and maintenance of the immune system. Grasses are low in calories and high in energy, providing energy boosts in cells for their optimal functioning. Barley and Wheat Grass are high in chlorophyll (an antioxidant) and natural potassium. Grasses also neutralize and removes toxins from cells, purify and cleanse the blood, and furthermore, improve skin tone and color. Also, it contains more Iron that spinach! Other antioxidants like carotenoids are also present and they lower the risk of developing heart disease by promoting a healthy circulatory system. Oat grass possesses chlorophyll, vitamins, enzymes, and nutrients that are essential for a healthy body. Additionally, oat grass contains β-carotene, B-complex vitamins, vitamins C and K, folic acid, the trace elements; calcium and iron, plant protein, fiber. Oat grass strengthens and nourishes the nervous system, preventing diseases like arthritis, rheumatism, stress, depression, debility, exhaustion, convulsions, nerve tremors, epilepsy, headaches, and nervous breakdowns. It also regulates cholesterol levels, and relieve menopause symptoms. Oat grass contains polyphenols and tricin which relaxes smooth muscle, easing gastrointestinal cramping and stimulate immune functions. Featured photo by Asierromero

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