BE KIND Wellness Wednesday – Friendly Foods!

Food for Fuel!

As we dive deeper into the holiday season and unite over our favorite holiday recipes, some of our favorite ingredients are our friends. Not only do these foods taste delicious, but they also help boost our immune system, improve the maintenance of our body, and protect us from certain diseases and cancers – food is fuel, so let’s celebrate it!

Immunity-Boosting Buddies

Our immune systems work hard to keep us healthy every day. So why not give it a helping hand? Here are some foods that provide your defense system a boost!

• Blueberries – These berries contain anthocyanin, a flavonoid with antioxidant properties that helps boost your respiratory tract’s immune system.
• Turmeric – This yellow spice contains curcumin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to boost immune response.
• Sunflower seeds – These tiny seeds are a great source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps fight off cell-damaging free radicals.
• Red bell pepper – An excellent source of vitamin C, especially for people wanting to avoid sugar found in fruit!

Helpful Herbs

The ancient Greeks used to rely on various herbs and spices as treatments for any ailments they faced. Today, we have modern medicine to step in and do the heavy lifting! However, research shows that many herbs and spices can help with specific symptoms as a holistic alternative. Here are some of the healthiest herbs and spices you can try today!

• Ginger – This root contains a high level of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is also an effective antiemetic, especially for seasickness, motion sickness, and morning sickness.
• Cumin – This spice can help lower “bad” cholesterol and boost “good” cholesterol levels.
• Parsley – This Mediterranean herb is full of vitamins and antioxidants that help support your immune system, as well a vitamin K for bone health.
• Peppermint – This minty herb is not only good for giving you fresh breath! Peppermint also acts as a bronchodilator, which means it helps open your airways to allow more oxygen into your lungs to improve cardiovascular and lung health.

Note: There is no scientific evidence that these herbs and spices cure diseases. Individuals with severe health conditions should still consult with a medical health professional for treatment.

Fantastic Fruits (and where to find them)

Good news! Your produce aisle or local Farmer’s Markets are home to fantastic fruits that keep you healthy by preventing certain types of diseases. Here are some superfruits and their benefits for you and your family to try today!

• Apples – An apple a day can reduce the risk of heart disease and colorectal cancer.
• Grapes – Seedless red and green grapes are packed with antioxidants that help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
• Lemons – This delightful citrus is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Plus, drinking water with lemon daily and going for a stroll can help reduce blood pressure!
• Mangos – These tropical fruits are rich in fiber, which helps promote healthy bowel movements.
• Raspberries – These little red gems are one of the richest sources of fiber amongst all fruits and vegetables.

Stay safe this holiday season!

Don’t forget to practice healthy habits before, during, and after celebrating the holidays with your loved ones! Let’s make the holidays safe for everyone.

Click here to revisit our “Tips to stay safe this spooky season” edition of the BE KIND Wellness Wednesday for how you can protect yourself (and others) this holiday season!