Immune System
Various research studies have shown that following a vegan diet will strengthen your immune system and reduce the risks associated with many infectious diseases, including Covid-19. This is not surprising, since plant-based diets are rich in nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, benefitting the immune system. These nutrients include Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta-carotene, and polyphenolic compounds.
Here are some examples of plant foods that will help your immune system:
Broccoli – good source of Vitamins C and E, and antioxidants.
Garlic – contains compounds that will boost immunity and help to fight off viruses.
Red peppers – great source of Vitamin C and beta-carotene.
Almonds – excellent source of Vitamin E.
Ginger – has strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Mushrooms – high in Vitamin D, which helps to regulate the body’s immune response.
Kiwi fruit – high in Vitamin C and rich in antioxidants.
For more information, see:
Current Perspective of Plant-Based Diets on Communicable Diseases Caused by Viruses: A Mini-Review by CS-A. Wong et al., Frontiers in Nutrition 9, 786972 (2022) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8966492/pdf/fnut-09-786972.pdf
