Your immune system is constantly active, figuring out which cells belong to your body and which don’t. This means the immune system needs a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals to keep its energy up and going. Each of these immunity-enhancing juices is very good for you, especially in the mornings, so you can start your day with a refreshing boost to your body’s natural defenses.
Making juices, smoothies, and nutritional drinks is one of the tastier ways to stay healthy, and the following recipes have been designed by different nutritional experts, and are packed with essential nutrients for everyday health or for fighting off the cold and flu, or just boosting your body’s immune system.
Watermelon
Not only does watermelon help your immune system, but it also can help relieve muscle soreness. Muscle soreness is a common symptom of the flu, especially in older adults. The heavy water content of this fruit may also make it easier to juice (and it feels like less of a waste of fruit).
You can also include watermelon juice in other plain fruit juices, such as apple or orange, that may not have as much vitamin A. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A and C, Magnesium and Zinc
Orange and grapefruit
Vitamin C has antioxidant and other properties that protect your cells from substances that damage the body. A deficiency of vitamin C can lead to delayed wound healing, inability to properly fight infections, and impaired immune response.
Fortunately, this citrus explosion by contains more than enough of your daily intake of vitamin C. Notable nutrients found therein include; vitamins A, B-6, and C, Folic acid and Zinc
Strawberry-Kiwi mint
Strawberries and Kiwis are other healthy alternatives for a vitamin C-packed drink. But since it takes about four cups of strawberries to make one cup of juice, you may want to blend these fruits into a smoothie rather than a juice. Home Chef has a recipe which includes Greek yogurt.
Greek yogurt is a good source of Magnesium and Probiotics. Probiotics may help cells maintain an antimicrobial barrier. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A, C, and B-6, Magnesium, Zinc and Folate
Tomato juice
The best way to be sure your tomato juice is fresh and without added ingredients is to make it yourself. The good thing about tomato juice is that no juicer or blender required. However, it is advisable to strain the bits and pieces through a sieve.
Tomatoes are rich in Folate, which help lower your risk of infections. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A and C, Iron and Folate
Kale, tomato, and celery
Kale is a staple for many green juices. Instead of cutting the taste of kale with fruits, this recipe uses tomato and celery juice, adding more than enough vitamin A.
The horseradish in this recipe may also provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Blend it up for a drink that’ll awaken your senses. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A and C, Magnesium, Potassium, Iron, and Fatty acids.
Apple, Carrot, and Orange
Carrots, apples, and orange are a winning combination for helping your body protect itself and fight off infections. The tartness of the green apple really cuts through the sweetness of the carrots and oranges.
This fruity combination offers you notable nutrients such as vitamins A, B-6, and C, Potassium and Folic acid
Beet, Carrot, Ginger, and Turmeric
This fortifying juice by has four root vegetables that’ll help your immune system and decrease inflammatory symptoms. Inflammation is often an immune response to infections. It can cause flu or cold symptoms like a runny nose, coughs, and body aches.
People who have rheumatoid arthritis may especially benefit from drinking this juice, as the turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory effects. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A, C, and E, Iron, Calcium
Pumpkin seed
Many pumpkin “juice” recipes online include a lot of added sugars or require store-bought apple juice. The Blender Girl has a pumpkin seed milk recipe by instead. It’s one of the freshest, most natural recipes available online. And it works as a great base for fruit smoothies. The extra benefits are also hard to ignore.
Not only will this milk benefit your immune system, it may also help your; bone health, menopause symptoms, urinary health, hair and skin, mental health, and prostate health (for men). Notable nutrients include; vitamins A, C, and B-6, Magnesium and Zinc.
Spinach, Lettuce, and Kale
A vegetable-based green juice is a powerhouse of nutrients for a strong immune system. Jeanette from Jeanette’s Healthy Living has a wonderful recipe that’ll make anybody, including kids, happy to drink their greens. Throw in a handful of Parsley for an extra serving of vitamin B-6.
This vitamin plays an important role in immune cell proliferation and antibody production. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A, C, and B-6, Iron and Calcium.
Strawberry and Mango
Strawberry plus Mango mock tail is the healthy way to satisfy your cravings for a bottomless brunch. This recipe uses frozen fruits, which have the same nutritional punch as fresh ones. You can also opt for fresh if you have them on hand. Scratch that, fresh fruits are better recommended.
The vitamin E from the Mangos add extra antioxidant benefits to enhance your immune system, especially in older adults. Notable nutrients include; vitamins A, C, and E, Iron, and Folate
Other than making and taking juices and smoothies, there are some other ways to keep your immune system strong, and these include practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and exercising frequently.
Finally, if you don’t have a juicer, use a blender. Add 1 cup of coconut water or nut milk to get the machine going. You’ll also benefit from the fiber content of a blended smoothie.