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Winter is here, and with it comes a flurry of challenges for our immune system. Luckily, superfoods are nature’s secret weapons, packed with nutrients to help fuel our body’s natural defenses and fend off sickness! In this blog, we’ll dish out our best functional foods benefits and immune-boosting superfood tips for staying healthy and thriving all season long.
Which superfoods are best for boosting the immune system?
We tend to think immediately of vitamin C when we think of immunity—and we’re not wrong! Vitamin C does wonders for the immune system, especially when taken daily. But there are many other nutrients that are just as critical for the proper functioning of our immune system, like zinc, antioxidants, and vitamin D. For comprehensive immune system support, here are our favorite go-to superfoods:
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Citrus fruits: These vitamin C rockstars top our list! From lemons to grapefruits, citrus fruits are one of most deliciously reliable sources natural sources of vitamins like vitamin C. Our Superfood+ Immunity Blend combines whole, freeze-dried oranges (pith and peel included) with camu camu berry—one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C on the planet—and acerola cherry, an excellent source of inflammation-fighting antioxidants.
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Berries: Antioxidants are found in abundance in brightly colored berries of all shapes and sizes. These phytonutrients help protect the body from oxidative stress, which can weaken the immune system. One particularly revered berry known to support immunity is maqui, an ancient Patagonian superfruit that’s one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on Earth! Not to be outdone, our Superfood+ Berry Blend combines three other powerful berries, blueberries, goji berries and acai berries, for a boost of immune-supportive antioxidants and delicious berry flavor. These berries also double as energy-boosting foods for those looking to support vitality while enjoying a treat.
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Greens: It’s hard to beat dark, leafy greens when it comes to nutrient density. With a comprehensive list of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants in each bite, greens are known to support all corners of immunity, from moderating inflammatory responses to strengthening the mucosal barriers, our body’s first line of defense against invading germs. Including greens like kale and moringa helps address foods to prevent deficiencies for those seeking well-rounded nutrition. Our Superfood+ Greens Blend combines three of the most nutritious greens on the planet in convenient, powdered form: kale, moringa leaf, and wheatgrass juice.
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Turmeric: This vibrant orange rhizome is a rich source of curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that has been studied for its ability to reduce inflammation and pain responses in the body, common symptoms of colds and the flu. Known for its role among anti-inflammatory foods, our Turmeric Powder is 100% organic, dehydrated turmeric with zero added ingredients and a naturally high curcumin content.
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Green tea: Catechins are a class of phytonutrients lauded for their powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Green tea is the best source of these nutrients, specifically matcha, due to the fact that it’s consumed in whole-leaf form instead of brewed. Additionally, the shade-growing techniques that our suppliers use increases the antioxidant production in each matcha leaf, making our premium culinary Matcha Powder an especially rich source of these nutrients.
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Cacao: Last, but certainly not least, cacao is hard to beat as an immune-boosting all-star! It’s an excellent source of minerals used to combat sickness, like zinc, iron and magnesium; it’s rich in plant compounds like flavonoids and theobromine that support a balanced immune response; and it enhances blood flow naturally, improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues and organs throughout the body. From 100% Cacao Powder to snackable, lightly sweetened Cacao Wafers, we have all of your organic cacao needs covered!
How can I include immune-boosting superfoods into my diet daily if I don’t drink smoothies?
We get it—frosty, raw smoothies can be a deal breaker in the winter, especially for those of us who live in northern climates. Happily, superfoods are endlessly versatile! Below are our top 5 alternatives to a smoothie that make it easy and delicious to enjoy our superfoods every day. Pick a favorite, prep ahead of time, and make your daily dose of immunity simple and convenient!
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Wellness shots: You can mix up multiple servings at a time and store them in a glass jar in the fridge. To use, shake well, pour a serving into a small glass, and toss it back! For an easy boost of vitamin C, check out this wellness shot recipe.
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Granola bars & energy bites: These require a little extra work up front, but the end result is so delicious that you’ll look forward to supporting your immune system every day. This simple recipe includes our Superfood+ Immunity Blend and transforms superfoods into energy-boosting foods you’ll want on hand all winter.
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Gummies: Another make-ahead treat that will keep you coming back for more, our Camu Gummy Bears are made with an orange juice base for a double dose of vitamin C and antioxidants!
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Lattes: With a microwave or stovetop handy and just a few minutes of whisking, you can sip yourself healthier with a wellness latte made from your favorite immune boosting superfood. Golden Milk is one of our top ways to include curcumin-rich turmeric in our diets, a key ingredient among anti-inflammatory foods.
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Dips, dressings & sauces: from a Pomegranate Powder vinaigrette to a creamy Matcha Powder dip, our superfoods are a quick way to add nutrition and flavor to your favorite everyday condiments.
Do you have a superfood question for Kali? Send it to her at askus@navitasorganics.com!
See what other burning superfood questions customers are asking in our candid "Your Questions Answered" Blog Series here.
