Dr. Haifa Ali Awahd /Karbala University-Agriculture College
The immune system is a complex system consisting of organs, tissues, and cells that distinguish and destroy foreign bodies that attack the body; Such as viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells. And immunity is very important not only for the prevention of disease, but also for the success of treatment and recovery from disease with a faster time, and therefore a great responsibility falls on it to protect the body from many diseases and health problems that are naturally exposed to a person. So, the immune system works to fight viruses and germs that attack the vital systems in the human body. It also works to fight the formation of cancerous cells in the body, so that device works to identify diseases and works to combat them, by distinguishing between healthy cells and damaged cells. Certain foods contribute to strengthening the body’s immune system, and increasing white blood cells that fight infection, thus protecting against infection with viruses, especially the Corona virus, which has become the main concern of the world now. Among the most prominent of these foods are citrus fruits, red pepper and others, that eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and mineral elements helps in maintaining the immune system to play its role properly, There are many foods that activate and strengthen the immune system, the most important of which are:
Garlic: Garlic is very useful because it is rich in sulfur compounds, anti-oxidants and selenium, which makes it a stimulant of the immune system.
Fish and fish oil: Fish contain a distinct type of fatty acid called Omega-3, which is useful for strengthening the white blood cells that strengthen the immune system. Sardines, salmon and mackerel are among the richest types of fish with omega 3.
Milk: Milk contains Probiotic bacteria that are present in the human intestine, as millions of bacteria necessary for digestion, which hinder the growth of harmful bacteria in the digestive system, are an important part of the immune system to protect the body.
Vegetables of the cruciferous family: Examples include cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and turnip. This family is characterized by containing stimulant and fortifying substances for the immune system. It also contains antioxidants. It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Citrus fruits: They contain a good percentage of anti-oxidant vitamin C, which stimulates the immune system and is essential for fighting cancer cells.
Tomato: Contains beta-carotene, vitamin C, lycopene, and a compound called pleucosin. These substances strengthen the immune system and combat the effects that lead to the production of free radicals that cause cancerous diseases.
Kiwi: It is considered one of the most fruits rich in vitamin C, and also contains potassium, antioxidants, and chlorophyll, which helps in fighting cancer.
Honey: an important source of energy, and is used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and cold, and it is useful for strengthening the body’s immune system.
Apricots: contain beta-carotene, vitamin C, and iron that are good for the immune system.
Walnut: One of the richest foods with selenium, which is very useful for the immune system.
Green tea: contains antioxidants, which reduces the risk of several diseases.
