Long before researchers proved that certain plant foods contain the vitamins and phytonutrients that promote a healthy immune system, cooks the world over figured out that some foods help bodies fight illness better than others. Here are just a few:
Garlic -- nature's best-known antibacterial food
Carrots – rich in vitamins A, C and E to boost the immune system
Seaweeds – high in mineral content
Mushrooms – feature probiotic qualities for intestinal health
Lentils – Cholesterol free
Oregano – a potent antioxidant
Beets – contain betanin - shown to lessen tumor cell growth
Ginger – fights motion sickness
Sour Cream – loaded with calcium
Celery – inhibits the COX-2 enzyme which inflames joints causing pain
Beans – rich in fiber
Onion – contains heart-protective properties
Cinnamon – helps control sugar levels preventing diabetes
Chicken Broth – scientifically proven to clear congestion
So it turns out, Grandma was right!