5 common African foods to boost your immune system instantly

Many took careful steps to boost their immune system when Covid 19 was raging all over the world in 2020 and 2021 -- and it was necessary to do so.

Now that Covid 19 is no longer the headache it once was, especially in Africa, you might be tempted to stop taking foods that keep your immune system in top shape; but that's not a good idea.

More than ever before, you have to look out for yourself and those that matter in your life.

With that in mind, and considering that you stand a better chance against illnesses if you have a strong immune system, here is a list of affordable Nigerian and African foods that can give you that needed boost.

Tangerines and oranges are some amazing sources of Vitamin C [Credit - Healthline] Tangerines and oranges are some amazing sources of Vitamin C Healthline

5 Nigerian foods will instantly boost your immune system and keep you healthy

1. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits contain Vitamin C and it’s no news that this helps build up your immune system. Vitamin C also increases the production of white blood cells. Popular citrus fruits include: grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, lemons, limes, etc.

Because your body doesn't produce or store it, you need daily vitamin C for continued health. Almost all citrus fruits are high in vitamin C. With such a variety to choose from, it's easy to squeeze this vitamin to your daily diet.

2. Broccoli

The key to keeping its power intact is to cook it as little as possible — or better yet, not at all.

You don’t want to disturb its vitamins A, C, and E components, which are actually the things you’d be consuming the vegetable for. There are also anti-oxidants and a rich supply of fiber in there that overcooking can mess with.

Brocolli is best consumed slightly cooked or not cooked at all [Credit - Healthline] Brocolli is best consumed slightly cooked or not cooked at all Healthline

3. Red bell peppers

In Nigerian language: ‘Tatashe.’

According to Healthline, red bell peppers actually contain twice as much vitamin C as citrus.

Also, not only will these red things do wonders for your immune system, they’re also advantageous for the maintenance of a healthy skin.

ALSO READ: 5 Nigerian foods with special benefits for women

4. Garlic

Garlic’s immune-boosting properties seem to come from a heavy concentration of sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin.

According to America’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, garlic may also help lower blood pressure and slow down hardening of the arteries.

Ginger [Credit - Jessica Gavin] Ginger Jessica Gavin

5. Green tea

According to Healthline:

"Where green tea really excels is in its levels of epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, another powerful antioxidant. EGCG has been shown to enhance immune function.

"Green tea is also a good source of the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine may aid in the production of germ-fighting compounds in your T-cells."

More popular foods to boost your immune system

Pawpaws, spinach, ginger, and Greek yoghurt are some more foods in Nigeria and Africa that can strengthen your immune system.

Good hygiene is also great for your immune system

While the listed foods will keep your immune system in top shape, healthy practices makes things even better for you. Exercise, no smoking, drinking a lot of water, etc are healthy lifestyle practices you need to adopt to drastically reduce your chances of getting ill.

In addition to that, do not hesitate to add the immunity-boosting foods to your diet to be double sure of great health and wellness!