In today’s day and age, being proactive in improving your health is the norm. That’s why eating a plant-based diet on a daily basis to strengthen your immune system has become a popular way to reach your optimal health, be on top of your game, and feel empowered. Eating a plant-based diet can be especially beneficial when you use raw, unrefined, whole, minimally refined plants.
Will Eating a Plant-Based Diet Really Improve My Immune System?
Yes! Eating a plant-based diet as part of your daily regimen will most certainly improve your immune system and overall health. Our bodies need certain vitamins, minerals and nutrients to survive and thrive. This includes calcium, protein, fatty acids, iron, vitamin C, just to name a few. Plants provide a vast majority of the vital nutrients we need to strengthen our immune system and stay healthy.
In addition to all that eating a plant-based diet has to offer to improve your immune system, plants contain phytonutrients. This element is what gives plants their vibrant color and what packs them with nutritional value that goes beyond the basic nutrients. Take avocados, for example, they contain a group of phytonutrients called carotenoids, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties, as well as aiding in the reduction of free-radical damage. One bonus that phytonutrients offer is optimal skin health. Read about the role of Phytonutrients in skin health.
I Want to Start Eating a Plant-based Diet, What Foods Do I Choose?
Not sure what foods to eat? Try the down to earth plant basics, such as vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fruits. When you start eating plants as part of your routine, you will find there are so many choices, that you will never grow bored, and it can actually be fun.
Start with the plants you are familiar with, and then branch out and see what else is out there. For example, Fennel may not be a common household plant, but it should be. This plant is filled with immune-boosting nutrients. Learn more about Fennel health benefits.
Need More Specific Ideas That Are Beyond the Basics?
You might be thinking, “I already eat basic plants, and have for years. I’m not sure what other plants to eat.” That makes sense. Most of us eat the usual plants that we grew up eating. For example, carrots, zucchini, green beans, onion, and broccoli. If you want to go full speed eating a plant-based diet as a way of life, you will need a lot more choices to not only meet your nutritional needs, but to also keep your meals interesting.
Here are just a few plants beyond the basics, to help you mix things up a bit:
- Chia Seeds: Although little, don’t let its size fool you. This whole grain food boasts protein, fiber, healthy fats, calcium, magnesium, and other important nutrients. Chia seeds can be added to most meals. Try it in a raw stir-fry, salads, or even mixed in a smoothie.
- Dandelion Greens: Yes, that’s right, Dandelion Greens are not just a weed in your backyard. This plant provides a good amount of vitamins and minerals. Its root, flower, and stem are edible, and it’s slightly bitter, which can be a good contrast in certain meals. Dandelion Greens are great, especially with garlic.
Okinawan Sweet Potatoes: This vibrant purple potato is known as a super food because of the health benefits it provides. Not only is it a great raw plant for health reasons, it also provides a decorative element to your meals. Try making colorful mashed potatoes, or dice them and roast the potatoes in the oven with rosemary and olive oil.
So as you can see, eating a plant-based diet on a daily basis is a wise choice. With a little research, planning, and a trip to your grocery store or local farmer’s market, you can design your meals to meet your daily nutritional values, that are needed to strengthen your immune system and maintain it.
Recommended Options for Raw Food Enthusiasts
To learn how to start preparing food for eating a plant-based diet, we suggest our Living Raw Food Made Easy program.
For a more advanced course on preparing for a plant-based diet, check out the Raw Vegan Culinary Course.