As seniors, it’s important to keep our immune systems in top shape. That’s because as we age, it becomes more difficult to fight off infections. Fortunately, making simple changes to your diet can help. Here are eight foods that will improve a senior’s immune system.

1. Kiwi

Kiwis are not only delicious, they’re great for your immune system, too! When you eat a kiwi, you’re providing your body with lots of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, potassium, and other nutrients. These nutrients help support the overall functioning of  your body and increase your white blood cells so you’re prepared to fight infections. 

2. Turmeric

If you love curry, we have great news for you. Turmeric is wonderful for improving your immune system. It helps reduce inflammation in your body, which is important because inflammation lowers your ability to fight off infections. Some recent studies suggest turmeric may help fight off viruses, too!

3. Yogurt

The live bacteria present in yogurt have a positive effect on your immune system. Researchers are learning more and more every day about how important our gut microbiome is to our health. Fortunately, eating yogurt provides your body with good bacteria that help keep bad bacteria from multiplying out of control. 

4. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, lemons, limes, and grapefruit are excellent sources of vitamin C. Unlike some other vitamins, your body can’t store vitamin C, so you need to eat foods that contain it every day. Vitamin C plays an important role in increasing your white blood cells and helping to fight infections, so eating citrus fruits is a great way to improve your immune system.

5. Red Bell Pepper

If you can’t eat citrus fruits due to stomach problems or diabetes, red bell peppers offer another excellent source of vitamin C. They make a great addition to stir fries, or you can eat them raw in a salad. Steaming or boiling red bell peppers isn’t recommended, though, since these cooking methods cause the peppers to lose some of their helpful nutrients.

6. Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds make a tasty salad topper or an excellent snack. And they improve your immune system, too! That’s because they’re full of vitamin E, which works as an antioxidant in your body. So every time you reach for a handful of sunflower seeds, you’re helping your body fight free radical damage. That’s pretty wonderful, right?

7. Berries

Berries are also wonderful sources of antioxidants. For example, blueberries contain flavonoids which help improve your immune system. And they’re especially great for your respiratory health. In fact, scientists have learned that people who eat lots of flavonoids aren’t as susceptible to colds and other respiratory infections. Pass the blueberries, please!

8. Dark Chocolate

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to have dessert, here it is! Dark chocolate is healthy for your immune system, in moderation, of course. That’s because it contains antioxidants that help your body fight off damage from free radicals. Sounds like a pretty good reason to indulge in a piece of dark chocolate to us!

Changing your diet can sometimes feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to! At Normandy Living, we make it easy to eat foods that improve your immune system. We offer delicious, healthy meals and can accommodate all dietary needs. Plus, there are snacks available 24/7 in the main dining room. 

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