Gaining an immune boost from foods requires consistently eating a balanced diet, full of antioxidant-rich items. Eating more plant-based foods with a variety of vitamins and minerals is important. In fact, our body accepts and uses the nutrients in foods better than from a supplement. So instead of popping a multi-vitamin to load up on Vitamins A, C, D & E, make sure you’re adding foods that are rich in these antioxidants.

Did you know that one cup of broccoli has as much Vitamin C as an orange? Cantaloupe and other orange hued fruits & vegetables are also high in Vitamin A, which fights infection. Adding fish or seafood and fortified dairy items adds Vitamin D. Nuts and seeds are a great source of Vitamin E.

Start simple by mixing in some of these antioxidant-rich foods into your meal. Top cereal or oatmeal with fruit. Add nuts or seeds on salad in place of croutons. Or, add broccoli into mac & cheese.

This one-pot option is delicious and time-saving!

Serve with a vitamin-rich fruit salad and serving of protein (fish, lean meat, beans, etc.) for a balanced meal.