The Immune System

How does diet effect the immune system?

Eating a healthy diet will help your immune system. This is possible when you consume the proper amounts of vitamins and minerals. If you are concerned with your immune system and want to make sure it functions properly, eat foods that are high in antioxidants and contain vitamin A and C. These foods would include blueberries, oranges, peaches, peppers, papayas, and many other fruits and vegetables. If your diet includes alcohol this will also effect the immune system. When you drink alcohol too frequently, it will lower the host defense against bacterial infections. For example, in the lungs, the intake of alcohol lowers the barrier integrity, antioxidant capacity, and the production and release response to an infection.

Milbury, Paul E., and Alice C. Richer. Understanding The Antioxidant Controversy : Scrutinizing The 'Fountain Of Youth'. Westport, Conn: Praeger, 2008. eBook Collection (EBSCOhost). Web. 17 Apr. 2014.

Molina, PE, et al. "Focus On: Alcohol And The Immune System." Alcohol Research & Health 33.1-2 (2010): 97-108. CINAHL Plus with Full Text. Web. 17 Apr. 2014.