Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (352 page)
Read Gillian McKeith's Food Bible Online
Authors: Gillian McKeith
Sluggish spleen and digestive function.
Action plan
Once you get some strength into the immune system, you will feel the difference.
EAT/DRINK
Fruit and vegetables daily. They provide large amounts of antioxidants; these are our best defense against illness and can help to speed recovery from infections. Berries are a fantastic defender.
Vegetable juices. These are one of the best ways of supporting the immune system and nourishing and cleansing the body. Try apple, carrot, beet, celery, ginger, radish, and spinach.
Water and herbal teas (see below). Dehydration creates lethargy and headaches and increases susceptibility to illness. Drink
your water warm, as cold drinks can create stress if the weather is also cold.
Chestnuts for vitamin C, riboflavin, and easy-to-digest protein.
Collard greens for immune-enhancing phytochemicals.
Whole grains. These provide the comfort factor and help to raise serotonin levels in the brain without leaving you feeling spaced out. Brown rice, oats, quinoa, buckwheat, and millet are all good grains to include.
Sprouted broccoli seeds. When broccoli seeds are sprouted, they are at their highest level of life force and thus high in a compound called sulphorophane, a powerful antioxidant. They spark the most long-lasting immune support.
The regular broccoli veggie, which is also really good for the liver, and you need good liver function for strong immunity.
Reishi and shiitake mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms are easier to find. These incredible mushrooms are a natural source of a protein that induces immune response. They contain a compound called lebtinal, which mobilizes our natural defenses. They also protect the body by lowering heat toxins created from overly acidic diets. An acidic body can weaken your immune system. They are also an excellent source of the antoxidant germanium, which supports your immune system.
Sea vegetables, aduki beans, kidney beans, black beans, the grain quinoa (use as cereal or in salads and soups), and fish. These are nourishing to the kidneys.