Hello everyone! We hope you are staying strong and healthy during this challenging time. We do not want to let this virus get the best of us, which is why this week we are sharing foods that help boost your immune system. During your next grocery trip consider shopping for these foods:

1. Ginger: Ginger is a very common ingredient many people turn to when getting sick and there are several reasons for that. Several studies have been done that show it is successful when used as an antiemetic. Not only does it help to get rid of nausea but it also boosts your immune system and helps get rid of a sore throat and other pain. Check below for some delicious recipes including ginger:
   1. Immune Booster Ginger Shot: https://40aprons.com/immune-booster-shot-recipe/
   2. Ginger Sweet Tofu: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/ginger-sweet-tofu-pak-choi photo from healthline.com
2. Yogurt: We highly recommend starting your day with a cup of yogurt. Especially, if the yogurt has live and active culture, like Greek yogurt. The cultures in yogurt help to fight diseases and benefit immune function. Try to avoid any yogurt that is high in sugar. You can easily sweeten your yogurt with healthy fruits or some honey.
   1. Yogurt Bowl Ideas: https://www.blessthismessplease.com/healthy-yogurt-bowls/
   2. Yogurt Smoothie Ideas: https://www.wellplated.com/greek-yogurt-smoothie/ photo from healthline.com
3. Almonds: A vitamin that is forgotten easily is Vitamin E. This vitamin helps repair damage cells and slow the ageing process of cells. A half-cup serving, which is about 46 whole, shelled almonds, provides nearly 100 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin E. Almonds also have healthy fats getting rid of those other fats not wanted. See what you can make with some almonds below:
   1. Sesame Honey Roasted Almonds: https://www.acouplecooks.com/honey-sesame-almonds/
   2. Coconut Almond Bar: https://beamingbaker.com/3-ingredient-homemade-kind-coconut-almond-bar-recipe-paleo-vegan-gluten-free-dairy-free-protein-rich/ photo from healthline.com
4. Poultry and Shellfish: There is a reason many people turn to chicken noodle soup when they are feeling ill. Poultry products help improves symptoms of a cold, as well as protects you from getting sick. Poultry also contains vitamin B-6 which is vital to the formation of new and healthy red blood cells. You might not think of shellfish as an immunity booster, but there are several different types of shellfish that are high in zinc. Zinc is very important, and our bodies need it so that our immune cells can function as intended. Try not to consume anymore than 11 milligrams of Zinc as it can impair your immune system. Check out some delicious recipes below that have poultry and shellfish.
   1. Ground Turkey Soup: https://www.theroastedroot.net/immunity-boosting-ground-turkey-soup/
   2. Asian Crab and Avocado Spiralized Cucumber Salad: https://www.cottercrunch.com/healthy-asian-crab-avocado-spiralized-cucumber-salad-paleo/  photo of Crab and Avocado Spiralized Cucumber Salad
5. Turmeric: This bright yellow spice is most commonly used for curry, but has also been used for treating both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It has helped relieve the pain for many people. There are also several other health benefits, such as improving liver function and aiding digestion. Reasearch also shows it can lower cholesterol. Check out some recipes for turmeric below:
   1. Golden Milk: https://www.elizabethrider.com/how-to-make-golden-milk-recipe/
   2. Potato and Turmeric Focaccia: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/potato-turmeric-focaccia photo from healthline.com

There are several other foods that help boost your immune system. Check out this list for more food and get creative when making your next meal. As always, stay connected and let us know which recipes you have that are rich in vitamins and boost your immunity.