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Review
. 2023 Aug 18;11(11):6761-6774.
doi: 10.1002/fsn3.3628. eCollection 2023 Nov.

Common foods for boosting human immunity: A review

Deo Narayan Singh  1 , Jitendra Singh Bohra  2 , Tej Pratap Dubey  3 , Pushp Raj Shivahre  4 , Ram Kumar Singh  2 , Tejbal Singh  2 , Deepak Kumar Jaiswal  5
Affiliations
Review

Common foods for boosting human immunity: A review

Deo Narayan Singh et al. Food Sci Nutr. .

Abstract

We are frequently exposed to potentially harmful microbes of various types on a daily basis. Our immune system is an amazing collection of unique organs and cells that defends us from hazardous germs as well as certain diseases. It plays a crucial role in protecting the body against external invaders, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Maintaining a healthy immune system requires consuming a balanced diet that provides a variety of macro- and micronutrients. By consuming sufficient amounts of water, minerals such as zinc and magnesium, micronutrients, herbs, and foods rich in vitamins C, D, and E, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, one can enhance their health and immunity, and prevent infections. This article provides a comprehensive review of the scientific literature on common foods known for their potential to boost human immunity. The review begins by discussing the various components of the immune system and their functions. It then delves into the current understanding of how nutrition can influence immune response, highlighting the importance of a well-balanced diet in supporting optimal immune function. The article presents an extensive analysis of a range of common foods that have been studied for their immune-boosting properties. These foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and animal-based foods. Each food category is explored in terms of its specific nutrients and bioactive compounds that contribute to immune support. Foods such as milk, eggs, fruits, leafy greens, and spices like onion, garlic, and turmeric contain beneficial compounds that can enhance the immune system's function, activate and inhibit immune cells, and interfere with multiple pathways that eventually lead to improved immune responses and defense. The available literature on the issue was accessed via online resources and evaluated thoroughly as a methodology for preparing this manuscript.

Keywords: common food; functional food; human health; immunity.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no financial or personal conflicts of interest that could influence the content or findings presented in this work. This includes but is not limited to any financial interests, affiliations, or involvements with organizations that may have a direct or indirect interest in the subject matter discussed in the manuscript.

Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
The human immune system (adopted from Jiang, 2019).
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Bioactive compounds in various food items for boosting human immunity (Source: created by authors by taking inputs from Chowdhury & Barooah, ; Field et al., ; Hachimura et al., ; others as mentioned in Table 1).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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