Now that are into the Autumn, our bodies are becoming increasingly vulnerable to viruses, coughs and germs. Yes, the dreaded cold and flu season is almost upon us!

Yet, if you don’t want to spend the next few months sneezing into endless tissues, or hibernating beneath a blanket, then there’s plenty you can do to protect your body. If you want to super-charge your immune system this Autumn and Winter, then why not lean on these for a helping hand?

Broccoli

We all know that we need to enjoy our greens for the healthiest, happiest bodies! Broccoli is a true superfood and contains sulforaphane, which helps us to rid the body of free radicals, and can also reduce inflammation.

Dark Chocolate

For fellow chocoholics, there couldn’t be better news: chocolate (at least, the dark, rich kind) is good for our bodies. This is because it contains the anti-oxidant cacao, which can supercharge the immune system, and even help to increase our good cholesterol.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil (we recommend Lucy Bee) is full of fabulous fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which is a fantastic immune booster. Our bodies switch this lauric acid into monolaurin, which can then fight away any golds and germs. Try making a bulletproof coffee for an early morning boost.

Turmeric

Beautiful, sunny turmeric has been used medicinally for centuries – and for good reason. It contains plenty of a special compound known as curcumin (the same compound which lends it that gorgeous colour), which has lots of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. Why not make the most of this powerful spice and try making an immune-boosting turmeric latte?

Mushrooms

Mushrooms have also been considered ancient medicinal wonders for centuries, particularly in far-flung corners of the world. In particular, delicious Shiitake mushrooms (which taste amazing as a bacon substitute on pizza or in pasta!) have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal effects, and can even help to balance out blood sugar levels.