The best immune-boosting ingredients to add in your juices

By Louise Belle BHSc (Nut Med)

In the colder months we are more susceptible to getting sick. Generally, people eat less fresh produce and more ‘comfort’ food in winter, are less likely to exercise and lack vitamin D from the sun. Drinking raw juices can support your immune system in warding off bacteria and viruses and can support your body to get better once you’re already sick. Here are the best ingredients to use in your immune juices.

TIP: You can mix your Cleanse or Maintenance powders into your juice for an extra boost!

Pineapple

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain which helps to break down mucus, reduce inflammation and protect against allergies. It is fantastic for those with sinus issues. Be sure to juice the core as this has the greatest concentration of bromelain.

Garlic

This sulphur-rich vegetable provides potent antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help you to fight off infection. Garlic can be quite overpowering in a juice, so you may wish to make a small batch with garlic, and then a larger batch without.

Orange

These wonderful juicy fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is required by immune cells to fight infection. They are also beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body, and supporting wound healing.

Spinach

Along with other leafy greens, spinach is high in alkalising chlorophyll – the green pigment that has anti-inflammatory and acid-balancing properties. It is beneficial to add an abundance of greens to your juices.

Carrot

This orange root vegetable is high in beta carotene which strengthens mucous membranes – beneficial for those with respiratory or sinus infections. Purple carrots are particularly high in antioxidants such as anthocyanins and lycopene.

Ginger

That zingy herb packs a punch when you add it to your juice. It has potent anti-inflammatory properties, acts as a natural analgesic (pain reliever) and is effective at reducing nausea – the perfect combination when you’re under the weather.

Lemon

Like oranges, lemons are high in immune boosting vitamin C and anti-inflammatory properties. They are lower in carbs/ sugar than oranges, so it is beneficial to use more lemon than orange in your juices, particularly if you have blood sugar problems or candida overgrowth.

Beetroot

Beetroots are an excellent blood cleanser, can improve energy and vitality and contain immune-boosting nutrients. You can also juice the tops of beetroots as these are high in minerals such as iron.

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that may be lacking in your diet. It helps relieve inflammation and reduces free radicals formed in the body.

Sample Recipe from “Raw Juices Can Save Your Life”

Cold and flu juice

Ingredients

  • 2 lemons or limes
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1.5cm slice fresh ginger
  • 1 apple, whole
  • 1 orange
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 tsp honey

Method

  1. Dissolve honey in hot water, juice all other ingredients and add the juice to the honey water.
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