Much has been written about using food as medicine, but right now eating well may be more important than ever. There are a number of foods that can actually boost your immune system and help your body fight off infections and disease. Commonly known as “Superfoods,” these foods are part of a long list that contains high levels of nutrients that prevent disease and in many cases help the body heal faster. Here are our top 10:

• GARLIC: The beloved seasoning for almost any Italian dish has been studied  for its benefits ranging from anti-inflammatory to lowering cholesterol, and even as a cancer prevention agent. Garlic is also thought to aid in lowering blood pressure for those who suffer from hypertension.
• CITRUS FRUITS: Everyone knows that fruits and vegetables are natural disease fighters, but citrus fruits in particular are rich in Vitamin C. Regular consumption of citrus fruits keep Vitamin C in your body, which acts as a natural defense of infections and viruses.
• GREEN TEA: Even if you are a devoted coffee drinker, working in a couple of cups of green tea each day can strengthen your cardiovascular system, add disease-fighting anti-oxidants to your body, reduce inflammation and even lower the risk of some forms of cancer.
• ALMONDS: Loaded with anti-oxidants, almonds contain properties that fight potential cancers, fortify your body with Vitamin E to prevent heart disease and cancer, and aid in controlling blood sugar for those with diabetes. The magnesium in almonds also helps lower blood pressure.
• OYSTERS: One of Louisiana’s favorite foods also has anti-viral properties. Oysters are rich in iron which aids in blood circulation, and are full of anti-oxidants. Oysters are particularly rich in Vitamin C and E, which fight off free radicals that can cause disease.
• WATERMELON: A favorite summer treat, watermelon is rich in compounds that help prevent heart disease and cancer. Watermelon also contains anti-oxidants that fight inflammation and infection.
• SWEET POTATOES: The orange flesh of a sweet potato contains high levels of beta-carotene. When it converts to Vitamin A in your body, sweet potato is another food that boosts immunity.
• CHICKEN SOUP: It turns out your mother was right when she prescribed chicken soup for colds and viruses. Chicken soup is rich in compounds and anti-oxidants that can help stave off viruses and reduce the length of time infections or viruses attack your body.
• MUSHROOMS: Studies have shown that mushrooms are a good weapon in the fight against high cholesterol, and thereby heart ailments. Other studies indicate mushrooms fight against the formation of tumors and some cancers.
• BROCCOLI:  A true superfood, broccoli is rich in anti-oxidants and various disease-fighting compounds. Broccoli fights high cholesterol, heart disease, and chronic disease development in the body. It also helps prevent constipation, reduces inflammation and its rich Vitamin C content boosts the immune system.