January 06, 2022
Cold and flu season means trying to develop simple ways to stay healthy and get our physical defenses up to stave off illness. Are you curious about how to boost your immune system naturally? The first step comes from healthy eating. A well-nourished body is better equipped to fight off viruses, improve mental clarity, and give you more energy. While eating healthy might seem daunting, simply replacing carb-heavy snacks like chips and dips for wholesome veggies and nuts can go a long way to keep your immune system performing at its peak.
Healthy Snacks for Your Immune System
Your immune system is in charge of protecting our bodies from germs, illnesses, and harmful substances. To help ward off potential diseases and infections, you want to make sure you are supporting your immune system. One of the best ways is through wholesome foods. Luckily, there are a wealth of nutritious foods you can easily buy at your preferred CHEF’STORE bulk supply store and prepare at home for a quick immune-boosting snack. Since CHEF’STORE gives you wholesale pricing, you can also manage your grocery budget while staying healthy. Here are just some ingredients found at our wholesale restaurant supply stores to create healthy snacks at home.
Citrus
Vitamin C is a natural immune-system booster. It fights free radicals and reduces inflammation in your body. This powerhouse of a vitamin pumps up white blood cells which are crucial in fighting disease and illness. Our bodies don’t naturally produce vitamin C, so we need to ingest it to get our daily dose. Citrus fruit is packed full of this essential vitamin as well as other vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly, including B vitamins, potassium, and phosphorus. Simply enjoying a juicy orange is an effortless way to nourish your body. You can also juice citrus and add a splash of seltzer water for a soda alternative.
Yogurt
There are multiple studies that show a direct correlation between gut health and overall health. According to UCLA Health, 70 percent of your immune system can be found in your gut. Snacking on items high in probiotics is excellent for regulating your digestive health.Yogurt is one of the most accessible and versatile food items full of probiotics. When shopping at your wholesale supply store, make sure you look for yogurt with active live cultures and low in added sugar. Top your yogurt with dried or fresh fruit for an easy breakfast or a snack on the go. Yogurt is also rich in vitamin D, another immune-boosting bonus.
Nuts and Seeds
A quick snack doesn’t get more effortless than a handful of seeds and nuts. Throw in some dried fruit, and you have yourself a delicious trail mix. Not only is this snack easy, but nuts and seeds contain high levels of vitamin E, which is a powerful, effective antioxidant that regulates immune system functions.
Root Vegetables and Dark Greens
When beta-carotene converts to vitamin A, it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Vitamin A assists your body in reacting to viruses and other toxins. It’s also fat-soluble, which means consuming beta-carotene-rich foods alongside foods containing healthy fats means is even more beneficial. Get your dose of greens with kale chips dusted with cashew “cheese.” They are easy, delicious, and just as satisfying as potato chips. Using frozen vegetables from a bulk food supply store can also be a great way to create an effortless meal.
Beans and Legumes
Beans and other legumes are zinc-laden immunity foods that can help fight infection and increase healing. Homemade hummus, garlicky white bean spread, and crispy lentils are all wholesome eats that are easy to make at home, or you can save time and buy them pre-made from your bulk supply store.
Wholesale Bulk Food Suppliers for All Your Healthy Snack Needs
At US Foods CHEF’STORE, we stock exceptional bulk supplies for wholesome snacks. In addition to fresh produce, fruit, and dry goods, we also carry snack bags, eco-friendly disposable ware, and beverages to help you make pre-portioned snacks a breeze. Stop by one of our many locations near you and get started on your healthy food endeavor!