That being said? Vitamin C is a pretty lofty member of the immunity-enhancing ensemble. Fact is, this particular vitamin is a big part of taking proactive measures to boost your immunity. Consuming vitamin C and probiotics can help to support recovery from viral infections. Vitamin C supports immune system function and iron absorption, and because your body doesn’t produce or store vitamin C, daily intake through the foods you eat is a top priority. We sat down with Jennifer Tyler Lee, author of Half the Sugar, All the Love: 100 Easy, Low-Sugar Recipes for Every Meal of the Day and nutrition expert Kelly Springer, RD, the creator of Kelly’s Choice, to learn the easiest ways to eat more vitamin C (and less added sugar) from what’s already right in your kitchen. “Pomegranates are also filled with fiber, protein, vitamin K, folate, and potassium,” says Springer. “Several research studies have confirmed that they’re super high in antioxidants and are a natural anti-inflammatory, too. The seeds may help lower blood pressure, fight breast and prostate cancer, protect against arthritis, improve memory, and exercise performance.” Pomegranate seeds are the perfect balance of sweet and sour with just a hint of crunch. And while we’re particularly partial to dropping them into Champagne cocktails, try sprinkling seeds over toast shmeared with creamy nut butter, or using them to make a vinaigrette that’s delicious when drizzled on a farro bowl. While goji berries taste delicious on their own, they’ll add a pop of subtle sweetness to trail mixes, granola, yogurt parfaits, acaí bowls, or these nutty superfood breakfast bites. “Give it an extra boost by using oranges instead of peaches and increase vitamin C to 113 percent of your recommended daily intake. It’s an easy swap,” she says. P.S. It’s a great idea to keep your freezer stocked with frozen fruits and vegetables at all times—they’re just as healthy as their fresher counterparts, and will keep for months longer. This vibrant mason jar salad hits all the right notes. “The leafy green vegetables make this salad a great way to power your immune system,” says Tyler Lee. “It delivers 130 percent of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C.” Plus, you can make it ahead. “I prepare this salad on the weekend, and store it in mason jars in my fridge, for a quick lunch on busy days,” says Tyler Lee. If you’re ordering your salad at a restaurant, ask them to swap the grains for more leafy greens as an easy way to give your meal a boost of vitamin C. You can also make some easy swaps when cooking at home. “Try adding Brussels sprouts or broccoli to your stir-fries, or adding spinach to your favorite baked ziti or lasagna recipe for more easy ways to give your regular meals a boost of vitamin C,” she says. “Naturally sweet and ripe strawberries make these creamy ice pops a delicious frozen treat that also delivers 50 percent of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C,” says Tyler Lee. “They’re fun to make with your kids, and they’re a fraction of the added sugar you’d normally find in a packaged frozen fruit pop.” That’s a sweet reward your immune system will appreciate. RELATED: You’re Probably Not Drinking Enough Water—Here Are Two Simple Ways to Check
