In pictures: 13 Nutrient-rich 'superfoods' to boost your immune system

To bolster the immune system, here are some immune boosting “Super Foods”, which are easily available in your nearby supermarket:

Almonds: Almonds are considered as one of the premium types of nut and a good source of proven antioxidant Vitamin E. Studies suggest skin of Almonds supports a healthy immune system by improving White blood cells in the body. Credit: Unsplash

Amla: Amla is considered one of the most popular superfruits in the Indian subcontinent and the richest source of Vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system. Research studies suggest the antioxidant capacity of Amla has been found more than popular fruits such as Pomegranate, Blueberries, Strawberries and Acai. Credit: Getty Images

Ashvagandha: Ashvagandha means ‘‘The Smell and Strength of a Horse’’ and is commonly known as Indian Ginseng also. It is popularly used to reduce stress and to improve the immune system- the body's defence system against diseases. Credit: Getty Images

Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as Orange, Lemon, Lime and Grapefruit are excellent sources of immune-boosting Vitamin C. Regular intake of Citrus fruits fulfil the requirement of Vitamin C and help to improvise White blood cells to fight against infections. Credit: Getty Images

Curd: Curd has been in use for a long time as food & medicine both in India. It is a good source of gut-friendly healthy Bacterias- Probiotics and improves not only digestion but also the immune system. Credit: Getty Images

Garlic: Garlic has been used as a medicine for its protective and curative properties. It has immune promoting properties and traditionally has been used to suppress a common cough & cold and indifferent heart ailments. Allicin is the primary active compound, which is responsible for its major health benefits. Credit: Unsplash

Ginger: Ginger is originated in south-east Asia and used as a spice & a medicine also. Gingerols are the bioactive molecules of Ginger and have shown antimicrobial properties to treat infectious diseases. Apart from that, it has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties for controlling the process of ageing. Credit: Unsplash

Green Tea: Green Tea is popular as a beverage around the world for its health-promoting properties. It contains antioxidants-polyphenols, which destroy cell-damaging free radicals and contain immune-supporting properties. Credit: Getty Images

Guava: The guava is a sweet and delicious fruit, cultivated in tropical climates and contains a high amount of Vitamin C, which has an important role in improving the overall immune system. Guava also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help to inhibit inflammatory molecules. Credit: DH Photo

Honey: Honey has a long history in India for use as a sweetener. It is believed to have anti-microbial properties that help in sore throat and infections. Regular intake of a small amount of Honey in your diet may improve the immune system. Credit: Unsplash

Spinach: Spinach is a good source of various immune-boosting ingredients such as Flavonoids, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Magnesium. It also contains Folic Acid, which is helpful in pregnancy, heart ailments, brain health and cell repairing. Credit: Getty Images

Turmeric: Turmeric has been always used as an essential ingredient in Indian cuisine and an important herb in Ayurvedic medicines. Turmeric contains an important compound Curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Credit: Unsplash

Watermelon: Watermelon is a good source of vitamins, minerals & amino acids and a source of an excellent antioxidant Glutathione, which strengthens the immune system to fight against infections. Credit: DH Photo