Every day your body fights against foreign invasions, protecting you with two types of immunity, innate and acquired. Innate immunity involves physical barriers such as your skin and the lining of your intestines and lungs, as well as phagocytes, the immune cells which roam your body consuming the viruses and bacteria. Acquired immunity helps your body support your immune defenses through the production of antibodies.

Adding immune boosting foods to your diet is one of the simplest ways to enhance your acquired immunity. Here are 7 natural ways to boost your immunity with immune boosting foods:

Red Peppers – red peppers contain vitamin B6, which is necessary for the production of many important immune cells.

Ginger – ginger is a natural decongestant that is able to ease cold symptoms such as sore throat and coughing while strengthening your immune system.

Pumpkin – pumpkin is high in vitamin A, which enhances immune function and white blood cell activity.

Tomatoes – tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins C and E. Vitamin C supports the immune system and promotes wound healing, while vitamin E has strong antioxidant properties that defeat free radicals in the body.

Elderberry – elderberry is high in antioxidants, specifically anthocyanins, which activate the immune response and protect cells from damage.

Chocolate – chocolate is rich in flavonoids, a potent phytochemical that supports T-helper immune cells and increases your defense against infections. Chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa, such as dark chocolate, is best because the cocoa is the source of the flavonoids.

Green Tea – green tea is packed with antioxidant compounds called catechins that have antiviral capabilities and have demonstrated the ability to stop flu viruses from replicating.