CARROTS
Protect against: Poor night vision, colds, cancer
Carrots are the richest single source of beta carotene, which has an immune-stimulating and anti-cancer effect - probably through mopping up excess free radicals which cause cell mutation.

Beta carotene can also be converted into vitamin A, essential for the eyes to see in dim light. Vitamin A also helps to keep the mucus passages in the mouth, nose and throat healthy, decreasing the risk of catching colds and flu.

RED PEPPERS
Protect against: Colds, cancer
Red peppers are a rich source of vitamin C and beta carotene - boosting the immune system and protecting against everything-from colds to cancer.

To increase their effect, eat them cooked or chargrilled. Heat softens the peppers’ cell walls, allowing more of the beta carotene to be released.

SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS
Protect against: Cancer, liver disease, infection
These contain immuneboosting lentinan, which is used as an anti-cancer drug in Japan.

In studies, lentinan has been shown to reduce the rate at which tumours spread and to improve symptoms in hepatitis B patients.

The benefit is thought to come from lentinan’s ability to stimulate white blood cells called T-lymphocytes.

A Japanese study found that a shiitake mushroom extract slowed the immune system’s deterioration in HIV patients.

###
by ANGELA DOWDEN, Daily Mail