Seven Peruvian Superfoods to boost your immune system

In these times of health emergency, it is almost an obligation to take all necessary measures to look after your health. One of them is to ensure the good condition of the immune system, which is in charge of reacting to the presence of infectious organisms that threaten the body.

This requires a healthy life and a balanced diet based on meat, tubers, fruit, vegetables and seeds. Here is a list of some Peruvian Superfoods that help strengthen the human body's defenses.

Sanky. Native to the Peruvian Andes, this exotic fruit is popular in the natural world and stands out for its high dose of vitamin C, a substance responsible for preventing infections and respiratory diseases and influenza. Its high content of antioxidants helps repair the cell damage caused by free radicals. It also has fiber that, in addition to improving intestinal transit, causes a feeling of satiety in the body, ideal for controlling the craving to eat too much. It is recommended for consumption in juices or salads.

Camu Camu. These small balls are native to the Peruvian Amazon and considered by the National Institute of Amazonian Studies (INPA) in Brazil to be the fruit with the highest dose of vitamin C on the planet. It also has a high dose of potassium, which prevents the appearance of neuromuscular disorders and blood pressure, as well as its power to prevent oncological diseases and stimulate and strengthen the formation of bones and teeth. It can be consumed in jams, confectionery, ice cream, capsules, as well as in powder form.

Sancha Inchi. Also known as the "Inca Peanut", it is a type of grain native to the regions of Amazonas, San Martin, Huanuco, Ayacucho and Junin. Its consumption also guarantees the presence of vitamin E in the body, ideal to prevent arterial problems and to keep the skin nourished and hydrated. It also provides vitamin D, responsible for improving vision and strengthening the formation of the bone system. Various nutritionists recommend eating 7 to 10 roasted grains a day.

Mandarin. It belongs to the citrus fruit family and, just like Camu Camu and Sanky, it is composed of high levels of vitamin C. This makes it an ideal food to avoid catching colds. It does in addition help to heal wounds and form scar tissue in the short term. Mandarin essential oil – from a fruit that mainly grows in Lima and Ica in Peru – acts against fungi, viruses and bacterial infections. It is consumed raw or also in juice, jam or yogurt.

Asparagus. This vegetable, grown in Lambayeque, La Libertad, Áncash, Lima and Ica, has a range of benefits that include the following: it prevents premature aging, slows cognitive decline of the brain and, thanks to vitamin K–- present in its DNA – provides high levels of fiber. It does in addition have calcium, phosphorus, zinc and iron that enhance its nutritional value. Asparagus is ideal for accompanying soups, salads, creams and energy juices.

Maca. Originally from the Andes, this herbaceous plant has properties that provide energy to those who consume it and ensure a physical and mental balance. According to studies, this Peruvian Superfood helps reduce anxiety and depression. It also includes potassium, which reduces the risk of hypertension. Calcium, phosphorus and iron are also present in maca. Eat it in powder form, jam, juice, or in capsules and dietary supplements.

Anchovy. It is a type of oily fish from the Peruvian coast. This Superfood is an essential source of antioxidants in your diet. Its consumption helps maintain healthy skin and strong bones and teeth, as well as tendons and ligaments. Anchovy has the potential to fight anemia. Purchase it fresh, in omega-3 capsules or in cans.

Sources: Andina