No matter how old you are, there is a lot you can do to boost your immune system and stay strong.

We have compiled a list of immune boosters: While diet is key and these seven foods top the list, getting enough exercise, sleep and reducing stress along with getting outside for a dose of vitamin D are key to strengthening your immune system.

As we age, we tend to eat less and move less and at times, be isolated. That is why it is vital to ensure diets maintain a richness of immune boosting foods and that we keep up our healthy habits too.

1. Spinach is packed with punch! Antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, fiber, magnesium, iron, folate, and more. Eat it raw to get its full benefits. Regular consumption of spinach acts as a sunscreen for your eyes, protecting them against age-related macular degeneration.
2. Yogurt- Make sure it’s plain. It contains vitamin D as well as good bacteria that can allow your body to fight diseases by stimulating your immune system. Make sure it contains lactobacillus, bifidus and acidophilus as these will give you the benefits you are after.
3. Garlic is a powerhouse– In its raw form, its powerful contributor in fighting off infections and boosting immune systems. Garlic also helps lower cholesterol levels as well as regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
4. Broccoli– a definite superfood and wonderful immune boosting food for seniors- packed with vitamins and minerals, antioxidants and fiber- most beneficial when consumed raw!
5. Blueberries– They might be tiny, but they packed with nutrients and also aide in cardiovascular health and may improve memory.
6. Almonds- Vitamin E is a key ingredient to a healthy immune system, and almonds are loaded with it. However, vitamin E cannot be absorbed properly without the presence of fat. Fortunately, almonds contain healthy fats that allow the vitamin to be absorbed properly.
7. Green Tea- another great source for antioxidants that enhance immune function.

There are many programs at Cummings that can help you reach your goals.

8. Sleep- Getting enough shut-eye is extremely important!
9. Exercise- Check out our ongoing fitness classes and if you can get out for a walk you get that added benefit of Vitamin D.
10. Participate in some artistic activities. Members tout that Cummings Fine art and music classes promote relaxation and have a calming, meditative and a wonderful effect on relieving stress.

The Cummings Centre’s mission is to empower and enhance the quality of life of adults age 50 and over by providing dynamic and innovative programs, social services, and volunteer opportunities in a vibrant, respectful, inclusive and compassionate environment. Building on its Jewish heritage, Cummings embraces people from all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.

As the hub of Montreal’s 50+ community, the Centre touches the lives of 10,000 people on an annual basis. In addition to its main campus at 5700 Westbury Avenue in Montreal, programs are offered at several off-site locations including the West Island, Cote Saint-Luc, St.Laurent, Westmount, Chomedey and Florida.

For more information, please contact us by phone at 514-343-3510, online at www.cummingscentre.org or in person at 5700 Westbury Avenue.