YAS! 3 trendy superfoods that will boost your immunity this winter

Trying to keep the runny noses, sore throats and pounding heads at bay this winter won't be easy, so it is important to get all the nutrients you need.

While some people turn to supplements (not guilty), eating a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, is the best way to boost your immunity naturally.

Incorporating superfoods is also a fabulous idea and can help you ensure you get your daily dose of vitamins and antioxidants. 

And while we are all familiar with the Instagram sensations that are goji berries, chia seeds, avocado and kale, there are some new kids on the block.

There are a number of new nutrition powerhouses emerging on the market that come with a lot of health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving digestion or strengthening your immune system.

Have a gawk, and let us know what you think:

1. Moringa

Originating from India, moringa is also referred to as the drumstick tree, and has been used as nutritional booster for centuries. The entire tree is edible but its most nutritious part is the leaves.

For a similar intake, moringa contains about  25 times the amount of iron as spinach or seven times the amount of vitamin C as oranges. It is also very rich in vitamin A, vitamin B, calcium, protein and potassium.

All good things, all good things. 

Generally sold as a powder made from the leaves of the tree, moringa can be found in most health stores. Add a spoonful to your smoothies, soups or porridge, or whisk it to almond milk and a drizzle of honey to get all its incredible benefits, like as boosting your immune system, reducing inflammation and regulating your blood sugar levels. 

2. Maca

Grown in Peru, maca is a cruciferous vegetable (from the same family as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage or kale) and its root has been used for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. 

High in vitamin C, B6, copper, iron, potassium and manganese, it is mostly sold in powder form to add to food or as capsules. It is believed to improve the mood (say no more), reduce stress levels and anxiety and boost performances. According to some studies, it could even have a positive impact on fertility.  

3. Elderberry

You might be familiar with elderflower, which blossoms around June, but elder trees also produce elderberries, which are in full season in September. While they can't be found commercially, these fruits indigenous to Northern Europe are usually used in crumbles, jams and pies. They could also be used as topping for porridge or in smoothies.  

A real nutrition powerhouse, elderberries are a very good source of fibre, vitamin A and vitamin C, and also contain iron, potassium, vitamin B6 and betacarotene. Alongside the immunity-boosting effect, these tasty berries are diuretic and therefore boasts detoxifying properties. Interestingly, elderberries act as antiviral, which could really help you resist the winter flu.